Curved Reflective Units in AR Optical Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional augmented reality optical systems suffer from low light efficiency due to the inefficiency in transferring augmented reality image light from the image output unit to the pupil, resulting in unused light and decreased image quality.
Innovation Solution
The optical device for augmented reality incorporates a reflective means with a curved arrangement structure close to a C shape, embedded within an optical means, to enhance the transfer of augmented reality image light to the pupil, thereby improving light efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a conventional optical means is used to reflect augmented reality image light, then the basic augmented reality function is achieved, but light efficiency deteriorates due to unused light and poor transfer to the pupil
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a curved reflective surface (spheroidality principle) inside the optical means to redirect augmented reality image light toward the pupil. The curved geometry enables light to be reflected from multiple angles and directed efficiently to the eye box, reducing light loss and improving transfer efficiency compared to conventional flat reflective surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension by positioning the curved reflective surface at specific distances from the image output unit and pupil. This spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions allows light to be redirected through complex paths, ensuring maximum light reaches the pupil while minimizing loss in the optical system.
2Ease of operation
If total reflection occurs inside the optical means, then light can be redirected, but part of the light is output in directions other than the eye box, decreasing light efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different reflective properties to different regions of the optical means. The curved reflective surface is specifically positioned and shaped to redirect light toward the pupil, while other regions are designed to minimize light scattering. This localized optimization ensures that light redirection is effective only where needed, preventing light loss in unwanted directions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration significantly improves the light efficiency of augmented reality image light transferred to the eye box, ensuring a clearer and more efficient augmented reality experience for the user.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective means configured to transfer augmented reality image light, which is image light corresponding to an image for augmented reality output from an image output unit, to a pupil of an eye of a user by reflecting the augmented reality image light toward the pupil
Implementation Method 2
an optical means adapted such that the reflective means is embedded and disposed therein, and configured to transmit at least part of real object image light, which is image light output from a real object, therethrough toward the pupil of the eye of the user
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an optical device for augmented reality having improved light efficiency. The optical device includes: a reflective means configured to transfer augmented reality image light to the pupil of a user by reflecting the augmented reality image light toward the pupil; and an optical means adapted such that the reflective means is embedded and disposed therein, and configured to transmit at least part of real object image light therethrough toward the pupil of the user. The optical means includes a first surface and a second surface. The reflective means includes a plurality of reflective units having a size of 4 mm or less that are embedded and arranged inside the optical means. At least two reflective units of the plurality of reflective units are arranged closer to the second surface of the optical means as the distance from the image output unit increases.