High-Index Waveguide Structure for Wider AR Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Challenges exist in creating augmented reality systems that effectively integrate virtual image elements with real-world imagery in a natural and comfortable manner due to complexities in human visual perception.
Innovation Solution
A head-mounted display system using waveguides with high refractive index materials like Lithium Niobate and Silicon Carbide, combined with diffractive optical elements, to enhance the field of view and integrate virtual content seamlessly with real-world visuals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If waveguides with conventional glass materials (refractive index less than 1.8) are used, then the manufacturing process is simpler and materials are more readily available, but the field of view is limited and smaller
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the refractive index parameter of the waveguide material from conventional glass (n<1.8) to high index materials (n≥1.8), which directly enlarges the field of view while accepting increased manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures combining high index materials with diffractive optical elements and anti-reflective coatings to achieve both enhanced field of view and functional performance
2Area of stationary object
If waveguides with high refractive index materials (refractive index greater than or equal to about 1.8) are used, then the field of view is enlarged, but the manufacturing complexity increases and materials are less readily available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent systematically changes material parameters (refractive index, absorption coefficient, hardness) to optimize field of view while managing manufacturing complexity through controlled material selection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different regions and functions within the waveguide system, such as using high index materials specifically where needed for field of view enhancement while maintaining other regions with appropriate materials
3Ease of manufacture
If soft materials are used for waveguides, then the waveguides are easier to fabricate and process, but they are more prone to scratching and breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the hardness parameter of waveguide materials to high hardness values (Mohs 7-10) to achieve scratch resistance while maintaining manufacturability through advanced fabrication techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite material approaches combining hard, scratch-resistant materials with appropriate optical properties to simultaneously achieve durability and manufacturability
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 enlarges the field of view and provides a more natural integration of augmented reality image content by using high refractive index materials and diffractive features, enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
one or more waveguides disposed to direct light into the user's eye to form augmented reality image content
Implementation Method 2
different waveguides in the plurality of waveguides may comprise an in-coupling optical element configured to in-couple light
Data Source
AI summary
Waveguides comprising materials with refractive index greater than or equal to 1.8 and methods of patterning waveguides are disclosed. Patterned waveguides comprising materials with refractive index greater than or equal to 1.8 can be incorporated in display devices, such as, for example wearable display devices to project virtual images to a viewer. A waveguide may be transparent and may comprise a substrate comprising a first material having a first refractive index greater than about 2.0. Diffractive features may be formed, on the substrate, of a second material having a second refractive index that is lower than the first refractive index. A third material may be disposed over the diffractive features and may have a third refractive index that is higher than the second refractive index.