Switchable circularly polarizing devices

Abstract

An optical assembly includes at least one quarter wave plate that converts linearly polarized light into one or both of a right-handed circular polarized light and a left-handed circularly polarized light, and at least one electro-optic device. The at least one electro-optic device includes a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface, the second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first conductive layer coupled is to the second surface and a second conductive layer is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and configured to selectively absorb one of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized by the first and second conductive layers.

Description

Atty. Docket No. AUTO 05161T GEN010 FP1390AWOSWITCHABLE CIRCULARLY POLARIZING DEVICESCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) upon U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 702,269, entitled "SWITCHABLE CIRCULARLY POLARIZING DEVICES" filed on October 2, 2024, by Zachary B. Emo et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to one or more assemblies incorporating one or more switchable circularly polarizing devices.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light includes at least one quarter wave plate configured to convert linearly polarized light into one or both of a right-handed circular polarized light and a left-handed circularly polarized light, and at least one electro-optic device. The at least one electro-optic device includes a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface, the second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first conductive layer is coupled to the second surface and a second conductive layer is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and configured to selectively absorb one of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized by the first and second conductive layers.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light between a front surface and a rear surface includes a first electro-optic device and a second electro-optic device. The first electro-optic device includes a first electro-optic medium configured to selectively absorb one of a right- handed circular polarized light or a left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized. The second electro-optic device includes a second electro-optic mediumconfigured to selectively absorb one of the right-handed circular polarized light or the lefthanded circular polarized light upon being energized. A transreflective element is located between the first electro-optic device and the second electro-optic device and configured to transmit a first linear polarization of light and absorb a second linear polarization of light. A first quarter wave plate is located between the transreflective element and the first electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light into linearly polarized light. A second quarter wave plate is located between the transreflective element and the second electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light into linearly polarized light. A first liquid crystal device is located between the transreflective element and the first quarter wave plate and configured to selectively rotate incoming light to a second linear polarization of light. A second liquid crystal device is located between the transreflective element and the second quarter wave plate and configured to selectively rotate the second linear polarization of light.

[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light between a viewing surface and a rear surface includes an electro-optic device proximate the viewing surface. The electro-optic device includes an electro-optic medium configured to selectively absorb one of a right-handed circular polarized light or a left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized. A backlight is proximate the rear surface and configured to generate a graphic towards the front surface. A transreflective element is located between the electro-optic device and the backlight and configured to transmit a first linear polarization of light and absorb a second linear polarization of light. A quarter wave plate is located between the transreflective element and the electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light from the electro-optic device into linearly polarized light. A liquid crystal device located between the transreflective element and the backlight, where the liquid crystal device can selectively absorb some of the second linear polarization of light depending on an energization state. A linear polarizer is located between the liquid crystal device and the backlight and configured to polarize light emitted from the backlight.

[0006] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly modifying the transmission of light between a viewing surface and a rear surface includes a reflective element located proximate the viewing surface to convert a right-handed circular polarized light to a left-handed circular polarized light and the left-handed circularpolarized light to the right-handed circular polarized light upon reflection. At least one electro-optic device is located between the viewing surface the rear surface. The electrooptic device includes a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface, the second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first conductive layer is coupled to the second surface and a second conductive layer is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and configured to selectively absorb one of the right- handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized by the first and second conductive layers.

[0007] According to some aspects, an optical assembly modifying the transmission of light between a viewing surface and a rear surface includes an electro-optic medium that includes a plurality of cathodic chiral molecules and a plurality of anodic chiral molecules to reversibly generate a dichroic absorbance in the visible spectrum.

[0008] These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] In the drawings:

[0010] FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional perspective view of an electro-optic device of a first construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. IB is a cross-sectional view of an electro-optic device of a second construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an optical assembly of a first construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 3A is a top plan view of an automobile incorporating an optical assembly, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 3B is an upper perspective view of an aircraft incorporating an optical assembly, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 3C is a front elevational view of a building incorporating an optical assembly, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 3D is an upper perspective view of an eyewear device incorporating an optical assembly, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 3E is a front view of the display device incorporating an optical assembly, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 3F is a front view of the display device incorporating a camera, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a second construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a third construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a fourth construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a fifth construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a sixth construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a seventh construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of an eighth construction, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of an eighth construction and in a mirror state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of an eighth construction and in a transmissive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of an eighth construction and in a partially mirror and transmissive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a ninth construction and in a mirror state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a ninth construction and in a transmissive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 11C is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a ninth construction and in a partially mirror and transmissive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of a tenth construction and in a partially mirror and transmissive state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of an eleventh construction and in a mirror state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional, partially disassembled schematic view of an optical assembly of an eleventh construction and in a display state, according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0035] FIG. 14 is a schematic view of a control system for an optical assembly, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to one or more assemblies incorporating one or more switchable circularly polarizing devices. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0037] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof, shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIGS. 1A and IB. Unless stated otherwise, the term "front" shall refer to the surface of the device closer to an intended viewer of the device, and the termrear" shall refer to the surface of the device further from the intended viewer of the device. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0038] The terms "including," "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises a . . . " does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1A-3F, reference numeral 10 generally designates an optical assembly of a first construction. The optical assembly 10 may include at least one right- handed electro-optic device 12A and / or at least one left-handed electro-optic device 12B. Both the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may include a first substrate 14 having a first surface 16 and a second surface 18 opposite the first surface 16. A second substrate 20 has a third surface 22 and a fourth surface 24 opposite the third surface 22. The second and third surfaces 18, 22 face each other to define a gap 26. A first conductive layer 28 is coupled to the second surface 18 and a second conductive layer 30 is coupled to the third surface 22. However, the right- handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B differ by employing different electro-optic mediums (i.e., in the gap 26) for selectively absorbing either a right-handed circular polarized light or a left-handed circular polarized light. More particularly, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A includes a right-handed electrooptic medium 32A that is configured to selectively absorb the left-handed circular polarized light and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B includes a left-handed electrooptic medium 32B that is configured to selectively absorb the right-handed circular polarized light. Both the right-handed electro-optic medium 32A and the left-handedelectro-optic medium 32B may be energized by applying a voltage differential between the first and second conductive layers 28, 30, respectively.

[0040] With continued reference to FIGS. 1A-2, the optical assembly 10 may incorporate other components in addition to the at least one right-handed electro-optic device 12A and / or at least one left-handed electro-optic device 12B. As will be described in greater detail below, the optical assembly 10 may include one or more of various types of polarizers, waveplates, liquid crystal elements, reflective components, transreflective components, image generation stacks (e.g., backlights), combinations thereof, and / or the like. Further, it should be appreciated that the optical assembly 10 can also be incorporated into a variety of structures where the selective polarization (e.g., absorption) of light is beneficial. For purposes of the disclosure, various components may be described for absorption of light properties or transmission of light properties. It should be appreciated that if a component is described as absorbing light, transmitting light, reflecting light, or converting light, not necessarily all light in the electromagnetic spectrum is absorbed, transmitted, reflected, or converted. For example, the component may be configured to absorb, transmit, reflect, or convert light particularly in a sub-spectrum, such as a spectrum of light (e.g., the visible spectrum, infrared spectrum, or any spectrum within the electromagnetic spectrum). Further, even if the component is configured for a particular sub-spectrum, it should be appreciated that the component may not be perfectly efficient at absorption, transmission, reflectance, or conversion. Therefore, if a component is described as absorbing, transmitting, reflecting, or converting a particular type of light, it should be appreciated that only a portion of that particular type of light may be absorbed, transmitted, reflected, or converted.

[0041] With reference now to FIG. 1A, the right-handed electro-optic medium 32A and the left-handed electro-optic medium 32B may be configured to selectively absorb at least a portion of the circularly polarized light in the visible spectrum based on the application of the applied voltage differential between the first and second conduction layers 28, 30. More particularly, the conductive layers 28, 30 may be in electrical communication with a power source through one or more conductive intermediaries 43. In this manner, the applied voltage differential can be adjusted to switch, for example, the right-handed electro-optic medium 32A and the left-handed electro-optic medium 32B between transmissive states (e.g., levels of absorption) based on user need and / or otheroperational benefits (e.g., optical benefits) to the optical assembly 10. The right-handed electro-optic medium 32A and the left-handed electro-optic medium 32B may include a plurality of cathodic chiral molecules and a plurality of anodic chiral molecules to reversibly generate a dichroic absorbance, for example, in the visible spectrum. More particularly, the right-handed electro-optic medium 32A and the left-handed electro-optic medium 32B may utilize a cathodic compound 34 and an anodic compound 36. At least one of the cathodic compound 34 and the anodic compound 36 includes a homochiral functional group that is in close proximity to a corresponding optical transition dipole to absorb circularly polarized light in the visible spectrum.

[0042] Specifically, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A transmits right circularly polarized and absorbs left circularly polarized light when energized and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B transmits left circularly polarized and absorbs right circularly polarized light when energized. In some implementations, the cathodic and anodic compounds 34, 36 in the right-handed electro-optic device 12A may have chirality of right- handedness or left-handedness. Likewise, the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may include cathodic and anodic compounds 34, 36. In some implementations, the cathodic and anodic compounds 34, 36 in the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may have chirality different than the right-handed electro-optic device 12A (e.g., left-handedness or right-handedness). The polarization or dichroism property is turned on as power is applied (e.g., the applied voltage differential between the first and second conduction layers 28, 30). In this manner, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electrooptic device 12B absorb one circular polarization or the other and go from high end transmission of greater than 50% when the device 12A, 12B is not darkened to a much lower end transmission as the device 12A, 12B becomes absorbing, with a biased absorption towards either left-handed or right-handed circular polarization. Throughout the drawings and the specification, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A may also be referred to as a right-handed circular dichroic EC filter (CDEC (R)) and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may also be referred to as a left-handed circular dichroic EC filter(CDEC (L)).

[0043] While not to be meant as strictly limiting, the transmissivity of either left-handed or right-handed circular polarization of a predetermined wavelength or wavelength range in a first or transmissive state (e.g., non-energized) may be greater than about 10%, greaterthan about 12%, greaterthan about 25%, greaterthan about 50%, greaterthan about 55%, or greater than about 85%. In specific implementations, the transmissivity values in the non-energized state may be higher than 50%, such as in a range of approximately 60-70%. In some implementations, the transmissivity of electromagnetic radiation of the predetermined wavelength or wavelength range in a second state (e.g., substantially darkened or energized) may be less than about 10%, less than about 1%, less than about 0.1%, less than about 0.01%, or less than about 0.001%. Further, varying the applied voltage differential can be utilized to obtain states between the first and second states. The left-handed electro-optic medium 32B can, therefore, transmit left-handed circularly polarized light and absorb right-handed circularly polarized light when energized and the right-handed electro-optic medium 32A may therefore transmit right circularly polarized and absorb left-handed circularly polarized light when energized. Aspects of the present disclosure may exhibit greater dynamic range, be more neutral in color, be more durable, and be less synthetically rigorous and less costly to incorporate in devices. Throughout the FIGS., left-handed circularly polarized light is depicted as the circular arrow pointing in the clockwise direction and right-handed circularly polarized light is depicted as the circular arrow pointing in the counterclockwise direction.

[0044] With reference now specifically to FIG. IB, in some implementations, the right- handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may both include a cathodic film 38 disposed on the first conductive layer 28 and an anodic film 40 is disposed on the second conductive layer 30. An electrolyte layer 42A, 42B (e.g., an electro-optic medium of a second construction) may be provided between the cathodic film 38 and the anodic film 40. In some implementations, in the case where the right- handed electro-optic device 12A and / or the left-handed electro-optic device 12B is in the form of a bi-stable device, both sets of chromophores (cathodic and anodic moieties) may be attached to their conductive layers 28, 30. The gap 26 may be bounded by a seal 41 that extends along a perimeter of the first and second substrates 14, 20. Similar to FIG. 1A, the conductive layers 28, 30 may be in electrical communication with a power source through one or more conductive intermediaries 43. In some implementations, the conductive layers 28, 30 may be formed of transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) such as fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO), for example TEC™ glass, indium tin oxide (ITO), doped zinc oxide, indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO), metal oxide / metal / metaloxide (including, where the metal oxide can be substituted with metal carbide, metal nitride, metal sulfide, etc.), nanowires, wire mesh, and polymer / carbon based conductors. The conductive intermediaries 43 may be formed of conductive tape, conductive adhesive, conductive inks, clips, buses, traces, or wires. In some implementations, a conductive bus may extend along at least a portion of perimeter conductive layers 28, 30 in conductive communication with both the conductive layers 28, 30 and the conductive intermediaries 43. The first and / or second substrates 14, 20 can be made of glass, plastic, or other optically transparent or translucent material(s), non-limiting examples of which include borosilicate glass, soda lime glass, or polymeric materials, such as natural and synthetic polymeric resins, plastics, and / or composites.

[0045] As will be described in greater detail below, some implementations of the present disclosure include stacking one or more of the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B. It should be appreciated that, in such stacked implementations, the stacked electro-optic devices 12A, 12B may share a common substrate. For example, the second substrate 20 of one electro-optic devices 12A, 12B may also function as the first substrate 14 of the other electro-optic device 12A, 12B. Further, it should be appreciated that, in other implementations, the stacked electro-optic devices 12A, 12B may not share a common substrate. For example, the second substrate 20 of one electro-optic devices 12A, 12B may be coupled (e.g., directly or spaced by one or more optical and / or structural layers) to the first substrate 14 of the other electro-optic device 12A, 12B.

[0046] With reference now to FIGS. 3A-3F, the optical assembly 10 and various constructions thereof may be incorporated into a variety of structures wherein modifying the transmission of light is beneficial via the incorporation of at least one right-handed electro-optic device 12A and / or at least one left-handed electro-optic device 12B. For example, windows, lenses, mirrors (e.g., a switchable mirror with concealment of internal components, anti-reflection, selective absorption), and display screens may benefit from the incorporation of the optical assembly 10 via selective polarization of light (e.g., selective absorption). More particularly, FIG. 3A illustrates an automobile 44A employing the optical assembly 10, for example, with an interior rearview mirror, a sunroof, a windshield, a side window, an internal heads-up display, a visor, and / or other interior vehicle locations that display one or more aspects of the optical assembly 10. Theautomobile 44A may include a commercial vehicle, an emergency vehicle, a residential vehicle, a water vessel, or the like. FIG. 3B illustrates an aircraft 44B employing the optical assembly 10, for example, a front window, a side window, a heads-up display, an infotainment sensor, and / or other components. FIG. 3C illustrates a building 44C employing optical assembly 10 (e.g., a window, mirror, and / or the like). The building 44C may be a residential building, a commercial building, and / or the like. FIG. 3D illustrates eyewear 44D employing optical assembly 10. For example, the eyewear 44D may be glass or plastic with dimming functionality and may further include other functional features such as augmented reality, mixed reality, virtual reality, three-dimensional ("3D") polarization for 3D media. FIG. 3E illustrates a display 44E incorporating the optical assembly 10. For example, a television incorporating various technologies, infotainment centers, heads-up displays, mobile phones, tablets, computers, and other types of displays 44E that generate graphics for user information and / or entertainment. FIG. 3F illustrates a camera 44F incorporating the optical assembly 10. For example, a mobile phone, a designated camera, a camcorder, and / or any other type of imager configured to capture image data (e.g., images, videos, etc.). Generally speaking, other structures, wherein selective polarization is beneficial and may also employ the optical assembly 10. The optical assembly 10 in each structure may be defined as including a front surface 46 or viewing surface and a rear surface 48 or second viewing surface.

[0047] With reference now to FIG. 4, an optical assembly 110 of a second construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 110 of the second construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 110 of the second construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into the eyewear 44D, windows, or mirrors. Utilizing the eyewear 44D as an example, the eyewear 44D may include a frame 50 with a pair of lens openings 52 that accommodate the optical assembly 110. Rather than traditionally polarized eyewear that is always polarized, the optical assembly 110 may be particularly beneficial for selectively absorbing polarized light. In this manner, the optical assembly 110 in the second construction may include a first optical stack and a second optical stack in different ones of the lens openings 52, in situations where the eyewear includes a lens for each of the user's eyes. However, it should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the eyewear44D may include a single lens opening 52 that covers each eye and thus requires only a single one of the optical assemblies 110.

[0048] With continued reference to FIG. 4, the optical assembly 110 (e.g., each of the first optical stack and the second optical stack) may include one of the right-handed electrooptic devices 12A and one of the left-handed electro-optic devices 12B stacked (e.g., utilizing at least one of the same or different substrates 14, 20). In some implementations, such as the depicted arrangement, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A may be located closer to the rear surface 48 than the left-handed electro-optic device 12B. However, it should be appreciated that the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may be located closer to the rear surface 48 or second viewing surface than the right-handed electro-optic device 12A without departing from the scope of the subject disclosure. The optical assembly 110 (e.g., each of the first optical stack and the second optical stack) may further include a quarter wave plate 54 stacked with the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B and located, for example, closer to the rear surface 48 than the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B. The quarter wave plate 54 is configured to convert linearly polarized light into one or both of a right-handed circular polarized light and a left-handed circularly polarized light. For example, light may become linearly polarized (e.g., first and second linear polarizations of light) as it reflects from horizontal and vertical surfaces. Depending on the surface, the light may be defined as vertical linearly polarized light (e.g., when reflected from a vertical surface), horizontal linearly polarized light (e.g., when reflected from a horizontal surface), or, more generally, linearly polarization of light (e.g., light reflected from horizontal, vertical, or other oriented surfaces). First and second linearly polarization of light may refer to two linearly polarizations of light that are different (e.g., perpendicular to one another). The vertical linearly polarized light is depicted throughout as a line with arrows pointing in the vertical directions, and the horizontal linearly polarized light is depicted throughout as a line with arrows pointing in the horizontal directions. This linearly polarized light is visually intense and can create strain on the eyes of the user as well as unsafe traveling conditions. The quarter wave plate 54 converts the vertical linearly polarized light into right-handed circular polarized light and the horizontal linearly polarized light into the left-handed circular polarized light depending on how the quarter wave plate 54 is oriented. In this manner, light enteringthe rear surface 48 is transformed into one of the right or left-handed circular polarized light that can, in turn, be selectively absorbed via energization of right-handed electrooptic medium 32A and / or the left-handed electro-optic medium 32B.

[0049] With reference now to FIG. 5, an optical assembly 210 of a third construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 210 of the third construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions defined herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 210 of the third construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into the eyewear 44D, windows, or mirrors. The optical assembly 210 may utilize a stack in each lens opening 52 that includes the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the lefthanded electro-optic device 12B, for example, without the quarter wave plate 54

[0050] With reference now to FIG. 6, an optical assembly 310 of a fourth construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 310 of the fourth construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions defined herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 310 of the fourth construction may also be particularly beneficial via incorporation into the eyewear 44D when viewing media (e.g., a display emitting a stereoscopic signal of light in the left-handed and right-handed circular polarization). However, as depicted, the quarter wave plate 54 may or may not be included. The optical assembly 310 may be configured to provide a user 3D polarization for 3D media. More particularly, one of the lens openings 52 (e.g., a right lens opening) may incorporate the right-handed electro-optic device 12A the other of the lens openings 52 may incorporate the left-handed electro-optic device 12B (e.g., a left lens opening). In this manner, a user may selectively simultaneously energize the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B to provide the 3D user experience. While only a single right-handed electro-optic device 12A and a single left-handed electro-optic device 12B are depicted, it should be appreciated that other components, such as additional right- handed and left-handed electro-optic devices 12A, 12B may be incorporated into the optical assembly 310 in a stack, however, the principle operation of the optical assembly 310 may include selectively energizing only the single right-handed and left-handed electro-optic devices 12A, 12B within the stack.

[0051] With reference now to FIG. 7, an optical assembly 410 of a fifth construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 410 of the fifth construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 410 of the fifth construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into the eyewear 44D, the camera 44F, windows, or mirrors. Utilizing the camera 44F as an example, the camera 44F may include a lens or lens opening 56 that accommodates the optical assembly 410. Rather than a traditional camera lens systems that require a polarizer that is rotated to block or increase glare (e.g., of a particular polarization), the optical assembly 410 can be adjusted selectively to dictate the amount of the circularly polarized light visible to a user and present in image data captured by the camera 44F. Similar to the second construction, the optical assembly 410 may include one of the right-handed electro-optic devices 12A and one of the left-handed electro-optic devices 12B stacked (e.g., utilizing at least one of the same or different substrates 14, 20). In some implementations, such as the depicted arrangement, the right-handed electrooptic device 12A may be located closer to the rear surface 48 than the left-handed electrooptic device 12B. However, it should be appreciated that the right-handed electro-optic device 12A may be located closer to the rear surface 48 or second viewing surface than the left-handed electro-optic device 12B without departing from the scope of the subject disclosure. The optical assembly 110 further includes the quarter wave plate 54 stacked with the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B and located, for example, closer to the rear surface 48 than the right-handed electrooptic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B. The quarter wave plate 54 is configured to convert linearly polarized light into one or both of a right-handed circular polarized light and a left-handed circularly polarized light. For example, light may become linearly polarized as it reflects from horizontal and vertical surfaces as described above. The quarter wave plate 54 converts the polarized light into either right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light. In this manner, light entering the rear surface 48 is transformed into one of the right or left-handed circular polarized light that can, in turn, be selectively absorbed via energization of right-handed electro-optic medium 32A and / or the left-handed electro-optic medium 32B via adjustment of each of the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B.The adjustment may be to both the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the lefthanded electro-optic device 12B for dimming of both circular polarizations or, alternatively, to only one of the right-handed electro-optic device 12A or the left-handed electro-optic device 12B to provide artistic glare or other benefits to the image data.

[0052] With reference now to FIG. 8, an optical assembly 610 of a sixth construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 610 of the sixth construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 610 of the sixth construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into the eyewear 44D, the camera 44F, windows, or mirrors. Utilizing the camera 44F as an example, the lens or lens opening 56 that accommodates the optical assembly 610. Similar to the sixth construction, the optical assembly 610 can be utilized to selectively absorb linear and circularly polarized light when capturing image data via the camera 44F. The optical assembly 610 may include one of the right-handed electro-optic devices 12A proximate one of the front surface 46 or rear surface 48 (e.g., the front surface 46) and one of the left-handed electro-optic devices 12B proximate the other of the front surface 46 or rear surface 48 (e.g., the rear surface 48). The right and left-handed electrooptic devices 12A, 12B may be part of a stack with two of the quarter wave plates 54 separated by a liquid crystal device 58 that may include an LC medium that either rotates the polarization of light only when energized or rotates the polarization of light only when not energized (e.g., twisted nematic). In this manner, the optical stack depicted in the sixth construction may operate as a shutter or, alternatively, for selective adjustment of the darkening of any mirrors, windows, lenses, displays, cameras, and other structures wherein quick complete or partially darkening is beneficial. Therefore, a user can selectively adjust the transmission / absorption through the optical assembly 610 for particular user needs and artistic options.

[0053] With reference now to FIG. 9, an optical assembly 710 of a seventh construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 710 of the seventh construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 710 of the seventh construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into a structure with mirrors, for example, a dimmable mirror.More particularly, the optical assembly 710 may include one of the right-handed electrooptic devices 12A or one of the left-handed electro-optic devices 12B stacked with a reflective element 60. The right-handed electro-optic device 12A or the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may be located proximate the front surface 46 or viewing surface and the reflective element may be located between the right-handed electro-optic device 12A or the left-handed electro-optic device 12B and the rear surface 48. In operation, the reflective element 60 converts the right-handed circular polarized light to the left-handed circular polarized light and the left-handed circular polarized light to the right-handed circular polarized light upon reflection. In this manner, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A may selectively absorb the left-handed circular polarized light and transmit the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may selectively absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and transmit the left-handed circular polarized light. As such, the handedness of whichever of the right- or left-handed circular polarized light that is transmitted to the reflective element 60 is then switched during reflection and transmitted back through the right-handed electro-optic device 12A or the left-handed electro-optic device 12B, where it is absorbed. Thus, utilizing a single right or left-handed electro-optic device 12A, 12B can be utilized for absorbing both handedness of circularly polarized light via the handedness conversion from the reflective element.

[0054] With reference now to FIGS. 10A-10D, an optical assembly 810 of an eighth construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 810 of the eighth construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 810 of the eighth construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into windows, mirrors, visors with mirrors, or displays via selective reflectance or transmission from or between the front surface 46 or viewing side and the rear surface 48 or second viewing side. Utilizing the window as an example, the optical assembly 810 may, for example, selectively dim or reflect from the front and rear sides 46, 48. In one example implementation, rather than traditional one-sided mirrors, the optical assembly 810 may be particularly beneficial for selectively reflecting from the front and / or rear sides 46, 48. In this manner, the optical assembly 810 in the eighthconstruction may be implemented, for example, in windows, mirrors, displays, eyewear 44D, and / or the like.

[0055] With reference now to FIG. 10A, the optical assembly 810 may include one of the right-handed electro-optic devices 12A proximate one of the front surface 46 or rear surface 48 (e.g., the viewing side 46) and one of the left-handed electro-optic devices 12B proximate the other of the front surface 46 or rear surface 48 (e.g., the second viewing side 48). The right and left-handed electro-optic devices 12A, 12B may be part of a stack with two (e.g., a first and a second) of the quarter wave plates 54 separated by two (e.g., a first and a second) of the liquid crystal devices 58A, 58B. The liquid crystal devices 58A, 58B may further be separated (e.g., sandwiched) by a transreflective element 62. The transreflective element 62 reflects one linearly polarized light and transmits the other linearly polarized light. In the depicted implementations, the transreflective element 62 reflects a first linearly polarized light and transmits a second linearly polarized light.

[0056] The transmission of light through the optical assembly 810 is depicted in FIG. 10B in a mirror state from both the first and second viewing sides 46, 48, where the left-handed electro-optic device 12B and the liquid crystal device 58A (e.g., the first liquid crystal device 58A) on the same side of the transreflective element 62 as the left-handed electro-optic devices 12B are both de-energized (i.e., not energized). The first liquid crystal device 58A therefore, effectively rotates a first linear polarization of light into a second linear polarization of light, perpendicular to the first linear polarization of light such that light from the viewing side 46 is reflected back towards the viewing side 46, operating as a mirror. At the same time, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A is energized and both liquid crystal devices 58A, 58B are de-energized in configurations that rotate the polarization of light only when de-energized or energized in configurations that rotate the polarization of light only when energized, such that light from the second viewing side 48 towards the first viewing side 46 is effectively also converted into the first linear polarization of light and reflected. More particularly, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A absorbs the left-handed circularly polarized light and the right-handed circularly polarized light that is transmitted is converted into the first linear polarization of light, which is then transmitted to the second liquid crystal device 58B, rotated, and prevented from passing through the transreflective element. It should be appreciated that theamount of energization can be utilized to affect the degree of reflectiveness and transmissiveness.

[0057] The transmission of light through the optical assembly 810 is depicted in FIG. 10C in a transmissive or window state, where the first liquid crystal device 58A is not energized and configured to effectively rotate the first linear polarization of light into the second linear polarization of light, perpendicular to the first, from the viewing side 46. On the other hand, the left-handed electro-optic device 12B, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A, and the second liquid crystal device 58B are energized. Because the lefthanded circular polarization of light is absorbed, the first quarter wave plate 54 converts the light from the viewing side 46 to vertical, which is then transmitted, rather than reflected, through the transreflective element 62. The second liquid crystal device 58B receives the horizontal linear polarized light through the transreflective element 62, which is persevered in the horizontal orientation via energization.

[0058] The transmission of light through the optical assembly 810 is depicted in FIG. 10D in a single-sided mirror state, where each of the first and second liquid crystal devices 58A, 58B and the right and left-handed electro-optic devices 12A, 12B are energized. In this manner, light is transmissive through the second viewing side 48 as the light entering the transreflective element 62 through the second viewing side 48 is vertical linearly polarized light. On the first viewing side 46, the light entering the transreflective element 62 is the first linear polarization of light and therefore reflects from the transreflective element 62. It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the locations of the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may be switched.

[0059] With reference now to FIGS. 11A-11C, an optical assembly 910 of a ninth construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 910 of the ninth construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 910 of the ninth construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into windows, mirrors, or displays via selective reflectance or transmission from or between the front surface 46 or viewing side and the rear surface 48 or second viewing side. Utilizing the window as an example, the optical assembly 910 may, for example, selectively dim or reflect from the front and rear sides 46, 48. Similar to the eighth construction, rather than traditional one-sided mirrors, the optical assembly 910may be particularly beneficial for selectively reflecting from the front and / or rear sides 46,48. In this manner, the optical assembly 910 in the ninth construction may be implemented, for example, in windows, mirrors, displays, eyewear 44D, and / or the like. The ninth construction is the same as the eighth construction except the ninth construction utilizes to left-handed electro-optic devices 12B on both viewing sides 46, 48.

[0060] The transmission of light through the optical assembly 910 is depicted in FIG. 11A in a mirror state from both the first and second viewing sides 46, 48, where the right- handed electro-optic device 12A is energized. The first liquid crystal device 58A therefore effectively rotates the second linear polarization of light into the first linear polarization of light such that light from the viewing side 46 is reflected back towards the viewing side 46, operating as a mirror. At the same time, the right-handed electro-optic device 12A is energized, such that light from the second viewing side 48 towards the first viewing side 46 is effectively also converted into the first linear polarization of light and reflected. It should be appreciated that the amount of energization can be utilized to affect the degree of reflectiveness and transmissiveness.

[0061] The transmission of light through the optical assembly 910 is depicted in FIG. 11B in a transmissive or window state, where the first and second liquid crystal devices 58A, 58B are energized (e.g., in a configuration that rotates the polarization of light only when not energized). On the other hand, both of the right-handed electro-optic devices 12B and the second liquid crystal device 58B are energized. Because the right-handed circular polarization of light is transmitted, the first quarter wave plate 54 converts the light from the viewing side 46 to the second linear polarization of light, which is then transmitted, rather than reflected, through the transreflective element 62. The second liquid crystal device 58B receives the first linear polarization of light through the transreflective element 62, which is persevered in the first orientation via energization. In other words, light transmitted from the viewing sides 46, 48 are not reflected because there is no first linear polarization of light passing through to the transreflective element 62. While the optical assembly 910 is depicted as including two right-handed electro-optic devices 12A, it should be appreciated that the optical assembly 910 may alternatively include two left-handed electro-optic devices 12B. When the optical assembly 910 incorporates two left-handed electro-optic devices 12B, the first and second liquid crystal devices 58A, 58B will have tobe energized appropriately to get the optical assembly 910 into the transmission, reflective, partial transmission / reflection, or dimmed state.

[0062] The transmission of light through the optical assembly 910 is depicted in FIG. 11C in a single-sided mirror state, where each of the first and second liquid crystal devices 58A, 58B and the right and left-handed electro-optic devices 12A, 12B are energized. In this manner, light is transmissive through the first viewing side 46 and reflects from the second viewing side 48. More particularly, the light projected towards the transreflective element 62 through the second viewing side 48 is the second linear polarization of light and reflected. On the first viewing side 46, the light projecting towards the transreflective element 62 is the first linear polarization of light and therefore transmits through the transreflective element 62. It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the locations of the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and the left-handed electro-optic device 12B may be switched.

[0063] With reference now to FIG. 12, an optical assembly 1010 of a tenth construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 1010 of the tenth construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 1010 of the tenth construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into the display 44E that is selectively switchable (i.e., darkening, reflective, or display states). More particularly, the optical assembly 1010 may include one of the electro-optic devices 12A, 12B (e.g., the left-handed electro-optic device 12B) proximate the viewing side 46. A backlight 64 may be proximate the rear surface 48 and configured to generate a graphic towards the viewing surface 46. One of the transreflective elements 62 may be located between the left-handed electro-optic device 12B and the backlight 64 and configured to transmit the first linear polarization of light and transmit the second linear polarization of light. One of the quarter wave plates 54 is located between the transreflective element 62 and the right-handed electro-optic device 12A and configured to convert circular polarized light from the right-handed electro-optic device 12A into linearly polarized light (e.g. left-handed circularly polarized light into the first linear polarization of light). One of the liquid crystal devices 58 is located between the transreflective element 62 and the backlight 64 and the liquid crystal device 58 can selectively transmit some of the second linear polarization of light and convert the firstlinear polarization of light into the second linear polarization of light based on energization. In this manner, the second linear polarization of light passes through the transreflective element 62 but eventually gets absorbed by one of the electro-optic devices 12A, 12B. A linear polarizer 66 is located between the liquid crystal device 62 and the backlight 64 and configured to polarize light emitted from the backlight. In this manner, the display 44E can be selectively darkened and obscured. In some implementations, the stack depicted in the optical assembly 1010 may include several stacks or segmented stacks side-by-side for selectively obscuring only regions of the display 44E (e.g., from the viewing surface 46).

[0064] With reference now to FIGS. 13A and 13B, an optical assembly 1110 of an eleventh construction is depicted. Unless otherwise indicated, the optical assembly 1110 of the eleventh construction may share all the same features, functions, materials, and be incorporated into the same structures as the other constructions described herein. While not limited thereto, the optical assembly 1110 of the eleventh construction may be particularly beneficial via incorporation into the display 44E that is selectively switchable between mirror and display states. More particularly, the optical assembly 1110 may include one of the right-handed electro-optic devices 12A or one of the left-handed electrooptic devices 12B. The optical assembly 1110 may include a display element 63 (e.g., an LCD-type display) and a reflective polarizer 62 (e.g., a transreflective element) located between the display element 63 and the electro-optic device 12A, 12B. In FIG. 13A, the electro-optic device 12A, 12B is in an off state and the optical assembly 1110 is in a mirror mode where the reflective polarizer 62 reflects one linearly polarized light and transmits the other linearly polarized light. In the depicted implementations, the reflective polarizer 62 may reflect the first linearly polarized light and transmit the second linearly polarized light. In FIG. 13B the electro-optic device 12A, 12B is in an on state and the optical assembly 1110 is in a display mode where the electro-optic device 12A, 12B absorbs one of the right- handed or left-handed circularly polarized light to mitigate ambient reflections from the reflective polarizer 62. In this manner, only the type of linearly polarized light that passes through the reflective polarizer 62 passes through the electro-optic device 12A, 12B to the display element 63. Likewise, light from the display element 63 passes through the reflective polarizer 62 and may be converted into one of the linear polarizations of light by the electro-optic device 12A, 12B.

[0065] With reference now to FIG. 14, a control system 2000 of the optical assembly 10- 1010 may include at least one electronic control unit (ECU) 2002. The at least one ECU 2002 may be located in or proximate to the optical assembly 10-1010 and / or other locations of the structures 44A-44F. The at least one ECU 2002 may include a processor 2004 and a memory 2006. The processor 2004 may include any suitable processor 2004. Additionally, or alternatively, each ECU 2002 may include any suitable number of processors, in addition to or other than the processor 2004. The memory 2006 may comprise a single disk or a plurality of disks (e.g., hard drives) and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the memory 2006. In some embodiments, memory 2006 may include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory, or the like. The memory 2006 may include Random Access Memory (RAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), or a combination thereof. The memory 2006 may include instructions that, when executed by the processor 2004, cause the processor 2004 to, at least, perform the functions associated with the components (e.g., providing energization) of the optical assembly 10-1010. The electro-optic devices 12A, 12B, the liquid crystal elements 58-58B, and the backlight 64 may, therefore, be controlled by the control system 2000. In some implementations, the control system 2000 may include a logic circuit without one or more of the processor 2004 or memory 2006. While not explicitly depicted in FIGS. 1-14, each of the optical assemblies 10-1010 may operate via user interaction (e.g., via a user interface 2008) and / or automatically via feedback from one or more sensors 2010. For example, the one or more sensors 2010 may include a light sensor that detects ambient lighting (e.g., to automatically lower a transmission), the first and second linear polarizations of light (e.g., to reduce glare), and circularly polarized light (e.g., to change transmissiveness, glare, etc.) For example, the one or more sensor 2010 may include a first light sensor 2010A that includes a left-handed transmitting polarizer (e.g., the lefthanded electro-optic device 12B) configured to absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and a second light sensor 2010B that includes right-handed transmitting polarizer (e.g., the right-handed electro-optic device 12A) configured to absorb the left-handed circular polarized light. The first sensor 2010A is configured to quantify the left-handed circular polarized light and the second sensor 2010B is configured to quantify the right- handed circular polarized light. In this manner, the control system 2000 may be configuredto receive the detected quantity of the left-handed circular polarized light, receive the detected quantity of the right-handed circular polarized light, and automatically adjust an applied voltage differential to the first and second conduction layers 28, 30 of each electrooptic device 12A, 12B to switch between transmissive states. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 2010 may include a motion sensor and the control system 2000 may be configured to generate the image based on feedback from the motion sensor for at least one of augmented reality, virtual reality, or mixed reality.

[0066] The disclosure herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by combinations of any and all of the various aspects described therein.

[0067] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light includes at least one quarter wave plate configured to convert linearly polarized light into one or both of a right-handed circular polarized light and a left-handed circularly polarized light, and at least one electro-optic device. The at least one electro-optic device includes a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface, the second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first conductive layer is coupled to the second surface and a second conductive layer is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and configured to selectively absorb one of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized by the first and second conductive layers.

[0068] According to another aspect, an electro-optic medium includes a plurality of cathodic chiral molecules and a plurality of anodic chiral molecules to reversibly generate a dichroic absorbance in a spectrum of light.

[0069] According to yet another aspect, at least one electro-optic device includes at least one right-handed electro-optic device and at least one left-handed electro-optic device, the electro-optic medium of the left-handed electro-optic device configured to selectively absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and the electro-optic medium of the right- handed electro-optic device configured to selectively absorb the left-handed circular polarized light.

[0070] According to still another aspect, a frame of wearable glasses includes a pair of lens openings that accommodate an optical assembly.

[0071] According to another aspect, at least one right-handed electro-optic device and the at least one left-handed electro-optic device are located in different ones of the pair of lens openings and the at least one quarter wave plate includes a first quarter wave plate and a second quarter wave plate in different ones of the pair of lens openings.

[0072] According to yet another aspect, at least one right-handed electro-optic device includes a single right-handed electro-optic device in one of the pair of lens openings and the at least one left-handed electro-optic device includes a single left-handed electro-optic device in a different one of the pair of lens openings for providing a visually layered, three- dimensional viewing experience.

[0073] According to still another aspect, at least one right-handed electro-optic device includes a first right-handed electro-optic device in one of the pair of lens openings and a second right-handed electro-optic device in a different one of the pair of lens openings.

[0074] According to yet another aspect, at least one left-handed electro-optic device includes a first left-handed electro-optic device in one of the pair of lens openings and a second left-handed electro-optic device in a different one of the pair of lens openings.

[0075] According to still another aspect, a control system is configured to selectively energize a first and second conduction layers of each electro-optic device.

[0076] According to yet another aspect, an optical assembly includes a pair of light sensors, including a first light sensor that includes left-handed transmitting polarizer configured to absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and a second light sensor that includes right-handed transmitting polarizer configured to absorb the left-handed circular polarized light.

[0077] According to still another aspect, the first sensor is configured to quantify the lefthanded circular polarized light and the second sensor is configured to quantify the right- handed circular polarized light.

[0078] According to yet another aspect, an optical assembly includes a control system is configured to receive the detected quantity of the left-handed circular polarized light, receive the detected quantity of the right-handed circular polarized light, and automatically adjust an applied voltage differential to the first and second conduction layers of each electro-optic device to switch between transmissive states.

[0079] According to another aspect, an optical assembly includes a user interface with at least one user input device, configured to adjust an applied voltage differential to the first and second conduction layers of each electro-optic device to switch between transmissive states.

[0080] According to still another aspect, an optical assembly includes a display and a control system configured to generate an image on the display.

[0081] According to yet another aspect, an optical assembly includes a motion sensor and a control system is configured to generate the image based on feedback from the motion sensor for at least one of augmented reality, virtual reality, or mixed reality.

[0082] According to another aspect, at least one right-handed electro-optic device and the at least one left-handed electro-optic device are stacked with the at least one quarter wave plate.

[0083] According to still another aspect, a camera includes a lens with a selectively switchable circular polarization absorption filter that includes an optical assembly.

[0084] According to yet another aspect, at least one quarter wave plate includes a pair of quarter wave plates sandwiched between the at least one right-handed electro-optic device and the at least one left-handed electro-optic device, and further including a liquid crystal device sandwiched between the pair of quarter wave plates.

[0085] According to still another aspect, a camera includes a lens with a selectively switchable shutter that includes an optical assembly.

[0086] According to another aspect, an optical assembly includes a liquid crystal device, wherein the at least one quarter wave plate is sandwiched between the liquid crystal device and the at least one electro-optic device.

[0087] According to yet another aspect, a camera includes a selectively switchable polarization absorption filter that includes an optical assembly.

[0088] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light between a front surface and a rear surface includes a first electro-optic device and a second electro-optic device. The first electro-optic device includes a first electro-optic medium configured to selectively absorb one of a right- handed circular polarized light or a left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized. The second electro-optic device includes a second electro-optic medium configured to selectively absorb one of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized. A transreflective element is located between the first electro-optic device and the second electro-optic device and configured to transmit a first linear polarization of light and absorb a second linear polarization of light. A first quarter wave plate is located between the transreflective element and the first electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light into linearly polarized light. A second quarter wave plate is located between the transreflective element and the second electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light into linearly polarized light. A first liquid crystal device is located between the transreflective element and the first quarter wave plate and configured to selectively rotate incoming light to a second linear polarization of light. A second liquid crystal device is located between the transreflective element and the second quarter wave plate and configured to selectively rotate the second linear polarization of light.

[0089] According to another aspect, first and the second electro-optic mediums each include a plurality of cathodic chiral molecules and a plurality of anodic chiral molecules to reversibly generate a dichroic absorbance in a spectrum of light.

[0090] According to yet another aspect, a first electro-optic device is configured to selectively absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and a second electro-optic device is configured to selectively absorb the left-handed circular polarized light.

[0091] According to still another aspect, first and second electro-optic devices are configured to selectively absorb the same of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light.

[0092] According to another aspect, an optical assembly includes a control system configured to selectively transmit or reflect a majority of light in a spectrum of light from the first side and the second side.

[0093] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light between a viewing surface and a rear surface includes an electro-optic device proximate the viewing surface. The electro-optic device includes an electro-optic medium configured to selectively absorb one of a right-handed circular polarized light or a left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized. A backlight is proximate the rear surface configured to generate a graphic towards the front surface. A transreflective element is located between the electro-optic device and the backlight and configured to transmit a first linear polarization of light and absorb a second linearpolarization of light. A quarter wave plate is located between the transreflective element and the electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light from the electro-optic device into linearly polarized light. A liquid crystal device located between the transreflective element and the backlight, where the liquid crystal device can selectively absorb some of the second linear polarization of light depending on an energization state. A linear polarizer is located between the liquid crystal device and the backlight and configured to polarize light emitted from the backlight.

[0094] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, an optical assembly modifying the transmission of light between a viewing surface and a rear surface includes a reflective element located proximate the viewing surface to convert a right-handed circular polarized light to a left-handed circular polarized light and the left-handed circular polarized light to the right-handed circular polarized light upon reflection. At least one electro-optic device is located between the viewing surface the rear surface. The electrooptic device includes a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface, the second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first conductive layer is coupled to the second surface and a second conductive layer is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and configured to selectively absorb one of the right- handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized by the first and second conductive layers.

[0095] According to another aspect, a switchable mirror includes an optical assembly.

[0096] According to yet another aspect, the switchable mirror is located in a visor for a vehicle.

[0097] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

[0098] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electricalor mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

[0099] As used herein, the term "about" means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art. When the term "about" is used in describing a value or an end-point of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or end-point referred to. Whether or not a numerical value or end-point of a range in the specification recites "about," the numerical value or end-point of a range is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by "about," and one not modified by "about." It will be further understood that the end-points of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other end-point, and independently of the other end-point.

[0100] The terms "substantial," "substantially," and variations thereof as used herein are intended to note that a described feature is equal or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to denote a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover, "substantially" is intended to denote that two values are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, "substantially" may denote values within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0101] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and / or members or connectors orother elements of the system may be varied, and the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0102] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

[0103] It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light, the optical assembly comprising: at least one quarter wave plate configured to convert linearly polarized light into one or both of a right-handed circular polarized light and a left-handed circularly polarized light; and at least one electro-optic device, comprising: a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the first surface; a second substrate having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface, the second and third surfaces facing each other to define a gap; a first conductive layer coupled to the second surface; a second conductive layer coupled to the third surface; and an electro-optic medium located between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and configured to selectively absorb one of the right- handed circular polarized light orthe left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized by the first and second conductive layers.

2. The optical assembly of claim 1, wherein the electro-optic medium includes a plurality of cathodicchiral molecules and a plurality of anodic chiral molecules to reversibly generate a dichroic absorbance in a spectrum of light.

3. The optical assembly as in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one electro-optic device includes at least one right-handed electro-optic device and at least one left-handed electro-optic device, the electro-optic medium of the left-handed electro-optic device configured to selectively absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and the electrooptic medium of the right-handed electro-optic device configured to selectively absorb the left-handed circular polarized light.

4. A frame of wearable glasses including a pair of lens openings that accommodate the optical assembly of claim 3.

5. The optical assembly of claim 4, wherein the at least one right-handed electro-optic device and the at least one left-handed electro-optic device are located in different ones of the pair of lens openings and the at least one quarter wave plate includes a first quarter wave plate and a second quarter wave plate in different ones of the pair of lens openings.

6. The optical assembly of claim 4, wherein the at least one right-handed electro-optic device includes a single right-handed electro-optic device in one of the pair of lens openings and the at least one left-handed electro-optic device includes a single lefthanded electro-optic device in a different one of the pair of lens openings for providing a visually layered, three-dimensional viewing experience.

7. The optical assembly of claim 4, wherein the at least one right-handed electro-optic device includes a first right-handed electro-optic device in one of the pair of lens openings and a second right-handed electro-optic device in a different one of the pair of lens openings.

8. The optical assembly of claim 4, wherein the at least one left-handed electro-optic device includes a first left-handed electro-optic device in one of the pair of lens openings and a second left-handed electro-optic device in a different one of the pair of lens openings.

9. The optical assembly of claim 4, further including a control system configured to selectively energize the first and second conduction layers of each electro-optic device and a pair of light sensors, including a first light sensor that includes left-handed transmitting polarizer configured to absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and a second light sensor that includes right-handed transmitting polarizer configured to absorb the lefthanded circular polarized light.

10. The optical assembly of claim 9, wherein the first light sensor is configured to quantify the left-handed circular polarized light and the second light sensor is configured to quantify the right-handed circular polarized light.

11. The optical assembly of claim 10, wherein the control system is configured to: receive the detected quantity of the left-handed circular polarized light; receive the detected quantity of the right-handed circular polarized light; and automatically adjust an applied voltage differential to the first and second conduction layers of each electro-optic device to switch between transmissive states.

12. The optical assembly of claim 3, wherein the at least one right-handed electro-optic device and the at least one left-handed electro-optic device are stacked with the at least one quarter wave plate.

13. A camera including a lens with a selectively switchable circular polarization absorption filter including the optical assembly of claim 12.

14. The optical assembly as in claim 1 or claim 2, further including a liquid crystal device, wherein the at least one quarter wave plate is sandwiched between the liquid crystal device and the at least one electro-optic device.

15. An optical assembly for modifying the transmission of light between a front surface and a rear surface, the optical assembly comprising: a first electro-optic device including a first electro-optic medium configured to selectively absorb one of a right-handed circular polarized light or a left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized; a second electro-optic device including a second electro-optic medium configured to selectively absorb one of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized; a transreflective element located between the first electro-optic device and the second electro-optic device and configured to transmit a first linear polarization of light and absorb a second linear polarization of light; a first quarter wave plate located between the transreflective element and the first electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light into linearly polarized light;a second quarter wave plate located between the transreflective element and the second electro-optic device and configured to convert circular polarized light into linearly polarized light; a first liquid crystal device located between the transreflective element and the first quarter wave plate and configured to selectively rotate incoming light to a second linear polarization of light; and a second liquid crystal device located between the transreflective element and the second quarter wave plate and configured to selectively rotate the second linear polarization of light.

16. The optical assembly of claim 15, wherein the first and the second electro-optic mediums each include a plurality of cathodic chiral molecules and a plurality of anodic chiral molecules to reversibly generate a dichroic absorbance in a spectrum of light.

17. The optical assembly as in one of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the first electrooptic device is configured to selectively absorb the right-handed circular polarized light and the second electro-optic device is configured to selectively absorb the left-handed circular polarized light.

18. The optical assembly as in one of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the first and second electro-optic devices are configured to selectively absorb the same of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light.

19. The optical assembly as in one of claims 15 and 16, further including a control system configured to selectively transmit or reflect a majority of light in a spectrum of light from the first side and the second side.

20. An optical assembly modifying the transmission of light between a viewing surface and a rear surface, the optical assembly comprising: a reflective element located proximate the viewing surface to convert a right- handed circular polarized light to a left-handed circular polarized light and the left-handed circular polarized light to the right-handed circular polarized light upon reflection; andat least one electro-optic device between the viewing surface the rear surface, comprising: a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the first surface; a second substrate having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface, the second and third surfaces facing each other to define a gap; a first conductive layer coupled to the second surface; a second conductive layer coupled to the third surface; and an electro-optic medium located between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and configured to selectively absorb one of the right-handed circular polarized light or the left-handed circular polarized light upon being energized by the first and second conductive layers.

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