Deformation directional lighting device

Abstract

A morphing near-to-eye display device includes: a spatial light modulator having asymmetric pixels; inputting a transverse deformation lens; an input waveguide, the input waveguide passing input light to a lateral deformation member, the lateral deformation member being arranged to provide imaging of the spatial light modulator in a lateral direction; and an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from the laterally deforming member. A partially reflective extraction element is arranged between the posterior and anterior guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide to extract imaging light toward the pupil of the observer to maintain fan-shaped directionality of light rays from the spatial light modulator and morphing imaging system. A light, thin, transparent, and efficient morphing display device for augmented reality and virtual reality display is provided.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to near-eye display devices and illumination systems thereof. BACKGROUND

[0002] Head-mounted displays incorporating near-eye display devices can be arranged to provide fully immersive images, such as in virtual reality (VR) displays, or augmented images overlaid on a view of the real world, such as in augmented reality (AR) displays. If the overlaid images are aligned or registered with the real-world images, it can be referred to as mixed reality (MR). In VR displays, the near-eye display device is typically opaque to the real world, while in AR displays the optical system is partially transmissive to light from the real world.

[0003] Near-eye display devices for AR and VR displays are intended to provide an image to at least one eye of a user with full color, high resolution, high luminance, and high contrast; and with a wide field of view (angular size of the image), a large eyebox (spatial region over which the eye can move while being able to see the full image field). Such displays need to be thin, lightweight, low cost to manufacture, and simple in structure.

[0004] In addition, AR near-eye display devices are intended to have high transmittance of real-world light without image distortion or degradation, and to reduce glare from stray light to the display wearer. AR optics can be broadly classified as either of a reflective combiner type or a waveguide type. The waveguide type typically achieves smaller size and weight due to light path folding within the waveguide.

[0005] Known methods for injecting images into a waveguide can use a spatial light modulator and a projection lenslet arrangement with prisms or gratings to couple light into the waveguide. Pixel positions in the spatial light modulator are converted by the projection lenslets into fan-shaped sectors of ray directions. In other arrangements, a laser scanner can provide the fan-shaped sectors of ray directions. The angular positions propagate through the waveguide and are output to the user’s eye. The eye’s optical system collects the angular positions and provides a spatial image at the retina. SUMMARY

[0006] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a metamorphic near-eye display device comprising: an illumination system comprising a spatial light modulator, the illumination system arranged to output light; and an optical system arranged to direct light from the illumination system to an eye of a viewer, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has metamorphic properties in a lateral direction and a transverse direction that are perpendicular to each other and to the optical axis, wherein the spatial light modulator comprises pixels distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse metamorphic component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse metamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator, and the illumination system is arranged such that light output from the transverse metamorphic component is directed in a direction distributed in the transverse direction; an input waveguide arranged to receive light from the transverse metamorphic component; a lateral metamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the input waveguide being arranged to direct light from the transverse metamorphic component along the input waveguide to the lateral metamorphic component; and an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral metamorphic component, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises an array of reflective extraction features disposed inside the extraction waveguide, the reflective extraction features being arranged to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide towards the eye of the viewer, the series of reflective extraction features being distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

[0007] The metamorphic near-eye display device can provide an image with a wide field of view, high brightness, and high efficiency. Compact physical dimensions and low weight of the metamorphic near-eye display device can be achieved to provide higher comfort of use and to prolong the viewing time. High transparency can be provided. Large size eyebox can be achieved for relaxing the constraints on pupil positioning at a desired exit pupil distance, enabling a non-vignetting image over a wide range of observer pupil positions and with a wide field of view. The metamorphic near-eye display device can be suitable for augmented reality and virtual reality applications. Low light loss can be provided for input light propagating between the transverse metamorphic component and the lateral metamorphic component.

[0008] The reflective extraction features can comprise extraction reflectors extending across at least a portion of the extraction waveguide. Advantageously, chromatic aberrations can be reduced and the size of the eyebox can be increased.

[0009] The array of reflectors can have reflectivities defined across its entire area that increase with increasing distance along the optical axis. Advantageously, uniformity of the output image with viewing angle can be improved.

[0010] The extraction reflectors can comprise extraction surfaces separated by partially-reflective coatings. Advantageously, an image can be provided without loss of angular area. Efficiency, brightness, and contrast can be improved, and visibility of artifacts (including ghosting and blooming) caused by stray light can be reduced.

[0011] The partially reflective coating can include at least one dielectric layer. Advantageously, manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0012] The at least one dielectric layer can include a stack of dielectric layers. Advantageously, brightness and uniformity can be improved.

[0013] The partially reflective coating can be metallic. Advantageously, manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0014] The extraction reflector can include extraction surfaces spaced apart by a gap. Advantageously, manufacturing costs can be reduced and image uniformity can be improved.

[0015] The extraction surfaces can have an anti-reflective coating. Advantageously, visibility of stray light can be reduced. Efficiency, brightness, and contrast can be improved, and visibility of stray light, ghosting, and ghosting can be reduced.

[0016] The extraction reflector can partially extend across the extraction waveguide between opposing back guide surfaces and front guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide with a continuous shift in position. Advantageously, manufacturing costs of the extraction waveguide can be reduced. High uniformity of view angle can be achieved for pupil positions across a head-mounted host.

[0017] The extraction reflector can extend to the opposing back guide surfaces and front guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide. Advantageously, extraction efficiency can be improved.

[0018] The extraction reflector can not extend to the opposing back guide surfaces and front guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide. The back guide surfaces and front guide surfaces can be provided to advantageously reduce visibility of stray light artifacts.

[0019] The anamorphic near-eye display device can further include intermediate reflectors extending along the extraction waveguide between adjacent pairs of extraction reflectors. Advantageously, manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0020] The intermediate reflectors can include intermediate surfaces spaced apart by a partially reflective coating. Advantageously, improved operational efficiency can be achieved.

[0021] The partially reflective coating can include at least one dielectric layer, or the at least one dielectric layer can include a stack of dielectric layers. The partially reflective coating can be metallic.

[0022] The intermediate reflectors can include intermediate surfaces spaced apart by a gap. The intermediate surfaces can have an anti-reflective coating. Efficiency and brightness can be modified, and visibility of stray light artifacts can be reduced. Costs can be reduced.

[0023] The extraction waveguide can comprise a plurality of constituent parts having opposing stepped surfaces attached together shaped to have alternating extraction surfaces extending in the lateral direction and intermediate surfaces extending along the extraction waveguide, wherein the extraction reflector comprises the opposing extraction surfaces. Advantageously, cost and complexity can be reduced.

[0024] The intermediate surfaces can be optically coupled together. Efficiency of light propagation can be improved.

[0025] The extraction reflector can comprise a plurality of groups of extraction reflectors, wherein, within each group of extraction reflectors, the extraction reflector extends partially across the extraction waveguide in the lateral direction, with the positions continuously offset, the extraction reflectors of different groups overlapping in range in the lateral direction. The size of the eyebox can be increased. The size of the extraction reflector can be increased and image blur due to diffraction from the extraction reflector can be reduced.

[0026] At least a portion of the extraction waveguide can comprise a plurality of constituent plates optically coupled together, wherein the extraction reflector can be formed between the constituent plates. The extraction reflector can extend between opposing back and front guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide. The extraction reflector can have the same reflective area. The thickness of the extraction waveguide can be reduced. Visibility of diffraction blur from the extraction reflector can be reduced.

[0027] The extraction reflector can be patterned to have different reflective areas providing reflectivities defined across its entire area that increase with distance along the optical axis. Advantageously, uniformity of the perceived image can be improved.

[0028] The extraction reflector can have a surface normal direction that can be tilted at an angle in the range of 20 to 40 degrees, preferably in the range of 25 to 35 degrees, and most preferably in the range of 27.5 to 32.5 degrees, relative to the direction along the waveguide. Advantageously, stray light rays can be reduced and visibility of ghosting can be reduced.

[0029] The extraction waveguide can comprise transmissive elements and diffractive optical elements optically coupled together, wherein the reflective extraction features comprise portions of the diffractive optical elements. Advantageously, complexity of waveguide manufacture can be reduced.

[0030] The diffractive optical elements can be volume holograms. Advantageously, reflection efficiency can be improved.

[0031] The extraction waveguide can have opposing back and front guide surfaces with anti-reflective coatings. Advantageously, stray light can be reduced.

[0032] The lateral deformation component can include at least one of an output face of the input waveguide and an input face of the extraction waveguide. The size of the lateral deformation component can be advantageously reduced.

[0033] The lateral deformation component can further include at least one intermediate waveguide between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide. Aberrations of the lateral deformation component can be reduced, thereby advantageously enabling an increased field of view and higher image fidelity in the lateral direction.

[0034] The lateral deformation component can include a curved mirror arranged between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide. Chromatic aberrations can be reduced, thereby advantageously enabling reduced color blur and increased image fidelity.

[0035] The input waveguide can not include an extraction feature arranged to extract light guided along the input waveguide. Light loss and stray light can be advantageously reduced. Visibility of ghosting can be reduced.

[0036] The input waveguide can have an input end that is an input face extending in the lateral direction and the transverse direction, the input waveguide being arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input face. The transverse deformation component can be disposed outside the input waveguide, and the input waveguide can be arranged to receive light from the transverse deformation component through the input face. A direction of an optical axis through the transverse deformation component can be tilted with respect to a direction of light propagation along the input waveguide. The input end can be tilted with respect to the direction along the input waveguide. Light can be input into the waveguide at an angle that can be extracted without producing double imaging. Image contrast can be advantageously improved.

[0037] The optical system can include an input linear polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the extraction reflector array. The optical system can further include an input linear polarizer disposed between the transverse deformation component and the input end of the extraction waveguide. Advantageously, image contrast and image uniformity can be improved. Polarization selective extraction reflectors can be provided, and advantageously stray light can be reduced. Glare for external observers is reduced, image contrast is increased. Efficiency and brightness are improved, and power consumption for a desired brightness is reduced.

[0038] The lateral deformation component can include a lens. Advantageously, improved aberrations can be achieved across the field of view and for a large exit pupil in the lateral direction.

[0039] The optical system can include an input section including an input reflector that is a transverse deformation component and can be arranged to reflect light from the illumination system and guide it along the waveguide. Advantageously, complexity, manufacturing cost, and weight can be reduced.

[0040] The lateral anamorphic component can comprise a lens. The lens of the lateral anamorphic component can be a compound lens. Advantageously, aberrations in the lateral direction can be reduced, image fidelity can be increased and the size of the head-mounted host can be increased.

[0041] The input section can further comprise an input face disposed on the front side or the back side of the waveguide and facing the input reflector, and the input section can be arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input face. In case the input face is located on the front side of the waveguide, the input face can extend at an acute angle with respect to the front guide surface, or in case the input face is located on the back side of the waveguide, at an acute angle with respect to the back guide surface. In case the input face is located on the front side of the waveguide, the input face can extend parallel to the front guide surface, or in case the input face is located on the back side of the waveguide, parallel to the back guide surface. In case the input face is located on the front side of the waveguide, the input face can be coplanar with the front guide surface, or in case the input face is located on the back side of the waveguide, coplanar with the back guide surface. The input face can be disposed outside of one of the front guide surface or the back guide surface. The input section can further comprise a separation face extending outwardly from one of the front guide surface or the back guide surface to the input face. Advantageously, an improved mechanical arrangement of the illumination system and the optical system can be achieved.

[0042] The input section can be integral with the waveguide. Advantageously, the complexity of the manufacturing can be reduced and a lower cost can be achieved.

[0043] The input waveguide can have an end portion which is the input face through which the input waveguide is arranged to receive light from the illumination system, and the input section can be a separate element from the input waveguide, which input waveguide can further comprise an output face and be arranged to direct light reflected by the input reflector through the output face and through the input face of the waveguide into the waveguide. Advantageously, an improved aberration can be achieved. The reflective surface can be protected.

[0044] The lens of the lateral anamorphic component can comprise an air gap and a surface facing the air gap. Control over aberrations can be improved and advantageously, the modulation transfer function for the off-axis direction can be increased and image blurring can be reduced.

[0045] The air gap can have an edge and the anamorphic near-eye display device can comprise a reflector extending across the edge of the air gap. Advantageously, light loss can be reduced and image uniformity can be improved.

[0046] The pixels of the spatial light modulator can also be distributed in the lateral direction such that light output from the lateral anamorphic component can be directed in directions distributed in the lateral direction. Advantageously, image lines can be provided simultaneously. Image breakup artifacts can be reduced.

[0047] The illumination system can further include a deflector element arranged to deflect the light output from the lateral deformation component by a selectable amount, the deflector element being selectively operable to direct the light output from the lateral deformation component in a direction that distributes the light in the lateral direction. Advantageously, complexity of the illumination system can be reduced.

[0048] The input waveguide can have planar and parallel opposing back and front guide surfaces. The extraction waveguide can have planar and parallel opposing back and front guide surfaces. Advantageously, visibility of ghosting, ghosting and other stray light artifacts can be reduced. Image contrast can be improved.

[0049] The reflective extraction features can be tilted with respect to a first direction and a second direction along the optical axis. The light rays can be extracted near the normal of the extraction waveguide. The eyebox can be arranged at a desired distance from the output surface of the extraction waveguide.

[0050] The reflective extraction features can be tilted at the same angle. Advantageously, occurrence of ghosting and ghosting can be reduced.

[0051] The reflective extraction features can have a varying pitch along the extraction waveguide. The reflective extraction features can have a varying range between the opposing back and front guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide. Reduced diffraction blur and improved image quality can be achieved in the most common viewing directions. The eyebox can be extended while achieving a reduced waveguide thickness.

[0052] The spatial light modulator can include pixels having pitches in the lateral and transverse directions that can be the same as the inverse of the ratio of the optical powers of the lateral and transverse deformation optical elements. Advantageously, a square pixel can be perceived by the observer. Image fidelity can be improved.

[0053] The anamorphic near-eye display device can further include a control system arranged to operate the illumination system to provide the light input in accordance with image data representing an image. Advantageously, the image data can be perceived to provide an augmented reality or virtual reality image.

[0054] The reflective extraction arrangement can include two separate regions, each region being arranged to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide toward a respective eye of the viewer. Advantageously, weight, cost and complexity of the head-mounted device can be reduced.

[0055] At least one of the input end of the extraction waveguide, the lateral deformation component and the spatial light modulator can have a curvature in the lateral direction that compensates for a Petzval field curvature of the lateral deformation component. Advantageously, a modulation transfer function for off-axis directions can be increased and image blur can be reduced.

[0056] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a head-mounted display device comprising a metamorphic near-eye display device according to the first aspect, the metamorphic near-eye display device being arranged to mount the metamorphic near-eye display device on a head of a wearer, wherein the metamorphic near-eye display device extends across at least one eye of the wearer. Virtual reality and augmented reality images can conveniently be provided to a mobile observer.

[0057] The head-mounted display device can further comprise a lens having an optical power, the metamorphic near-eye display device covering the or each lens. The nominal viewing distance of the virtual image can be adjusted to achieve a reduced difference between the vergence depth cue and the accommodation depth cue in a stereoscopic display device. Correction of the visual properties of the observer's eye can be provided.

[0058] The head-mounted display device can comprise a pair of spectacles. Advantageously, a low-weight transparent head-mounted display device suitable for augmented reality applications can be achieved.

[0059] The metamorphic near-eye display device can be a first metamorphic near-eye display device, and the head-mounted display device can further comprise a second metamorphic near-eye display device, wherein the second metamorphic near-eye display device is arranged in series with the first metamorphic near-eye display device. Improved image resolution, improved luminance, increased exit pupil size, reduced image diffraction and increased field of view can be provided.

[0060] The virtual image distance of light from the second metamorphic near-eye display device can be different from the virtual image distance of light from the first metamorphic near-eye display device. The difference between the stereoscopic depth cue and the accommodation depth cue can be reduced, and user comfort advantageously improved.

[0061] The head-mounted display device can further comprise a non-metamorphic near-eye display device, wherein the non-metamorphic near-eye display device can comprise a non-metamorphic spatial light modulator and a non-metamorphic magnifying optical system; and wherein the non-metamorphic near-eye display device is arranged in series with the metamorphic near-eye display device. Improved image resolution, improved luminance, increased exit pupil size, reduced image diffraction and increased field of view can be provided.

[0062] The virtual image distance of light from the non-metamorphic near-eye display device can be different from the virtual image distance of light from the metamorphic near-eye display device. The difference between the stereoscopic depth cue and the accommodation depth cue can be reduced, and user comfort advantageously improved.

[0063] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a metamorphic directional lighting device, the metamorphic directional lighting device comprising: a lighting system comprising an array of light sources, the lighting system being arranged to output light; and an optical system arranged to direct light from the lighting system, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has metamorphic properties in a lateral direction and a transverse direction that are perpendicular to each other and to the optical axis, wherein the array of light sources comprises light sources distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse metamorphic component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse metamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, and the lighting system is arranged such that light output from the transverse metamorphic component is directed in directions distributed in the transverse direction; an input waveguide arranged to receive light from the transverse metamorphic component; a lateral metamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the input waveguide being arranged to direct light from the transverse metamorphic component along the input waveguide to the lateral metamorphic component; and an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral metamorphic component, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises at least one reflective extraction feature disposed inside the extraction waveguide, the at least one reflective extraction feature being arranged to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide. The directional lighting device can be provided in a compact arrangement at low cost. A controllable high resolution output light cone can be provided.

[0064] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vehicle exterior light device, the vehicle exterior light device comprising: a metamorphic directional lighting device according to the third aspect. The height of the emission aperture can be reduced to advantageously achieve a desired aesthetic appearance. High luminance of the illumination scene can be achieved by high resolution imaging of the addressable light cone in one or two dimensions. High image contrast can be achieved for adjustable beam shaping. Image glare for an oncoming viewer of the lighting device can be reduced while improved visibility of the scene around the oncoming viewer can be achieved.

[0065] Any aspect of the present disclosure can be applied in any combination.

[0066] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in various optical systems. Embodiments can include various projectors, projection systems, optical components, displays, micro-displays, computer systems, processors, standalone projector systems, visual and / or audio-visual systems, and electrical and / or optical devices or used in cooperation with them. Aspects of the present disclosure can be used with virtually any device related to optical and electrical devices, optical systems, presentation systems, or any device that can incorporate any type of optical system. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in optical systems, devices used in visual and / or optical presentations, visual peripherals, and the like, as well as many computing environments and automotive environments.

[0067] Before the disclosed implementations are discussed, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular arrangements shown, as the disclosure is capable of other implementations. Additionally, aspects of the disclosure can be expressed in different combinations and arrangements, to define their own unique implementations. Furthermore, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing, not limiting.

[0068] These and other advantages and features of the disclosure will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the disclosure, upon reading of the detailed description, and upon inspection of the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0069] The implementations are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference characters signify like parts, and wherein: Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a morphed near-eye display device; Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a near-eye display of Figure 1A ; Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a near-eye display of Figure 1A ; Figure 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating a magnified view of operation of a near-eye display in a lateral plane; Figure 1E is a schematic diagram illustrating a magnified view of operation of a near-eye display in a lateral plane orthogonal to the lateral plane; Figure 1F is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a coordinate system mapping for a morphed near-eye display device of Figure 1A ; Figure 1G is a schematic diagram illustrating a field of view map of an output of a morphed near-eye display device of Figure 1A for multi-color illumination; Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C are schematic diagrams illustrating a front view arrangement of a spatial light modulator for a morphed near-eye display device of Figure 1A , the morphed near-eye display device including spatially multiplexed red, green, and blue sub-pixels; Figure 2D is a schematic diagram illustrating a spatial light modulator for a morphed near-eye display device of Figure 1A , the spatial light modulator for use with temporally multiplexed spectral illumination; Figure 3A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light input into an extraction waveguide; Figure 3Bis a schematic top view illustrating light propagating along an extraction waveguide; Figure 3C is a schematic top view illustrating light extracted from a variant near-eye display device of Figure 1A ; Figure 4A is a schematic top view illustrating light output from a variant near-eye display device for a single extraction reflector; Figure 4B is a schematic top view illustrating light output from a variant near-eye display device for multiple extraction reflectors to enable complete light pencil input into the observer pupil in the lateral direction; Figure 4C is a schematic top view illustrating light output from a variant near-eye display device for multiple positions of a moving observer in the lateral direction; Figure 5A is a schematic front view illustrating light output from a variant near-eye display device of Figure 1A ; Figure 5B is a schematic front view illustrating a variant near-eye display device of Figure 1A for a single pupil position; Figure 5C is a schematic front view illustrating a variant near-eye display device of Figure 1A for multiple pupil positions; Figure 5D is a schematic enlarged view illustrating an imaging system arranged to image in the lateral direction, wherein no reflective extraction features are provided; Figure 5E is a schematic enlarged view illustrating an imaging system arranged to image in the lateral direction; Figure 5F is a schematic enlarged view illustrating an imaging system arranged to image in the lateral direction, wherein an array of extraction reflectors is provided as reflective extraction features; Figure 6A is a schematic front view illustrating an alternative near-eye display device, wherein the output face of the input waveguide is curved; Figure 6B is a schematic front view illustrating an alternative near-eye display device, wherein the output face of the input waveguide and the input face of the extraction waveguide are curved; Figure 6C is a schematic front view illustrating an alternative near-eye display device, further comprising an intermediate waveguide; Figure 6D is a schematic view illustrating an alternative variant display device comprising a Fresnel lens between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide in a front view; Figure 6Eis a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an alternative variant display apparatus comprising an input waveguide having an input face that is curved in the lateral direction; Figure 6F is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an alternative variant display apparatus in which a reflective element is disposed between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide; Figure 6G is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an alternative variant display apparatus comprising a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide; Figure 6H is a schematic diagram illustrating in perspective rear view an alternative variant display apparatus comprising a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide; Figure 6I is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an alternative variant display apparatus comprising a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide; Figure 6J is a schematic diagram illustrating in perspective front view an alternative variant display apparatus comprising a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide; Figure 7A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of an extraction waveguide; Figure 7B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the propagation of polarized light around an extraction reflector comprising a single dielectric layer after reflection from a reflective end; Figure 7C is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the propagation of polarized light around an extraction reflector comprising a stack of dielectric layers after reflection from a reflective end; Figure 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating the variation of reflectivity with wavelength for a light ray propagating through an extraction reflector comprising the dielectric layers listed in Table 2; Figure 8B is a flowchart illustrating compensation of pixel data for pixel positions in the lateral direction; Figure 9A 、 Figure 9B 、 Figure 9C 、 Figure 9D and Figure 9E is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide comprising a partially reflective coating; Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an extraction waveguide comprising a gap; Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view the vicinity of an extraction reflector containing a partially reflective material and the vicinity of an intermediate surface containing an intermediate surface material; Figure 12A is a schematic diagram illustrating the variation of stepped surface height with position along the waveguide for various exemplary arrangements of steps of a stepped surface; Figure 12B is facet width w schematic diagram of the alternative variation along the position of the extraction waveguide; Figure 13A is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement of a chirped extraction reflector for a monocular near-eye anamorphic display device in a front view; Figure 13B is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement of a chirped extraction reflector for a binocular near-eye anamorphic display device in a front view; Figure 14A is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device including a right-eye anamorphic display device arranged with a spatial light modulator located at a brow position in a perspective front view; Figure 14B is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device including a left-eye anamorphic display device and a right-eye anamorphic display device arranged with spatial light modulators located at brow positions in a perspective front view; Figure 14C is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device including a left-eye anamorphic display device arranged with a spatial light modulator located at a temple position in a perspective front view; Figure 14D is a schematic diagram illustrating an eyepiece arrangement for an augmented reality head-mounted display device in a perspective front view; Figure 15A is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device in a perspective front view in which light is transmitted through an extraction waveguide to a right eye and light is transmitted through an input waveguide to a left eye; Figure 15B is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device including a first anamorphic display device and a second anamorphic display device in a top view in which light is transmitted through an extraction waveguide and an input waveguide for each of a right eye and a left eye; Figure 16A is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head-mounted display device including a left-eye anamorphic display device and a right-eye anamorphic display device in a front view; Figure 16B is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head-mounted display device including an anamorphic near-eye display device in a top view; Figure 16C is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near-eye display device including a single waveguide adapted for use by both eyes of a display user in a front view; Figure 16D is a schematic diagram illustrating a head-mounted display device including two anamorphic near-eye display devices in a top view; Figure 16E is a schematic diagram illustrating a composite image; Figure 16F is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head-mounted display device in a top view, the virtual reality head-mounted display device comprising a non-variant near-eye display device arranged between a magnifier and an additional spatial light modulator; Figure 16G is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head-mounted display device in a top view, the virtual reality head-mounted display device comprising a non-variant near-eye display device arranged between a magnifier and a variant spatial light modulator; Figure 16H is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement of virtual image distances for a virtual reality display device in a top view; Figure 16I and Figure 16J is a schematic diagram illustrating a display image of an arrangement for Figure 16F ; Figure 17A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of a variant near-eye display device in a perspective front view, wherein the extraction reflector comprises a plurality of constituent plates; Figure 17B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light input into a variant near-eye display device of Figure 17A ; Figure 17C is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of a variant near-eye display device in a perspective front view, the variant near-eye display device comprising an extraction member and a partially reflective layer arranged on a back surface of a waveguide member; Figure 17D is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of a variant near-eye display device in a perspective front view, the variant near-eye display device comprising an extraction member and a partially reflective layer arranged on a front surface of a waveguide member; Figure 18A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the propagation of polarized light after reflection from a reflection end in a variant near-eye display device of Figure 17A ; Figure 18B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a variation in reflectivity of a polarization beam splitter along a waveguide of Figure 17A ; Figure 19A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of a variant near-eye display device of Figure 17A in a perspective front view, wherein some polarization beam splitters do not extend the entire thickness of the waveguide; Figure 19B is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation of a variant near-eye display device of Figure 19A in a top view; Figure 20A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of a variant near-eye display device of Figure 17Aschematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a metamorphic near-eye display device, in which a polarization beam splitter is patterned; Figure 20B is illustrated in a top view Figure 20A schematic diagram of operation of a metamorphic near-eye display device; Figure 21A is illustrated in a perspective front view Figure 17A schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a metamorphic near-eye display device; Figure 21B is illustrated in a top view Figure 21A schematic diagram of operation of a metamorphic near-eye display device; Figure 22A is a schematic diagram of a top view illustrating an extraction waveguide comprising a plurality of stepped interface layers; Figure 22B is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of fabricating an extraction region of a metamorphic near-eye display device; Figure 22A Figure 22C and Figure 22D are schematic diagrams of top views illustrating alternative arrangements of extraction waveguides comprising two types of partially-reflective extraction reflectors; Figure 23A is a schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of a metamorphic near-eye display device comprising a diffractive optical element, illustrated in a perspective front view; Figure 23B is a schematic diagram of operation of a metamorphic near-eye display device, illustrated in a top view Figure 23A is a schematic diagram of operation of a metamorphic near-eye display device, illustrated in a front view Figure 23C Figure 23A is a schematic diagram of operation of a metamorphic near-eye display device, illustrated in a front view Figure 23D is a schematic diagram of operation of a waveguide comprising a diffractive optical element, illustrated in a top view Figure 24A is a schematic diagram of a full-color metamorphic display device comprising a stack of three extraction waveguides comprising diffractive optical elements, illustrated in a top view Figure 24B is a schematic diagram of a full-color metamorphic display device comprising a stack of two extraction waveguides comprising diffractive optical elements, illustrated in a top view Figure 24C , Figure 24D and Figure 24E are schematic diagrams of top views illustrating alternative arrangements of extraction waveguides comprising combinations of reflective extraction features; Figure 25A is a schematic diagram of a metamorphic near-eye display device comprising a lateral metamorphic component having refractive and reflective functionality, illustrated in a front view;​​ Figure 25B is a schematic diagram illustrating a metamorphic near-eye display device, in a front view, including a lateral metamorphic component that is a reflective end of a waveguide including a Fresnel reflector; Figure 26A is a schematic diagram illustrating a metamorphic near-eye display device, in a front view, in which the input end of the extraction waveguide has a curvature in the lateral direction; Figure 26B is a schematic diagram illustrating a metamorphic near-eye display device, in a front view, in which the input end of the extraction waveguide has a curvature in the lateral direction and the lateral metamorphic component has a curvature in the lateral direction; Figure 26C is a schematic diagram illustrating a metamorphic near-eye display device, in a front view, in which the input end of the extraction waveguide has a curvature in the lateral direction, the lateral metamorphic component has a curvature in the lateral direction, and the spatial light modulator has a curvature in the lateral direction; Figure 26D is a schematic diagram illustrating a metamorphic near-eye display device, in a front view, in which the input end of the extraction waveguide has a curvature in the lateral direction, the lateral metamorphic component has a curvature in the lateral direction, and the spatial light modulator has a curvature in the lateral direction, in which the direction of the curvature is in the opposite direction as the direction of Figure 26C ; Figure 26E is a schematic diagram illustrating a metamorphic near-eye display device, in a front view, in which the input end of the extraction waveguide has a curvature in the lateral direction, the lateral metamorphic component has a curvature in the lateral direction, and the spatial light modulator has a curvature in the lateral direction, in which the direction of the curvature of the components is different; Figure 27A is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a metamorphic near-eye display device also including corrective eyeglass lenses, in a top view; Figure 27B is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a metamorphic near-eye display device also including corrective Pancharatnam-Berry lenses and corrective eyeglass lenses, in a top view; Figure 28A is a schematic diagram illustrating a head-mounted display device including a first focal plane modifying lens and a second focal plane modifying lens, in a top view; Figure 28B is a schematic diagram illustrating a head-mounted display device including a plurality of extraction waveguides and also including a first focal plane modifying lens and a second focal plane modifying lens, in a top view; Figure 28C is a schematic diagram illustrating a head-mounted display device including a plurality of extraction waveguides and three focal plane modifying lenses, in a top view; Figure 28Dis a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a head-mounted display device including a non-variant near-eye display device and a variant extraction waveguide; Figure 28E is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a head-mounted display device including a non-variant near-eye display device, a variant extraction waveguide, and a focal plane modification lens disposed between the non-variant near-eye display device and the variant near-eye display device; Figure 28F is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a head-mounted display device including a non-variant near-eye display device, a variant extraction waveguide, and a focal plane modification lens disposed to receive light from the non-variant near-eye display device and the variant near-eye display device; Figure 28G is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a head-mounted display device including a non-variant near-eye display device, a variant extraction waveguide, and two focal plane modification lenses; Figure 28H is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a head-mounted display device including a non-variant near-eye display device, two variant extraction waveguides, and a focal plane modification lens; Figure 29A is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view details of an arrangement of input focusing lenses; Figure 29B is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view details of an arrangement of input focusing lenses; Figure 29A Figure 30A is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a spatial light modulator arrangement for use in the variant near-eye display device of Figure 1, the spatial light modulator arrangement including separate red, green, and blue spatial light modulators and a beam combining element; Figure 30B is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an illumination system for use in the variant near-eye display device of Figure 1, the variant near-eye display device including a bird bath pot folding arrangement; Figure 31A is a schematic diagram illustrating in front perspective view a variant near-eye display device including an input reflector; Figure 31B is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a variant near-eye display device of Figure 31A Figure 31C is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view a variant near-eye display device of Figure 31A Figure 31D is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an alternative variant near-eye display device including an input reflector; Figure 31E is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a variant near-eye display device including an alternative input reflector; Figure 31F ​​​is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a variant near-eye display device including a replacement input reflector; Figure 31G is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a variant near-eye display device including a replacement input reflector; Figure 32A is a schematic diagram illustrating a perspective front view of a variant input focusing optic; Figure 32B is a schematic diagram illustrating a spatial light modulator arrangement for use in the variant near-eye display device of Figure 1, in a top view, the spatial light modulator arrangement including a spatial light modulator including a laser scanner and a light diffusing screen; Figure 33A is a schematic diagram illustrating an input of an extraction waveguide including a laser light source and a scanning arrangement, in a top view; Figure 33B is a schematic diagram illustrating a spatial light modulator arrangement including a laser light source array for Figure 33A is a schematic diagram illustrating a spatial light modulator arrangement including a laser light source array for Figure 33C is a schematic diagram illustrating a spatial light modulator arrangement including a laser light source array, a beam expander and a scanning mirror, in a top view; Figure 34A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a variant directional lighting device; and Figure 34B is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a vehicle including a vehicle exterior light device including Figure 34A a variant directional lighting device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] The terms related to optical retarders for the purposes of the present disclosure will now be described.

[0071] In a layer containing uniaxial birefringent material, there is a direction that controls the optical anisotropy, and all directions perpendicular to this direction (or at a given angle to this direction) have equivalent birefringence.

[0072] The optical axis of an optical retarder refers to the direction of propagation of a light ray in a uniaxial birefringent material without birefringence. This is different from the optical axis of an optical system, which can for example be parallel to the line of symmetry or perpendicular to the display surface along which the chief ray propagates.

[0073] For light propagating in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis, the optical axis is the slow axis when linearly polarized light with an electric vector direction parallel to the slow axis propagates at the slowest speed. The slow axis direction is the direction with the highest refractive index at the design wavelength. Similarly, the fast axis direction is the direction with the lowest refractive index at the design wavelength.

[0074] For a positive dielectric anisotropy uniaxial birefringent material, the slow axis direction is the extraordinary axis of the birefringent material. For a negative dielectric anisotropy uniaxial birefringent material, the fast axis direction is the extraordinary axis of the birefringent material.

[0075] The terms half- and quarter- wavelength refer to the operation of a retarder for a design wavelength that can typically be between 500 nm and 570 nm In the present illustrative embodiments, unless otherwise noted, the example retardation values provided are for a 550 nm wavelength.

[0076] A retarder provides a phase shift between two perpendicular polarization components of a light wave incident thereon, and is characterized by the amount of retardation it imparts to the relative phase of these two polarization components; this relative phase is related to the birefringence Δn and thickness d of the retarder by the relationship: n d In Equation 1, d n is defined as the difference between the extraordinary and ordinary refractive indices, i.e.

[0077] In Equation 1, n is defined as the difference between the extraordinary and ordinary refractive indices, i.e.

[0078] For a half-wave retarder, the relationship between d , Δn and λ0 is chosen so that the phase shift between the polarization components is = π. For a quarter-wave retarder, the relationship between d , Δn and λ0 is chosen so that the phase shift between the polarization components is = π / 2.

[0079] Some aspects of the propagation of a light ray through a transparent retarder between a pair of polarizers will now be described.

[0080] The state of polarization (SOP) of a light ray is described by the relative amplitude and phase shift between any two orthogonal polarization components. A transparent retarder does not change the relative amplitudes of these orthogonal polarization components, but only acts on their relative phases. Providing a net phase shift between the orthogonal polarization components changes the SOP, while maintaining a net relative phase maintains the SOP. In the present description, the SOP can be referred to as the polarization state.

[0081] A linear SOP has a polarization component of non-zero amplitude and an orthogonal polarization component of zero amplitude. A p-polarization state is a linear polarization state that lies in the plane of incidence of a light ray comprising the p-polarization state, and an s-polarization state is a linear polarization state that is orthogonal to the plane of incidence of a light ray comprising the p-polarization state. For a linearly polarized SOP incident on a retarder, the relative phase It is determined by the angle between the optical axis of the retarder and the direction of the polarization component.

[0082] Linear polarizers transmit unique linear SOPs, which have linear polarization components parallel to the electric vector transmission direction of the linear polarizer, and attenuate light with different SOPs. The term "electric vector transmission direction" refers to the non-directional axis of the polarizer, through which the electric vector of the incident light is transmitted, even though the transmitted "electric vector" always has an instantaneous direction. The term "direction" is commonly used to describe this axis.

[0083] An absorptive polarizer is a polarizer that absorbs one polarization component of incident light and transmits a second orthogonal polarization component. An example of an absorptive linear polarizer is a dichroic polarizer.

[0084] A reflective polarizer is a polarizer that reflects one polarization component of the incident light and transmits a second orthogonally polarized component. An example of a reflective polarizer as a linear polarizer is a multilayer polymer film stack (such as DBEF from 3M). TM or APF TM ) or wire grid polarizers (such as ProFlux from Moxtek) TM Reflective linear polarizers may also include cholesteric reflective materials arranged in series and quarter-wave delayers.

[0085] The delay unit placed between the linear polarizer and the parallel linear analysis polarizer does not introduce a relative net phase shift, providing complete transmission of light except for residual absorption within the linear polarizer.

[0086] A delayer that provides a relative net phase shift between orthogonal polarization components changes the SOP and provides attenuation at the analysis polarizer.

[0087] An achromatic retarder can be configured, wherein the material of the retarder exhibits wavelength-dependent properties. lag of change n d , represented as

[0088] in It is basically a constant.

[0089] Examples of suitable materials include modified polycarbonate from Teijin Films. In this embodiment, an achromatic retarder can be provided to advantageously minimize color changes between polar viewing directions with smaller brightness reduction and those with larger brightness reduction, as described below.

[0090] In the present disclosure, an "A-plate" refers to an optical retarder that utilizes a birefringent material layer with its optical axis parallel to the plane of the layer. The direction of the optical axis of the optical retarder is arranged to provide a retardation corresponding to the SOP of the incident light rays, for example to convert linearly polarized light to circularly polarized light, or to convert circularly polarized light to linearly polarized light.

[0091] The structure and operation of various variant near-eye display devices will now be described. In the present description, common elements have common reference numerals. It is noted that the disclosure relating to any element After appropriate modifications applies to each device providing the same or corresponding element. Accordingly, such disclosure is not repeated for brevity. Similarly, various features of any of the following examples can be combined together in any combination.

[0092] It is desirable to provide a thin, large degree of freedom of movement, high resolution, high brightness, and wide field of view variant near-eye display device 100. A variant near-eye display device 100 will now be described.

[0093] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a variant near-eye display device 100; Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a near-eye display of Figure 1A ; and Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a near-eye display of Figure 1A .

[0094] Figure 1A A variant directional illumination device 1000 is illustrated, which is a variant near-eye display device 100. In the present description, the variant near-eye display device 100 is disposed in the vicinity of an eye 45 to provide light to the pupil 44 of the eye 45 of the observer 47. In the illustrative embodiment, the eye 45 can be arranged at a nominal viewing distance of between 5 mm and 100 mm and preferably between 8 mm and 20 mm from the output surface of the variant near-eye display device 100 e R Such displays differ from direct view displays, where the viewing distance is typically greater than 100 mm. The nominal viewing distance e R may be referred to as the eye relief distance.

[0095] Figure 1A- C illustrates a metameric near-eye display device 100 comprising an illumination system 240 comprising a spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 being arranged to output light; and an optical system 250 arranged to direct light from the illumination system 240 to an eye 45 of a viewer, wherein the optical system 250 has an optical axis 199 and has metameric properties in a lateral direction 195 and a transverse direction 197 that are perpendicular to each other and to the optical axis 199, wherein the spatial light modulator 48 comprises pixels 222 distributed in the lateral direction 195, and the optical system 250 comprises: a transverse metamer component 60 having positive optical power in the transverse direction 197, wherein the transverse metamer component 197 is arranged to receive light 401 from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 250 is arranged such that light output from the transverse metamer component 60 is directed in a direction distributed in the transverse direction 197; an input waveguide 1A arranged to receive light from the transverse metamer component 60; a lateral metamer component 110 having positive optical power in the lateral direction 195, the input waveguide 1A being arranged to direct light from the transverse metamer component 60 along the input waveguide 1A to the lateral metamer component 110; and an extraction waveguide 1B arranged to receive light from the lateral metamer component 110, wherein the extraction waveguide 1B comprises an array of reflective extraction features 170a-n disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1B, the reflective extraction features 170a-n being arranged to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide 1B towards the eye 45 of the viewer, the array of reflective extraction features 170a-n being distributed along the extraction waveguide 1B so as to provide an exit pupil 40 expansion.

[0096] The metameric near-eye display device 100 comprises an illumination system 240 arranged to provide output light comprising illumination from the spatial light modulator 48 and an optical system 250 arranged to direct light from the illumination system 240 to an eye 45 of an observer 47. The illumination system 240 is arranged to output light rays 400, which comprise illustrative light rays 401, 402 input into the optical system 250.

[0097] In operation, it is desired to direct spatial pixel data provided on the spatial light modulator 48 to the pupil 44 of the eye 45 as angular pixel data. The lens of the observer eye 45 transfers the angular spatial data to spatial pixel data at the retina 46 of the eye 45 so that an image is provided to the observer 47 by the metameric near-eye display device 100.

[0098] Pupil 44 is located in a volume of space, often referred to as exit pupil 40 or eyebox, near the anamorphic near-eye display device 100. When pupil 44 is located within exit pupil 40, a complete image is provided to the observer 47 without image missing portions, that is, the image does not appear to vignette at the observer's retina 46. The shape of exit pupil 40 is determined at least by the anamorphic imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device and the corresponding aberrations of the anamorphic optical system. At a nominal exit pupil distance e R Exit pupil 40 can have a dimension e L in lateral direction 195 and a dimension e T in transverse direction 197. The maximum exit pupil distance e Rmax refers to the maximum distance of pupil 44 from anamorphic near-eye display device 100 at which no image vignetting occurs. In the present embodiment, increasing the size of exit pupil 40 refers to increasing the dimension e L 、e T 。 The increased exit pupil 40 enables an increased freedom of the observer and e Rmax an increase in the field of view, as will be further described below.

[0099] Spatial light modulator 48 comprises pixels 222 distributed at least in lateral direction 195, as will be further described below, for example in Figure 2A -D and Figure 33A In an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1A , illumination system 240 comprises a transmissive spatial light modulator 48 comprising an array of spatially separated pixels 222 distributed in lateral direction 195 (48) and transverse direction 197 (48). In an embodiment of Figure 1A , spatial light modulator 48 is a TFT-LCD and illumination system 240 further comprises a backlight 20 arranged to illuminate spatial light modulator 48.

[0100] Anamorphic near-eye display device 100 further comprises a control system 500 arranged to operate illumination system 240 to provide light spatially modulated according to image data representing an image.

[0101] Optical system 250 comprises a transverse lens 61 forming a transverse anamorphic component 60 in embodiments of Figure 1A as discussed below. In this example, transverse lens 61 comprises a cylindrical lens.

[0102] In this disclosure, the term lens most generally refers to a single lens element or, most commonly, a compound lens (set of lens elements) as will be described in the following, for example, in Figure 32A A lens can include a single refractive surface, multiple refractive surfaces, or reflective surfaces, such that the lens can include catadioptric lens elements that combine refractive and reflective surfaces. A lens can also or instead include diffractive optical elements. A lateral lens is a lens that provides optical power in a lateral direction and can provide substantially no optical power in a lateral direction. A lateral lens can be referred to as a cylindrical lens, but the cross-sectional profile of the surface or surfaces that provide optical power can differ from an arc, such as a parabolic, elliptical, or aspheric.

[0103] Figure 1A The lateral lens 61 in the embodiment of FIG. 6A extends in a lateral direction 195(60) that is parallel to the lateral direction 195(48) of the spatial light modulator 48. The lateral deformation component 60 has positive optical power in a lateral direction 197(60) that is parallel to the direction 197(48) and orthogonal to the lateral direction 195(60); and no optical power in the lateral direction 195(60). The lateral deformation component 60 is arranged to receive light rays 400 from the spatial light modulator 48. The optical system 250 is arranged such that light output from the lateral deformation component 60 is directed in a direction that is distributed over the lateral direction 197(60).

[0104] Mathematically, for any position within the deformational near-eye display device 100, the optical axis direction 199 can be referred to as the O unit vector, the lateral direction 197 can be referred to as the T unit vector, and the lateral direction 195 can be referred to as the L unit vector, where the optical axis direction 199 is the cross product of the lateral direction 197 and the lateral direction 195:

[0105] The various surfaces of the deformational near-eye display device 100 transform or replicate the optical axis direction 199; however, for any given light ray, the expression of Equation 4 can be applied.

[0106] The optical system 250 also includes a waveguide arrangement 111 that includes an input waveguide 1A and an extraction waveguide 1B.

[0107] The input waveguide 1A is arranged to guide the light rays 400 in the taper 491A from the lateral deformation component 60 along the input waveguide 1A in a direction 191A towards the extraction waveguide 1B to the lateral deformation component 110. The input waveguide 1A has planar and parallel opposite back guiding surfaces 6A and front guiding surfaces 8A. The input waveguide 1A further has an input face 2A extending in a lateral direction 195 (60) and a transversal direction 197 (60), the input waveguide 1A being arranged to receive the light 400 from the illumination system 240 through the input face 2A. The input face 2A extends in the lateral direction 195 between edges 22A, 24A of the input waveguide 1A and in the transversal direction 197 between the opposite back guiding surfaces 6A and front guiding surfaces 8A of the input waveguide 1A. Further, the input waveguide 1A does not comprise extraction features arranged to extract light guided along the input waveguide 1A. Advantageously, stray light is reduced and efficiency is improved. Further, the length of the input waveguide 1A can be different from the length of the extraction waveguide 1B, such that the field of view can be optimized independently from the desired dimensions of the extraction waveguide 1B adapted to the pupil 40 expansion.

[0108] The extraction waveguide 1B is arranged to guide the light rays 400 in the taper 491B from the lateral deformation component 60 along the extraction waveguide 1B in a second direction 191B towards the extraction waveguide 1B to the lateral deformation component 110. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the first direction 191A and the second direction 191B are the same. In other embodiments described hereafter, the first direction 191A and the second direction 191B can be different. The extraction waveguide 1B has planar and parallel opposite back guiding surfaces 6B and front guiding surfaces 8B. The extraction waveguide 1B further has an input face 2B extending in a lateral direction 195 (60) and a transversal direction 197 (60), the extraction waveguide 1B being arranged to receive the light 400 from the illumination system 240 through the input face 2B. The input face 2B extends in the lateral direction 195 between edges 22B, 24B of the extraction waveguide 1B and in the transversal direction 197 between the opposite back guiding surfaces 6B and front guiding surfaces 8B of the extraction waveguide 1B. Figure 1A

[0109] The output face 4B of the extraction waveguide 1B can for example comprise a light absorbing material. Advantageously, stray light can be reduced.

[0110] The front guiding surfaces 8B and back guiding surfaces 6B of the extraction waveguide 1B are planar and parallel; and the front guiding surfaces 8A and back guiding surfaces 6A of the input waveguide 1A are planar and parallel. The directionality of the output light taper 491B can be maintained to advantageously improve the fidelity of the image seen on the retina 46 of the viewer eye 45.

[0111] ​The output face 4A of the input waveguide 1A has a curved shape in the lateral direction 195 that provides positive optical power affecting light rays in the cone 491A in the lateral direction 195 (110) and no power in the transverse direction 197 (110). Thus, the optical system 250 is arranged so that light output from the lateral deformation component 110 is directed in a direction distributed in the transverse direction 197 (110) and the lateral direction 195 (110). The curved shape of the output face 4A can be the shape of a cross-section of a sphere, an ellipsoid, a parabola, or other aspheric shape to achieve the desired imaging of light rays from the spatial light modulator 48 to the pupil 44 of the eye 45 as will be further described below.

[0112] The input waveguide 1A does not include extraction reflectors so that light 400 is guided along the input waveguide 1A without loss. In contrast, the extraction waveguide 1B includes an array of extraction reflectors 170 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1B arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide 1B in the second direction 191B toward the eye 45 of the viewer. The array of extraction reflectors 170 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1B so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

[0113] The extraction reflectors 170A-E are examples of reflective extraction features 169 and each extraction reflector includes a set of layers as a reflective layer as will be further described below. In other embodiments, such as Figure 23A As described in -D, the function of the extraction reflectors 170 can be performed by reflective extraction features 169 that are diffractive features, for example including phase gratings.

[0114] The extraction waveguide 1B is also arranged to receive light cones 491B from the transverse deformation component 60 and the lateral deformation component 110. The extraction reflectors 170 are tilted with respect to the direction 191B of the optical axis 199 along the extraction waveguide 1B. The extraction reflectors 170 extend partially across the extraction waveguide 1B between the opposing back guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8.

[0115] The extraction waveguide 1B includes intermediate surfaces 172 extending along the extraction waveguide between adjacent pairs of extraction reflectors 170. In Figure 1A In embodiments of, the intermediate surfaces 172 are arranged between pairs of extraction reflectors 170A-B, 170B-C, 170C-D, and 170D-E.

[0116] The extraction reflectors 170 are arranged to extract at least some of the light cones 491B guided along the extraction waveguide 1B in the second direction 191B toward the eye 45 of the viewer 47 as will be further described below.

[0117] The coordinate system and operating principles of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 will now be further described. The optical system 250 has an optical axis 199, and has anamorphic characteristics in a lateral direction 195 and a transverse direction 197 that are perpendicular to each other and to the optical axis 199.

[0118] The direction of the optical axis 199, the lateral direction 195, and the transverse direction 197 change as light rays propagate through the optical system 250. In this specification, the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197 are defined relative to the direction of the optical axis 199 in the illumination system 240 or any part of the optical system 250, and are not constant directions in space. The transverse direction 197 (60) illustrates the transverse direction 197 at the transverse anamorphic component 60 formed by the transverse lens 61; the transverse direction 197 (110) illustrates the transverse direction 197 at the lateral anamorphic component 110; and the transverse direction 197 (44) illustrates the transverse direction 197 at the eye 45 of the observer 47. The transverse anamorphic component 60 has the same lateral direction 195 (60) as the lateral direction 195 (110) of the lateral anamorphic component 110 and the lateral direction 195 (44) at the pupil 44 of the eye 45. The Euclidean coordinate system illustrated by the x, y, z directions is invariant, while the transverse direction 197, the lateral direction 195, and the optical axis direction 199 can transform at various optical components of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100, particularly by reflections from the optical components.

[0119] Other features of the arrangement of Figure 1A will now be described.

[0120] The optical system 250 can include an input linear polarizer 70 disposed between the spatial light modulator 48 and the extraction reflector 170 of the extraction waveguide IB. In Figure 1A , the input linear polarizer 70 is arranged between the transverse anamorphic component 60 and the input waveguide 1A. The input linear polarizer 70 is an absorptive polarizer, such as a dichroic iodine polarizer, arranged to transmit a linear polarization state and absorb an orthogonal polarization state. As will be described below, the linear polarizer 70 can be arranged to provide a polarization state of the guided light 400 that improves the extraction efficiency of the extraction features 170 array. Advantageously, the extraction efficiency can be improved and light loss reduced.

[0121] In operation, the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide IB are arranged to guide the light rays 400 between the opposing back guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8, as illustrated by the zigzag path of the guided light rays 401 in both the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide IB.

[0122] In the direction 191B, at least some of the light rays 400 propagate through the extraction reflector 170. More generally, in Figure 1AIn one embodiment, the lateral deformation member 110 includes an output surface 4A of the input waveguide 1A, an input surface 2B of the extraction waveguide 1B, and a gap 3 between them. Therefore, the lateral deformation member 110 is a curved surface of the output surface 4A that has positive optical power in the lateral direction 195 but no optical power in the transverse direction 197, the gap 3, and the planar surface of the input surface 2B.

[0123] The operation of the near-eye display device 100, which serves as an augmented reality display, will now be described further.

[0124] The extraction waveguide 1B transmits light through the intermediate surface 172, allowing the coaxial real image point 31 on the real-world object 30 to be directly viewed by the ray 32 through the extraction waveguide 1B. Similarly, it is desirable to view a virtual image 34 with aligned coaxial virtual pixels 36 using virtual ray 37. This virtual ray 37 is provided by coaxial ray 401 reflected from the extraction reflector 170C to the pupil 44 of the eye 45. Similarly, the off-axis virtual ray 39 for viewing virtual pixels 38 is provided by off-axis ray 402 reflected from the extraction reflector 170D. An augmented reality display with advantageously high transmittance of external ray 32 can be provided.

[0125] The imaging characteristics of the morphing near-eye display device 100 will now be further described using schematic diagrams, wherein the coordinate transformations have been removed for illustrative purposes.

[0126] Figure 1D This is a schematic diagram showing an enlarged view illustrating the operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a horizontal plane; and Figure 1E This is a schematic diagram of an enlarged view illustrating the operation of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in a lateral plane orthogonal to the transverse plane; and Figure 1F This is an example Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the front perspective view of the coordinate system mapping of the deformable near-eye display device 100. Figure 1D Features not discussed further in the implementation of -F may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0127] For illustrative purposes, in Figure 1D In -F, the following is omitted: Figure 1A The change in the optical axis direction 199 is illustrated in -B. Figure 1D -F illustrates the illustrative arrangement. Figure 1A The operating principle of the distorting near-eye display device 100 is to achieve a lateral field of view identical to that of the observer 47. and lateral field of view of the eye 45. The pupil 44 is shown as being at a typical viewing distance from the output light guide surface 8 of the optical system 250 e R .

[0128] Figure 1D The lateral imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 are illustrated. The illumination system 240 is provided with a top illumination pixel 222C, a center illumination pixel 222B and a bottom illumination pixel 222T across the lateral direction 197, with light rays having optical power only in the lateral direction collimating the output from each pixel 222L, 222C, 222R and directed towards the pupil 44 of the eye 45. The light ray 460T passes through the pupil 44 of the eye 45 onto the retina 46 of the eye 45 and forms an off-axis image point 461T. The light ray 460C impinges onto the retina 46 and forms a center image point 461C, and the light ray 460B impinges onto the retina 46 and forms an off-axis image point 461B.

[0129] Figure 1E The lateral imaging properties of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 are illustrated. The illumination system 240 is provided with a top illumination pixel 222C, a center illumination pixel 222B and a bottom illumination pixel 222T across the lateral direction 197, with light rays having optical power only in the lateral direction collimating the output from each pixel 222L, 222C, 222R and directed towards the pupil 44 of the eye 45. The light ray 460T passes through the pupil 44 of the eye 45 onto the retina 46 of the eye 45 and forms an off-axis image point 461T. The light ray 460C impinges onto the retina 46 and forms a center image point 461C, and the light ray 460B impinges onto the retina 46 and forms an off-axis image point 461B.

[0130] The observer perceives an enlarged virtual image through the optical system 250, which is arranged between the virtual image 34 and the eye 45, having the same field of view in each of the lateral direction 195 and the lateral direction 197 .

[0131] In the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 of the present embodiment, the distance between the first principal planes of the lateral anamorphic component 60 of the optical system 250 f T is different from the distance between the first principal planes of the lateral anamorphic component 110 of the optical system 250 f L Similarly, for a square output field of view (FOV) and the spacing D of the pixels 222T, 222B in the lateral direction TThe spacing D of the pixels 222R, 222L in the lateral direction 195 L are different.

[0132] In this specification, the lateral angular magnification provided by the lateral anamorphic component 110 of the optical system 250 M L may be given as

[0133] and the lateral angular magnification provided by the lateral anamorphic component 60 of the optical system 250 M T may be given as:

[0134] where is the angular size of the virtual pixel 36 seen by the eye in the lateral direction 195, P L is the pixel pitch in the lateral direction 195, is the angular size of the virtual pixel 36 seen by the eye in the lateral direction 197, and P T is the pixel pitch in the lateral direction 197. In case the angular virtual pixel 36 is square, then and are equal, and the angular magnification provided by the lateral anamorphic component 110 can be given as:

[0135] The angular magnifications M L , M T of the lateral anamorphic optical element 110 and the lateral anamorphic optical element 60 are proportional to the respective optical powers K L , K T of said elements 60, 110. The spatial light modulator 48 can comprise pixels 222 having pitches P L , P T in the lateral direction 195 and the lateral direction 197, the ratio P L / P T of which is the same as K T / K L , the inverse of the ratio of the optical powers of the lateral anamorphic optical element 110 and the lateral anamorphic optical element 60.

[0136] Figure 1F An output coordinate system is exemplified in Fig. 5.2.2.2.1, wherein output light from a central pixel 225 is guided along the optical axis 199 (60) through the lateral anamorphic component 60 and into the extraction waveguide IB from which it is visible at the pupil 44 along the optical axis 199 (44).

[0137] The row 221Tc of pixel 222, which passes through the center pixel 225 extending in the lateral direction 195, outputs a fan-shaped ray 491B. L Each ray represents a virtual pixel 38 across a lateral direction 195, which is provided to the pupil at an angle of 44.

[0138] The column 221Lc, which passes through the center pixel 225 extending in the horizontal direction 197, outputs a fan-shaped ray 491B. T Each ray represents 38 virtual pixels across the horizontal direction of 197, which are provided to the eye at an angle of 45 degrees.

[0139] For a pixel 227 arranged in a quadrant of the spatial light modulator 48, an output light 427 is provided to a pupil 44, which is first imaged by a lateral deformation member 60 and then by a side deformation member 110.

[0140] Now will describe Figure 1A An example of the imaging characteristics of the deformable near-eye display device 100.

[0141] Figure 1G This is an example used for multi-color lighting. Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the field of view output by the deformable near-eye display device 100.

[0142] Figure 1G This is a diagram showing the relationship between lateral and side views. Side field of view. It is 60 degrees, and the lateral field of view is... It is 60 degrees.

[0143] The point with a lateral field of view of 0 degrees is located at the lateral light cone 491B. L In the middle, the point with a lateral field of view of 0 degrees is located at the lateral light cone 491B. T In the middle. The relative aberrations at each image point are illustrated by the blur point spread function 452.

[0144] Lateral dimension 454 of blurry PSF 452 L And horizontal dimension 454 T Determined by the aberrations of the optical system 250. The elliptic blur PSF 452 is an exemplary profile of the relative blur of the point at pixel 227 on the spatial light modulator 48 when output to the eye 45 in the form of a pyramid, and thus represents the relative PSF size and position at the retina 46 of the eye 45 in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197.

[0145] For illustrative purposes, the fuzzy point spread function (PSF) 452 is shown in... Figure 1G The middle is illustrated as having a lateral dimension of 454. L And horizontal dimension 454T More generally, the shape of the blur PSF can be circular, elliptical, cometary, astigmatic, or other profile, which can include scattering artifacts. The illustrated blur elliptical PSF 452 profile can be used to describe a weighted blur PSF 452 in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197. The size 454 T , 454 L of the blur PSF 452 is illustrated as scaled up in proportion to the figure of Figure 1G and does not represent the actual angular size of the blur for each angular pixel at the pupil 44.

[0146] The size 454 T R, 454 L R of the blur PSF 452R of the red pixel 222R can be different from the size 454 T B, 454 L B of the blur PSF 452B of the blue pixel 222B. In addition, the center of gravity of the blur PSF 452B can be shifted in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197, respectively, by a color blur 455 L , 455 T .

[0147] An illustrative arrangement of the pixels 222 of the spatial light modulator 48 will now be described.

[0148] Figure 2A -C is a schematic illustration of a spatial light modulator 48 of the warped near-eye display device 100 illustrated in the previous view for Figure 1A , including spatially multiplexed red sub-pixels 222R, green sub-pixels 222G, and blue sub-pixels 222B. Figure 2A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiment of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0149] The spatial light modulator 48 can be a transmissive spatial light modulator 48, such as an LCD as illustrated in Figure 1A . Alternatively, the spatial light modulator 48 can be a reflective spatial light modulator 48, such as a liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) or a micro-opto-electromechanical (MOEMS) array of micromirrors, such as a DMD from Texas Instruments. Alternatively, the spatial light modulator 48 can be an emissive spatial light modulator 48 using a material system such as OLED or inorganic micro-LEDs. A silicon backplane can be provided to enable high-speed addressing of the high-resolution array of pixels 222.

[0150] In Figure 2A- in C, the pixels 222 of the spatial light modulator 48 are distributed in the lateral direction 195 (48) and also in the transverse direction 197 (48), such that when outputted towards the pupil 44 of the eye 45, the light outputted from the transverse deformation means 60 is directed in a direction distributed in the transverse direction 197, and the light outputted from the lateral deformation means 110 is directed in a direction distributed in the lateral direction 195.

[0151] The white pixels 222 comprising red sub-pixels 222R, green sub-pixels 222G and blue sub-pixels 222B are spatially separated in the lateral direction 195, and the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B are elongated, with a pitch in the lateral direction P L greater than a pitch in the transverse direction 197 P T .

[0152] Taking into account Figure 1C - embodiments of D and Figure 2A - embodiments of D, it can be desirable to provide square white pixels in the final perceived virtual image 34. By the lateral deformation means, the pitch P L is enlarged to an angular size (with a spatial pitch L at the retina 46), and by the transverse deformation means, the pitch P T is enlarged to an angular size (with a spatial pitch T at the retina 46). The pitch P L 、P T may be determined by said different angular magnifications, to advantageously obtain square angular pixels from the anamorphic near-eye display device 100.

[0153] The pixels 222 are arranged in columns 221L, with the columns 221L distributed in the lateral direction 195, and the pixels along a column 221L distributed in the transverse direction 197; and the pixels 222 are also arranged in rows 221T, with the rows 221T distributed in the transverse direction 197, and the pixels along a row 221T distributed in the lateral direction 195.

[0154] In Figure 2A , the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B are distributed in columns of red, green and blue pixels. Advantageously, vertical and horizontal image lines can be provided with high fidelity.

[0155] In Figure 2BIn alternative embodiments, the sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B are distributed along a diagonal. Advantageously, the natural image reproduction can be improved compared to embodiments of Figure 2A

[0156] The sub-pixels 222R, 222G, 222B can be provided by white light emission and patterned color filters, or can be provided by direct emission of the respective color light. The present embodiments include a sub-pixel 222 pitch P L which is larger than other known arrangements including symmetric input optics for thin waveguides.

[0157] In Figure 2C alternative embodiments, a plurality of blue pixels 222B1 and 222B2 can be provided. The blue pixels 222B1, 222B2 can be driven with reduced current to obtain a desired output luminance. Advantageously, the lifetime of the pixels can be prolonged, for example when the spatial light modulator 48 is provided by an OLED microdisplay. In other embodiments, additional or alternative white pixels (e.g. without color filters) or a fourth color, such as yellow, can be provided. Color gamut and / or luminance and efficiency can be advantageously achieved.

[0158] Figure 2D is a schematic diagram of a spatial light modulator 48 of a variant near-eye display device 100 for Figure 1A Figure 2D Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of the present application can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0159] The spatial light modulator 48 can be used for monochromatic illumination. In alternative embodiments, a wide color gamut image can be provided by time sequential illumination, for example by red, green and blue illumination synchronized with red, green and blue image data provided on the spatial light modulator 48. Advantageously, the image resolution can be increased.

[0160] Compared to a non-variant image projector providing equal angular magnification between the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197, the present embodiments provide a significantly increased pixel pitch P P L in size for a given angular image size and magnification in the transverse direction 197.

[0161] ​​In a color filter type spatial light modulator 48, the size of the color filter can be increased. Advantageously, the cost and complexity of the color filter can be reduced. The aperture ratio of the pixel 222 can be increased. In a direct emission display, the size of the emission area can be increased. Advantageously, the cost and complexity of manufacturing the pixel can be reduced and the brightness can be increased. In an inorganic micro-LED spatial light modulator 48, the efficiency loss due to recombination loss at the edges of the pixel can be reduced and the system efficiency and brightness can be advantageously increased.

[0162] The input of light into the Figure 1A varifocal near-eye display device 100 will now be further described.

[0163] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light input into the input waveguide 1A; Figure 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light propagation in the input waveguide 1A along the direction 191A; and Figure 3C is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light extraction from the extraction waveguide 1B. Figure 3A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0164] The lateral light cone 491A Figure 3A will now be described with reference to T the input into the input waveguide 1A.

[0165] In an illustrative embodiment of -C Figure 3A the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A is tilted, in particular with a surface normal of the input face 2A relative to the back guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 at an angle the surface normal is tilted, i.e. the input face 2A is tilted relative to the direction 191A along the input waveguide 1A at an angle the surface normal is tilted.

[0166] The spatial light modulator 48 and the lateral deformation component 60 formed by the lateral lens 61 are tilted relative to the normal of the back guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 at an angle the surface normal is tilted. Thus, the direction of the optical axis 199(60) through the lateral deformation component 60 is tilted relative to the direction 191A along the input waveguide 1A. The optical axis 199(60) direction is generally parallel to the surface normal of the input face 2A, such that the optical axis direction 199(60) is tilted relative to the direction 191A at an angle 90- the surface normal is tilted. With reference to Figure 1G aberrations can be advantageously improved and the height 454 of the pixel blur ellipse 452 can be reduced at least in the lateral direction 197.

[0167] The optical system 250 further comprises a tapered surface 18 which is arranged at an angle to the surface normal of the light guide surface 8 near the input face 2A to direct the light beam from the transverse deformation component 60 into the input waveguide 1A at a desired propagation angle in the transverse direction 197. The tapered surface 18 is arranged between the input face 2A and the light guide surface 8 at an angle to the surface normal of the light guide surface 8. In alternative embodiments, the tapered surface 18 can be arranged on the first light guide surface 6.

[0168] Table 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the geometry of the arrangement for an extraction waveguide 1B with a refractive index of 1.5. Figure 3A Table 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the geometry of the arrangement for an extraction waveguide 1B with a refractive index of 1.5.

[0169]

[0170] Table 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the geometry of the arrangement for an extraction waveguide 1B with a refractive index of 1.5.

[0171] The central pixel 222C provides illumination to the transverse deformation component 60 by exemplary light rays 460CA, 460CB. The light ray 460CA enters through the input face 2A without deflection and is directed just to miss the interface 19 of the tapered surface 18 and the second light guide surface 8 and thus is not deflected. However, the light ray 460CB impinges on the region of the first light guide surface 6 opposite the tapered surface 18 and is reflected by total internal reflection to the same interface 19 at which the light ray is totally internally reflected so that the light rays 460CA, 460CB overlap and are directed along the input waveguide 1A in the direction 191A.

[0172] The extraction reflector 170 desirably has a surface normal direction n R which is tilted with respect to the direction 191B along the extraction waveguide 1B by an angle in the range of 20 to 40 degrees (in Figure 3A 90- degrees in the middle), preferably by an angle in the range of 25 to 35 degrees, and most preferably by an angle in the range of 27.5 to 32.5 degrees. Advantageously, this arrangement reduces stray light rays.

[0173] In alternative embodiments, the extraction reflector can have an angle in the range of 50 to 70 degrees, preferably in the range of 55 to 65 degrees, and most preferably in the range of 57.5 to 62.5 degrees. This arrangement directs the light ray 460C through the light guide surface 8 when the light ray is not reflected from the intermediate surface 172 after reflection from the light guide surface 8.

[0174] Table 1 illustrates a design with a refractive index of 1.5. The refractive indices of the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide 1B can be increased, for example, to 1.7 or greater. Advantageously, the light cone can be increased. The size is large, and a larger angle image can be seen in the horizontal direction.

[0175] The outer pixels 222T and 222B on the lateral direction 195 (48) define the light cone 491A. T A、491A T The outer boundary of B, the two light cones at an angle on either side of the ray 460CA, 460CB. Propagation. The conical surface 18 is configured such that the entire light cone 491A T A does not deflect near the input surface 2A, thus advantageously achieving reduced crosstalk and high efficiency. In the optical cone 491A... T A、491A T After passing through interface 19, they recombine to propagate along the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0176] Now refer to Figure 3B Description of transverse light cone 491A T Propagation along the input waveguide 1A in direction 191A. For clarity, the extractor reflector 170 is omitted from this diagram.

[0177] Considering Figure 3B This illustrates the propagation of light rays distributed in the lateral direction 197 within the cone 491A. Coaxial light rays 37 from the center pixel 222 of the spatial light modulator 48 are guided through the lateral deformation member 60 into the input waveguide 1A.

[0178] The direction of the optical axis 199 (60) passing through the transverse deformation component 60 is tilted at an angle of 90° relative to the direction 191A along the input waveguide 1A. Angle tilt.

[0179] Following interface 19, the light cone 491A T With the angle of incidence The light is incident on the first optical guide surface 6 and reflected by total internal reflection, thus providing a replicated light cone 491A that propagates along the input waveguide 1A in direction 191A. T f.

[0180] Figure 3C The corresponding reflected light cone 491B is illustrated. T 491B TPropagation after reflection in waveguide 1B is extracted. In the lateral direction, the lateral deformation component 110 has no optical power and has a surface normal direction n4 that is ideally parallel to direction 191A. This can reduce the visibility of artifacts (including ghosting and astigmatism) caused by stray light.

[0181] Reflected light cone 491B T 491B T f around the optical axis 199(60) and 199f(60) at an angle Propagation occurs along the second direction 191B. The corresponding transverse directions 197 (60) and 197f (60) are also indicated.

[0182] Cone 491B T 491B T f are all included in cone 491B T 491B T Image data flipped between f around direction 191A provides degeneracy of ray direction for a given pixel 222 on spatial light modulator 48. The aim is to remove this degeneracy so that only cone 491B is extracted. T 491B T One of f, and the secondary image is not directed to the pupil 44 of the eye 45.

[0183] The central output ray 37 propagates through total internal reflection at opposing surfaces 6 and 8 until it strikes the intermediate surface 172 (on which at least some light is reflected), and then reaches the extraction reflector 170 (on which at least some light is further reflected), as will be further described below, such that the light cone 491B T It is preferentially guided toward the second light guide surface 8. After refraction at the light guide surface 8, the cone 495... T The light in the cone 491B T Compared to the increased size of the cone angle, it was extracted towards the eye at 45 degrees.

[0184] Extract reflectors 170A-E at the same angle Inclined, making for Figure 1A Each light extraction reflector 170A-E, light cone 491B T They are parallel and advantageously reduce image blurring of light extracted from different extractor reflectors 170 across the waveguide to the pupil 44.

[0185] By comparison, the light cone 491B, which surrounds the incident surface 8 and then directly incident on the extraction reflector 170 without first reflecting from the intermediate surface 72, is different. T f has the same angle as the incident angle different angles of incidence. The difference in angles of incidence provides for preferential extraction of the reflector 170 by extracting the cones 491B T f not directed toward the eye 45. Degeneracy is reduced or removed, and image cross-talk is advantageously reduced.

[0186] Thus, the tilted input face 2A and the tilted transverse deformation component 60 provide for the cones 491B T , 491B T f that do not overlap with one of the cones that are preferentially extracted toward the eye 45 and the other cone that is preferentially retained within the extraction waveguide. Thus, the tilted input face 2A and the tilted transverse deformation component 60 advantageously enable a single image visible to the eye 45, and minimize ghosting. In some example embodiments below, the surface normal of the input face 2A is not tilted from the direction 191A, however, this is for simplicity of illustration below and not a typical arrangement.

[0187] In alternative embodiments (not shown), the central output light ray 37 can be tilted from the surface normal of the light guide surface 8, for example to adjust the angular position of the field center of the extracted light cone 495 T .

[0188] Pupil expansion in the lateral direction will now be described.

[0189] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light output from the deformation near-eye display device 100 for a single extraction reflector 170; Figure 4B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light output from the deformation near-eye display device 100 for multiple extraction reflectors 170A-N to enable full light cone input into the pupil 44 of the observer in the lateral direction 197 (44); Figure 4C is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of light output from the deformation near-eye display device 100 for multiple positions of a moving observer 47 in the lateral direction 197 (44). Figure 4A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0190] An array of extraction reflectors 170 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1B so as to provide an exit pupil 40 expansion that increases the size of the eyebox 40 in the lateral direction 197 e T as will now be described.

[0191] The extraction reflector 170 partially extends across the extraction waveguide 1B between the opposite back guiding surface 6 and front guiding surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1B with continuously offset positions. The continuously offset positions are arranged in the direction 191B along the waveguide. In other words, in the transversal direction 197, the extraction reflector 170 partially extends across the extraction waveguide 1B with continuously offset positions.

[0192] It is considered that Figure 4A a single extraction reflector 170 is arranged to output the light cone 495 T towards the pupil 44. T However, the limited size of the pupil 44 determines that only those light rays within the partial light cone 496 T are received by the eye 45 and the observed field of view of the image on the retina in the transversal direction 197 (44) is smaller than the field of view input into the extraction waveguide 1B. It is desirable to increase the observed field of view.

[0193] It is considered that Figure 4B a plurality of extraction reflectors 170A-M is provided sufficient to provide light rays 37C, 37T, 37B from the complete cone 495 T . The height of the pupil 44 is larger than the pitch of the extraction reflectors 170. For example, the pitch of the extraction reflectors 170 can be 1 mm and the nominal diameter of the pupil 44 can be 3 mm to 6 mm. The pupil receives light from the plurality of extraction reflectors 170A-M and the observed field of view is the same as the field of view input into the extraction waveguide 1B at the input end. In this limiting case, the exit pupil 40 has the same size e T as the pupil 44 height.

[0194] It is considered that Figure 4C a further extraction reflector 170A-N is provided sufficient to provide a movement of the pupil 44 between a pupil 44A position and a pupil 44B position. In this way, e T is increased and an exit pupil expansion in the transversal direction is achieved. The transversal field of view is set on the extended pupil 44 position, thereby advantageously achieving increased use comfort and complete image visibility.

[0195] As will be described in the Figure 5A -E below, the lateral deformation component 110 also provides an exit pupil 40 expansion in the lateral direction 195, i.e. an increase of the size of the eyebox 40 in the lateral direction 195 e L .

[0196] The imaging properties of the deformation near-eye display device 100 in the lateral direction 195 will now be further considered.

[0197] Figure 5A -C is exemplified from Figure 1A FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a magnified view of light output by a variant near-eye display device of Figure 5A Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0198] Figure 5A Non-extraction light guide regions 178A arranged between input face 2B of extraction waveguide IB and first extraction reflector 170 of extraction reflector 170A-N array and non-extraction light guide regions 178B arranged between extraction reflector 170A-N array and lateral anamorphic component 110 are illustrated. Non-extraction guide segments 178A, 178B can provide increased height of extraction waveguide IB in direction 191B without extraction reflector 170. Extraction efficiency is advantageously improved, and further aberration performance of lateral anamorphic component 110 is improved.

[0199] In Figure 5A In embodiments of -C, eye 45 is aligned in plan view, and out-of-plane rays are not shown, however, such a depiction provides insight into operation of variant near-eye display device 100 in lateral direction 195. More than one extraction reflector 170 is superimposed on pupil 44 of eye 45. For example, extraction reflectors 170 are spaced 1 mm apart, and three to six extraction reflectors 170 are disposed across pupil 44 of eye 45 according to dilation of pupil 44 of eye 45. Advantageously, variation in luminance with eye position 45 can be reduced.

[0200] After reflection from region 478L of lateral anamorphic component 110, pupil 44 sees off-axis rays from pixel 222L at the edge of spatial light modulator 48. While lateral anamorphic component 110 is a relatively fast optical element overall and thus is prone to aberrations, particularly from its edges, for any one eye 45 position, the region 478 of lateral anamorphic component 110 that directs light into pupil 44 is small, and thus aberrations from lateral anamorphic component 110 are correspondingly reduced. Considering Figure 1G A desired small width 455 of blur ellipse 452 can be achieved.

[0201] In Figure 5B In embodiments of -C, eye 45 is aligned in plan view, and out-of-plane rays are not shown, however, such a depiction provides insight into operation of variant near-eye display device 100 in lateral direction 195. More than one extraction reflector 170 is superimposed on pupil 44 of eye 45. For example, extraction reflectors 170 are spaced 1 mm apart, and three to six extraction reflectors 170 are disposed across pupil 44 of eye 45 according to dilation of pupil 44 of eye 45. Advantageously, variation in luminance with eye position 45 can be reduced.

[0202] Light rays 470, 471 are directed from central pixel 222M across lateral direction 195 of spatial light modulator 48 and transmitted through lateral anamorphic component 60 formed by transverse lens 61 without optical power in lateral direction 195 and into extraction waveguide IB. The light rays 470, 471 propagate on direction 191A of input waveguide 1A to input face 2B of extraction waveguide IB which provides positive optical power in lateral direction 195 by means of curved face 4A and / or curved face 2B providing lateral anamorphic component 110.

[0203] Such light rays 470, 471 are reflected at extraction reflector 170A away from the plane of extraction waveguide IB to reach the pupil 44 of eye 45A at viewing distance e R Eye 45 collects light rays 470, 471 and directs them to the same point on the retina 46 to provide a virtual pixel position as described elsewhere herein.

[0204] Similarly, for off-axis pixel 222L offset in lateral direction 195 (48), light rays 472, 473 are provided at the edge of spatial light modulator 48 which are directed into extraction waveguide IB, directed to region 478LA of lateral anamorphic component 110 and reflected by extraction reflector 170A to eye 45A to provide an off-axis image point on retina 46 in lateral direction 195 (44).

[0205] Lateral anamorphic component 110 has positive optical power which provides collimated light rays from each image point 222L, 222M in lateral direction 195. In this way, the lateral distribution of field points across retina 46 is provided by means of the optical power of lateral anamorphic component 110 while transverse anamorphic component 60 has optical power to provide the lateral distribution of field points across retina 46. At the diagonal field of view angle, such as Figure 1F as exemplified in relation to the imaging of pixel 227 in FIG. 6, the field points are provided by the combination of the lateral and transverse optical power of lateral anamorphic component 110 and transverse anamorphic component 60, respectively.

[0206] Figure 5C Extraction pupil expansion in lateral direction 195 and transverse direction 197 is exemplified. Light rays 474, 475 for pixel 222R, 222L are directed to pupil 44B by reflection from regions 478RB, 478LB of lateral anamorphic component 110, respectively. Pupil 44B is offset in lateral direction 195 from pupil 44A where light rays 474, 475 are reflected by at least extraction reflector 170A. Thus, the width e LThe increase through the relatively large width of the lateral deformation component 110, allowing region 478 to be disposed over a desired width. The eye 45 has an increased freedom of viewing in the exit pupil 40, advantageously increasing the viewing comfort of the eye 45, while achieving a full field of view in the lateral direction.

[0207] Figure 5C Further exemplifying pupil expansion in the lateral direction 197. Light reflected from the extraction reflector 170D is directed to the pupil 44C, which has a different height than the pupil 44A, as discussed above with respect to Figure 4C .

[0208] Pupil 40 expansion will now be further exemplified.

[0209] Figure 5D is a schematic diagram exemplifying a magnified view of an imaging system arranged to image in the lateral direction 197, where extraction reflection features 169 (e.g. extraction reflectors 170) are provided; Figure 5E is a schematic diagram exemplifying a magnified view of an imaging system arranged to image in the lateral direction; Figure 5F is a schematic diagram exemplifying a magnified view of an imaging system arranged to image in the lateral direction, where an array of extraction reflectors 170 is provided, but the description similarly applies to other extraction reflection features. Figure 5D Features not discussed in further detail in -F can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0210] Considering Figure 5D , light from the spatial light modulator 40 illuminates the lateral deformation component 60 and inputs light rays into the input waveguide 1A in direction 191A. The light passes through the lateral deformation component 110 unmodified and enters the extraction waveguide 1B in direction 191B. For pixels 222T, 222C, 222B on the spatial light modulator 48, light ray bundles 420T, 420C, 420B are respectively provided across the lateral direction. If located in the cone 422, the pupil 44 of the eye 45 only observes a complete light ray cone, which is close to the lens and thus inaccessible to the eye 45. This is analogous to the exemplifying embodiment of Figure 4A .

[0211] Considering Figure 5Elight from the spatial light modulator 40 illuminates the lateral deformation component 110 and inputs light rays into the input waveguide 1A in the direction 191A. The light cones from the pixels 222L, 222M, 222R that are in the lateral direction are collimated by the lateral deformation component 110 and enter the extraction waveguide 1B in the direction 191B. The bundles of rays 420L, 420M, 420R are provided across the transverse direction. The pupil 44 of the eye 45, if positioned in the cone 424, observes a complete light cone, which is accessible outside the extraction waveguide 1B because the width of the lateral deformation component 110 is much larger than the transverse deformation component 60. This is similar to Figure 5B

[0212] The effect of the extraction reflector 170 on the pupil expansion in the transverse direction 197 will now be further illustrated.

[0213] In contrast to Figure 5D Figure 5F An array of extraction reflectors 170 is illustrated that are distributed along the extraction waveguide 1B so as to provide out-pupil 40 expansion. Each extraction reflector 170A-N respectively effectively provides a replicated image 48R, 60R of the spatial light modulator 48 and the transverse deformation component 60. Such replicated images 48R, 60R further provide Figure 5D replicated light cones 420 of the light cone 420, thereby expanding the effective width of the final light cones 420TR, 420BR. This replication provides a replicated cone 426 from within which the pupil 44 receives light for a complete field of view.

[0214] The cones 422, 424, 426 schematically represent the out-pupil 40 of the deformation near-eye display device in the lateral direction 195 or the transverse direction 197. Thus, the out-pupil 40 expansion is achieved by the lateral deformation component 110 and by the array of extraction reflectors 170A-N forming reflective extraction features 169, in contrast to the out-pupil 40 represented by the cone 422 that would be provided by a conventional micro-projector without pupil expansion.

[0215] An alternative arrangement of a deformation near-eye display device comprising an input waveguide 1A and an extraction waveguide 1B will now be described.

[0216] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of an alternative near-eye display device 100 in which the output face of the input waveguide 1A is curved; Figure 6B is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of an alternative near-eye display device 100 in which the output face of the input waveguide 1A and the input face 2B of the extraction waveguide 1B are curved; and Figure 6C is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of an alternative near-eye display device 100 that also comprises an intermediate waveguide 1C. Figure 6A ​​Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0217] In Figure 6A In alternative embodiments of -C, the lateral deformation means comprises at least one of the output face 4A of the input waveguide 1A and the input face 4B of the extraction waveguide 1B. Figure 6A Alternative embodiments of -C illustrate that the input face 2B of the extraction waveguide 1B can be curved. The input waveguide 1A can comprise a flat plate of transparent material, advantageously enabling reduced cost and complexity.

[0218] In Figure 6B In alternative embodiments of -C, the output face 4A of the input waveguide 1A and the input face 2A of the extraction waveguide 1B are both curved; and in Figure 6C In alternative embodiments of -C, the lateral deformation means 110 further comprises at least one intermediate waveguide 1C arranged between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide 1B. Two gaps 3A, 3B can be provided, which can contain air. Improved aberrations can be achieved, advantageously increasing the field of view angle and improving the image fidelity of the displayed image for larger eyebox 40 dimensions.

[0219] Figure 6D is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative deformed display device 100 comprising a Fresnel lens between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide 1B, in a front view. Figure 6D Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0220] In Figure 6D In alternative embodiments of -C, an interface 109 can be arranged between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide 1B, wherein a material is provided in the gaps 3A, 3B to provide optical power. Advantageously, stray light can be reduced. The interface 109 can comprise the output face 4A of the input waveguide 1A, the input face 2B of the extraction waveguide 1B, or can be arranged between the faces 4A, 2B. The interface 109 can be a Fresnel surface. Advantageously, the volume can be reduced.

[0221] The side faces 22A, 24A can taper down between the input face 2A and the output face 4A. A more compact optical system 250 can be advantageously achieved.

[0222] Figure 6E is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative deformed display device 100 comprising an input waveguide 1A having an input face 2A that is curved in a lateral direction, in a top view; and Figure 6Fis a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative anamorphic display device 100 in top view, with reflective elements disposed between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide. Figure 6E Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of -F can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0223] In Figure 6E In alternative embodiments of -F, the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A has a certain curvature in the lateral direction 197. Advantageously, aberrations of the lateral anamorphic component 60 can be improved.

[0224] In Figure 6F In alternative embodiments of -F, the gap 3 is an air gap with an edge 83, and the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 further comprises reflectors, which are air gap mirrors 96 extending across the edge 83 of the gap 3. The air gap mirrors 96 trap guided light in the region of the gap 3. Advantageously, efficiency is increased and spatial uniformity is improved.

[0225] Figure 6E -F further illustrates alternative embodiments of the extraction feature 170 array, as will be further described below.

[0226] The folded waveguide arrangement 111 will now be described.

[0227] Figure 6G is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative anamorphic display device 100 in top view, including a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide; and Figure 6H is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative anamorphic display device 100 in perspective back view, including a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide. Figure 6G Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of -H can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0228] In Figure 6G In alternative embodiments of -H, the lateral anamorphic component comprises a curved mirror 7, which is arranged between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide 1B, and the direction 191A is tilted with respect to the direction 191B, provided by an intermediate waveguide 1C comprising the curved mirror 7.

[0229] The lateral anamorphic component 110 can be provided by optical power at at least one of the output surface 4A of the input waveguide 1A, the input surface 2C, the output surface 4C and the intermediate reflective surface 5C of the intermediate waveguide 1C, and the input face 2B of the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0230] Advantageously, optical power can be increased and aberrations can be reduced. Chromatic aberration of the lateral deformation component 110 can be further reduced by the reflective surface 5C, resulting in reduced chromatic pixel blur in the perceived image in the eye 45.

[0231] Figure 6I is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative variant of the deformed display device 100 including a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide; and Figure 6J is a schematic diagram illustrating a waveguide arrangement including a curved prism arrangement between the input waveguide 1A and the extraction waveguide in a perspective front view. Figure 6I -features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -J can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0232] In Figure 6I In alternative embodiments of -J, intermediate waveguides 1CA, 1CB are provided with reflective surfaces 5CA, 5CB such that the direction 191A in the input waveguide 1A is opposite to the direction 191B in the extraction waveguide 1B. Advantageously, the deformed near-eye display device 100 achieves a more compact arrangement.

[0233] The eye 45 can be arranged to receive light from the extraction feature 170 without passing through the input waveguide 1A, as Figure 6I illustrated. Advantageously, stray light from the virtual image can be reduced. Alternatively, the eye 45 can be arranged to receive light from the extraction feature 170 passing through the input waveguide 1A, as Figure 6J illustrated.

[0234] Operation of the extraction reflector 170 will now be further described.

[0235] Figure 7A -B is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the extraction waveguide 1B and a top view of the propagation of polarized light in the extraction waveguide 1B around the extraction reflector 170 including a single dielectric partial reflector layer 184; and Figure 7C is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the propagation of polarized light in the extraction waveguide 1B around the light reflecting feature including a dielectric layer stack. Figure 7A -features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0236] In Figure 7B and Figure 7CIn alternative embodiments of the extraction waveguide 1B includes a plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B having opposing stepped surfaces 7A, 7B attached together, the stepped surfaces of the constituent parts 11A, 11B are shaped to have alternating extraction surfaces 170 extending in the transverse direction 197 (60) and intermediate surfaces 172 extending along the extraction waveguide 1B, wherein the extraction reflector 170 includes the opposing extraction surfaces 7A, 7B.

[0237] In exemplary fabrication methods, the extraction waveguide 1B can include a first plurality of constituent parts 11A including the light guide surface 8 and the stepped surface 7A, and having a dielectric coating 184A formed on the stepped surface 7A. A second plurality of constituent parts 11B including the light guide surface 6 and the stepped surface 7B are aligned with the first plurality of constituent parts 11A and an adhesive layer 184B is provided to attach the two stepped waveguides such that the extraction reflector 170 is disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0238] In Figure 7A In embodiments -C, the extraction reflector 170 includes extraction surfaces 167A, 167B separated by a partially reflective coating 184. Further, the intermediate reflector 172 includes intermediate surfaces 182A, 182B separated by a partially reflective coating 184.

[0239] The partially reflective coating 184 includes at least one dielectric layer 186, and in Figure 7A In embodiments -B includes a host dielectric layer 186 and an adhesive layer 187. In Figure 7A In exemplary embodiments -C, the adhesive layer 187 is an index matching layer that matches the index of refraction of the stepped waveguides 1A, 1B and does not contribute to the reflectivity of the partially reflective coating 184.

[0240] In the present embodiments, the extraction reflector 170 includes a partially reflective coating 184 that includes a set of layers including items 11A, 186, 187, 11B.

[0241] In alternative embodiments, the adhesive layer 187 can include a dielectric material having a different index of refraction than the plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B to alter the reflectivity of the partially reflective coating 184. Thus, the set of layers can alternatively include the adhesive layer 187 disposed between the constituent parts 11A, 11B, wherein the index of refraction of the adhesive layer 187 is different than the index of refraction of the constituent parts 11A, 11B, and the additional dielectric layer is omitted. In other words, the dielectric layer 186 can include the adhesive layer 187.

[0242] In Figure 7A and as referenced above with respect to Figure 3ALight ray 460C, propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 B in direction 191 B, has an angle of incidence at the opposite back guiding surface 6 and front guiding surface 8 1. Then, light ray 460C is incident on the extraction reflector 170 with an angle of incidence

[0243] For the embodiment of Table 1, this angle of incidence is 90 degrees. Some light is reflected back along light ray 35 towards the input face 2B by Fresnel reflectivity at the extraction surfaces 167A, 167B. Light ray 460C is also transmitted to continue guiding along the extraction waveguide 1 B. 1. For the case of normal incidence to the surfaces 167A, 167B, the transmittance for the p polarization state 902 is the same as for the s polarization state. Light ray 461C illustrates reflection from the intermediate surface 172 at an angle of incidence 1. Thus, light ray 460C with p polarization state 192 is preferentially transmitted through the intermediate surface. Advantageously, light is not trapped in multiple constituent parts 1 IB or multiple constituent parts 11 A and efficiency is improved.

[0244] In other words, the extraction waveguide 1 B comprises at least two constituent parts 11 A, 1 IB having respective stepped surfaces 7A, 7B shaped as alternating risers and treads, the stepped surfaces 7A, 7B being optically coupled together such that the risers are optically coupled and the treads are optically coupled, wherein the extraction reflector 170 is formed between the optically coupled risers 167 of the stepped surfaces 7A, 7B of the constituent parts 11 A, 1 IB.

[0245] Figure 7B In the embodiment of Table 2, a portion of light ray 460C is extracted as light rays 37A-D. Light ray 37A, propagating along the extraction waveguide 1 B in the second direction 191 B, has an angle of incidence at the intermediate surface 172 and is reflected by Fresnel reflectivity of the interface between the dielectric layer 186 and the material of the multiple constituent parts 11 A. Then, the light is reflected from the extraction surface 167A of the extraction reflector 170 to be output through the second light guide surface 8. In the embodiment of Table 2, the angle 2 is the same as the angle 1 and the light ray 37A is output along the normal to surface 8. In contrast to the p polarization state 902, the s polarization state 904 is preferentially reflected at the extraction reflector 170, as will be illustrated below with respect to Figure 7A 1. Further reflected output light 37B-D is provided from respective reflections at the back surface 167B. Figure 8A

[0246] ​Therefore, the output light from waveguide 1B is extracted preferentially. Advantageously, this improves efficiency and reduces glare from the light output from the waveguide that is farther from the eye (45°).

[0247] The partial reflection extraction reflector 170 achieves improved uniformity by reducing or eliminating dark bands across the lateral direction 197, as will now be described. By comparison with this embodiment, if, for example, the extraction reflectors 170 were arranged to be completely opaque to light propagating in direction 191B from the input surface 2B, they could block some angle of the input light cone measured by the detector placed at the lateral distortion member 110, and thus create “holes” in the angular distribution of light in the lateral direction 197. The reflected light distribution in the extraction waveguide 1B also contains holes and is directed toward the pupil 44 position within the exit pupil 40. If such holes are present, they will be visible in the image as dark bands across the lateral direction 197. Such partial reflection extraction reflectors 170 provide light to the lateral distortion member 110, which provides some luminous intensity across a complete cone guided from the lateral lens 61 through the input angle at the input end. Thus, reduced visibility of holes in the output distribution of light to the pupil 44 and improved image uniformity for the angle across the lateral direction 197 are achieved.

[0248] It may be desirable to further improve the reflection efficiency of the extractor 170.

[0249] In an alternative embodiment, the partial reflective coating 184 may be metallic. The thickness of the metallic layer can be adjusted during manufacturing to optimize the reflectivity of the extracted reflector 170 and intermediate surface 172.

[0250] exist Figure 7C In an alternative embodiment, the partially reflective coating 184 comprises a stack 185 of dielectric layers 186A-E having alternating high and low refractive indices. Exemplary embodiments are provided in Table 2. The stack 185 of dielectric layers 186A-E can be formed on one or both of the plurality of constituent portions 11A, 11B by, for example, evaporation or sputtering, and the extracted waveguide 1B is assembled by aligning the plurality of constituent portions 11A, 11B.

[0251]

[0252] Table 2

[0253] This stacking advantageously increases the reflectivity at each extraction surface 183 by increasing the number of Fresnel reflections, and further, the reflections can be arranged to interfere at the desired angle for the extraction ray 37.

[0254] Considering the materials of the multiple constituent parts 11A and 11B, materials with higher refractive indices, such as polycarbonate or high-refractive-index glass, can be used. Advantageously, An increased field of view can be provided in the lateral direction.

[0255] Polarization selectivity of the reflection at the extraction surface 183 will now be further considered.

[0256] Figure 8A is a plot illustrating reflectivity as a function of wavelength for an illustrative embodiment of Table 2.

[0257] Curve 810 illustrates total p-polarization state 902 reflectivity from a single reflection from the dielectric stack 185, while curve 812 illustrates total s-polarization state 904 reflectivity from a single reflection from the dielectric stack 185, with the thicknesses of Table 2 arranged to provide approximately 25% reflectivity for each reflection. The reflectivity can be adjusted by adjusting the thicknesses and / or increasing the number of layers to achieve a desired reflectivity of s-polarization state 904 light rays 37.

[0258] Referring to Figure 3A , within the taper 491A T , the reflectivity can vary somewhat with lateral ray angle. It is desirable to provide uniform luminance and viewing angle to the pupil 44.

[0259] Figure 8B is a flowchart illustrating compensation of pixel data for pixel positions in the lateral direction. For each lateral pixel angle (e.g., for each row 221T of Figure 2A , the angle of incidence onto the surface dielectric stack 185 2 varies, and subsequently the reflectivity varies. The total output reflectivity for each row 221T can be adjusted to compensate for the variation in reflectivity.

[0260] Alternative arrangements of the extraction waveguide 1 will now be further described.

[0261] Figure 9A -E is a plot illustrating a top view of an alternative arrangement of the extraction waveguide 1. Figure 9A Features not further discussed in detail in the embodiments of -E can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0262] In Figure 6A and Figure 9A alternative embodiments, the extraction reflector 170 does not extend to the opposing back guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0263] In comparison to the embodiments of Figure 6A , the extraction reflector 170 does not extend to the opposing back guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1B. Figure 9AThe extraction waveguide 1B has opposing rear guide surfaces 6 and front guide surfaces 8, each having an anti-reflective coating 189. This anti-reflective coating 189 does not alter the total internal reflection of the guiding rays within the waveguide. However, rays 37 extracted from the extraction waveguide 1B and other rays can provide double imaging through Fresnel reflections at surfaces 6 and 8. The anti-reflective coating 189 advantageously achieves reduced double imaging and increased image contrast.

[0264] also, Figure 9A The embodiment illustrates the location of the adhesive layer 187. For example, the plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B can be manufactured separately by molding. A partially reflective coating 184 can be disposed on at least portion 320 of at least one of the plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B. After coating, the stepped waveguide can be attached in alignment with the adhesive layer 187. The rear guiding surface 6 and the front guiding surface 8 can be formed during the molding of the plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B to advantageously achieve high optical quality for the light guide.

[0265] and Figure 6A Compared to the implementation plan, in Figure 9B In an alternative embodiment, the extraction reflector 170 extends to the opposite rear guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide 1B. During the assembly step, the coated constituent parts 11A, 11B can be aligned with the adhesive layer. After bonding, the rear guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8 can be further polished to provide the desired optical quality for the light guide. This can advantageously improve the efficiency of light extraction and advantageously reduce stray light returning towards the input end.

[0266] In an alternative embodiment not shown, one of the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 may be formed during the molding of one of the plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B, while the other of the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8 may be formed by polishing the corresponding other light guide surface 6, 8 after assembly.

[0267] It may be desirable to increase the size of the extractor 170 and the exit pupil e in the lateral direction. T The size.

[0268] and Figure 6A Compared to the implementation plan, in Figure 9C In an alternative embodiment, the extractor 170 includes a plurality of groups 177A, 177B of extractor 170, wherein, within each group 177A, 177B of extractor 170, in the lateral direction 197 (60), the extractor 170 extends partially across the extractor waveguide 1B, wherein the positions are continuously offset, and the extractor 170 of different groups 177A, 177B overlaps in extent in the lateral direction 197.

[0269] In comparison to embodiments of Figure 6A In alternative embodiments of Figure 9D In alternative embodiments of

[0270] During manufacturing, the arrangement of Figure 9A -D can be provided in a similar manner as described with respect to Figure 9C -D.

[0271] Figure 9C Embodiments of T The size in the lateral direction is advantageously increased. Furthermore, for a given pitch of the extraction reflectors 170 and extraction waveguide 1B thickness t The size resolved in the direction 191B of the extraction reflectors 170 is increased. In view of Figure 1G Since the light reflected from the extraction reflectors 170 is diffracted in the lateral direction, the height 454 of the pixel blur ellipse 452 is advantageously reduced.

[0272] In alternative embodiments of Figure 9E The intermediate surfaces 172 are optically coupled together. An adhesive layer 187 can be arranged between the extraction reflectors 170, which can be layers with similar refractive indices as the plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B. During manufacturing, the intermediate areas between the extraction reflectors can be masked such that no partial reflectors 184 are provided. During alignment of the plurality of constituent parts 11A, 11B, the intermediate areas are optically removed. Advantageously, the trapping of light can be reduced and the extraction efficiency increased.

[0273] Figure 9A The arrangement of Figure 9E The optically coupled intermediate surfaces 172 of Figure 9A -D can be used in the arrangement of

[0274] It can be desirable to reduce the manufacturing cost of the optical coating of Figure 9A -E.

[0275] Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of a top view of an extraction waveguide 1B exemplifying a gap 175. Figure 10Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of the

[0276] In Figure 10 In alternative embodiments of the

[0277] In other words, the extraction reflector 170 thus comprises extraction surfaces 170AA and 170BA, 170AB and 170BB, and 170AC and 170BC, spaced apart by gaps 175, and the intermediate reflector 172 comprises intermediate surfaces 172AA and 172BA, 172AB and 172BB, and 172AC and 172BC, spaced apart by gaps 181.

[0278] The gaps can generally contain air or can contain another material, such as an inert gas. The gaps enable total internal reflection of most or all of the input light rays from the input face 2A, as will be further described below with respect to Figure 11 A-E.

[0279] In comparison to the embodiments of the Figure 9B Figure 10 Embodiments of the present application advantageously reduce complexity. Furthermore, the reflections from the extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surfaces 172 are provided by total internal reflection rather than Fresnel reflections, thus having reduced variation or reflectivity with wavelength and field of view angle. Image uniformity to the eye 45 is improved.

[0280] The extraction surfaces 170, the intermediate surfaces 172, and the opposite back guide surfaces 6 and front guide surfaces 8 further comprise optional anti-reflective coatings 189. Advantageously, stray light and ghosting from light not guided within the extraction waveguide 1B can be reduced.

[0281] Alternative arrangement materials for the extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surfaces will now be described.

[0282] Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a top view of the vicinity of the extraction reflector 170 comprising a partially reflective material 171 and the vicinity of the intermediate surface 172 comprising an intermediate surface material 173. Figure 11 Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of the​

[0283] As described above, the surface reflectivity from the extraction reflector 170 can be provided by (i) a single dielectric layer, (ii) a dielectric stack, (iii) a metallic material, (iv) a gap such as an air gap; and the surface reflectivity from the intermediate reflector 172 can be provided by (i) a single dielectric layer, (ii) a dielectric stack, (iii) a metallic material, (iv) a gap such as an air gap, (v) optical coupling. The extraction reflector 170 and the intermediate surface 172 can be provided with various combinations of surface reflectivity to optically and mechanically achieve different desired properties, as discussed above and as exemplified by Table 3.

[0284]

[0285] Table 3

[0286] Further, according to Table 3, the material and material composition at each extraction reflector 170 and each intermediate surface 172 can vary along the direction 191B of the extraction waveguide 1B, as will be further described below, for example, with respect to Figure 18B further described.

[0287] Figure 11 Further exemplified are extraction reflectors 170 having a tilt angle and a height h along the extraction waveguide 1B in the direction 191B w a pitch along the extraction waveguide 1B in the direction 191B s

[0288] Exemplary arrangements of the stepped surface 7 including extraction reflectors 170 and intermediate surfaces 172 will now be described.

[0289] Figure 12A is a schematic illustration of the variation of the stepped extraction waveguide surface 7 curve with position along the extraction waveguide 1B in the direction 191B for various exemplary arrangements of the stepped extraction waveguide surface 7; Figure 12B is a schematic illustration of the facet width w variation 371, 373 with position along the extraction waveguide 1A in the direction 191B; and Figure 13A is a schematic illustration of an arrangement of chirped extraction reflectors for a monocular near-eye anamorphic display device, exemplified in front view. Figure 13A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0290] Figure 12A ​curve 370 illustrates a stepped surface 7 comprising 60 degree tilted extraction reflectors 170 arranged on a uniform 1 mm pitch with a step height of approximately 0.49 mm h and a uniform step range of 0.28 mm w As Figure 12B illustrated by curve 371. The step range w provides a diffractive aperture for light rays 37 directed towards the pupil 44 of the eye, so that a diffraction blur is added to the image data in the lateral direction 197. It is desirable to increase the range w and thus reduce the diffraction blur in the lateral direction to minimize Figure 1G the blur ellipse height 454 in the lateral direction 197.

[0291] Figure 12A curve 372, Figure 12B curve 373 and Figure 13A illustrate alternative embodiments, wherein the extraction reflectors 170 have a varying pitch in direction 191B along the extraction waveguide 1B s . Furthermore, the extraction reflectors 170 have a varying range in direction 191B along the extraction waveguide 1B w . Thus, considering the central extraction reflector 170C, the range w is 0.5 mm, while the top extraction reflector 170T has a range of 0.15 mm. For light from the center of the extraction waveguide 1B, which can be the preferred viewing position of the pupil 44, the diffraction blur is reduced. Thus, high image quality can be achieved for the preferred viewing position, while the off-axis image quality from the top extraction reflector 170T and the bottom extraction reflector 170B is reduced to some extent. Providing the best image quality in the preferred viewing direction advantageously enables high image performance for the most commonly used image data.

[0292] Figure 12A curve 374 illustrates an alternative embodiment, wherein two sets of extraction reflectors 170 are provided, for example as further illustrated in the alternative embodiment of Figure 9D . The range of each step w is increased, while maintaining a constant 1 mm pitch. Advantageously, the diffraction blur is reduced compared to the embodiment of curve 370. Furthermore, for a given range w , the total thickness t of the extraction waveguide 1B can advantageously be reduced, while achieving the desired pitch p such that multiple extraction reflectors 170 overlap with the pupil 44.

[0293] It is desirable to further reduce the diffraction blur due to the range woccurrence of diffraction-induced image blur in the lateral direction 197.

[0294] Figure 13B is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of chirped extraction reflectors 170 for binocular near-eye anamorphic display device 1 in a front view. Figure 13B Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0295] In Figure 13B In alternative embodiments of FIG. 1B, extraction reflectors 170RA-RN for pupil 44R of right eye 45R have a pitch s and a first profile of range w In addition, extraction reflectors 170LA-LN have a second profile of pitch s and a range w

[0296] In Figure 13B In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 1B, top extraction reflectors 170RT for directing light toward right pupil 44R have a larger pitch and thus a smaller diffraction blur, while bottom extraction reflectors 170RB for directing light toward right pupil 44R have a smaller pitch and thus an increased diffraction blur. In addition, top extraction reflectors 170LT for directing light toward left pupil 44L have a smaller pitch and thus a larger diffraction blur, while bottom extraction reflectors 170LB for directing light toward left pupil 44L have a larger pitch and thus a decreased diffraction blur. In operation, the human visual system can combine the two different blur of the left and right eye images. This combination can achieve an improved perceived blur compared to the same arrangement of first and second profiles of pitch s and a range w Advantageously, an improved image quality can be perceived.

[0297] A head-mounted device 600 including anamorphic near-eye display device 100 will now be described.

[0298] Figure 14A is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device 600 including a monocular anamorphic display device arranged with a spatial light modulator 48 and a lateral anamorphic component 60 formed by a lateral lens 61 located at the eyebrow position; and Figure 14B ​is a schematic illustration of an augmented reality head-mounted display device 600 in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head-mounted display device comprising binocular anamorphic display devices 100L, 100R arranged with spatial light modulators 48R, 48L and transverse anamorphic components 60R, 60L located at the eyebrow position; and Figure 14C is a schematic illustration of an augmented reality head-mounted display device in a perspective front view, the augmented reality head-mounted display device comprising a left-eye anamorphic display device arranged with spatial light modulators located at the temple position. Figure 14A - Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0299] The head-mounted display device 600 can comprise a pair of glasses 600 comprising the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 described elsewhere herein arranged to extend across at least one eye 45 of a viewer 47 when wearing the head-mounted display device 600. The head-mounted display device 600 can comprise a pair of glasses comprising a spectacle frame 602 with a spectacle frame 603 and spectacle temples 604, which serve as a head-mounted arrangement arranged to mount the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 on the head of a wearer, with the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 extending across at least one eye of the wearer. In general, any other head-mounted arrangement can be provided instead. The spectacle frame 603 and / or the spectacle temples 604 can comprise an electrical system for powering, sensing and controlling at least the illumination system 240. The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 of the present embodiment can have a low weight and can be transparent. The head-mounted display device 600 can be tethered to a remote control system by an electrical wire, or can be untethered for wireless control. Advantageously, a comfortable augmented reality content viewing experience can be provided.

[0300] In comparison to the arrangement of -B, in Figure 14A In comparison to the arrangement of -B, in Figure 14C In an alternative embodiment of -A, the illumination system 240 is arranged on a side of the input waveguide 1A and in a direction 191A in which the input waveguide 1A extends in a horizontal direction of the eye 45 of the user. Thus, the lateral direction 195 of the pupil 44 is vertical and the transverse direction 197 is horizontal. The anamorphic near-eye display device 100 can be arranged within the temple of the head-mounted device 600, thereby reducing the volume of the spectacle frame 603 of the head-mounted display device 600. Advantageously, the aesthetic appearance of the head-mounted display device 600 can be improved. Furthermore, connections between the illumination system 240 and control electronics arranged in the temple 604 can be provided with reduced complexity, thereby reducing costs.

[0301] It can be desirable to provide an improved aesthetic appearance of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100.

[0302] Figure 14D is a schematic diagram illustrating a see-through front view of an eyepiece arrangement 102 for an augmented reality head-mounted display device 600 comprising an embedded display device 100. Figure 14D Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of - can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0303] The eyepiece arrangement 102 can be arranged within the head-mounted display device 600 and can comprise at least the extraction waveguide IB of the metamorphic near-eye display device 100. The extraction waveguide IB can be embedded in a substrate 103 extending around the components 170, 110 of the metamorphic near-eye display device 100. The shape of the substrate 103 can be designed to fit various shapes of head-mounted display devices, such as eyeglasses. Advantageously, the aesthetic appearance can be improved.

[0304] The edge 105 of the substrate 103 can be provided with a light-absorbing surface that absorbs the incoming light from the metamorphic near-eye display device 100. The light-absorbing surface can be a structured anti-reflective surface coated with an absorbing material. Advantageously, the image contrast is improved. The eyepiece arrangement 102 comprising the substrate 103 can also be provided for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0305] Figure 15A is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device 100 in a see-through front view, wherein external light rays 32R are transmitted through the extraction waveguide IB to the right eye 45R and external light rays 32L are transmitted through the input waveguide IA to the left eye 45L; and Figure 15B is a schematic diagram illustrating an augmented reality head-mounted display device 100 in a top view, comprising a first metamorphic display device 100L and a second metamorphic display device 100R, wherein external light rays 32L are transmitted through the extraction waveguide IB L and the input waveguide IA R for the left eye 45L; and external light rays 32R are transmitted through the input waveguide IA L and the extraction waveguide IB R for the right eye 45R. Figure 15A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of - can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0306] In Figure 15A In an alternative embodiment of - the input waveguide IA is conveniently positioned without significantly increasing the size of the head-mounted device 600. In the alternative embodiment, a further light-absorbing layer 78 can be provided such that the transmission of light through the input waveguide IA is substantially the same as the transmission of light through the extraction waveguide IB. Advantageously, the image comfort can be improved.

[0307] In Figure 15BIn alternative embodiments of the input waveguide 1AL, 1AR are conveniently arranged to be in contact with Figure 14B comparing to the embodiments of the head mounted device 600 while providing virtual images for each eye 45L, 45R.

[0308] It is desirable to provide a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 in which the head mounted display device is opaque to external images.

[0309] Figure 16A is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 including a left eye anamorphic display device 100R and a right eye anamorphic display device 100L in a front view; and Figure 16B is a schematic diagram illustrating a virtual reality head mounted display device 600 including an anamorphic near eye display device 100 in a top view. Figure 16A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential changes in the features.

[0310] Figure 16A Alternative embodiments of the head mounted display device 600 of -B can include display devices 100R, 100L mounted in the head mounted device 601 having a larger size than Figure 14B the eyeglasses head mounted display device 600 of -B. Referring to Figure 1G for a given field of view angle can reduce aberrations, for a given elliptical blur 452 limit can increase the field of view. Image brightness can be further improved.

[0311] Figure 16B Alternative arrangements are illustrated in which a light trap layer 609 is disposed between the head mounted display device 600 housing 606 and the extraction waveguide 1B to receive stray light rays 607 output from the extraction waveguide 1B. Advantageously, image contrast is improved.

[0312] It can be desirable to reduce the number of illumination systems in a binocular near eye display.

[0313] Figure 16C is a schematic diagram illustrating an anamorphic near eye display device 100 including a single extraction waveguide 1B adapted for use by both eyes of a display user in a front view. Figure 16C Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential changes in the features.

[0314] The extraction reflector 170 array comprises two separate regions 177L, 177R, each region 177L, 177R arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide IB towards a respective eye 45L, 45R of the viewer 47. Non-extraction regions 178A-C are arranged in the extraction waveguide IB outside the separate regions 177L, 177R.

[0315] Thus, a single illumination system 240 comprising a spatial light modulator 48 can be arranged to provide illumination to both eyes 45R, 45L. Advantageously, cost and complexity are reduced.

[0316] It can be desirable to improve the performance and functionality of the head-mounted display device 600.

[0317] Figure 16D is a schematic diagram illustrating, in top view, a metamorphic near-eye display device comprising two metamorphic display devices; and Figure 16E is a schematic diagram illustrating a synthetic image provided by the head-mounted display device 600 to an eye 45. Figure 16D is a schematic diagram illustrating a synthetic image provided by the head-mounted display device 600 to an eye 45. Figure 16D Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -E can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0318] In Figure 16D In alternative embodiments of -E, the metamorphic near-eye display device 100A is a first near-eye display device, and the head-mounted display device 600 further comprises a second near-eye display device 100B, wherein the second near-eye display device 100B is arranged in series with the first near-eye display device 100A and receives light from the first near-eye display device.

[0319] The near-eye metamorphic display device 100A comprises a spatial light modulator 48A having a first size and a pixel 222 density, a lateral metamorphic component 60A having a first lateral optical power, and an extraction waveguide 1BA comprising a lateral metamorphic component 110A having a first lateral optical power. The near-eye metamorphic display device 100B comprises a spatial light modulator 48B which can have the same or different size and pixel 222 density as the spatial light modulator 48A, a lateral metamorphic component 60B having a second lateral optical power which can be the same or different from the first lateral optical power, and an extraction waveguide 1BA comprising a lateral metamorphic component 110A having a second lateral optical power which can be the same or different from the first lateral optical power.

[0320] Spatial light modulators 48A, 48B, lateral anamorphic components 60A, 60B; lateral anamorphic components 110A, 110B, and extraction reflector 170 can be arranged to provide a desired increase in optical performance, including at least one of: (i) increased image resolution; (ii) increased brightness; (iii) increased exit pupil 40 size; (iv) reduced image diffraction; (v) increased field of view; and (vi) multiple focal planes.

[0321] In Figure 16D In exemplary embodiments, spatial light modulators 48A, 48B are identical, but lateral anamorphic components 60A, 60B and lateral anamorphic components 110A, 110B are different, such that magnification provided by respective anamorphic near-eye display devices 100A, 100B is different. Figure 16E It is exemplified that an outer image region 448A having a boundary 449A is provided by anamorphic near-eye display device 100A, and a central image region 448B having a boundary 449B is provided by anamorphic near-eye display device 100B. Advantageously, a high resolution image can be provided in the central region 448A, overlaying a lower resolution image in the outer region 448B. Such an arrangement can advantageously achieve increased image fidelity for the most common viewing direction, while providing a large field of view.

[0322] Figure 16D It is also exemplified that extraction reflector 170 can be provided with different alignments to achieve increased exit pupil 40 size and reduced diffraction blur.

[0323] It can be desirable to increase the performance of a virtual reality display system.

[0324] Figure 16F is a schematic diagram exemplifying a virtual reality head-mounted display device 600 in top view, the virtual reality head-mounted display device including an anamorphic near-eye display device 100 arranged to receive light from a magnifying lens 610; and Figure 16G is a schematic diagram exemplifying a virtual reality head-mounted display device in top view, the virtual reality head-mounted display device including an anamorphic near-eye display device arranged between a non-anamorphic display device's anamorphic spatial light modulator and a magnifying lens. Figure 16F Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -G can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0325] In Figure 16DIn alternative embodiments, the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 is a first near-eye display device, and the head-mounted display device 600 further comprises a non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610, wherein the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610 comprises a non-anamorphic spatial light modulator 648 and a non-anamorphic magnification optical system 660; and wherein the at least one near-eye display device 100 is arranged in series with the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610 and receives light from the non-anamorphic near-eye display device.

[0326] In Figure 16G In alternative embodiments, the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 can be arranged in series with the non-anamorphic spatial light modulator 648, between the non-anamorphic spatial light modulator 648 and the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610. The anamorphic near-eye display device can be arranged substantially at the pupil of the magnification optical system 660 to provide no optical power to light from the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 100. Alternatively, some small optical power for light from the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 can be provided to modify the virtual image distance. The total thickness of the optical system can be reduced, advantageously enabling a reduced volume.

[0327] In Figure 16F In embodiments of -G, the non-anamorphic magnification optical system 660 can comprise a lens, such as a Fresnel lens, a pancake lens, or other known non-anamorphic magnification lens, and is arranged to provide a virtual image of the spatial light modulator 648 to the eye 45. In contrast to the anamorphic near-eye display device 100, the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610 provides equal magnification of the pixels 622 in the lateral direction 195 and the transverse direction 197 on the non-anamorphic spatial light modulator 648. The non-anamorphic magnification optical system 660 is generally circularly symmetric.

[0328] In operation, the top pixels 620T of the non-anamorphic spatial light modulator 648 provide light rays 662T, the center pixels 620C provide light rays 662C and the bottom pixels 620B provide light rays 662B. The eye of the observer 45 collects the light rays 460T, 460C, 460B and produces an image on the retina of the eye such that the image is perceived with an angular size that is magnified compared to the angular size of the spatial light modulator 48.

[0329] The spatial light modulators 48, 648, the non-anamorphic magnification optical system 660, the transverse anamorphic component 60; the lateral anamorphic component 110 and the extraction reflector 170 can be arranged to provide a desired increase in optical performance, including at least one of: (i) increased image resolution; (ii) increased brightness; (iii) increased exit pupil 40 size; (iv) reduced image diffraction; (v) increased field of view; and (vi) multiple focal planes.

[0330] Figure 16His a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement of virtual image distances for a virtual reality display device in plan view. Figure 16H Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of the '414 application can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0331] In view of Figure 16F In embodiments of the '417 application, a virtual image distance 61 from the eye 44 to a virtual image 34 provided by the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 can be at an infinite conjugate plane 33 distance 663, while a virtual image distance 61 from the eye 44 to a virtual image 34 provided by the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610 can be at a finite conjugate plane 33 distance 661. F In embodiments of the '417 application, a virtual image distance 61 from the eye 44 to a virtual image 34 provided by the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 can be at an infinite conjugate plane 33 distance 663, while a virtual image distance 61 from the eye 44 to a virtual image 34 provided by the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610 can be at a finite conjugate plane 33 distance 661.

[0332] More generally, a virtual image distance from light from the first near-eye display device 100A, 100B can be different than a virtual image distance from light from the second near-eye display device 100A, 100B, respectively.

[0333] Advantageously, the comfort of use of the display can be improved.

[0334] Figure 16I - J is a schematic diagram illustrating a displayed virtual image of an arrangement for Figure 16H is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement of virtual image distances for a virtual reality display device in plan view. Figure 16I Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of the '417 application can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0335] Figure 16I An image 448A having a border 449A provided by the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 is illustrated, while Figure 16J An image 448B having a border 449B provided by the non-anamorphic near-eye display device 610 is illustrated.

[0336] The background image 448A and the foreground image 448B are provided such that the image 448A can also include an occlusion image 77 that is in operation aligned with the foreground image 448B that overlays the background image. An opaque foreground image can be advantageously implemented.

[0337] Embodiments including alternative forms of the reflective extraction feature 169 will now be described.

[0338] Figure 17A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in perspective front view, in which the reflective extraction feature includes extraction reflectors 174A-D that include a plurality of constituent panels 180A-E. Figure 17AFeatures not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of FIG. 1A can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0339] In contrast to FIG. 1A, Figure 1A In contrast to FIG. 1A, Figure 17A In alternative embodiments of FIG. 1C, the extraction waveguide IB includes a plurality of constituent plates 180A-E optically coupled together, with extraction reflectors 174A-D formed between the constituent plates 180A-E. The extraction reflectors 174A-D extend between the opposing back guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8 of the extraction waveguide IB. In other words, the extraction reflectors 174A-E extend across the entire extraction waveguide IB between the opposing back guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8, however, it is generally possible to provide some regions 178A, 178B along the extraction waveguide IB without extraction reflectors 174 as discussed above.

[0340] In alternative embodiments of FIG. 1C, the extraction reflectors 174 have the same reflective regions. Advantageously, the variation in luminance with viewing angle can be reduced. Figure 17A

[0341] Figure 17B is a schematic illustration of a top view of light input into a variant near-eye display device of FIG. 1C. Figure 17A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of FIG. 1A can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features. Figure 17B In manufacture, a plurality of constituent plates 180 are coated and bonded as a stack of plates 180A-N. The stack of plates 180A-N can then be cut and polished at an angle

[0342] to provide the tilted plates 180A-N.

[0343] The external interfaces shown as extraction reflectors 174A, 174D in FIG. 1C can alternatively be provided by bonding to non-extraction waveguide regions 178A, 178B, such that extraction is not provided. Advantageously, the complexity of the non-extraction waveguide constituent portions 178A, 178B is reduced and cost is reduced. Figure 17B In contrast to FIG. 1A,

[0344] In contrast to FIG. 1A, Figure 6A In contrast to FIG. 1A, Figure 17B The plurality of constituent plates 180 of FIG. 1C provide extraction reflectors 174A-D, each extending between the opposing back guide surface 6 and front guide surface 8. The extraction reflectors 174A-D can be arranged at a tilt angle and have a width t determined by the waveguide thickness and angle w ​along the direction 191B of the extraction waveguide 1B w increases, and advantageously reduces diffraction blur in the lateral direction.

[0345] In operation, the extracted light rays 37 are incident on the light guide surface 6 prior to being incident at the partial extraction reflectors 174A-D to provide corresponding output light rays 37A-D. Advantageously, the size of the head mounted host is increased.

[0346] Figure 17C is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of the varifocal near-eye display device 100 including an extraction waveguide 1B including extraction means 711 and a partially reflective layer 702 arranged on a back surface 706 of a waveguide means 701 in a perspective front view. Figure 17C Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of

[0347] By comparison with Figure 17B in the alternative embodiments of Figure 17C In alternative embodiments of

[0348] The partially reflective layer 702 can be at least one of a reflective polarizer, a dielectric stack, a thin metal layer, or a combination thereof. A further retarder can be provided at the partially reflective layer to achieve proper manipulation of the polarization state at the partially reflective layer 702 to provide the desired reflectivity characteristics to achieve improved uniformity.

[0349] In operation, light rays 37 are guided along the waveguide means 701. At the partially reflective layer 702, some light can be reflected and some light can be transmitted through the partially reflective layer 702. The reflected light propagates along the waveguide means 701 to be extracted by the extraction reflectors 174 which are different from the transmitted light. Advantageously, the uniformity of the extraction of the light rays 37 along the direction 191 of the waveguide 1B can be improved.

[0350] Figure 17D is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of the varifocal near-eye display device 100 including an extraction waveguide 1B including extraction means 711 and a partially reflective layer 702 arranged on a front surface 708 of a waveguide means 701 in a perspective front view. Figure 17D Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of

[0351] By comparison with Figure 17C in the alternative embodiments of Figure 17DIn alternative embodiments of -A, the extraction reflector 174 is disposed on the front side 708 of the waveguide member 701. Advantageously, the visibility of stray light from the extraction reflector 714 can be reduced.

[0352] The propagation of polarized light is similar to that of Figure 7A -C, but without the provision of the intermediate surface 172, and will now be further described.

[0353] Figure 18A is a schematic top view of the propagation of polarized light in a variant near-eye display device 100 of Figure 17A ; and Figure 18B is a schematic top view of the variation in reflectivity of the extraction reflectors 174 along the direction 191B of the extraction waveguide IB of -B, with the illustrative embodiment of Table 4. Figure 17A Figure 18A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0354] The extraction reflector 174A includes a dielectric stack having dielectric layers 186AA-186AC, and the extraction reflector 174B includes a dielectric stack having dielectric layers 186BA-186AE, which may, for example, include different dielectric stacks than the extraction reflector 174A and can provide different reflectivities.

[0355] The dielectric stacks 186A-N can be formed on one or both surfaces of the adjacent plate 180. In other embodiments, the dielectric stacks can be replaced by a single dielectric layer, metal, or gap.

[0356] In operation, for light rays 460C propagating along the extraction waveguide IB in the second direction 191B, some p-polarized light 464 is reflected; however, as Figure 8A illustrated, the p-polarized reflectivity can be minimized by appropriate design of the respective dielectric stacks 186A-N.

[0357] In the extraction waveguide IB, the polarization conversion retarder 72 provides s-polarized states 908 reflected by the dielectric stacks 186AA-AC and 186BA-186BE toward the pupil 44.

[0358]

[0359] Table 4

[0360] In Figure 18B ​In an alternative embodiment, the extractor reflector 174 extends across the extractor waveguide 1B, and the extractor reflector has the same reflective region. The reflectivity of the extractor reflector 174 is defined across its entire region and increases with distance along the optical axis 199 (60) for light in the extractor waveguide 1B. In other words, the reflectivity of the extractor reflector 174 is defined across its entire region and increases with distance along the extractor waveguide 1B in direction 191B.

[0361] The stacked reflectivity curves in Table 4 demonstrate uniform power output to the 37A-D ray. This allows for a more favorable view of uniform image brightness across different pupil 44 positions outside the pupil 40. This reflectivity profile can be achieved by adjusting the dielectric stacks 186A-N to be different at each extractor reflector 174A-N. This difference can be achieved by adjusting the number, thickness, and material of the dielectric layers 186.

[0362] The exemplary implementation schemes in Table 4 are as follows: Figure 18A -B polarized illumination provides the desired output characteristics because the extractor reflector 174 is substantially transparent to the light 460C with p-polarization state 902. Therefore, the reflector 174D substantially blocks the transmitted s-polarization state 904, but transmits the p-polarization state 902, and thus partially transmits in a general sense.

[0363] An alternative arrangement for extracting reflector 174 will now be described.

[0364] Figure 19A This is an example of a perspective front view. Figure 17A A schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement for a deformable near-eye display device 100, wherein some polarization beamsplitters 200 do not extend the entire thickness of the extraction waveguide 1B; and Figure 19B This is an example of a top view. Figure 19A A schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the deformable near-eye display device 100. Figure 19A Features not discussed further in the implementation of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0365] exist Figure 19A In an alternative embodiment of -B, the extractor reflector 174 extends across a portion of the extractor waveguide 1B, and the array of extractor reflectors 174 has a reflectivity defined across its entire region that increases with distance along the optical axis 199 in direction 191B along the waveguide. In other words, the extractor reflectors 174 are patterned to have different reflective regions, thereby providing a reflectivity defined across its entire region that increases with distance along the optical axis 199 (60).

[0366] Such extraction reflectors 174 can be fabricated by masking the plate 180 during formation of the dielectric layers 186A-N, e.g., by deposition. Thus, some areas 181 of the surface of the plate can not have the dielectric stack. As exemplified in Table 4, the total power extracted at each facet may be constant across the array of extraction reflectors 174A-D. In contrast Figure 18A For each of the extraction reflectors 174A-D, the dielectric stack composition can be the same. Advantageously, cost and complexity of deposition onto the plate 180 can be reduced.

[0367] Figure 20A is a schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of the variant near-eye display device 100, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a patterned reflector; and Figure 17A is a schematic diagram of operation of the variant near-eye display device 100, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a patterned reflector. Figure 20B is a schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of the variant near-eye display device 100, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a patterned reflector; and Figure 20A is a schematic diagram of operation of the variant near-eye display device 100, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a patterned reflector. Figure 20A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0368] In Figure 20A In alternative embodiments of -B, the extraction reflectors 174 have a density in terms of patterned area that increases with distance along the extraction waveguide 1B in the direction 191B in the extraction waveguide 1B to achieve a desired reflectivity profile, e.g., as exemplified in Table 4.

[0369] The patterning of the extraction reflectors 174 can enable a reduction in manufacturing complexity of the plate 180.

[0370] Furthermore, the extraction reflectors 174 can comprise a high reflectivity metal, in contrast to the dielectric stack discussed elsewhere herein. In this case, the input linear polarizer 70 and the polarization conversion retarder 72 can be omitted. Advantageously, cost can be reduced.

[0371] Figure 21A is a schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of the variant near-eye display device, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a plurality of partially reflective metal extraction reflectors 174; and Figure 17A is a schematic diagram of operation of the variant near-eye display device 100, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a plurality of partially reflective metal extraction reflectors 174. Figure 21B is a schematic diagram of operation of the variant near-eye display device 100, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a plurality of partially reflective metal extraction reflectors 174. Figure 21A is a schematic diagram of operation of the variant near-eye display device 100, in which the polarizing beamsplitter 200 comprises a plurality of partially reflective metal extraction reflectors 174. Figure 21A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0372] In Figure 21A In an alternative embodiment of -B, the extractor reflectors 174A-D are partial reflectors that may include a metallic coating disposed on plate 180. The metallic coating is adjusted with different reflectivities during manufacturing to achieve the desired reflectivity. Compared to Table 4, the maximum reflectivity of extractor 174D may be 50% or lower, allowing input light 460C to be transmitted in input waveguide 1A.

[0373] The input linear polarizer 70 and polarization conversion delay unit 72 are omitted, which advantageously reduces cost and complexity.

[0374] Figure 22A This is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a deformable near-eye display device 100 comprising multiple stepped constituent panels 188. Figure 22A Features not discussed further in the implementation scheme may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0375] exist Figure 22A In an alternative embodiment, the extraction region 177 includes a plurality of constituent plates 188, wherein extraction reflectors 169 are formed between the constituent plates 188. The stepped constituent plates 188 also include support members 189A, 189B extending along the extraction waveguide 1B in a second direction 191B. External support members 167A, 167B are provided to form a rear guide surface 6 and a front guide surface 8.

[0376] and Figure 17B Compared to the previous implementation, the extractor partially extends between the rear guide surface 6 and the front guide surface 8, and the steps overlap in the direction 199 (44) and the lateral direction 197 (60). For example, the range of the extractor 169 w Greater than Figure 12A The stepped surfaces 7A and 7B are within the range. Advantageously, this reduces blurring in the lateral direction 197.

[0377] Figure 22B This is an example of manufacturing. Figure 22A A schematic diagram of the method for extracting the extraction region 177 of the waveguide. Figure 22B Features not discussed further in the implementation scheme may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0378] In the first step S1, for example, a stepped structural plate 188 including support members 189A and 189B is manufactured by injection molding.

[0379] In step S2, the surface of the stepped structural plate 188 is coated with a coating 168, such as a dielectric layer, as described elsewhere herein.

[0380] In step S3, the stack of stepwise constituent plates 188A-C is attached in alignment so that the extraction reflectors formed therebetween have a common slope with respect to the direction 191B along the extraction waveguide 1B .

[0381] In step S4, external support members 167A, 167B are added to provide the extraction waveguide 1B extraction region 177 portion. In a final step (not shown), a non-extraction waveguide portion 178 is added. The outer surfaces 6, 8 can be polished to achieve a desired flatness and parallelism.

[0382] Figure 22B The method of does not use expensive plate construction methods such as can be used for the arrangement of Figure 17A . Advantageously, cost can be reduced.

[0383] It can be desirable to provide further expansion of the exit pupil 40 while reducing diffraction blur and manufacturing cost.

[0384] Figure 22C - D is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of an alternative arrangement of an extraction waveguide 1 including two types of partially reflecting extraction reflectors 170, 174. Figure 22C - Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiment of D can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential changes in the features.

[0385] Figure 22C - The extraction waveguide 1 of D includes a first extraction portion 13A and a second extraction portion 13B. The extraction portions 13A, 13B include extraction reflectors 170 and intermediate surfaces 172 of the same type as Figure 9C . The extraction reflectors 170 and intermediate surfaces 172 can alternatively be of the type illustrated in Table 3 or at least in the above-disclosed Figure 9A-11 E.

[0386] In an alternative embodiment of Figure 22C , another extraction reflector 174 is arranged between the extraction portion 13A including constituent plate 180A and the extraction portion including constituent plate 180B. The extraction reflector 174 can be at least of the type illustrated in any of the above-disclosed Figures 17A to 22A embodiments of E.

[0387] In operation, the extraction reflector 170 having a step shape provides extraction to a region towards the edge of the exit pupil 40, while the extraction reflector 174 provides extraction to a central region of the exit pupil 40. Advantageously, diffraction blur in the central region is reduced, improving image quality for the most common viewing direction. Furthermore, manufacturing cost of the multiple constituent plates 180A, 180B is reduced.

[0388] In Figure 22D alternative embodiments of -A, the further extraction reflector 174A, 174B and the further constituent plate 180C are arranged between the extraction portion comprising constituent plate 180A and the extraction portion comprising constituent plate 180B. In comparison, the area over which the diffraction blur of the exit pupil 40 is advantageously increased. Figure 22D

[0389] In an exemplary manufacturing method, Figure 22C Embodiments of -D can be formed by manufacturing the extraction portion 13A, 13B as described elsewhere herein, coating the end portions 163A, 163B of the extraction portion 13A, 13B, and attaching the end portions 163A, 163B, e.g. by means of an adhesive. Optionally, the surfaces 6, 8 can be subsequently polished to provide the desired light guide properties.

[0390] It can be desirable to reduce the cost and complexity of the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0391] Figure 23A is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative arrangement of the variant near-eye display device 100 in a perspective front view, in which the extraction waveguide 1B comprises a diffractive optical element 112B, which will now be described; Figure 23B is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the variant near-eye display device 100 in a top view; and Figure 23A is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the variant near-eye display device 100 in a perspective front view. Figure 23C Features of embodiments of -C which are not discussed in further detail can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features. Figure 23A Figure 23A In view of alternative embodiments of -A, the extraction waveguide 1B comprises a transmissive element 1A and a diffractive optical element 112B optically coupled to the transmissive element 1A. The operation of the lateral and lateral deformation components 60, 110 is as described elsewhere herein.

[0392] In view of alternative embodiments of -A, the extraction waveguide 1B comprises a transmissive element 1A and a diffractive optical element 112B optically coupled to the transmissive element 1A. The operation of the lateral and lateral deformation components 60, 110 is as described elsewhere herein. Figure 23A In view of alternative embodiments of -C, the diffractive optical element 112B is arranged to provide extraction of some of the light guided in the extraction waveguide 1B between the opposing rear and front guide surfaces 6, 8, wherein the diffractive optical element 112B is arranged between the opposing rear and front guide surfaces 6, 8. A central ray 460C on the optical axis 199 (60) along the second direction 191B of the extraction waveguide 1B is partially reflected by the diffractive optical element 112B to output light 464 away from the eye 45.

[0393] Figure 23B In view of alternative embodiments of -C, the diffractive optical element 112B is arranged to provide extraction of some of the light guided in the extraction waveguide 1B between the opposing rear and front guide surfaces 6, 8, wherein the diffractive optical element 112B is arranged between the opposing rear and front guide surfaces 6, 8. A central ray 460C on the optical axis 199 (60) along the second direction 191B of the extraction waveguide 1B is partially reflected by the diffractive optical element 112B to output light 464 away from the eye 45.

[0394] ​​​ Figure 23D is a schematic diagram illustrating in plan view the operation of a waveguide including diffractive output beam deflector elements 216. Figure 23D Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0395] The extraction waveguide 1B includes a transmissive element 1 A and a diffractive optical element 112B optically coupled together, where the reflective extraction features 169 include portions 218 of the diffractive optical element 112B. The diffractive optical element 112B is an example of an extraction reflective feature and includes a combination of equal- index layers 217, 219 disposed in a continuous material 223, which is the feature that extracts light.

[0396] In other words, the extraction waveguide 1B includes an array of portions 218 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1B, the portions 218 being arranged to transmit guided light 400 along the extraction waveguide 1B in the second direction 191B and to extract guided light along the extraction waveguide 1B in the second direction 191B towards the eye 45 of the viewer. The array of portions 218 is distributed along the extraction waveguide 1B so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

[0397] Figure 23D It is exemplified that the extraction waveguide 1B includes a transmissive element 1 A and a diffractive optical element 112B optically coupled to the transmissive element 1 A by an adhesive layer 214, where the diffractive optical element 112B includes an array of portions 218. Light rays 460C are guided in the extraction waveguide 1B by virtue of total internal reflection at the opposing back and front guide surfaces 6, 8 of the extraction waveguide 1B. As a result, at least some of the light rays 460C are transmitted through the portions 218 of the diffractive optical element 112B. The proportion of light reflected by the portions 218 can be controlled by controlling the modulation depth of the portions 218 along the extraction waveguide 1B in the direction 191B.

[0398] The diffractive optical element 216 is a volume hologram, where the portions 218 include equal-index planes 217 of increased refractive index and equal-index planes 217 of decreased refractive index. The refractive index modulation between the equal-index planes 217, 219, the slope of the equal-index planes 217, 219 and the pitch provides the portions 218 with the desired extraction of light rays 37 from the diffractive optical element 112B.

[0399] It can also be desirable to provide a full color display device including a diffractive optical element.

[0400] Figure 24Ais a schematic diagram in top view illustrating a full-color anamorphic display device 100 comprising three waveguides 1R, 1G, 1B comprising respective diffractive optical elements; and Figure 24B is a schematic diagram in top view illustrating a full-color anamorphic display device 100 comprising two waveguides 1RB, 1G comprising respective diffractive optical elements. Figure 24A - Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0401] In Figure 24A In an alternative embodiment of, the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 comprises separate red, green and blue display devices 100R, 100G, 100B each comprising a red, green and blue illumination system 240R, 240G, 240B, lateral anamorphic components 60R, 60B, 60G and diffractive optical elements 1BR, 1BG, 1BR arranged on transmissive elements 1AR, 1AG, 1AB. Output light rays 37B, 37G are transmitted through the extraction waveguide 1BR. A color image can advantageously be provided.

[0402] In Figure 24B In an alternative embodiment of, the first extraction waveguide can be provided with a green diffractive optical element 112AG and a transmissive element 1AA, and the second extraction waveguide can be provided with a red diffractive optical element 1BR and a blue diffractive optical element 1BB and a transmissive element 1BA. The second waveguide is illuminated with red and blue light from the illumination system 240RB, while the illumination system 240G provides green illumination to the first extraction waveguide. The thickness can be reduced compared to a stack (not shown) comprising a red diffractive optical element, a green diffractive optical element and a blue diffractive optical element, the cross-talk between the red diffractive optical element and the blue diffractive optical element can be reduced. The color reproduction can be improved.

[0403] It can be desirable to provide a further expansion of the exit pupil 40 while reducing diffraction blur and manufacturing costs.

[0404] Figure 24C - E is a schematic diagram in top view illustrating an alternative arrangement of extraction waveguides comprising a combination of different forms of reflective extraction features 169. Figure 24C - Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -E can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0405] Figure 24CThe extraction waveguide 1 of -E includes transmissive elements 1A that include reflective extraction features that are extraction reflectors that are reflective extraction features 169 that are diffractive optical elements 112B.

[0406] Figure 24C Alternative embodiments are illustrated in which the extraction reflector includes a plurality of constituent plates 180A-D and extraction reflector 174 as described above. The central region of the exit pupil 40 in the lateral direction 197 can be provided by the extraction reflector 174 with advantageous low diffraction blur. For a desired exit pupil size in the lateral direction 197 e T The number of constituent plates 180 can be reduced and cost advantageously decreased.

[0407] The outer region of the exit pupil 40 in the lateral direction 197 can be provided by the diffractive optical elements 112B. The exit pupil 40 can advantageously have an increased size.

[0408] In Figure 24D alternative embodiments, the extraction reflector 170 having a stepped shape provides extraction to a region towards the center of the exit pupil 40 while the diffractive optical elements 1B provide extraction to an outer region of the exit pupil 40. Advantageously, high efficiency is provided in the central region. The size of the extraction reflector 170 w can be increased and diffraction blur advantageously decreased. Furthermore, manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0409] In Figure 24E alternative embodiments, the reflective extraction features 169 including the portion of the diffractive optical elements 112B are also provided compared to the arrangement of Figure 22D Advantageously, the size of the exit pupil 40 is increased and manufacturing cost is decreased.

[0410] Figure 24C Alternative embodiments of -E illustrate non-limiting arrangements including different types of reflective extraction features 169. The various embodiments described elsewhere herein for the reflective extraction features 169 can be arranged together in additional arrangements to achieve optimization of manufacturing cost, exit pupil 40 size, image blur, stray light, and other desired display characteristics of the near-eye anamorphic display 100 of the present disclosure.

[0411] It can be desirable to provide reduced aberrations from the lateral anamorphic component 110. Some methods for reducing aberrations are implemented in the following examples. In the following examples, specific examples of refractive extraction features 169 (e.g. are Figure 25A extraction reflector 170 in Figure 25B- the extraction reflector 174 in -D, etc.), but this is not limiting, and generally any of the refractive extraction features 169 disclosed herein can be applied instead in the following examples. Similarly, various features of the following examples can be combined together in any combination.

[0412] Figure 25A is a schematic illustration of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in the previous view, in which the lateral anamorphic component 110 includes curved face 4A and curved face 2B, as well as further refractive components, in particular surfaces 91, 92 and intermediate material 93, 94, which form part of the extraction waveguide IB (or in alternative embodiments form part of the input waveguide IA) and are disposed between face 2B and the reflective extraction feature 170. Figure 25A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -A, -B, -C, -D, -E, -F, -G, -H, -I, -J, -K, -L, -M, -N, -O, -P, -Q, -R, -S, -T, -U, -V, -W, -X, -Y, -Z, -AA, -BB, -CC, -DD, -EE, -FF, -GG, -HH, -II, -JJ, -KK, -LL, -MM, -NN, -OO, -PP, -QQ, -RR, -SS, -TT, -UU, -VV, -WW, -XX, -YY, -ZZ, -AAA, -BBB, -CCC, -DDD, -EEE, -FFF, -GGG, -HHH, -III, -JJJ, -KKK, -LLL, -MMM, -NNN, -OOO, -PPP, -QQQ, -RRR, -SSS, -TTT, -UUU, -VVV, -WWW, -XXX, -YYY, or -ZZZ can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0413] Figure 25A illustrates that the lateral anamorphic component 110 can also include a lens 96, which in this example includes surfaces 91, 92 and intermediate material 93, 94. The lens 95 can be arranged with back and front guide surfaces 6, 8 that are coplanar with the opposing light guide surfaces 6B, 8B of the extraction waveguide IB. Advantageously, high efficiency can be achieved.

[0414] In operation, the lens 95 can be arranged to expand the wider exit aperture e L provides improved aberrations in the lateral direction 195. Thus, image blur 455 as Figure 1G illustrated can be advantageously reduced.

[0415] In Figure 25A alternative embodiments of -A, -B, -C, -D, -E, -F, -G, -H, -I, -J, -K, -L, -M, -N, -O, -P, -Q, -R, -S, -T, -U, -V, -W, -X, -Y, -Z, -AA, -BB, -CC, -DD, -EE, -FF, -GG, -HH, -II, -JJ, -KK, -LL, -MMM, -NNN, -OOO, -PPP, -QQQ, -RRR, -SSS, -TTT, -UUU, -VVV, -WWW, -XXX, -YYY, or -ZZZ, the extraction waveguide IB is illustrated with a stepped extraction reflector 170, but Figure 25A embodiments of -A, -B, -C, -D, -E, -F, -G, -H, -I, -J, -K, -L, -M, -N, -O, -P, -Q, -R, -S, -T, -U, -V, -W, -X, -Y, -Z, -AA, -BB, -CC, -DD, -EE, -FF, -GG, -HH, -II, -JJ, -KK, -LL, -MMM, -NNN, -OOO, -PPP, -QQQ, -RRR, -SSS, -TTT, -UUU, -VVV, -WWW, -XXX, -YYY, or -ZZZ are not limited to a stepped extraction reflector 170, and any of the other reflective extraction features 169 described above can be provided instead.

[0416] It can be desirable to reduce the size of the reflective end.

[0417] Figure 25B is a schematic illustration of the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 in the previous view, in which the lateral anamorphic component 110 includes face 2B of the extraction waveguide IB, which in this example is formed as a Fresnel surface 97. Figure 25B Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -A, -B, -C, -D, -E, -F, -G, -H, -I, -J, -K, -L, -M, -N, -O, -P, -Q, -R, -S, -T, -U, -V, -W, -X, -Y, -Z, -AA, -BB, -CC, -DD, -EE, -FF, -GG, -HH, -II, -JJ, -KK, -LL, -MMM, -NNN, -OOO, -PPP, -QQQ, -RRR, -SSS, -TTT, -UUU, -VVV, -WWW, -XXX, -YYY, or -ZZZ can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0418] Fresnel surface 97 is arranged to advantageously remove sag of the dome input face 2B, as Figure 25A is exemplified.

[0419] In Figure 25B alternative embodiments, an extraction waveguide 1B is exemplified in which the extraction reflector 174 is arranged between a plurality of plates 180, although other extraction reflectors described above can be provided as alternatives.

[0420] It can be desirable to reduce image blur at higher lateral field angles.

[0421] Figure 26A is a schematic diagram exemplifying a distorted near-eye display device 100 in which the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A has a certain curvature in the lateral direction 195. Figure 26A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of

[0422] In Figure 1A exemplary embodiments of Figure 26A the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A has no curvature in the lateral direction 195. In fact, the aberrations, including those of the lateral distortion component 110, can provide a Petzval field curvature that provides as

[0423] In Figure 26A alternative embodiments of Figure 26B the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A has a certain curvature in the lateral direction 195 that compensates for the Petzval field curvature of the lateral distortion component 110. Thus, the desired field surface 98B provided by

[0424] Alternative embodiments that reduce field curvature will now be described.

[0425] Figure 26B is a schematic diagram exemplifying a distorted near-eye display device 100 in which the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A has a certain curvature in the lateral direction 195 and the lateral distortion component 60 has a certain curvature in the lateral direction 195; Figure 26CThis is a schematic diagram illustrating the deformable near-eye display device 100 in the previous view. The input surface 2A of the input waveguide 1A and the lateral deformation component 60 are bent to a certain extent in the lateral direction 195, and the spatial light modulator 48 is also bent to a certain extent in the lateral direction 195. Figure 26D This is a schematic diagram illustrating a distorted near-eye display device 100, as shown in the previous view. The input surface 2A of the input waveguide 1A is curved in the lateral direction 195°, the lateral deformation member 60 is curved in the lateral direction 195°, and the spatial light modulator 48 is curved in the lateral direction 195°. The curvature direction of each of the input surface 2A of the input waveguide 1A, the lateral deformation member 60, and the spatial light modulator 48 is perpendicular to the x-axis. Figure 26C The bending directions are opposite; and Figure 26E This is a schematic diagram illustrating a distorted near-eye display device 100, as shown in the previous view. The input surface 2A of the input waveguide 1A is curved in the lateral direction 195, the lateral deformation member 60 is curved in the lateral direction 195, and the spatial light modulator 48 is curved in the lateral direction 195. The curvature direction of each of the input surface 2A and the lateral deformation member 60 is perpendicular to the direction of curvature. Figure 26C The bending direction is opposite to that of the spatial light modulator 48, and the bending direction of the spatial light modulator 48 is the same as that of the two modulators. Figure 26C The bending directions are the same. Figure 26B Features not discussed further in the implementation of -E may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0426] Figure 26B An alternative implementation of -E is exemplified by a case where at least one of the input surface 2A of the input waveguide 1A, the lateral deformation member 60, and the spatial light modulator 48 has a certain curvature in the lateral direction 195, which compensates for the Petzwald image field curvature of the lateral deformation member 110. The curvature directions of the individual elements 2, 60, and 48 can be modified to achieve optimal image performance, thereby further increasing the MTF at the off-axis field point and advantageously reducing image blur.

[0427] Compared to non-deformable components, bending can be arranged around only one axis. Specifically, the spatial light modulator 48 may include a silicon or glass backplate. Such backplates are generally not suitable for bending around two axes. However, in this embodiment, uniaxial bending can achieve the desired correction for image field curvature. Advantageously, the cost of implementing a suitable bent spatial light modulator 48 can be reduced.

[0428] The lens used with the morphological near-eye display device 100 will now be described.

[0429] Figure 27Ais a schematic diagram illustrating in top view the operation of the variant near-eye display device 100 of Fig. 1 further comprising a lens 290. Figure 27A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of Figs. 1-4 can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0430] The variant near-eye display device 100 described above provides a virtual image 36 located in the far field such that the nominal viewing distance Z v is infinite. It can be desirable to provide a distance Z v to the virtual image plane 33 of the virtual image 36 provided by the variant near-eye display device 100.

[0431] The head-mounted display device 600 further comprises at least one lens 290, which can be a corrective lens having an optical power for correcting vision. The vision correction can be for example a corrective vision, for example correcting presbyopia, astigmatism, myopia or hypermetropia of the display user 45.

[0432] The lens 290 can further or alternatively be a focal plane modifying lens for providing the virtual image 33 such that the focal distance Z v is a finite distance. Such an arrangement can provide a suitable focus cue for the display user 47 such that the virtual image is desirably close to the user 47 at a desired focus distance. In stereoscopic display applications, the focus correction of the lens 290 can be arranged to approximate the convergence distance of the images. The focus-convergence mismatch can be reduced and visual stress is advantageously mitigated, thereby improving the comfort of use.

[0433] Such a lens 290 can for example be used in Figure 14A - the eyewear head-mounted display device 600 of Fig. 5 or Figure 16A - the virtual reality head-mounted display device 600 of Fig. 6.

[0434] It can be desirable to adjust the focal distance Z v of the virtual image.

[0435] Figure 27B is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view the operation of the variant near-eye display device 100 of Fig. 1 further comprising a Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386. Figure 27B Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of Figs. 1-4 can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0436] In an alternative embodiment of Figure 27B the variant near-eye display device 100 is arranged to direct the output light rays 37 into a lens 290 comprising a switchable optical stack.

[0437] The switchable optical stack includes an input polarizer 380, transparent substrates 381 A (with an electrically switchable liquid crystal layer 384 disposed therebetween), 381B, and a quarter-wave retarder 382. In a first state, the liquid crystal layer 384 is arranged to provide no polarization rotation of the polarized light from the polarizer 380, and the switchable optical stack provides a first circularly polarized output polarization state 383A. In a second state, the liquid crystal layer 384 is arranged to provide polarization rotation of the polarized light from the polarizer 380, and the switchable optical stack provides a second circularly polarized output polarization state 383B that is orthogonal to the polarization state 383A.

[0438] The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 includes a circularly symmetric orientation of liquid crystal molecules whose orientation across each radius of the circularly symmetric orientation is similar but different to the orientation across the lateral direction 195 illustrated in FIG. 3B. Thus, the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 provides a circularly symmetric first phase radial curve for light having the polarization state 383A that is similar to the curve 358A of FIG. 3B, and provides a circularly symmetric second phase radial curve for light having the polarization state 383B that is similar to the curve 358B of FIG. 3B. Figure 29A Figure 29B The Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 includes a circularly symmetric orientation of liquid crystal molecules whose orientation across each radius of the circularly symmetric orientation is similar but different to the orientation across the lateral direction 195 illustrated in FIG. 3B. Thus, the Pancharatnam-Berry lens 386 provides a circularly symmetric first phase radial curve for light having the polarization state 383A that is similar to the curve 358A of FIG. 3B, and provides a circularly symmetric second phase radial curve for light having the polarization state 383B that is similar to the curve 358B of FIG. 3B. Figure 29B

[0439] The output light from the lens 290A with positive or negative focal power modification of the wavefront then impinges on the fixed lens 290B so that the eye 45 observes one of the two focal power corrections.

[0440] Considering the virtual image 34, in the absence of the lens 290A, the virtual image would be provided at a distance Z v . In the first state of the liquid crystal layer 384, the virtual image 334A is provided with a separation of distance Z v ; and in the second state of the liquid crystal layer 384, the virtual image 334B is provided with a separation of distance Z A . v B .

[0441] In an alternative embodiment, the lens 290B can be provided by a Pancharatnam-Berry lens. Advantageously, the thickness can be reduced.

[0442] ​​​​​Accordingly, the lenses 290A, 290B implement an adjustable focal distance for the virtual image 334A, 334B. A stack of lenses 290A with a geometric sequence of e.g. optical power adjustments can be provided to achieve an improved fidelity in the position of the virtual image 334. Focal conflicts with the provided image can be advantageously reduced and image comfort can be improved. Comfortable use time of the head-mounted display device 600 can be prolonged.

[0443] It can be desirable to provide a virtual image 34 without infinite conjugation, while not modifying the magnification or distance Z of the real image 30 R .

[0444] Figure 28A is a schematic diagram illustrating a head-mounted display device 600 comprising a first focal plane modifying lens 290A and a second focal plane modifying lens 290B in a top view. Figure 28A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of

[0445] In an alternative embodiment of Figure 28A the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 is arranged between the focal plane modifying lenses 290A, 290B. The lens 290A is a focal plane modifying lens arranged to modify the distance Zv to the virtual image 34 by deflection of light rays 482 from the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 v .

[0446] The lens 290B is a corrective lens arranged to correct the optical power of the lens 290A such that light rays 484 from the real image 30 are not deflected by the head-mounted display device 600. Advantageously, the virtual image 34 can be provided in close proximity to the eye, e.g. to provide a user interface, and superimposed with the real world image, thereby advantageously reducing degradation of the real world image 30.

[0447] The lenses 290A, 290B can be Pancharatnam-Berry lenses as described above, such that the distance Zv can be modified according to desired image data. The lenses 290A, 290B can have the same optical design, and the lens 290B can be driven in an opposite output to the lens 290A to achieve a combined zero power of the lenses 290A, 290B. Advantageously, cost and complexity can be reduced.

[0448] Figure 28B is a schematic diagram illustrating a head-mounted display device 600 comprising a plurality of extraction waveguides and further comprising a first focal plane modifying lens and a second focal plane modifying lens in a top view. Figure 28BFeatures not discussed further in the implementation scheme may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0449] exist Figure 28B In an alternative implementation, two morphing near-eye display devices 100A and 100B are provided to realize multiple virtual images 34A and 34B. This can improve the performance of the head-mounted display device, for example, as described above regarding... Figure 16D As described. Furthermore, the focal plane modifier lenses 290A and 290B are equipped with, for example... Figure 28A The described operation. Advantageously, it can provide a real-world image 30 with reduced degradation.

[0450] It may be desirable to provide different focal lengths Z v A, Z v Virtual images 34A and 34B of B.

[0451] Figure 28C This is a schematic diagram of a head-mounted display device 600, illustrated in top view, including multiple extraction waveguides and three focal plane modifier lenses 290A, 290B, and 290C. Figure 28C Features not discussed further in the implementation scheme may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0452] and Figure 28B Compared to the implementation plan, in Figure 28C In an alternative implementation, an additional focal plane modification lens 290C is provided to receive light from the anamorphic near-eye display device 100A and transmit the light to another anamorphic near-eye display device 100B. The virtual image distance Z for light from one of the anamorphic near-eye display devices 100A is... v A is a virtual image distance Z from light source 100B from at least one other near-eye display device 100B. v B is different. Multiple focal planes 33A and 33B can advantageously achieve improved image comfort.

[0453] Lens 290C cooperates with lens 290A to provide a second virtual image 34B, and lens 290B cooperates with lenses 290A and 290C to provide zero total optical power. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), lens 290B can be omitted, for example, in virtual reality applications. Advantageously, this reduces cost and complexity.

[0454] It may be desirable to improve the performance of virtual reality head-mounted displays by providing increased control over focal planes 33 and 633.

[0455] Figure 28Dis a schematic diagram in top view illustrating a head-mounted display device 600 including a non-variant near-eye display device 610 and a variant near-eye display device 100. Figure 28D Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of the

[0456] In comparison to the embodiments of the Figure 16F In alternative embodiments of the Figure 28D In comparison to the embodiments of the F may be adjusted according to desired image data, which can be responsive to a measured viewing direction of the eye 45.

[0457] Advantageously, user comfort can be improved.

[0458] Figure 28E is a schematic diagram in top view illustrating a head-mounted display device 600 including a non-variant near-eye display device 610, a variant near-eye display device 100, and a focal plane modification optic 290. Figure 28E Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of the

[0459] In comparison to the embodiments of the Figure 28D In alternative embodiments of the Z v A range of the focal length can be increased and control speed can be improved. User comfort can advantageously be improved.

[0460] Figure 28F is a schematic diagram in top view illustrating a head-mounted display device 600 including a non-variant near-eye display device 610, a variant near-eye display device 100, and a focal plane modification optic 290. Figure 28FFeatures not discussed further in the implementation scheme may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0461] exist Figure 28F In an alternative implementation, the focal plane modifier lens 290 is arranged to provide limited virtual image distances 33, 633. Furthermore, the focal plane modifier lens 290 can be controllable to achieve variable focal plane distances from displays 610, 100, respectively. Z v A, Z v B. It can effectively improve user comfort.

[0462] Figure 28G This is a schematic diagram of a head-mounted display device 600, including a non-distorting near-eye display device 610, a distorting near-eye display device 100, and two focal plane modifying lenses 290A and 290B, as illustrated by a top view. Figure 28G Features not discussed further in the implementation scheme may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0463] and Figure 28E Compared to the -32F implementation scheme, in Figure 28G In an alternative implementation, focal plane modifying lenses 290A and 290B are arranged such that the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 is positioned between them. Focal plane control of two virtual images 33 and 633 can be provided. Advantageously, user comfort can be further improved.

[0464] Figure 28H This is a top view illustrating a head-mounted display device 600 including a non-deformable near-eye display device 610, two deformable extraction waveguides 1100A and 100B, and focal plane modification lenses 290A, 290B, and 290C. Figure 28H Features not discussed further in the implementation scheme may be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0465] exist Figure 28H In an alternative implementation, the multiple images 33A, 33B, 634 may have multiple focal length ranges that can overlap. Z v A, Z v B Z v C. Focal plane control of virtual images 33A, 33B, and 633 can be provided. Advantageously, it can further improve user comfort.

[0466] Alternative arrangements of the illumination system and lateral anamorphic component 60 will now be described.

[0467] Figure 29A is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view details of the arrangement of the lateral lens 61 forming the lateral anamorphic component 60; and Figure 29B is a schematic diagram illustrating in front view details of the arrangement of the lateral lens 61 of Figure 29A . Figure 29A - features not discussed in further detail in the embodiment of -B can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0468] In alternative embodiments of Figure 29A , the lateral lens 61 forming the lateral anamorphic component 60 comprises a compound lens 61A-C. Furthermore, the compound lens can comprise a lens 61D comprising a curved input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A. Figure 29B It is exemplified that the illumination system 240 and the lateral anamorphic component 60 do not provide optical power in the lateral direction 195, that is, the compound lens 61A-D is cylindrical or elongated, has an aspherical surface profile, for example an asphere, such as exemplified by the shape of the lenses 61A-B, to achieve improved field aberrations and advantageously increased MTF at higher field angles.

[0469] Advantageously, aberrations in the lateral direction 197 (60) can be improved.

[0470] Furthermore, the illumination system can comprise a reflective spatial light modulator 48, an illumination array 302 comprising light sources 304 and a beam combiner cube arranged to illuminate the spatial light modulator 48. The illumination array 302 can comprise light sources of different colors, such that the spatial light modulator 48 can provide time-sequential color illumination.

[0471] Figure 29A It is further exemplified that the lateral anamorphic component 60 can comprise a lateral diffractive component 67 having optical power in the lateral direction 197. The component 67 can have an angularly varying chromatic aberration in order to correct chromatic aberrations from the refractive components 60A-D in the lateral direction 197. Color blur in the lateral direction 197 can advantageously be reduced.

[0472] Figure 30A is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view a spatial light modulator arrangement 50 for use in the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 of Fig. 1, comprising separate red, green and blue spatial light modulators 48R, 48G, 48B and a beam combining element 82. Figure 30AFeatures not further discussed in detail in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0473] Figure 30A Alternative embodiments of FIG. 3 illustrate that the illumination system 240 can include a red spatial light modulator 48R, a green spatial light modulator 48G, and a blue spatial light modulator 48B, and a color combiner prism arranged to direct light rays 412R, 412G, 412B toward the lateral deformation component 60. For example, such an arrangement can be used to provide a high resolution color image from the emissive spatial light modulator 48. For example, the emissive display can be a silicon-based OLED or silicon-based microLED spatial light modulator 48. Advantageously, a high resolution color virtual image can be provided.

[0474] Figure 30B is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of the deformed near-eye display device 100 including the input reflector 62; Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of the illumination system 240 and the lateral deformation component 60 in the deformed near-eye display device 100 including a bird bath pot folding arrangement. Figure 30B Features not further discussed in detail in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0475] In alternative embodiments of FIG. 3, the spatial light modulator 48 illuminates the catadioptric illumination system 240 including the input optic 79, the curved mirror 86A, and the partially reflective mirror 81 such that the light rays 412 are directed into the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A. Advantageously, chromatic aberration in the lateral direction 197 can be reduced. The partially reflective mirror 81 can be a polarization beam splitter or can be, for example, a thin metallization layer. Figure 30B Additionally or alternatively, the curved mirror 86B can be provided to improve operational efficiency.

[0476] Alternative arrangements of the lateral deformation component 60 including the input reflector 62 will now be described.

[0477]

[0478] is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of the deformed near-eye display device 100 including the input reflector 62; Figure 31A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the deformed near-eye display device 100 of FIG. 3; and Figure 31B is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the deformed near-eye display device 100 of FIG. 3. Figure 31A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the deformed near-eye display device 100 of FIG. 3. Figure 31C Figure 31A Figure 31A ​​Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0479] In comparison to FIG. 1, in Figure 31A In alternative embodiments of -C, the optical system 250 includes an input section 12 that includes an input reflector 62 that is a transverse deformation 60 and is arranged to reflect light from the illumination system 240 and direct it along the input waveguide 1A. The input section 12 further includes an input face 122 disposed on the front side 8 or the back side 6 of the input waveguide 1A and facing the input reflector 62, and the input section 12 is arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240 through the input face 122, where the input face 122 is disposed on the outside of one of the front guide surface 8 or the back guide surface 6, and the input section 12 is integral with the input waveguide 1A. The input section 12 further includes a separation face 28 that extends outwardly from one of the front guide surface 8 or the back guide surface 6 to the input face 122. The extraction features in the extraction region 284 can be of the type illustrated elsewhere herein.

[0480] Figure 31A Embodiments of -G can be manufactured using a molding process and a reflective material 66 formed on the curved surface 65, to provide the input reflector, for example by sputtering, evaporation, or other known coating methods. Alternatively, the reflective material 66 can include a reflective film, such as ESR TM Advantageously, the cost and complexity of manufacturing can be reduced.

[0481] It can be desirable to provide further control over optical aberrations in the transverse direction 197.

[0482] Figure 31D is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of an alternative deformed near-eye display device 100 that includes an alternative input reflector 62 and a lens 61. Figure 31D Features not discussed in further detail in embodiments of - can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0483] In Figure 31D In alternative embodiments of -, the input waveguide 1A has an input face 2A that is an input face through which the extraction waveguide 1B is arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240, and the input section 12 is a separate element from the extraction waveguide 1B, which further includes an output face 23, and is arranged to direct light reflected by the input reflector 62 through the output face 23 and into the extraction waveguide 1B through an input face 2B of the extraction waveguide 1B.

[0484] The lateral deformation component 60 further comprises a mirror 61, wherein the mirror 61 of the lateral deformation component 60 is a compound mirror 61. The mirror 61 can comprise a refractive element 61A. A further mirror 61 can comprise a mirror 61B comprising a curved input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A. A further mirror 61 can comprise a curved surface 61C and a material 61D, which can be air or a material having a different refractive index than the refractive index of the material of the extraction waveguide 1B. The mirrors 61A-D can be arranged to reduce Figure 1A aberrations of the input reflector 62 of D. Thus, the lateral deformation component 60 is a catadioptric optical element comprising refractive and reflective optical functions. Advantageously, the fidelity of the image in the lateral direction can be improved.

[0485] Figure 31D Alternative embodiments are further exemplified, wherein the input reflector 62 is arranged on a surface of a member 68A. The surface of the input reflector 62 can be advantageously further protected. Figure 31D Alternative embodiments are further exemplified, wherein the lateral deformation component 110 is a reflector arranged on a surface of a member 68B. Coatings 66, 67 can be formed on the members 68A, 68B, respectively. Higher temperature processing conditions than coating a polymer waveguide 1 can be achieved. Advantageously, costs can be reduced and operational efficiency can be improved.

[0486] In Figure 31D Alternative embodiments of D, the input section 12 is not integral with the input waveguide 1A. The input waveguide 1A has an end as input face 2A, the input waveguide 1A is arranged to receive light from the illumination system 240 through the input face, and the input section 12 is an element separate from the input waveguide 1A, the input waveguide further comprising an output face 23, and arranged to direct light reflected by the input reflector 62 through the output face 23 and through the input face 2A of the input waveguide 1A into the input waveguide 1A. Further, the lateral deformation component 60 is disposed outside the input waveguide 1A, and the input waveguide 1A is arranged to receive light 400 from the lateral deformation component 60 through the input face 2. In other words, Figure 31D Alternative embodiments are further exemplified, wherein the input section 12 and the guide section 10 of the input waveguide 1A are formed by separate members 69A, 69B, respectively, and are aligned across a gap 69C, which can comprise air or an adhesive material such as an adhesive. The members 69A, 69B can be formed separately during manufacturing, thereby reducing the processing complexity of the input waveguide 1A surface and advantageously improving yield.

[0487] It can be desirable to increase the size of the spatial light modulator 48 in the lateral direction.

[0488] Figure 31E-G is a schematic diagram illustrating in top view an alternative implementation of the varifocal near-eye display device 100 including an input reflector 62. Figure 31E Features not discussed in further detail in the implementation of -G can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential changes in the features.

[0489] In Figure 31E In alternative implementations of -F, the input face 122 extends parallel to the front guide surface 8 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the front side of the input waveguide 1A, or parallel to the rear guide surface 6 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the rear side of the input waveguide 1A. Figure 31E In alternative implementations of -F, the input face 122 extends parallel to the front guide surface 8 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the front side of the input waveguide 1A, or parallel to the rear guide surface 6 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the rear side of the input waveguide 1A.

[0490] In Figure 31F In alternative implementations of -F, the input face 122 extends parallel to the front guide surface 8 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the front side of the input waveguide 1A, or parallel to the rear guide surface 6 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the rear side of the input waveguide 1A.

[0491] In Figure 31G In alternative implementations of -F, the input face 122 extends parallel to the front guide surface 8 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the front side of the input waveguide 1A, or parallel to the rear guide surface 6 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the rear side of the input waveguide 1A. In alternative implementations of -F, the input face 122 extends parallel to the front guide surface 8 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the front side of the input waveguide 1A, or parallel to the rear guide surface 6 in the case where the input face 122 is located on the rear side of the input waveguide 1A.

[0492] In Figure 31E In alternative implementations of -G, the extraction features can be of the type illustrated elsewhere herein.

[0493] Figure 32A is a schematic diagram illustrating in perspective front view an alternative arrangement of the input focusing lens 61. Figure 32A Features not discussed in further detail in the implementation of -G can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential changes in the features.

[0494] The spatial light modulator 48 includes an active area 49A and a border 49B and is aligned with the lenses of the transverse anamorphic component 60, which is a compound lens including lenses 60A-F. Some of the lenses 60A-F can include surfaces with constant radii and some can include surfaces with variable radii, such that in combination there is an advantageous improvement in aberration correction.

[0495] Alternative arrangements of the spatial light modulator 48, the illumination system 240 and the optical system 250 will now be described.

[0496] Figure 32B is a schematic diagram illustrating in plan view a spatial light modulator arrangement for use in the anamorphic near-eye display device of Figure 1, the spatial light modulator arrangement including a spatial light modulator 48 including a laser 50, a scanning arrangement 51 and a light diffusing screen 52. Figure 32B Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0497] In Figure 32B In alternative embodiments of the spatial light modulator 48 includes a laser 50 arranged to direct a light beam 490 towards a scanning arrangement 51, which can be for example a rotating mirror, with an oscillation 53 synchronised with the image data.

[0498] The light beam 490 is arranged to illuminate the screen 52 to provide a diffuse light source 55 at the screen. The screen 52 can include a diffuse arrangement such that the transmitted light is diffused into a light cone 491A which is arranged to provide input light rays 492 into the transverse anamorphic component 60 and the input waveguide 1A.

[0499] The screen 52 can alternatively include a photoemissive layer, such as a phosphor laser, at which the laser beam 490 is arranged to generate an emission from the photoemissive layer. The output colour can advantageously be independent of the laser 50 emission wavelength. Laser speckle can be further reduced.

[0500] The laser 50 can include a one-dimensional array of laser emission pixels 222 across a row 221T and the scanning arrangement 51 can provide a one-dimensional array of light sources 55 at the screen 52 for each addressable row of the spatial light modulator 48. The scanning speed of the scanning arrangement 51 is reduced, advantageously enabling reduced cost and complexity.

[0501] Alternatively, the laser 50 can include a single laser emitter and the scanning arrangement 51 can provide a two-dimensional scan of the light beam 490 to enable a two-dimensional array of pixels of the emitter 55 at the screen 52. Advantageously, the laser 50 cost can be reduced.

[0502] Other arrangements including laser light sources will now be described.

[0503] Figure 33A is a schematic diagram illustrating in plan view the input to an input waveguide 1A comprising a spatial light modulator 48 comprising a laser light source and a scanning arrangement 51 ; Figure 33B is a schematic diagram illustrating in side view the spatial light modulator 48 comprising a laser light source and a scanning arrangement 51 for Figure 33A a row of laser light sources 172 of the arrangement of Figure 33C is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative illumination arrangement. Figure 33A Features not discussed in further detail in the embodiments of -C can be assumed to correspond with features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0504] Figure 33A Alternative embodiments of include a lateral deformation component 60 formed from a deflector element 50 comprising a scanning mirror 51.

[0505] Figure 33B is illustrated a spatial light modulator 48 suitable for use in the arrangement of Figure 33A The control system 500 is arranged to provide image data to the spatial light modulator 48 controller 505 one row at a time, which outputs pixel data to the laser pixels 222A-N via the driver 509; and outputs position data to the scanning arrangement 51 via the scanner driver 511. The laser pixels 222A-N are spaced in the lateral direction 195 by a distance equal to the pitch of the pixels 222A-N. P L The arrangement is arranged in a single row, the lateral direction being for example the same as illustrated in Figure 2D

[0506] Returning to the description of Figure 33A In operation, image data of a first addressed row of image data is applied to the laser pixels 222A-N, and the scanning arrangement 51 is adjusted so that the laser light from the spatial light modulator 48 is directed as light rays 490A across the lateral direction 197 in a direction 191A. At a different time, image data of a different addressed row of image data is applied to the laser pixels 222A-N, and the scanning arrangement 51 is adjusted so that the laser light from the spatial light modulator 48 is directed as light rays 490B across the lateral direction 197 in a different direction. Thus, the lateral deformation component 60 is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator 48, and the illumination system 240 is arranged so that light output from the lateral deformation component 60 is directed in a direction distributed in the lateral direction from the cone 491A. ​

[0507] In other words, the scanning arrangement 51 scans about the lateral direction 197(60) and is used to provide the illustrative light rays 490A, 490B sequentially. With the sequential scanning, the scanning arrangement 51 effectively has positive optical power in the lateral direction 197(60) for light from the spatial light modulator 48, thereby enabling the output cone 491A in a sequential manner. In this way, the scanning arrangement 51 directs light in a direction in which it distributes light in the lateral direction, thereby allowing it to function as the lateral deformation component 60. The scanning of the scanning arrangement 51 can be arranged to not direct light proximate to parallel to the direction 191A along the input waveguide 1A. Double imaging is advantageously reduced.

[0508] Advantageously, the cost and complexity of the illumination system 240 and the lateral deformation component 60 can be reduced.

[0509] Figure 33C Alternative embodiments of the foregoing provide expander 61A, 61B that increase the width 63 of the output beam of light from the illumination system 240. In Figure 33C In the foregoing, the illumination system 240 further comprises a deflector element 50 arranged to deflect light output from the lateral deformation component 60 by a selectable amount, the deflector element 50 being selectively operable to direct light output from the lateral deformation component 60 in a direction in which it distributes light in the lateral direction 197. Advantageously, uniformity from the output image across the pupil 40 is provided.

[0510] The illumination system 240 and the optical system 250 of the above-described embodiments can be provided for a directional lighting device that performs external scene 479 illumination.

[0511] Figure 34A is a schematic diagram illustrating a front perspective view of a deformation directional lighting device 1000 arranged to illuminate an external scene 479. Figure 34A Features of the embodiments of the foregoing that are not discussed in further detail can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0512] Figure 34A Alternative embodiments of the foregoing illustrate a deformation directional lighting device 1000 that includes an illumination system 240 that includes an array of light sources 948, the illumination system being arranged to output light. The array of light sources 948 may, for example, comprise an array of light emitting diodes, or can be provided by a spatial light modulator 48 as described elsewhere herein.

[0513] The optical system 250 is arranged to direct light from the illumination system 240. Light in the light cone 499 can be directed toward an externally illuminated scene 479. The illuminated scene 479 can include, but is not limited to, a roadway, a room, an exterior space, manufacturing equipment, a metrology environment, a theatrical stage, a human body, such as a face for facial detection and measurement purposes.

[0514] The optical system 250 has an optical axis 199 and has anamorphic properties in a lateral direction 195 and a transverse direction 197 that are perpendicular to each other and to the optical axis 199, where the light source array 948 includes light sources 949a-n distributed in the lateral direction 195, and these light sources can also be distributed in the transverse direction 197, as described elsewhere herein.

[0515] The optical system 250 also includes a transverse anamorphic component 60 having positive optical power in the transverse direction 197, where the transverse anamorphic component 60 is arranged to receive light from the light source array 948, and the illumination system 250 is arranged so that light output from the transverse anamorphic component 60 is directed in a direction distributed in the transverse direction 197.

[0516] The optical system 250 also includes an input waveguide 1A arranged to receive light from the transverse anamorphic component 60, an extraction waveguide 1 arranged to receive light from the transverse anamorphic component 60 and a lateral anamorphic component 110 having positive optical power in the lateral direction 195, the input waveguide 1A being arranged to direct light from the transverse anamorphic component 60 along the input waveguide 1A to the lateral anamorphic component 110, and an extraction waveguide 1B arranged to receive light from the lateral anamorphic component 110, The extraction waveguide 1B includes at least one reflective extraction feature 970 disposed inside the extraction waveguide 1, the at least one reflective extraction feature 970 being arranged to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide 1 in the direction 191B to provide an output light cone 499 directed toward the illuminated scene 479.

[0517] Figure 34A The anamorphic directional illumination device 1000 can include various embodiments arranged to improve aberrations and image quality, as described elsewhere herein.

[0518] By comparison with the anamorphic near-eye display device 100 described above, the output light from the anamorphic directional illumination device 1000 is provided as illumination cones 951a-n for illuminating a scene 479, as compared with angular pixel information for illuminating the pupil 44 and the retina 46. High resolution imaging of the illuminated scene 479 can be achieved with high efficiency and low cost in a compact package.

[0519] The light source 949 can output light that is visible light or infrared light. Advantageously, directional illumination of the scene 479 can be provided for visible light illumination or for scene illumination of other detectors such as LIDAR detectors. The light source 949 can have different spectral outputs. The different spectral outputs include: a white light spectrum, a plurality of different white light spectra, red light, orange light, and / or infrared light. Visible illumination can be provided and additional illumination for detection purposes can also be provided, which can have different illumination structures to achieve improved detection signal to noise ratios.

[0520] In alternative embodiments, the scene 479 can include a projection screen and the metameric directional illumination apparatus 1000 can project an image onto the projection screen. Advantageously, a lightweight portable image projector with high efficiency can be provided in a thin package.

[0521] Figure 34A The reflective extraction features 970 can alternatively be provided by an array of light extraction features 970a-n. Advantageously, the aesthetic appearance of the directional illumination appearance can be modified. Alternatively, the reflective extraction features 970 can be provided by at least one of the reflective extraction features 169 as described elsewhere above, and can include at least one feature such as but not limited to the extraction reflectors 170, 172, 174 and the diffractive extraction features 112B. Alternative embodiments of the light source array 948 can be provided by embodiments of the spatial light modulator 48 as described above (e.g., in Figure 2A -D, Figure 32B and Figure 33A -C. The lateral metameric component 60 can alternatively include arrangements of lenses or mirrors such as exemplified with reference to Figure 29A -B, Figure 30A -B and Figure 31A -D. The lateral metameric component 110 can alternatively include arrangements such as exemplified with reference to Figure 1C and Figure 6A -J. The above features can be provided individually or in combination.

[0522] Alternative embodiments of the waveguide 1 arrangements, the lateral metameric component 60 arrangements, the lateral metameric component 110 arrangements and the extraction features 970 arrangements can be provided as described elsewhere above.

[0523] Figure 34B is a schematic diagram exemplifying a side view of a road scene 479 including a vehicle 600 including a vehicle exterior light device 106 including Figure 34A the metameric directional illumination apparatus 1000 of Figure 34BFeatures not further discussed in detail in the embodiments of the'000 can be assumed to correspond to features having equivalent reference numerals as discussed above, including any potential variations in the features.

[0524] Figure 34B Alternative embodiments of the'000 illustrate a vehicle exterior light device 106 that includes a metamorphic directional lighting apparatus 1000, such as Figure 34A In the'000, the metamorphic directional lighting apparatus is a vehicle exterior light device mounted on a housing 108 for fitting to a vehicle 600. The vehicle exterior light device 106 is arranged to illuminate an external scene 479, such as a road environment. The vehicle exterior light device 106 provides an output light cone 499 so that the horizon 499 and road surface 494 can be illuminated. In the'000, the light cone 499 is distributed across a lateral direction 195. In alternative embodiments, the light cone 499 can be distributed across a transverse direction 197. Figure 34B

[0525] The array of light sources 948 can be controlled by the controller 500 in response to the location of objects in the illuminated scene 479, such as other drivers or road hazards. The light cone 499 can be arranged to illuminate a two-dimensional array of light cones 951 corresponding to respective light sources 949. The light sources 949a-n can be individually or collectively controllable so that some portions of the scene 479 are illuminated while other portions are not illuminated or are illuminated at different illuminance. Advantageously, glare to other drivers can be reduced while providing an increased level of illumination of the road scene 479.

[0526] While various embodiments according to the principles disclosed herein have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined in accordance with any claims and their equivalents issuing from this disclosure. Furthermore, the above advantages and features are provided in the described embodiments, but such published claims should not be limited to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above advantages.

[0527] ​Further, the section headings provided herein are for consistency with the recommendations of 37 CFR 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational clues for the reader. Such headings shall not limit or characterize the embodiments by the language used in the headings. Specifically, and without limitation, the heading “Technical Field” does not imply that any or all embodiments are necessarily directed at a field of endeavor. Further, the heading “Background” does not mean that any or all embodiments necessarily address a problem that is presented by the background art. Further, the heading “Summary” is merely an overview of the disclosure and not an admission that any or all embodiments are a “summary” of the disclosure. Further, the heading “Brief Description of Related Art” does not mean that any or all embodiments necessarily include pertinent work in the art outside the claims. Further, any references in the specification to “an embodiment”, “another embodiment”, “an implementation”, “an example”, “some embodiments”, “exemplary embodiment”, “one embodiment”, “another implementation”, “some implementations”, “an example implementation”, “one implementation”, and the like mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with these terms is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of such phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Further, the heading “Brief Description of the Drawings” does not mean that any or all embodiments necessarily are described with reference to the figures. Further, the heading “Abstract” does not mean that any or all embodiments are an abstract of the disclosure. Further, any references in the specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “some embodiments”, “exemplary embodiment”, “one implementation”, “an implementation”, “some implementations”, “an example implementation”, “one example implementation”, and the like mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with these terms is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of such phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Further, the heading “Summary” does not mean that any or all embodiments necessarily include a summary of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A metamorphic near-eye display device, comprising: an illumination system comprising a spatial light modulator, the illumination system arranged to output light; and an optical system arranged to direct light from the illumination system to an eye of a viewer, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has metamorphic properties in a lateral direction and a transverse direction that are perpendicular to each other and to the optical axis, wherein the spatial light modulator comprises pixels distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse metamorphic component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse metamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the spatial light modulator, and the illumination system is arranged such that light output from the transverse metamorphic component is directed in a direction distributed in the transverse direction; an input waveguide arranged to receive light from the transverse metamorphic component; a lateral metamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the input waveguide arranged to direct light from the transverse metamorphic component to the lateral metamorphic component along the input waveguide; and an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral metamorphic component, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises an array of reflective extraction features disposed inside the extraction waveguide, the reflective extraction features arranged to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide towards an eye of a viewer, the array of reflective extraction features distributed along the extraction waveguide so as to provide an exit pupil expansion.

2. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 1, wherein the reflective extraction features comprise extraction reflectors extending across at least a portion of the extraction waveguide between a front guide surface and a back guide surface of the extraction waveguide.

3. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 2, wherein the array of reflective extraction reflectors has a reflectivity defined across its entire area, the reflectivity increasing with increasing distance along the second direction.

4. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 2 or 3, wherein the extraction reflectors comprise extraction surfaces separated by a partially reflective coating.

5. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 4, wherein the partially reflective coating comprises at least one dielectric layer.

6. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 5, wherein the at least one dielectric layer comprises a stack of dielectric layers.

7. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 4, wherein the partially reflective coating is metallic.

8. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 2, wherein the extraction reflectors comprise extraction surfaces separated by a gap.

9. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 8, wherein the extraction surfaces have an anti-reflective coating.

10. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any of claims 2 to 9, wherein the extraction reflectors extend partially across the extraction waveguide between the front guide surface and the back guide surface of the extraction waveguide, wherein the position is continuously offset.

11. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 10, wherein the extraction reflectors extend to the front and back guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide.

12. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 11, wherein the extraction reflectors do not extend to the front and back guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide.

13. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any of claims 10-12, further comprising intermediate reflectors extending along the extraction waveguide between adjacent pairs of extraction reflectors.

14. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 13, wherein the intermediate reflectors comprise intermediate surfaces separated by partially-reflective coatings.

15. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 14, wherein the partially-reflective coatings comprise at least one dielectric layer.

16. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 15, wherein the at least one dielectric layer comprises a stack of dielectric layers.

17. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 14, wherein the partially-reflective coatings are metallic.

18. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 13, wherein the intermediate reflectors comprise intermediate surfaces separated by gaps.

19. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 18, wherein the intermediate surfaces have anti-reflective coatings.

20. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any of claims 10-19, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises a plurality of constituent sections having opposing stepped surfaces attached together, the stepped surfaces shaped to have alternating extraction surfaces extending in the lateral direction and intermediate surfaces extending along the extraction waveguide, wherein the extraction reflectors comprise opposing extraction surfaces.

21. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 20, wherein the intermediate surfaces are optically coupled together.

22. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of claims 10-21, wherein the extraction reflector comprises a plurality of groups of extraction reflectors, wherein, Within each group of extraction reflectors, the extraction reflectors extend partially across the extraction waveguide in the lateral direction, with locations continuously offset, different groups of the extraction reflectors overlapping in extent in the lateral direction.

23. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any of claims 2-9, wherein at least a portion of the extraction waveguide comprises a plurality of constituent panels optically coupled together, wherein the extraction reflectors are formed between the constituent panels.

24. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any of claims 2-9 or 23, wherein the extraction reflectors extend between the front and back guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide.

25. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any of claims 2-9, 23, or 24, wherein the extraction reflectors have the same reflective area.

26. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any of claims 2-9, 23, or 24, wherein the extraction reflectors are patterned to have different reflective areas, providing a reflectivity defined across its entire area that increases with distance along the optical axis.

27. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of claims 2-26, wherein the extraction reflector has a surface normal direction that is tilted relative to a direction along the extraction waveguide by an angle in a range of 20-40 degrees, preferably in a range of 25-35 degrees, and most preferably in a range of 27.5-32.5 degrees.

28. The metameric near-eye display device of claim 1, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises a transmissive element and a diffractive optical element optically coupled together, wherein the reflective extraction features comprise portions of the diffractive optical element.

29. The metameric near-eye display device of claim 28, wherein the diffractive optical element is a volume hologram.

30. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein front and back guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide have an anti-reflective coating.

31. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral metameric component comprises at least one of an output face of the input waveguide and an input face of the extraction waveguide.

32. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral metameric component further comprises at least one intermediate waveguide between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide.

33. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral metameric component comprises a curved mirror arranged between the input waveguide and the extraction waveguide.

34. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the input waveguide does not comprise extraction features arranged to extract light guided along the input waveguide.

35. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral metameric component comprises a lens.

36. The metameric near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical system comprises an input section comprising an input reflector, the input reflector being the lateral metameric component and being arranged to reflect light from the illumination system and guide it along the input waveguide.

37. The metameric near-eye display device of claim 36, wherein the lateral metameric component further comprises a lens.

38. The metameric near-eye display device of claim 36 or 37, wherein the input section further comprises an input face disposed on a front or back side of the input waveguide and facing the input reflector, and the input section is arranged to receive the light from the illumination system through the input face.

39. The metameric near-eye display device of claim 38, wherein the input face extends at an acute angle relative to the front guide surface if the input face is on the front side of the input waveguide, or relative to the back guide surface if the input face is on the back side of the input waveguide.

40. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 38, wherein the input face extends parallel to the front guide surface if the input face is on the front side of the input waveguide or parallel to the back guide surface if the input face is on the back side of the input waveguide.

41. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 40, wherein the input face is coplanar with the front guide surface if the input face is on the front side of the input waveguide or coplanar with the back guide surface if the input face is on the back side of the input waveguide.

42. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 38-40, wherein the input face is disposed outside of one of the front guide surface or the back guide surface.

43. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 42, wherein the input section further comprises a separation face extending outward from one of the front guide surface or the back guide surface to the input face.

44. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 36-43, wherein the input section is integral with the input waveguide.

45. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 36-43, wherein the input waveguide has an end that is an input face, the input waveguide being arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input face, and the input section is a separate element from the input waveguide, the input waveguide further comprising an output face, and being arranged to direct light reflected by the input reflector through the output face and into the input waveguide through the input face of the input waveguide.

46. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 1-35, wherein the lateral metamorphic component comprises a lens, optionally a compound lens.

47. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 1-35 or 46, wherein the input waveguide has an end that is an input face, the input waveguide being arranged to receive light from the illumination system through the input face.

48. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 47, wherein the lateral metamorphic component is disposed outside of the input waveguide, and the input waveguide is arranged to receive light from the lateral metamorphic component through the input face.

49. The metamorphic near-eye display device of claim 47 or 48, wherein a direction through the optical axis of the lateral metamorphic component is tilted relative to the front guide surface and the back guide surface of the input waveguide.

50. The metamorphic near-eye display device of any one of claims 47-49, wherein the input face of the input waveguide is tilted relative to the front guide surface and the back guide surface of the input waveguide.

51. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pixels of the spatial light modulator are also distributed in the lateral direction, such that the light output from the lateral anamorphic component is directed in the direction distributed in the lateral direction.

52. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 51, wherein the spatial light modulator comprises pixels having a pitch in the lateral direction and the lateral direction, the ratio of which is the same as the inverse of the ratio of the optical power of the lateral anamorphic optical element and the lateral anamorphic optical element.

53. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the illumination system further comprises a deflector element arranged to deflect light output from the lateral anamorphic component by a selectable amount, the deflector element being selectively operable to direct the light output from the lateral anamorphic component in the direction distributed in the lateral direction.

54. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the front and back guide surfaces of the input waveguide are planar and parallel.

55. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the front and back guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide are planar and parallel.

56. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the front and back guide surfaces of the input waveguide are planar and parallel.

57. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective extraction features are tilted with respect to the first and second directions along the optical axis.

58. The anamorphic near-eye display device of claim 57, wherein the reflective extraction features are tilted at the same angle.

59. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective extraction features have a varying pitch along the extraction waveguide.

60. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective extraction features have a varying range between the front and back guide surfaces of the extraction waveguide.

61. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control system arranged to operate the illumination system to provide a light input in accordance with image data representing an image.

62. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective extraction arrangement comprises two separate regions, each region being arranged to extract light directed along the extraction waveguide towards a respective eye of the viewer.

63. The anamorphic near-eye display device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical system comprises an input linear polarizer disposed between the spatial light modulator and the extraction reflector array.

64. A head-mounted display device comprising a metamorphic near-eye display device according to any of the preceding claims and a head-mounted arrangement arranged to mount the metamorphic near-eye display device on a head of a wearer, wherein the metamorphic near-eye display device extends across at least one eye of the wearer.

65. The head-mounted display device according to claim 64, further comprising lenses having optical power, the metamorphic near-eye display device covering one or each lens.

66. The head-mounted display device according to claim 64 or 65, wherein the head-mounted display device comprises a pair of eyeglasses.

67. The head-mounted display device according to any of claims 64 to 66, wherein the metamorphic near-eye display device is a first metamorphic near-eye display device, and the head-mounted display device further comprises a second near-eye display device according to any of claims 1 to 53, wherein the metamorphic second near-eye display device is arranged in series with the first metamorphic near-eye display device.

68. The head-mounted display device according to claim 67, wherein a virtual image distance of light from the second metamorphic near-eye display device is different from a virtual image distance of light from the first metamorphic near-eye display device.

69. The head-mounted display device according to any of claims 64 to 68, further comprising a non-metamorphic near-eye display device, wherein the non-metamorphic near-eye display device comprises a non-metamorphic spatial light modulator and a non-metamorphic magnifying optical system; and wherein the non-metamorphic near-eye display device is arranged in series with the metamorphic near-eye display device.

70. The head-mounted display device according to any of claims 67 to 69, wherein a virtual image distance of light from the non-metamorphic near-eye display device is different from a virtual image distance of light from the metamorphic near-eye display device.

71. A metamorphic directional illumination device comprising: an illumination system comprising an array of light sources, the illumination system arranged to output light; and an optical system arranged to direct light from the illumination system, wherein the optical system has an optical axis and has metamorphic properties in a lateral direction and a transverse direction that are perpendicular to each other and to the optical axis, wherein the array of light sources comprises light sources distributed in the lateral direction, and the optical system comprises: a transverse metamorphic component having positive optical power in the transverse direction, wherein the transverse metamorphic component is arranged to receive light from the array of light sources, and the illumination system is arranged such that light output from the transverse metamorphic component is directed in a direction distributed in the transverse direction; an input waveguide arranged to receive light from the transverse metamorphic component; a lateral metamorphic component having positive optical power in the lateral direction, the input waveguide arranged to direct light from the transverse metamorphic component along the input waveguide to the lateral metamorphic component; and an extraction waveguide arranged to receive light from the lateral metamorphic component, wherein the extraction waveguide comprises at least one reflective extraction feature disposed inside the extraction waveguide, the at least one reflective extraction feature arranged to extract light guided along the extraction waveguide.

72. A vehicle exterior lighting device comprising the metameric directional lighting device of claim 71.

73. A vehicle exterior lighting apparatus comprising: a housing for fitting to a vehicle; the vehicle exterior lighting device of claim 72 mounted on the housing.

74. A vehicle exterior lighting apparatus comprising: a housing for fitting to a vehicle; a vehicle exterior lighting device mounted on the housing, the vehicle exterior lighting device comprising: a light source; a light guide for guiding light from the light source; a light extractor for extracting light from the light guide; and a light shaping device for shaping light extracted from the light guide, the light shaping device comprising: a light shaping element for shaping light extracted from the light guide, the light shaping element comprising a plurality of light shaping features arranged to shape light extracted from the light guide, the plurality of light shaping features comprising a plurality of light shaping features arranged to shape light extracted from the light guide, the plurality of light shaping features comprising a plurality of light shaping features arranged to shape light extracted from the light guide, the plurality of light shaping features comprising a plurality of light shaping features arranged to shape light extracted from the light guide, the plurality of light shaping features comprising a plurality of light shaping features arranged to shape light extracted from the light guide, the plurality of light shaping

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