Cantilevered Waveguide for XR Glasses Frame Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical see-through XR displays face challenges in presenting realistic virtual content while maintaining an unobstructed see-through view of the physical environment, due to the sensitivity of waveguides to physical imperfections and deformations caused by the frame's stiffness and user wear.
Innovation Solution
A waveguide is coupled to a frame at only one end, allowing the detached end to move freely and avoiding mechanical forces that deform the waveguide, thus reducing bending and maintaining optical quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the waveguide is rigidly coupled at both ends to the frame, then the structural stability is improved, but the waveguide is deformed by frame deflection causing optical quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling between the waveguide and frame is segmented into two distinct configurations: a first end that is rigidly coupled to provide structural stability, and a second end that is loosely coupled to prevent deformation. This segmentation allows each end to serve its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Different coupling qualities are applied at different locations of the waveguide. The first end features a rigid coupling structure with fixed geometry to ensure stability, while the second end features a loose coupling structure with variable geometry to accommodate frame deflection and prevent optical degradation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the frame stiffness is increased to reduce deflection, then the structural stability is improved, but the device weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling structure at the second end of the waveguide is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The loose coupling allows the waveguide to adapt its position relative to the frame as the frame deflects during normal use, eliminating the need for excessive stiffness and reducing overall device weight.
3Manufacturing precision
If the waveguide is loosely coupled at both ends, then the optical quality is maintained, but the structural stability and alignment are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into two functional zones: the first end with rigid coupling that provides structural stability and precise alignment, and the second end with loose coupling that maintains optical quality by preventing deformation. This segmentation resolves the contradiction between stability and optical quality.
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 solution reduces waveguide bending due to frame deflection, enhancing the optical performance and user comfort by allowing for lighter materials and reduced frame stiffness.
Implementation Method 1
A head-worn device may be implemented with a transparent or semi-transparent display through which a user of the head-worn device can view the surrounding environment
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a frame and a waveguide. The waveguide has a first end fixedly coupled to a first portion of the frame, and a second end proximal to a second portion of the frame and detached from the frame. When the frame deforms to displace the first portion and the second portion relative to each other, the second end of the waveguide is not displaced relative to the first end of the waveguide as a result of the frame deforming.