Head-Worn Optical Module Using TIR for High-Contrast Brightness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable computing systems face challenges in effectively measuring and controlling the brightness of digital content, which affects user experience and comfort.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a compact and lightweight optical module in head-worn computing devices that utilizes a DLP or DMD display with polarized light management and Total Internal Reflection (TIR) to separate image and dark state light paths, enhancing contrast and reducing stray light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a DLP or DMD display with polarized light management and TIR is used to separate image and dark state light paths, then contrast and image quality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into distinct functional components: a DLP/DMD display for image generation, a polarizer to create polarized light, and a TIR prism or waveguide to separate image light from dark state light. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve high contrast ratios and minimize stray light.
Solution Approach 2:
A polarizer acts as an intermediary element between the DLP/DMD display and the TIR separation mechanism. It converts the light from the display into polarized light, which then enables the TIR prism or waveguide to effectively separate image light paths from dark state light paths, achieving the desired contrast improvement.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If TIR is used to separate image and dark state light paths, then stray light is reduced and contrast is enhanced, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical light blocking mechanisms with an optical field-based approach using TIR. Instead of using physical apertures or mechanical shutters to block dark state light, the patent employs total internal reflection at specific angles to redirect and separate light paths, achieving stray light reduction through optical field manipulation rather than mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes thin film polarizers and waveguide structures to achieve light separation. These thin film components can be integrated directly into the optical path without adding significant bulk, allowing the TIR-based separation to be achieved with minimal increase in device volume.
3Manufacturing precision
If polarized light management is implemented, then contrast ratio is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the polarizer and TIR separation components into an integrated optical assembly that can be manufactured as a single unit or pre-assembled module. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate alignment operations required and simplifies the overall manufacturing process while maintaining the high contrast ratio performance.
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
This configuration achieves high brightness, sharp contrast, and deep blacks, providing a comfortable and immersive augmented reality experience by minimizing stray light and optimizing image quality.
Implementation Method 1
utilizes a DLP or DMD display with polarized light management
Implementation Method 2
Total Internal Reflection (TIR) to separate image and dark state light paths
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.