AR Light Guide Module with Dichroic Stacked Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current augmented reality (AR) devices face challenges in achieving optical see-through capabilities due to limitations in light guide modules, which hinder the effective propagation of light for displaying virtual images over real-world scenes.
Innovation Solution
A light guide module comprising stacked light guide plates with dichroic surfaces that selectively transmit or reflect optical input light, allowing for total internal reflection and efficient light propagation, is integrated into an AR apparatus, enabling optical see-through functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a light guide module is used to propagate light for displaying virtual images, then virtual image display capability is improved, but optical see-through capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide module is divided into multiple light guide plates stacked together, with each plate having specific functions. The first light guide plate receives light at a predetermined angle, the second light guide plate has dichroic surfaces for selective transmission and reflection, and the third light guide plate outputs the light. This segmentation allows different regions to perform different functions, enabling both virtual image display and optical see-through capabilities simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the light guide module are designed with different optical properties. The dichroic surfaces on the second light guide plate are positioned and oriented specifically to reflect light traveling from the third light guide plate while transmitting light traveling from the first light guide plate. This local differentiation of optical properties enables the module to handle both virtual image light paths and real-world light paths differently, achieving optical see-through.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dichroic surfaces are added to selectively transmit or reflect light, then optical see-through is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light guide plates are stacked and integrated into a single compact module, with each plate performing specific functions. The dichroic surfaces are integrated directly onto the second light guide plate, merging the light guiding function with the light splitting function. This consolidation achieves optical see-through capability while maintaining a relatively compact and integrated structure rather than using separate components.
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
The solution enables effective propagation of optical input light for AR applications, allowing users to see both virtual and real-world content seamlessly, enhancing the AR experience by ensuring clear and efficient light transmission and reflection within the AR apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
The first light guide plate has a light receiving area for receiving optical input light with a predetermined incident angle and a light outputting area for outputting optical input light
Implementation Method 2
The second light guide plate is disposed on the first light guide plate, and has dichroic surfaces for selectively transmitting or reflecting the optical input light
Implementation Method 3
The optical input light is totally reflected internally on a surface of the third light guide plate far away from the second light guide plate
Data Source
AI summary
A light guide module and an augmented reality (AR) apparatus are disclosed. The AR apparatus includes a display module and the light guide module. The light guide module includes a first light guide plate and a second light guide plate. The first light guide plate has a light receiving area for receiving optical input light with a predetermined incident angle and a light outputting area for outputting optical input light. The second light guide plate is disposed on the first light guide plate, and has dichroic surfaces for selectively transmitting or reflecting the optical input light.