Eyeglass Display Using Segmented Projectors and Waveguides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current augmented reality glasses are bulky and unfashionable due to large displays and inefficient optical systems, leading to high power consumption and visibility, which hinders widespread adoption.
Innovation Solution
Integration of multiple small projectors into eyeglasses, using pupil replication with waveguide coupling to reduce power consumption and visibility, allowing for a more discreet and stylish design by embedding projectors in the frames or lenses and using fewer display windows per projector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a large and visible projector is mounted on the frame of glasses to display images, then the user can view relevant information while maintaining awareness of the surrounding environment, but the device becomes visibly different from normal eyeglasses, making it more intrusive and less desirable to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single large projector into multiple small projectors distributed across the glasses frame. Each small projector projects to a corresponding display window, creating a segmented display system that is less visually intrusive while maintaining overall image visibility through the combined effect of multiple segments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point projection to a distributed array of projection points across the glasses frame. By spreading multiple small projectors and display windows across different spatial locations, the system achieves display functionality while distributing the visual impact across multiple dimensions of the glasses structure
2Illumination intensity
If traditional augmented reality optical systems are used, then images can be displayed to the user, but the optical system becomes large and inefficient, leading to high power consumption and bulky design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical system into multiple small projectors and display windows, where each component operates at lower power levels. The distributed architecture allows for more efficient light delivery to the user's eye while reducing the total power consumption compared to a single large projector system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional complex mechanical optical systems with a simplified arrangement of small projectors and waveguide-coupled display windows. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity and power consumption while maintaining image display functionality
3Shape
If multiple small projectors are embedded in the glasses to reduce visibility and power consumption, then the design becomes more discreet and stylish, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple projectors and display windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple small projectors and display windows into a unified distributed display system. The projectors and display windows are coordinated to work together as an integrated system, where the complexity of multiple components is managed through their combined function of creating a cohesive visual display across the user's field of view
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 results in reduced power consumption, smaller batteries, and a design that resembles regular glasses, making them less noticeable and more appealing for casual use.
Implementation Method 1
using pupil replication with waveguide coupling to reduce power consumption and visibility
Implementation Method 2
The display windows redirect light from the projectors toward the user's eye
Data Source
AI summary
Advanced display devices are integrated into glasses so that they look and feel more like normal glasses. They are based on pupil replication using multiple, small projectors. A number of projectors are embedded in the eyeglasses, for example embedded in the rim of the eyeglasses or in a periphery of the lens. The projectors generate (partial) images based on a common image to be displayed to the user. These images are optically coupled through the lens, for example using waveguide coupling, to different display windows in the lens. The display windows couple the images out of the lens and towards the user's eye.