Freeform Prism Attachment for AR to VR Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Head-mounted displays (HMDs) are typically designed to operate either as augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) headsets but not both, limiting their versatility for users who want to switch between these modes.
Innovation Solution
An attachment for HMDs that redirects images onto a retroreflective screen, using a freeform prism or mirror optics to change the mode of operation from AR to VR or between different AR modes, allowing for near-eye presentation and mixed real/virtual mode capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If HMD is designed for AR mode with retroreflective screen, then it can display augmented reality content, but it cannot display virtual reality content
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal optical system that can operate in multiple modes (AR and VR) by introducing a mode selector attachment. This attachment includes optical elements like mirrors or beam splitters that can redirect light paths differently based on the selected mode, allowing a single HMD device to perform both AR and VR functions without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate AR and VR headsets are used, then each headset is optimized for its specific mode, but the user needs multiple devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic mode selector attachment that can be quickly engaged or disengaged to switch between AR and VR modes. The attachment includes movable optical components that can be positioned to enable different light paths, allowing users to transition between modes by simply attaching or detaching the component rather than switching between entirely different devices.
3Device complexity
If fixed optics are used for AR mode, then the optical path is simplified, but it cannot be reconfigured for VR mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into separate functional modules: a fixed base optical system for AR operation and a detachable mode selector attachment for VR capability. The attachment contains its own independent optical elements (mirrors, beam splitters, or prisms) that can be added to or removed from the base system, allowing the optical path to be segmented and reconfigured based on the desired mode without complicating the fundamental AR optical design.
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
Enables seamless switching between AR and VR modes without the need to remove the attachment, improving user experience by allowing a single headset to function in multiple environments and reducing the complexity and size of optical components.
Implementation Method 1
The freeform prism as the primary optical element that is used to redirect the images from the head mounted projectors of the head mounted display back into the eyes of the user
Implementation Method 2
a hollow prism with reflective or partially reflective surfaces is used
Implementation Method 3
redirects images designed to be projected onto a retroreflective screen
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment for a projected head mounted display redirects images designed to be projected on retroreflective screens directly back into the eyes of a user. This permits, for example, the head mounted display to be switched from an augmented reality mode to a virtual reality mode. The attachment can be engaged or disengaged from the head mounted display. The attachment includes a freeform prism.