Method for producing optical elements for a customised spectacle lens for an image-generating display device which can be positioned on a user's head

Abstract

The invention provides a method for producing optical elements for a customised spectacle lens for an image-generating display device which can be positioned on a user's head, said method comprising the following steps: A) producing a plurality of base stacks (25) of a first variant and a plurality of base stacks (25) of a second variant, wherein the base stacks (25) of all variants in each case comprise a waveguide (11) with a first side (16) and a second side (17) and a first lens (20) connected to the first side (16), the base stacks (25) of the same variant in each case have the same optical properties, and base stacks (25) of different variants differ in at least one predetermined optical property, B) producing a custom lens (21) for the user based on their visual impairment and based on a selected base stack variant, and C) providing a base stack (25) of the selected variant and the produced custom lens (21) so as to be able to connect the produced custom lens (21) with the provided base stack (25) to produce the spectacle lens (3) customised for the user.

Description

[0001] Method for producing optical elements of a user-specific spectacle lens for a display device that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for producing optical elements of a custom spectacle lens for a display device that can be placed on a user's head and generates an image. With such a display device, the generated image can be presented to the user as a virtual image using the custom spectacle lens when the holding device is placed on the head. Such display devices are often also referred to as HMD devices (Head Mounted Display Devices) or as AR, VR, or MR glasses (AR = augmented reality, VR = virtual reality, MR = mixed reality).The ophthalmic lens commonly used for this purpose can comprise a waveguide with a first and a second side, a first lens connected to the first side (which can also be called a pull lens), and a second lens with positive refractive power connected to the second side (which can also be called a push lens). Since collimated light with a focal plane at infinity is generally used to transport the generated image in the waveguide, the pull lens serves to pull the focal position of the virtual image into the near field. When viewing the surroundings through the ophthalmic lens, the influence of the pull lens is compensated for by the push lens. In addition to adjusting the focal plane of the virtual image, the pull lens can be used to provide individual refraction correction for the user.

[0003] The waveguide is a sensitive component and its surfaces must be kept free from damage and contamination, otherwise the light required to form the virtual image will escape at undesired locations, resulting not only in a loss of intensity but also in a detrimental way being perceived as stray light.

[0004] To enable small form factors, the lenses and the waveguide are permanently joined together, e.g. by gluing or by fixing or holding with, for example, air gaps between the lenses and the waveguide. All elements must be aligned as precisely as possible to guarantee satisfactory optical imaging quality. The production of such a structure consisting of a waveguide and the two lenses should therefore take place under optimal conditions, such as in a clean room, and using highly precise processes. Since this type of production is cost-intensive, complex and lacks flexibility, it is generally advisable to mass produce a standardized product. However, this contradicts the individual adjustment of the refractive power of the stack consisting of the waveguide and the two lenses to compensate for the visual impairment of the respective user.In addition, the user's visual impairment may change over time.

[0005] Based on this, it is therefore an object of the invention to provide an improved method for producing optical elements of a custom spectacle lens for a display device that can be placed on a user's head. Furthermore, a method for producing a display device that can be placed on a user's head and generates an image, using such a custom spectacle lens, is to be provided.

[0006] The invention is defined in independent claims 1 and 18. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0007] The method according to the invention provides a modularized approach for the production of optical elements for individualizing the refractive correction of spectacle lenses for a display device that can be placed on a user's head and generates an image. This allows the base stacks to be produced in large numbers as standardized products under optimal conditions (e.g., in a clean room and using high-precision processes). Individual adaptation to the respective user or end user is then achieved by selecting the base stack for the user (e.g., based on their visual impairment) and by producing the customization lens for the user based on their visual impairment and the selected base stack. The base stacks and the customization lens are optical elements of the user-specific spectacle lens.A customization lens produced in this way can then be bonded to the selected base stack (e.g., to the first lens) to provide the customized spectacle lens for the user. When this step of bonding the customization lens to the selected base stack is performed, the method according to the invention can also be referred to as a method for producing a customized spectacle lens for a display device that can be placed on the head of a user.

[0008] In contrast to a spectacle lens for a display device that can be placed on a user's head, with the refractive power of the lens already individually adjusted for correcting vision defects, the modular approach described here enables economically attractive and highly precise mass production of base stacks of the first and second variants, as well as any additional variants (which differ, for example, in their overall refractive power and / or a focal position of the image generated as a virtual image, determined by the guidance and coupling of the light beams). In particular, the multiple variants can be manufactured with refractive powers in a few standardized, roughly graded versions.

[0009] The inventive solution also enables, for example, highly precise alignment of the optical elements (in particular the elements of the base or basic stack), which is particularly advantageous when using high refractive powers. The individual fine adjustment to the user's visual impairment is realized in a later process step of manufacturing the customization element (which can be connected to the provided base stack of the selected variant). The inventive method can, but does not have to, include the step of connecting the manufactured customization lens to the provided base stack of the selected variant.

[0010] The manufacture of the customization lens (or customization element) is technologically less demanding than the production of the base stack, as the waveguide is already protected by the first lens and any second lens. Since the refractive power of the customization element can be designed to be low, its alignment is less critical.

[0011] The spectacle lens can have an entrance section and a deflection section spaced apart from the entrance section, an exit section in the rear side, and a light guide channel that guides light beams of the generated image, which are coupled into the spectacle lens via the entrance section of the spectacle lens, within the spectacle lens to the deflection section, from which they are deflected toward the exit section and then coupled out of the spectacle lens through the exit section. Guidance in the light guide channel can be achieved by at least one reflection.

[0012] The waveguide can include the light guide channel and the deflection section. The entrance section can be formed on the waveguide or on another part of the custom lens.

[0013] The first lens can have negative refractive power. However, it is also possible for the first lens to have positive refractive power. The customization lens, which can be connected or is connected to the provided base stack of the selected variant, can serve as a protective element for the part of the provided base stack to which the customization lens is connected. This can be, for example, the first lens.

[0014] The predetermined optical property can include the total refractive power of the base stack and / or a focal position (e.g., 1 m, 1.5 m, or 2 m from the lens) of the presented virtual image (i.e., the virtual representation of the image generated during intended use of the user-specific spectacle lens in the image-generating device that can be placed on the head) determined by the guiding and coupling-out of the light beams (by means of the spectacle lens). The focal position is generally determined by the pull lens or the lens or lenses (such as the customization lens) through which the light beams pass due to the guiding and coupling-out. Furthermore, the predetermined optical property can include coloring, tinting, and / or a polarization effect through a functional layer. Furthermore, the predetermined optical property can include spherical refractive power, cylinder correction, and / or a prismatic effect.The material used (e.g. glass or plastic) and / or the type of coupling, guidance and / or coupling out of the light beams in the spectacle lens can also differ as a predetermined optical property.

[0015] The customization lens may have one or more of the predetermined optical properties mentioned.

[0016] In step A, at least one variant of the base stack can be manufactured such that the base stack also has a second lens with positive refractive power connected to the second side. The second lens with positive refractive power is an optical element of the custom spectacle lens.

[0017] In step A, at least one variant of the base stack with the second lens can be produced such that the second lens is equipped with an active optic and / or at least one functional layer. An active optic can be understood, for example, as the design of the second lens as a lens with variably adjustable refractive power or as a lens with an electrochromic layer. The functional layer can be, for example, an anti-reflective coating, a hard coating, a coating with phototropic properties, a tinting layer, a polarization layer, and / or another layer.

[0018] Furthermore, in step A, in at least one variant of the base stack, the first lens can be manufactured such that it is equipped with an active optic and / or at least one functional layer. An active optic can be understood, for example, as the design of the first lens as a lens with variably adjustable refractive power or as a lens having an electrochromic layer. The functional layer can be, for example, an anti-reflective coating, a hard coating, a layer with phototropic properties, a tinting layer, a polarization layer, and / or another layer.

[0019] For example, the first lens can be designed as a Fresnel lens with structures directed outward (away from the waveguide). These structures may be unsuitable for everyday use as ophthalmic lenses, as they are easily soiled or too susceptible to scratches. However, the first lens can be handled under workshop conditions or for short periods without damage. The customization element can then act as a protective layer for the first lens, making the ophthalmic lens suitable for everyday use.

[0020] The waveguide can, for example, be designed as a highly sensitive component that can only be handled under clean room / laboratory conditions without being damaged. In this case, the waveguide can be encapsulated and thus protected, for example, by the first lens and the second lens. This can be achieved, for example, by gluing, wringing, connecting in such a way that an air gap exists between the corresponding lens and the waveguide, by molding the waveguide into the lens material (which also forms the lenses at the same time), or by 3D printing the lenses directly onto the waveguide.

[0021] In addition, reversible protective layers can also be applied to the base stack to enable / improve transport, for example.

[0022] The manufactured customization lens can be detachably connected to the provided base stack (e.g., to the first or second lens of the base stack) of the selected base stack. This makes it possible, if, for example, the user's refraction changes, to remove the existing customization lens and replace it with a newly fitted customization lens. The detachable connection, which can also be referred to as a reversible connection, can be realized, for example, using a reversible adhesive. This can be based on van der Waals interactions, can be a sublimation adhesive, or a thermally varying adhesive. Furthermore, the detachable connection can be realized by a mechanical holder and / or a magnetic holder.

[0023] The customization lens can be manufactured either as a single-piece customization lens or as a multi-piece customization lens in step B. Preferably, the (single-piece or multi-piece) customization lens is connected to the first lens. The first lens preferably points toward the user's eye during intended use of the display device.

[0024] In step A, the base stacks of at least one variant in step A can be manufactured such that the first and / or second lens is / are manufactured as a Fresnel lens.

[0025] Furthermore, the base stacks of at least one variant can be manufactured in step A such that the first side and the second side are each manufactured as a flat side. In this case, the waveguide is preferably formed essentially as a plane-parallel plate.

[0026] Furthermore, the base stacks of at least one variant can be manufactured in step A such that the first side and / or the second side are / is manufactured as a curved side. This can be a spherical curvature or an aspherical curvature. However, it is also possible for the corresponding side to be curved as a freeform surface.

[0027] The waveguide may have an entrance section (e.g., an entrance surface). This can be formed on an end face and / or on one of the two sides of the waveguide. However, it is also possible for the entrance section to be formed on another element of the spectacle lens.

[0028] The deflection section can have a single reflective, refractive and / or diffractive (e.g. holographic) deflection element or several reflective, refractive or diffractive (e.g. holographic) deflection elements arranged next to one another. These can, for example, be completely buried in the waveguide. However, they can also, for example, extend to one side or boundary surface of the waveguide or be formed on this. With several deflection elements arranged next to one another, a desired deflection function and, if appropriate, an imaging function of the deflection section can be realized, for example in a Fresnel-like manner (this can of course also be realized with a single deflection element). The deflection elements can be reflective, refractive and / or diffractive surface pieces, which can also be referred to as reflective, refractive and / or diffractive facets.The reflective, refractive, and / or diffractive surface pieces can each be flat. However, it is also possible for the reflective, refractive, and / or diffractive surface pieces themselves to be curved. For example, they can be spherically or aspherically curved, or even designed as a freeform surface. Likewise, the single reflective, refractive, and / or diffractive deflecting element can be flat or curved. The reflectivity of the respective reflective deflecting element (or of the single reflective deflecting element) can, for example, be in the range of 1–100% (including the limits of the range) for the respective wavelength or color of the generated image. Thus, the reflective deflecting elements can be partially reflective or reflective.

[0029] Since the out-coupling deflection section should be as invisible as possible and also interfere with the light coming from the surroundings to the viewer's eye as little as possible, deflection sections are generally preferred that have high transmission in the transparent state and thus low reflectivity for the out-coupling light beams of the generated image. Typical values ​​for the ratio of reflection to transmission are 50%, 30%, 10%, or 2%, evenly distributed across the visible wavelength range.

[0030] The light beams of the generated image are preferably guided to the deflection section by one or more reflections (particularly total internal reflection). The one or more reflections or total internal reflections can be caused, for example, at the first and second sides of the waveguide. If total internal reflections are to occur, the necessary refractive index jump is provided at the corresponding interface (e.g., at the first and / or second side) (e.g., by means of an air gap). Of course, a reflective or partially reflective coating can also be provided to generate reflections.

[0031] In the method according to the invention, the base stacks of at least three different variants can be manufactured in step A such that the total refractive power of the corresponding base stack increases by a constant value from variant to variant. This can be achieved in particular by changing the refractive power of the first lens from base stack to base stack in the different variants.

[0032] In step B, the customization lens can be manufactured in such a way that it is equipped with an active optic and / or at least one functional layer. An active optic can be understood, for example, as the design of the customization lens as a lens with variably adjustable refractive power or as a lens with an electrochromic layer.

[0033] As a functional layer, for example, an anti-reflective layer, a hard layer, a layer with phototropic properties, a tinting layer, a polarizing layer and / or another layer can be used.

[0034] Furthermore, in step B, the customization lens and a further customization lens can be produced for the user based on his or her visual impairment and based on the selected base stack variant, wherein the customization lens can be connected to the first lens and the further customization lens can be connected to the second lens or the second side.

[0035] The method according to the invention may include a step of inputting refractive error data describing the user's refractive error and / or a measuring step of measuring refractive error data describing the user's refractive error.

[0036] In particular, all optical elements from which the custom spectacle lens is made are optical elements of the custom spectacle lens.

[0037] Step A may include a definition step in which the first and second variants (and any further variants) of the base stacks are designed or defined.

[0038] Of course, both lenses for a display device that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image can also be individually manufactured for the user in the manner described.

[0039] Furthermore, a method is provided for producing a display device that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image, in which a user-specific spectacle lens is produced from the optical elements that are or will be produced according to the method according to the invention (including its further development) and is fastened to a holding device that can be placed on the head of a user and to which an image generation module that generates the image is fastened, such that the generated image is formed by means of the user-specific spectacle lens when the holding device is placed on the head in such a way that the user can perceive it as a virtual image.

[0040] The image generation module can produce a single-color or multi-color image.

[0041] The display device may include a control unit that controls the image generation module. In particular, the control unit may control the image generation module based on supplied image data.

[0042] The image generation module (or image generator unit) can, in particular, comprise a planar image generator, such as an LCD module, an LCoS module, an OLED module, a pLED module, or a tilting mirror matrix. The image generator can comprise a plurality of pixels, which can, for example, be arranged in rows and columns. The image generator can be self-luminous or non-self-luminous. It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the specified combinations, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0043] The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings, which also disclose features essential to the invention. These exemplary embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be interpreted as restrictive. For example, a description of an embodiment with a large number of elements or components should not be interpreted to mean that all of these elements or components are necessary for implementation. Rather, other embodiments may also contain alternative elements and components, fewer elements or components, or additional elements or components. Elements or components of different embodiments may be combined with one another unless otherwise stated. Modifications and variations described for one of the embodiments may also be applicable to other embodiments.To avoid repetition, identical or corresponding elements in different figures are designated by the same reference numerals and are not explained more than once. The figures show:

[0044] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the display device;

[0045] Fig. 2 is an enlarged partial sectional view of the first spectacle lens including a schematic representation of the image generation module;

[0046] Fig. 3-5 representations to explain the manufacturing process for producing a user-specific spectacle lens 3;

[0047] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a further variant of the spectacle lens 3 according to the invention;

[0048] Fig. 7-9 representations for explaining the manufacturing process for producing a user-specific spectacle lens 3 according to a further embodiment;

[0049] Fig. 10-12 representations for explaining the manufacturing process for producing a user-specific spectacle lens 3 according to a further embodiment;

[0050] Fig. 13 is a schematic sectional view of another spectacle lens 3 according to the invention; Fig. 14 is a flow chart for explaining the method according to the invention for

[0051] Production of optical elements of a user-specific spectacle lens 3 for a display device 1 that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image; and Fig. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the method according to the invention for producing a display device 1 that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image.

[0052] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the display device 1 according to the invention comprises a holding device 2 which can be placed on the head of a user and which can be designed, for example, in the manner of a conventional spectacle frame, as well as a first and a second spectacle lens 3, 4 which are fastened to the holding device 2. The holding device 2 with the spectacle lenses 3, 4 can be designed, for example, as sports glasses, sunglasses and / or spectacles for correcting ametropia, wherein the user can have a virtual image projected into his field of vision via the first spectacle lens 3, which is designed as a spectacle lens according to the invention and which can also be referred to as a multifunctional lens, as described below.

[0053] For this purpose, the display device 1 comprises an image generation module 5, which can be arranged in the region of the right temple of the holding device 2, as shown schematically in Fig. 1. The image generation module 5 can have an image generation element 6 for generating a (monochrome or multi-color) image and an imaging optics 7 arranged downstream of the image generation element 6 (Fig. 2). The image generation element 6 can be designed as a planar image generation element 6, e.g. as an OLED element, an LCD element, an LCoS element, a pLED element or a tilting mirror matrix, each of which comprises a plurality of pixels arranged, for example, in rows and columns. A single light beam L1 is shown schematically as a representative of the light beams emitted by the planar image generation element 6.

[0054] As can be further seen from Fig. 2, the image generation module 5 further comprises a control unit 8 with, for example, a processor P and a memory M for controlling the image generation module 5. The control unit 8 controls the image generation module 5 and in particular the image generation element 6 as a function of supplied image data such that the desired image is generated and thus corresponding light beams L1 are generated and enter the first spectacle lens 3 via an entry section 9 thereof.

[0055] The first spectacle lens 3 comprises a first lens system 10 (hereinafter also referred to as pull lens 10), a waveguide 11 and a second lens 12 (hereinafter also referred to as push lens 12). The waveguide 11 is essentially designed as a plane-parallel plate with the entrance section 9 and a deflection section 14 which comprises a plurality of spaced-apart reflective deflection elements 15. The first lens system 10 is connected to a first side 16 of the waveguide 11 and the second lens 12 is connected to a second side 17 of the waveguide 11. The side of the first lens system 10 facing away from the first side 16 faces the user's eye during intended use of the display device 1 and can therefore also be referred to as the back side 18 of the first spectacle lens 3.The side of the second lens 12 facing away from the second side 17 faces away from the user during the intended use of the display device 1 and can thus be referred to as the front side 19 of the first spectacle lens 3.

[0056] As schematically shown in Figure 2, the generated image (light beam L1) enters the first spectacle lens 3 (or the waveguide 11) via the entrance section 9 and is guided by reflections on the first and second sides 16, 17 of the waveguide 11 to the (preferably buried) deflection section 14, where it strikes the reflective deflection elements 15, which then deflect the coupled-in image or the light beams L1 in the direction of the rear side 18, so that the coupled-in image (light beam L1) exits the first spectacle lens 3 via an exit section 13 in the rear side 18. The area from the entrance section 9 to the deflection section 14, in which the light beams L1 are guided in the waveguide 11 by reflections, can thus also be referred to as the light guide channel 30.The reflective deflection elements 15, which can also be referred to as reflective facets 15, can, for example, have a reflectivity in the range of 1 - 100%.

[0057] The reflections on the first and / or second side 16, 17 can be total internal reflections (if the necessary refractive index jump is present on the corresponding side, e.g., if there is an air gap between the first side 16 and the first lens system 10 and an air gap between the second side 17 and the second lens 12) or reflections on a reflective or partially reflective coating of the corresponding side 16, 17. The reflective or partially reflective coating can also be formed only on a section of the corresponding side 16, 17 required for light guidance.

[0058] Since the light beams L1 are typically coupled into the waveguide 11 as collimated light beams L1 and guided within it, the focal plane for the user would be at infinity. Therefore, the pull lens 10 is provided so that the focal position of the generated image is close to the user. One could also say that the pull lens 10 essentially pulls the focal position close to the user.

[0059] To allow the user to view the surroundings through the first lens 3, the push lens 12 is provided. This compensates for the change in the focus position of the augmented image from infinity to the near field caused by the pull lens 10. This allows the user to view the surroundings normally. If, for example, a refraction correction is implemented for the user in the pull lens 10, this effect is retained for both the augmented image and the near field image.

[0060] The waveguide 11 is an optically sensitive component, and its surfaces (first and second sides 16, 17) must be kept free of damage and contamination. Otherwise, light from the light beams L1, which form the virtual or augmented image, would escape at unusual locations and be perceived not only as a loss of intensity but also as stray light.

[0061] To ensure the desired optical quality for the first spectacle lens 3, the first spectacle lens 3 should be manufactured under optimal conditions, such as in a clean room, and using highly precise processes. However, this contradicts the requirement to be able to perform individual vision correction for each user.

[0062] Therefore, according to the invention, the first lens system 10 in the first spectacle lens 3 is formed in two parts. It comprises a base element 20 or a base lens 20, which is connected to the first side 16 of the waveguide 11, and an individualization element 21 or an individualization lens 21, which is connected to the base lens 20. The base lens 20 can also be referred to as the first lens 20.

[0063] Due to the two-part design of the first lens system 10, a base stack 25 can thus be provided for the first spectacle lens 3, which comprises the waveguide 11, the second lens 12 connected thereto, and the base element 20 connected thereto. This base stack 25 can be manufactured in large quantities under the desired optimal conditions. For individual adaptation to a user, a customization lens 21 adapted to the user can then be connected to the base element 20 of the base stack 25 in a customization step. The customization lens 21 can thus be advantageously designed and manufactured depending on the total refractive power of the base stack 25 and the user's individual visual impairment, and then connected to the base element 25, so that the desired user-specific first spectacle lens 3 is produced.

[0064] This process is schematically illustrated in Figures 3-5. Thus, at least two variants of a base stack can be defined (hereinafter also referred to as the definition step), wherein the at least two variants differ in at least one predetermined optical property, such as the total refractive power of the base stacks, e.g., in constant steps. Then, in a subsequent step, a plurality of base stacks of each variant can be produced (hereinafter also referred to as step A).

[0065] A base stack variant is then selected and a base stack 25 of the selected base stack variant is shown in Fig. 3.

[0066] In the subsequent customization, an individualization lens 21 is produced for the user based on his or her visual impairment and based on the selected base stack 25 (hereinafter also referred to as step B), and the produced individualization lens 21 and the base stack 25 of the selected variant are provided so that these two optical elements 21 and 25 can be connected to one another in order to be able to produce the desired user-specific spectacle lens 3 (hereinafter also referred to as step C).

[0067] To produce the customized spectacle lens 3, the customization lens 21 is then bonded to the base element 20 of the base stack 25 (Fig. 4), resulting in the customized first spectacle lens 3 (Fig. 5). The step of bonding the customization lens 21 to the base element 20 of the base stack 25 may, but need not, be part of step C.

[0068] This procedure allows for a customized correction for the user, which can, for example, have a spherical, cylindrical, and / or prismatic power, thus allowing the individual compensation of the user's visual impairment. When using a cylindrical power, the axis of the customization lens 21 must be aligned to suit the user. This is easily possible when integrating the customization lens 21, as the customization lens 21 can be individually contoured and then integrated in the correct orientation.

[0069] This approach also provides the advantage that the optically used surfaces (first and second sides 16, 17) of the waveguide 11 are protected in the manufactured base stacks 25. Thus, customization for the user is carried out with a protected waveguide 11 within the base stack 25.

[0070] Since different base stack variants are provided, a base stack 25 of the base stack variant can be selected for individual refractive error correction for a user who, for example, only requires an easy-to-manufacture customization lens 21 and / or a customization lens 21 with a weak optical power. Since refractive error typically worsens rather than improves over time, the refractive power can be rounded off when selecting the appropriate base stack 25 (and thus the appropriate base element 20), i.e., the weaker base element 20 can be selected if the refraction lies between two provided values.

[0071] The customization element 21 is preferably installed in a reversible manner, so that the customization element 21 can be detached and removed from the base element 20, for example, if the user's refraction changes, and a new, adapted customization element 21 can be reconnected to the base element 20 instead. The connection of the customization element 21 to the base element 20 can thus be reversible.

[0072] Such reversibility can be achieved, for example, through reversible adhesives. These can be based on van der Waals interactions, sublimation adhesives, or thermally variable adhesives. Mechanical or magnetic mounts are another possibility.

[0073] In some applications, it is advantageous to protect the base element 20 and / or the other elements of the base stack 25 from external influences by one or more cover layers. For example, the base element 20 can be made of one or more materials that must be protected from environmental influences, and / or be provided with a surface structure that must be protected from scratches and contamination and / or contain sensitive functional layers. In these cases, the base element 20 and / or the other elements of the base stack 25 can then be provided with a protective layer. Furthermore, the base element 20 can, for example, serve as a protective layer or protective element for the waveguide 11, which can, for example, be very sensitive to mechanical contact.

[0074] Since the individualization element 21 integrates additional optically effective surfaces into the first spectacle lens 3, the materials and geometries can be selected such that the aberrations of the entire first spectacle lens 3 are minimized.

[0075] The customization lens 21 can, for example, be equipped with an active optic or other functional layer. This can be used for customization to the user's refraction.

[0076] The base element 20 can be provided with a Fresnel-coated surface, as schematically illustrated in Figure 6. Especially at high refractive powers, optical elements with continuous surfaces have a large form factor. In the case of the base stack 25 or the described first spectacle lens 3, this is particularly problematic, since the waveguide 10 and the pull lens 20 result in greater weight and thickness for the first spectacle lens 3 compared to vision correction glasses. Therefore, it is advantageous to use Fresnel lenses as the pull lens 10 and in particular as the base element 20. The Fresnel lens can then be manufactured in a few designs (e.g., refractive power in 1-diopter increments). Furthermore, the customization element 21 protects the surface structure of the base element 20 designed as a Fresnel lens.

[0077] The arrangement / sequence of the base stack 25 and the customization element 21 can be arbitrary. For example, as an alternative to the previously described embodiments, customization can be carried out with a customization element 23 on the side of the push lens 12, as shown in Figures 7-9. In this case, the push lens 12 is formed in two parts. This is advantageous, for example, for vision correction in the case of a hyperopic or presbyopic user.

[0078] It is also possible, for example, to form both the pull lens 10 and the push lens 12 in two parts each with a corresponding individualization element 21, 23, as shown in Figures 10 - 12.

[0079] The respective individualization element 21, 23 is not limited to a single optical element, as previously described. Thus, the respective individualization element 21, 23 can also be formed from multiple optical elements (e.g., two, three, four, five, or more optical elements). Figure 13 schematically shows a first spectacle lens 3 in which the individualization element 21 is formed from two partial elements 211, 212.

[0080] The optical effect of the base element 20 is not limited to the examples described above, but may also include other effects, such as electrochromism, active optics, etc.

[0081] The integration of the lenses 12, 20 and the waveguide 11 in the base stack 25 can, for example, be achieved by gluing, molding, or by mechanical or other means of support. An air gap can be provided between the elements 12 and 11 and between the elements 20 and 11, or a material with a low refractive index (preferably with a lower refractive index than the refractive index of the material of the waveguide 11) can be inserted. In the described embodiments, the base element 20 can, for example, be used to roughly compensate for the visual impairment in the base stack 25. If the virtual image with a focus position at 2 m is to be presented by means of the first spectacle lens 3, the design can, for example, be as follows: The push lens 12 is designed with a refractive power of +0.5 D (D = diopter). The base element 20 is available in nine gradations with the refractive powers -5.5 Dpt, -4.5 Dpt, -3.5 Dpt, -2.5 Dpt, -1.5 Dpt, -0.5 Dpt, +0.5 Dpt, +1.5 Dpt, +2.5 Dpt. Base stacks 25 are mass-produced under optimal conditions for each of the nine gradations of the base element 20.

[0082] In a subsequent customization step, the visual impairment of each user or end user must be compensated. For example, if the end user has a refraction of -3.5 D (sph = spherical), 1 D (cyl = cylindrical), a base stack 25 with -3.5 D can be selected, which in combination with the push lens 12 has a total refractive power of -3 D (sph). The customization element 21 is manufactured with a refractive power of -0.5 D (sph) and +1 D (cyl) and integrated into the base stack 25 in the orientation (axis of the cylinder) adapted to the end user. The integration of the customization element 21 can take place in a non-optimal industrial production environment, for example at an optician's, a retailer, or at the user's or end user's home.

[0083] The customization element 21 can be integrated in a reversible manner. Thus, the customization element 21 can be replaced if the end user's refraction changes.

[0084] The base element 20 with its nine graduations can also be designed as a Fresnel-shaped base element 20. Such Fresnel lenses 20 advantageously have a smaller thickness than continuous lenses. When the Fresnel structure is oriented away from the waveguide 11, it is advantageous to protect the surface from contamination and damage. This is achieved by applying the customization element 21. The gap between the customization element 21 and the base element 20 can be filled with air or a filler material. The customization element 21 can be integrated in a reversible manner. Thus, the customization element 21 can be replaced if the end user's refraction changes.

[0085] Furthermore, the base element 20 can be selected such that the base stack 25 without the individualization lens 21 has an optical power of 0 Dpt.

[0086] In the case of an emmetropic end user, the base element 20 is designed with the same refractive power (but opposite sign) as that of the push lens 12. Thus, the resulting refractive power for viewing through the base stack 25 is 0 D, and the focal position of the virtual image (or augmented image) is adjusted by the refractive power of the base element. If the end user develops a visual impairment over time, this can be compensated by applying an individualization element 21.

[0087] In all described embodiments, the following functionalities can be used advantageously.

[0088] The customization lens 21 also acts as a cover layer to protect the underlying layers from environmental influences and to mechanically stabilize the layer sequence of the base stack 25.

[0089] The customization element 21 can be integrated in a reversible manner. Thus, the customization element 21 can be replaced if the end user's refraction changes.

[0090] Functional layers may also be integrated in the base stack 25, which may be protected by the individualization element 21 and may be exchanged by reversible integration of the individualization element 21.

[0091] The display device 1 can also be designed such that the virtual image is presented via the left spectacle lens 4. In this case, the left spectacle lens 4 is manufactured as a user-specific multifunctional lens 4 in the manner described above. Furthermore, in this case, the image generation module 5 is preferably arranged in the region of the left temple. Furthermore, it is possible for the display device 1 to project the virtual image via both the left spectacle lens 3 and the right spectacle lens 4 (e.g., to create a three-dimensional image impression). In this case, both spectacle lenses 3, 4 can be manufactured as user-specific multifunctional lenses 3, 4 in the manner described above. A separate image generation module 5 is then preferably arranged for each spectacle lens 3, 4 (preferably in the left and right temples).

[0092] The deflection section 14 can provide pure beam deflection. Preferably, it can also provide an imaging effect.

[0093] The inventive method for producing optical elements of a user-specific spectacle lens 3, 4 for a display device 1 that can be placed on a user's head and generates an image can thus comprise the following steps, as shown schematically in Figure 14. Step A: Producing a plurality of base stacks 25 of a first variant and a plurality of base stacks of a second variant, wherein the base stacks 25 of all variants each have a waveguide 11 with a first side 16 and a second side 17 and a first lens 20 connected to the first side 16. Furthermore, the base stacks 25 of the same variant are characterized in that they each have the same optical properties, but base stacks of different variants differ in at least one predetermined optical property. Of course, more than two different variants of base stacks 25 can also be produced.

[0094] The predetermined optical property can include the total refractive power of the base stack 25 and / or a focus position (e.g., 1 m, 1.5 m, or 2 m from the spectacle lens) of the presented virtual image (when the user-specific spectacle lens is used as intended in the device that can be placed on the head and generates an image) caused by the guidance and coupling of the light beams.

[0095] Step B: Manufacturing a customization lens 21 for the user based on his or her refractive error and based on a selected base stack variant.

[0096] Step C: Providing a base stack of the selected variant and the manufactured customization lens 21. This can then be used to produce the spectacle lens 3 customized for the user. Step C can, but does not have to, include the sub-step of connecting the manufactured customization lens 21 to the provided base stack 25, as shown, for example, in Figs. 5, 9, and 13. If the sub-step of connecting the manufactured customization lens 21 to the provided base stack 25 is carried out, the method can also be referred to as a method for producing a user-customized spectacle lens 3, 4 for a display device 1 that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image.

[0097] This completes the method for producing optical elements of a user-specific spectacle lens 3, 4 for a display device 1 that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image, or the method for producing a user-specific spectacle lens 3, 4 for a display device 1 that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image.

[0098] If one wishes to produce a display device 1 which can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image and which has a user-specific spectacle lens 3 according to the invention, one can first produce a user-specific spectacle lens 3, 4 using steps AC and then, in a step D (Fig. 14), the user-specific spectacle lens 3, 4 thus produced can be fastened to a holding device 2 which can be placed on the head of a user and to which an image generation module 5 which generates the image is fastened, in such a way that the generated image is projected by means of the user-specific spectacle lens when the holding device 2 is placed on the head in such a way that the user can perceive it as a virtual image.

Claims

Patent claims 1 . A method for producing optical elements of a user-specific spectacle lens for a display device that can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image, wherein the spectacle lens (3) has a front side (19) and a back side (18) and guides light beams (L1) of the generated image, which are coupled into the spectacle lens (3), in the spectacle lens (3) and couples them out via its back side (18), the method comprising the following steps: A) producing a plurality of base stacks (25) of a first variant and a plurality of base stacks (25) of a second variant, wherein the base stacks (25) of all variants each have a waveguide (11) with a first side (16) and a second side (17) and a first lens (20) connected to the first side (16), the base stacks (25) of the same variant each have the same optical properties, and base stacks (25) of different variants differ in at least one predetermined optical property, B) producing an individualization lens (21) for the user based on his visual impairment and based on a selected base stack variant, and C) Providing a base stack (25) of the selected variant and the manufactured customization lens (21) in order to be able to connect the manufactured customization lens (21) to the provided base stack (25) for producing the spectacle lens (3) customized for the user.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in step B the base stack variant is selected based on the user's visual impairment.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined optical property comprises the total refractive power of the base stack (25) and / or a focus position of the imaging of the generated image as a virtual image, which is determined by the guidance and coupling out of the light beams (L1), with the display device.

4. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein in step A a plurality of base stacks (25) of at least one further variant are produced.

5. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein in step A at least one variant of the base stack is produced such that the base stack (25) also has a second lens (12) with positive refractive power connected to the second side (17).

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein in step A at least one variant of the base stack (25) with the second lens (12) is produced such that the second lens (12) is equipped with an active optic and / or at least one functional layer.

7. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein in step A, in at least one variant of the base stack (25), the first lens (20) is manufactured such that it is equipped with an active optic and / or at least one functional layer.

8. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein the individualization lens (21) is manufactured in step B such that it can be connected to the first lens (20).

9. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein the individualization lens (21) is manufactured in step B such that it can be detachably connected to the selected base stack (25).

10. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein the individualization lens (21) is produced in step B as a one-piece individualization lens (21).

11. Method according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the individualization lens (21) is produced in step B as a multi-part individualization lens (21).

12. Method according to one of the above claims, in which the base stacks (25) of at least one variant are produced in step A such that the first and / or second lens (20, 12) is / are produced as a Fresnel lens.

13. Method according to one of the above claims, in which the base stacks (25) of at least one variant are produced in step A such that the first side (16) and the second side (17) are each produced as a flat side.

14. Method according to one of the above claims, in which the base stacks (25) of at least one variant are produced in step A such that the first side (16) and / or the second side (17) are / is produced curved.

15. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein the base stacks (25) of at least three different variants are produced in step A such that the total refractive power of the corresponding base stacks (25) increases by a constant value from variant to variant.

16. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein the individualization lens (21) is produced in step B such that it is equipped with an active optic and / or at least one functional layer.

17. Method according to one of the above claims, wherein in step B the customization lens (21) and a further customization lens (23) are produced for the user based on his or her visual impairment and based on the selected base stack variant, wherein the customization lens (21) is connectable to the first lens (20) and the further customization lens (23) is connectable to the second lens (12) or the second side (17).

18. A method for producing a display device which can be placed on the head of a user and generates an image, in which a user-specific spectacle lens (3) is produced from the optical elements produced according to one of the above claims and is fastened to a holding device (2) which can be placed on the head of a user and to which an image generation module (5) which generates the image is fastened, in such a way that the generated image is projected by means of the user-specific spectacle lens (3) in such a way that the user can perceive it as a virtual image when the holding device (2) is placed on the head.

Images