Thin AR Occlusion Optics Using DCRA and LC Pixel Masking

The optical system is segmented into multiple functional layers: a first DCRA layer for reflecting light beams, a mask layer for per-pixel occlusion control, and a second DCRA layer for further reflection. This segmentation allows each layer to perform a specific function, achieving per-pixel occlusion precision while keeping each individual layer thin, thus resolving the contradiction between occlusion precision and device thickness.

The patent transitions from conventional planar optical systems to a multi-layer stacked architecture, utilizing the thickness dimension to arrange functional layers vertically. This dimensional reorganization enables per-pixel occlusion control through the mask layer positioned between two DCRA layers, achieving high precision occlusion without requiring a laterally complex optical system, thereby reducing overall device thickness.

Two DCRA layers are introduced as intermediary optical elements between the mask layer and the observer. The first DCRA reflects light beams toward the mask, and the second DCRA reflects light beams from the mask toward the observer's eye. These intermediary reflectors enable precise control of light paths, ensuring that occlusion edges remain sharp even with the thin mask structure, thus resolving the contradiction between thin form factor and occlusion edge sharpness.

The patent employs a multi-layer stacked architecture where the mask layer is positioned between two DCRA layers in the thickness dimension. This vertical arrangement allows the thin mask to provide per-pixel occlusion control while the DCRA layers in front and behind it ensure sharp occlusion edges by precisely controlling light reflection paths, thereby achieving both thin form factor and sharp occlusion edges simultaneously.

The patent replaces conventional lens-based focusing mechanisms with a DCRA-based reflection system. Instead of using complex lens arrays to focus light, the system uses dihedral corner reflectors to reflect light beams in controlled paths. This substitution maintains optical precision for sharp occlusion patterns while simplifying the overall device structure and reducing the number of optical elements required.

The DCRA layers serve as intermediary optical elements that mediate between the light source and the observer. By positioning DCRA layers before and after the mask, the system ensures precise light path control and sharp occlusion edges without requiring complex conventional optical systems, thus achieving clear occlusion patterns with simplified device structure.