Head-worn Computing Optical Module for Medical AR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable computing systems for medical procedures face challenges in providing effective, lightweight, and compact computing solutions that integrate see-through displays with digital imagery, while also addressing issues like stray light suppression and user interface complexity.
Innovation Solution
The development of a head-worn computing system that includes a compact optical module with a DLP display, a TIR wedge, and a corrective wedge to manage light states, combined with a combiner element for see-through functionality and a solid state lighting system for immersive effects, along with a pen-like user interface for gesture recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a head-worn computing system with see-through display is implemented, then medical professionals can access digital information during procedures, but the system becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the computing functionality into separate modular components: a head-worn display unit with optical elements, a separate processing unit, and wireless communication modules. This segmentation allows the critical display path to remain lightweight while distributing computational load to external devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional bulky head-mounted displays to a see-through optical architecture using waveguides or combiner elements. This dimensional change in the optical path allows digital information to be overlaid on the real world without blocking the user's view, eliminating the need for large opaque display screens and reducing overall system weight.
2Illumination intensity
If traditional display optics are used, then digital imagery can be presented, but stray light degrades image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts potentially harmful stray light into beneficial reflected light paths using carefully engineered optical elements. The combiner or waveguide structure is designed to reflect display-generated light into the user's eye while simultaneously blocking external stray light, effectively transforming the optical challenges into performance advantages through precise control of light reflection and transmission.
3Volume of moving object
If compact optical modules are implemented, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple optical functions into integrated elements: the combiner combines display light reflection with real-world view transmission in a single component; waveguides integrate light coupling, guiding, and output functions; TIR wedges combine total internal reflection with beam steering. This merging reduces the number of separate optical components and their associated alignment requirements, making compact manufacturing more feasible.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical design incorporates self-aligning features where optical elements automatically position themselves through mechanical interference fits, tapered interfaces, or stress-biasing mechanisms. The TIR wedge and combiner assemblies are designed so that proper optical alignment is achieved through self-centering forces during assembly, reducing dependency on high-precision manual alignment and lowering manufacturing tolerances.
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 a lightweight, compact, and effective head-worn computing system that provides high contrast, see-through augmented reality displays with reduced stray light and intuitive user interaction, enhancing medical professionals' capabilities during procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a compact optical module with a DLP display, a TIR wedge
Implementation Method 2
a compact optical module with a DLP display, a TIR wedge, and a corrective wedge
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to providing assistance to medical professionals during the performance of medical procedures through the use of technologies facilitated through a head-worn computer.