Head-worn Display Switching AR to VR via Optical Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current see-through computer display systems face challenges in optimizing user experience due to complex operations in presenting content, particularly in head-mounted displays that provide a see-through view of the environment, requiring improved systems and methods for enhanced user interaction.
Innovation Solution
The development of head-worn computing systems with convertible capabilities between augmented reality and virtual reality, utilizing advanced optical modules, light management techniques, and eye imaging systems to seamlessly integrate digital content with the user's environment, allowing for context-aware operation and immersive experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If see-through transmission is increased for augmented reality mode, then user can see the real world clearly, but digital content visibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The display system dynamically adjusts its optical properties to switch between augmented reality mode (high see-through transmission) and virtual reality mode (low see-through transmission). The converter enables real-time modulation of light transmission characteristics, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements and maintain optimal performance for both modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter changes the optical parameters of the display system by modifying the transmission characteristics of the optical waveguide. By adjusting parameters such as grating depth, period, and orientation in the diffractive optical element, the system can control the coupling efficiency between free-space light and waveguide modes, thereby regulating see-through transmission levels.
2Loss of information
If see-through transmission is decreased for virtual reality mode, then digital content visibility is improved, but real world visibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The display system dynamically adjusts its optical properties to switch between augmented reality mode (high see-through transmission) and virtual reality mode (low see-through transmission). The converter enables real-time modulation of light transmission characteristics, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements and maintain optimal performance for both modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter changes the optical parameters of the display system by modifying the transmission characteristics of the optical waveguide. By adjusting parameters such as grating depth, period, and orientation in the diffractive optical element, the system can control the coupling efficiency between free-space light and waveguide modes, thereby regulating see-through transmission levels.
3Area of stationary object
If field of view is increased, then immersive experience is improved, but optical system complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the display field of view beyond the traditional limited angular range by utilizing volumetric light fields. The light field display system captures and reproduces light rays from multiple positions and angles, creating a three-dimensional light distribution that expands the effective field of view without requiring additional optical components for each viewing angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is divided into modular components including the light field display module, converter with diffractive optical element, and optical waveguide. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently optimized, reducing overall system complexity while achieving extended field of view through their coordinated operation.
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 high-resolution, immersive user experience by seamlessly overlaying digital content onto the real world, improving user interaction through context-aware operation and efficient light management, enhancing both augmented and virtual reality modes.
Implementation Method 1
an optical waveguide to deliver the digital light to your eye
Implementation Method 2
a converter that changes the state of the display between augmented reality and virtual reality
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to methods and systems for a head-worn computer with a content display where the head-worn computer can be changed from an augmented reality system where there is relatively high see-through transmission through the display to a virtual reality system where the is no or relatively little see-through transmission through the display.