AR Optical Structure With Straight Reflector Array for Lighter Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional augmented reality devices face issues with complex configurations leading to high weight, volume, and manufacturing costs, as well as the need for separate operations or hardware/software adjustments for focal length changes, resulting in reduced optical efficiency and increased manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
An optical device with a straight arrangement structure for reflective units, allowing efficient transfer of augmented reality image light to the pupil, and a simplified manufacturing process through a method involving substrates with aligned reflective units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional optical systems using prisms are used to reflect or refract virtual images, then augmented reality functionality is achieved, but the device weight and volume become considerable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conventional single-prism optical system into multiple small reflective units arranged in an array. Each reflective unit is a small mirror element that reflects a portion of the virtual image light. By segmenting the optical function across multiple small units, the overall device weight and volume are reduced while maintaining the augmented reality functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional prism structure to a two-dimensional array of reflective units. The reflective units are arranged in a planar configuration on a substrate, replacing the bulky 3D prism geometry. This dimensional reduction significantly decreases device volume and weight while achieving the same optical function of reflecting virtual image light.
2Reliability
If conventional optical systems with complex configurations are used, then augmented reality is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase due to complicated manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple reflective units onto a single substrate, integrating what would traditionally be separate optical components into one unified structure. The substrate supports an array of reflective units, combining the functions of multiple mirrors and their mounting structures into a single manufacturable component, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses identical or similar reflective unit designs repeated across the substrate array. Instead of designing and manufacturing unique optical components for each position, the same reflective unit pattern is copied and arranged in an array, enabling standardized manufacturing processes and reducing production complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate operations or hardware are added to adjust focal length for virtual images, then focal length adjustment capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the reflective units dynamically adjustable by enabling their optical properties to change in response to focal length requirements. The reflective units can be electrically controlled to adjust their reflectivity or positioning, allowing focal length adjustment without adding separate mechanical adjustment mechanisms or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective units inherently provide focal length adjustment capability through their optical design and arrangement. By adjusting the optical properties of the reflective units themselves, the system achieves focal length adaptation without requiring separate dedicated adjustment hardware or complex control software, as the reflective units serve both reflection and focal adjustment functions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If reflective units are arranged in non-straight configurations, then optical path flexibility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different arrangement configurations of reflective units to different regions of the substrate based on local optical requirements. Straight-line arrangements are used where manufacturing precision is easier to achieve, while other configurations are applied where optical path flexibility is more critical. This localized approach optimizes the balance between manufacturing feasibility and optical performance.
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
Improves optical efficiency and simplifies the manufacturing process by maintaining focus on augmented reality images regardless of focal length changes and reducing manufacturing defects.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective means configured to transfer augmented reality image light, output from an image output unit, to the pupil of a user's eye by reflecting the augmented reality image light toward the pupil
Implementation Method 2
an optical means configured such that the reflective means is buried and disposed inside, and also configured to transmit at least part of real object image light, output from a real object, therethrough toward the pupil of the user's eye
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an optical device for augmented reality having an optical structure arranged in a straight line, the optical device including: a reflective means configured to transfer augmented reality image light, output from an image output unit, to the pupil of a user's eye by reflecting the augmented reality image light toward the pupil, thereby providing an image for augmented reality to the user; and an optical means configured such that the reflective means is buried and disposed therein, and also configured to transmit at least part of real object image light, output from a real object, therethrough toward the pupil of the user's eye; wherein the optical unit has a first surface through which the augmented reality image light and the at least part of the real object image light are output and a second surface which the real object image light enters.