Eyeglass-Mounted Waveguide Display for Lightweight AR Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable electronic devices, such as head-mounted augmented reality (AR) devices, are heavy and uncomfortable for extended use, and often require users to remove their eyeglasses to operate them, necessitating the purchase of corrective inserts.
Innovation Solution
A display accessory that removably couples to eyeglasses, featuring a housing, transparent window, waveguide, and connector, allowing users to wear their eyeglasses while using the device, with optional dual housings for stereoscopic experiences and a wireless option with a securement arm and battery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users wear head-mounted AR devices, then they can experience augmented reality, but the device weight causes discomfort and fatigue during extended use
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the AR system into two separate components: traditional eyeglasses that the user already wears, and a lightweight display accessory that attaches to the eyeglasses. This segmentation transfers the AR functionality from a heavy head-mounted device to a lightweight accessory, eliminating the need for users to carry or wear heavy equipment while maintaining full AR capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The display accessory acts as an intermediary between the user's existing eyeglasses and the AR experience. By coupling to the eyeglasses frame, it provides AR functionality without requiring direct attachment to the user's head, thus avoiding the weight and discomfort issues of traditional head-mounted devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users wear eyeglasses, then they can correct their vision, but they cannot use head-mounted AR devices without removing their eyeglasses
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the AR display functionality with the user's existing eyeglasses by attaching the display accessory directly to the eyeglasses frame. This combination allows users to wear both their corrective eyeglasses and the AR device simultaneously, eliminating the need to choose between vision correction and AR experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The display accessory is designed with universal compatibility to attach to various eyeglasses frames through different connector types (clips, straps, temples). This multi-functionality enables the same AR device to work with any eyeglasses the user owns, providing both vision correction and AR capabilities through a single integrated solution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users purchase prescription inserts for AR devices, then they can use the device with corrective lenses, but it increases the overall cost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention allows users to utilize their existing eyeglasses as the base for the AR display, eliminating the need to purchase separate prescription inserts or specialized corrective lenses. The display accessory attaches to the user's current eyeglasses, making the system self-sufficient and avoiding additional expenses for corrective lens components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring users to purchase expensive prescription inserts specifically designed for AR devices, the invention uses the user's existing eyeglasses as a copy or substitute for the corrective lens component. This approach leverages already-owned assets, significantly reducing the overall system cost while maintaining full corrective functionality.
4Weight of moving object
If head-mounted AR devices are designed to be lightweight, then comfort is improved, but the device may not provide sufficient structural support
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses the user's existing eyeglasses frame as a counterweight and structural foundation. The display accessory attaches to the eyeglasses, which provide the necessary structural support and stability. This approach allows the AR component itself to remain lightweight while the combined system (eyeglasses + display accessory) maintains adequate strength and support.
Solution Approach 2:
The eyeglasses frame serves as an intermediary structure that provides mechanical support for the lightweight display accessory. Rather than the AR device itself needing to be structurally robust, the eyeglasses act as a mediator that bears the load and provides stability, allowing the display component to remain minimal and lightweight.
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 provides a lightweight, comfortable AR experience that accommodates eyeglasses, reduces fatigue, and allows users to operate the device without removing their eyewear, enhancing usability and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a waveguide disposed in the housing and configured to direct visible light at the transparent window to create an image
Data Source
AI summary
A display accessory for a wearable device can include a housing, and a transparent window secured to the housing. The display accessory for a wearable device can further include a waveguide disposed in the housing and configured to direct visible light at the transparent window to create an image, and a connector that can removably couple the housing to eyeglasses.