Eyepiece Waveguide Optical Structures for Phase Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented reality display systems face challenges in producing comfortable, natural-feeling, rich presentations of virtual image elements due to complexities in producing AR technology that facilitates phase continuity in eyepiece waveguides.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of eyepiece waveguides with optical structures that improve phase continuity by reducing wavefront error and enhancing the modulation transfer function (MTF) through the use of additional features such as planar, imprinted photoresist regions or tapered films.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If additional optical structures are added to the eyepiece waveguide, then phase continuity and image sharpness are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide is divided into multiple functional segments: incoupling diffractive optical element, outcoupling diffractive optical element, and intermediate optical structures. Each segment performs a specific function in managing light propagation and phase continuity, allowing optimization of each component independently while maintaining overall system performance.
Solution Approach 2:
Intermediate optical structures are introduced between the incoupling and outcoupling diffractive elements to act as mediators that manage phase transitions and reduce wavefront errors. These intermediary elements facilitate smooth phase continuity without requiring direct modification of the boundary structures themselves.
2Ease of operation
If diffractive optical elements are used at waveguide boundaries, then light propagation is controlled, but wavefront error and phase discontinuity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the waveguide are assigned different optical properties: the incoupling and outcoupling regions use diffractive optical elements for light propagation control, while the intermediate regions use structures optimized for phase continuity. This local differentiation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally without compromising overall phase quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical properties of the waveguide structures are carefully adjusted by modifying parameters such as refractive index, thickness, and geometric configuration of the diffractive elements and intermediate structures. These parameter optimizations minimize phase discontinuities while maintaining effective light propagation control at the boundaries.
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 enhances the quality of virtual content by improving image sharpness and overall visual experience in augmented reality systems.
Implementation Method 1
an incoupling diffractive optical element coupled to the eyepiece waveguide layer. The incoupling diffractive optical element is disposed at a first location
Implementation Method 2
an outcoupling diffractive optical element coupled to the eyepiece waveguide layer. The outcoupling diffractive optical element is disposed at a second location different than the first location
Implementation Method 3
an optical structure coupled to the eyepiece waveguide layer that improves phase continuity related to light propagation in the eyepiece waveguide. The optical structure is disposed at a third location between the first location and the second location
Data Source
AI summary
An eyepiece for an augmented reality headset includes an eyepiece waveguide and an incoupling diffractive optical element coupled to the eyepiece waveguide. The incoupling diffractive optical element is disposed at a first lateral location. The eyepiece also includes an outcoupling diffractive optical element coupled to the eyepiece waveguide. The outcoupling diffractive optical element is disposed at a second lateral location different than the first lateral location. The eyepiece further includes an optical structure coupled to the eyepiece waveguide. The optical structure is disposed at a third lateral location between the first lateral location and the second lateral location.