Head-Worn Computing Brightness Measurement with Stray-Light Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable computing systems face challenges in effectively measuring and controlling the brightness of digital content in a user's field of view, which affects user experience and comfort.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a compact and lightweight head-worn computing system with integrated optical modules that utilize DLP technology and light management techniques, such as TIR wedges and light traps, to manage stray light and enhance contrast and brightness of digital content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional display systems are used in wearable computing, then the device can be simpler in structure, but the brightness and contrast of digital content in the field of view deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (display, light management, stray light control) into an integrated head-worn optical system. The DLP device, TIR wedges, and light traps are merged into a unified structure that delivers digital content while managing light pathways, thereby achieving high brightness and contrast without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces TIR (Total Internal Reflection) wedges as intermediary optical elements between the light source and the user's eye. These wedges act as mediators that redirect and control stray light pathways, improving contrast and brightness of the displayed content while maintaining a compact form factor. The light traps also serve as intermediaries to absorb unwanted light.
2Manufacturing precision
If light management techniques are implemented to reduce stray light, then the contrast and clarity of digital imagery improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies light management techniques locally at specific critical points in the optical pathway rather than throughout the entire system. TIR wedges are positioned at specific angles to intercept stray light, and light traps are placed in specific locations to absorb unwanted reflections. This localized approach improves imagery clarity without requiring complex system-wide modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical light management systems with optical phenomena-based solutions. Instead of using movable mirrors or adjustable shutters to control stray light, the system employs TIR (an optical phenomenon) through precisely angled wedges and light-absorbing materials, achieving superior contrast and clarity with a more static, reliable structure.
3Illumination intensity
If DLP technology and TIR wedges are used to enhance brightness and contrast, then the visual experience improves, but the weight and size of the head-worn device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional angular geometry in the TIR wedge design to achieve superior light control. By precisely engineering the wedge angles and orientations in 3D space, the system maximizes stray light interception and redirection efficiency, thereby achieving high brightness and contrast with minimal material usage and compact form factor, reducing overall weight.
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 high brightness, sharp contrast, and deep blacks, improving the user's visual experience by reducing stray light and enhancing the clarity of digital imagery overlaid on the real-world view.
Implementation Method 1
TIR wedges and light traps, to manage stray light and enhance contrast and brightness of digital content
Implementation Method 2
TIR wedges and light traps, to manage stray light and enhance contrast and brightness of digital content
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to methods and systems for measuring and managing the brightness of digital content in a field of view of a head-worn computer.