Gradient Optical Coating for Stereoscopic Vision Crosstalk Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stereoscopic vision systems face issues with unwanted light crosstalk and peripheral reflections, which degrade the quality of the final fused image presented to the user, due to the inability to effectively isolate light between different regions of the optics system.
Innovation Solution
The use of offset masks to create gradient coating thicknesses on the optics system, specifically a semi-reflective or reflective coating with a constant thickness over eye image regions that gradually decreases at edges, combined with anti-reflective coatings in strategic regions, to minimize crosstalk and peripheral reflections, is implemented. This involves a method of deposition using a mechanical holder and masks to position the coatings accurately on the substrate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If uniform reflective coating is applied across the entire optics surface, then light reflection is maximized for image presentation, but crosstalk between different eye regions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different coating properties to different regions of the optics. Specifically, the reflective coating is applied only to the aperture regions where image presentation is needed, while the nasal region receives a different coating treatment. This local differentiation allows maximum reflection where required while preventing crosstalk in regions where it would be harmful.
Solution Approach 2:
The optics surface is segmented into distinct functional regions: aperture regions for image presentation and a nasal region for structural support and optical isolation. By segmenting the coating application to match this functional segmentation, the patent achieves region-specific optical properties that simultaneously maximize useful reflection and minimize harmful crosstalk.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If anti-reflective coating is applied to reduce peripheral reflections, then crosstalk is reduced, but image brightness in aperture regions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies anti-reflective properties specifically to the nasal region and peripheral areas where reflections would cause crosstalk, while maintaining high reflectivity in the aperture regions where image brightness is critical. This localized application of different coating properties resolves the contradiction by applying anti-reflective treatment only where it serves the crosstalk reduction function without compromising image brightness.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If complex multi-layer coating profiles are used to control light precisely, then crosstalk is minimized, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the coating process by segmenting the optics surface into distinct regions and applying appropriate coatings to each segment. Rather than using complex multi-layer coatings across the entire surface, the invention uses region-specific single or dual-layer coatings that achieve crosstalk control through spatial separation rather than through complex material structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls light behavior by changing the spatial distribution parameter of the coating rather than changing the material composition parameter. By varying the presence or absence of coating material across different regions of the optics surface, the invention achieves precise light control with simpler manufacturing processes compared to using complex multi-layer material structures throughout.
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 effectively reduces unwanted crosstalk and peripheral reflections, ensuring coherent, isolated images are presented to each eye, enhancing the image quality and minimizing noticeable discrete changes in the coating profiles.
Implementation Method 1
a semi-reflective or reflective coating formed on the anti-reflective coating in two separated regions of the interior surface of the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosed apparatuses, methods and systems provide coating profiles for optics of a stereoscopic vision system configured to reduce unwanted light. Offset masks are used to provide gradient coating thicknesses. A method of forming the optical system with coatings and mechanical holder used during the method also are provided.