Integrated Mirror Design for Wide See-Through AR Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing virtual image display apparatus with eccentric curved mirrors can inhibit see-through visual fields due to the support structure, limiting transparency and field of view.
Innovation Solution
A virtual image display apparatus integrating an outer mirror member and a partially reflecting type mirror portion, forming a dual-surface reflection member that allows for high reflectance in the outer mirror and controlled transmittance in the partially reflecting type mirror, enabling a wide see-through view while maintaining virtual image formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support structure is added to hold the eccentric curved mirror in front of the eye, then the mirror can be positioned correctly, but the see-through visual field is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure and the partially reflecting type mirror are merged into a single integrated component. The partially reflecting type mirror serves both as a structural support element and as an optical element, eliminating the need for separate support structures that would block the see-through visual field.
Solution Approach 2:
The partially reflecting type mirror performs multiple functions: it supports the optical system structure, reflects imaging light from the eccentric curved mirror, and allows see-through viewing in its transparent regions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
2Area of stationary object
If the eccentric curved mirror in front of the eye is made transparent to secure a see-through view, then transparency is achieved, but the reflectance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The partially reflecting type mirror has different optical properties in different regions: certain areas are designed with high reflectance to redirect imaging light from the eccentric curved mirror, while other areas are designed with transparency to allow see-through viewing. This spatial variation in optical properties resolves the contradiction between reflectance and transparency.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used for the optical system, then manufacturing flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The partially reflecting type mirror integrates multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components: structural support, light reflection, and see-through transparency. This reduction in component count simplifies the overall device while maintaining manufacturing flexibility through the modular optical design.
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 integrated design enhances the see-through visual field by reducing obstruction and maintaining image quality, allowing for a seamless transition between reflection and transmission regions, thus providing an unobstructed view while displaying virtual images.
Implementation Method 1
a partially reflecting type mirror portion configured to reflect imaging light emitted from the image optical system toward a position of an exit pupil
Implementation Method 2
The outer mirror member and the partially reflecting type mirror portion are integrated... allowing for high reflectance in the outer mirror and controlled transmittance in the partially reflecting type mirror
Data Source
AI summary
A virtual image display apparatus includes a display device serving as an image forming unit, an image optical system including a first mirror member serving as an outer mirror member and receiving imaging light from the display device, and a partially reflecting type mirror portion reflecting imaging light emitted from the image optical system toward a position of an exit pupil. The first mirror member serving as the outer mirror member and the partially reflecting type mirror portion are integrated.