Fresnel Lens Infinity Optics for Compact Depth

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional infinity optics systems require significant space and are costly, with limited field of view, making them impractical for applications with limited depth and multiple viewers, such as simulating spaces with windows or portholes that need to display content at great distances.

Innovation Solution

A display system with a magnifying lens, such as a Fresnel lens, mounted in a frame assembly that allows for a wide field of view and is cost-effective, using a high-resolution display element with a separation distance from the lens that is less than the focal length to achieve an infinity effect in a small depth profile, typically 20 to 24 inches, and an iris light assembly for enhanced optical illusion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional infinity optics systems are used to achieve an infinity effect, then the infinity effect is provided, but the space required is very large (4 to 6 feet or more)

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinfinity effect qualityVSAvoiddepth space required

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the optical parameters by using a planar magnifying lens with a long focal length (e.g., 48 inches) positioned at a specific distance from the display element, rather than using conventional toroidal reflectors. This parameter change enables the infinity effect to be achieved in a compact depth of 20-24 inches while maintaining optical quality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a planar magnifying lens as an intermediary optical element between the display element and the viewer. This lens acts as a mediator that magnifies the displayed image and creates the infinity effect, replacing the need for complex conventional infinity optics systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If conventional infinity optics systems are used to provide an infinity effect, then the infinity effect is achieved, but the cost is very high (e.g., $100K or more USD)

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinfinity effect qualityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive conventional infinity optics components (toroidal reflectors, complex optical assemblies) with a simple, inexpensive planar magnifying lens that can be manufactured at low cost. This allows facilities to deploy numerous windows/portals with infinity effects without the prohibitive costs of conventional systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a planar magnifying lens to create an optical copy or illusion of distant scenes, making nearby displayed content appear as if it extends to infinity. This copying approach achieves the same visual effect as expensive conventional systems but with much simpler and cheaper components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If conventional infinity optics systems are used to achieve an infinity effect, then the infinity effect is provided, but the field of view is very small and requires fixed viewer position

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinfinity effect qualityVSAvoidfield of view and viewer position flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal infinity optics solution that works for multiple viewers at different positions in the room, not just a single fixed viewer position. The planar magnifying lens configuration provides a wide field of view that accommodates various viewing angles and positions, making the system adaptable to different facility layouts and usage scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 system provides a convincing infinity optical effect with a wide field of view, allowing viewers to see the effect from nearly anywhere in a room, while being cost-effective and suitable for facilities with multiple display systems, achieving high contrast and resolution without the need for large depths.

Implementation Method 1

a magnifying lens (e.g., a Fresnel lens) with a front surface facing outward into the viewing space and with a rear surface facing the display surface of the display element. The rear surface of the lens is parallel to the display surface of the display element and is separated from the display surface by a separation distance less than a focal length of the lens

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS10916163B1Large-scale infinity optics window for use in small facility packaging applications

Publication Date: 2021.02.09 DISNEY ENTERPRISES INC

AI summary

A display system useful for achieving a wide field of view infinity effect. The system includes a frame assembly adapted for mounting on a wall of viewing space. The system includes a display element with a display surface. The system includes a magnifying lens supported within the frame assembly with a rear surface facing the display surface and with a front surface facing the viewing space. The rear surface of the magnifying lens is parallel to the display surface of the display element and is separated from the display surface by a separation distance less than a focal length of the magnifying lens, e.g., a value such that a ratio of the separation distance to the focal length is in the range of 0.169 to 0.254. The magnifying lens may be a Fresnel lens in the form of a planar plastic sheet manufactured to provide a flat spherical lens.