Light-Field Display for AR Vision Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented reality head-mounted devices struggle to provide customized and dynamic visualization of computer-generated images, failing to adapt to individual wearer needs, including ametropic vision and correcting secondary aberrations, while maintaining wearer comfort.
Innovation Solution
The use of a light-field display in head-mounted devices equipped with sensors and eye-trackers, which adjust the gaze direction and distance of computer-generated images based on wearer data, and incorporate holographic mirrors to correct vision and aberrations, allowing for dynamic and personalized augmented reality experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a light-field display with array of optical micro-elements is used to enable dynamic adjustment of gaze direction and visualization distance, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display system is segmented into multiple optical micro-elements (lenses, holes, or prisms) arranged in an array, where each element independently controls light for specific gaze directions and visualization distances. This segmentation enables dynamic adaptation without requiring a single complex adjustable mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a see-through mirror (holographic or dichroic) as an intermediary component that works in conjunction with the light-field display. This intermediary enables the system to correct wearer vision (ametropia) and secondary aberrations while maintaining the dynamic light-field display functionality, resolving the complexity issue by distributing functions across multiple specialized components.
2Manufacturing precision
If holographic mirrors are incorporated to correct wearer vision and secondary aberrations, then manufacturing precision and image quality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The see-through mirror serves multiple functions: it acts as a beam splitter for the light-field display, a vision correction element for ametropia, and an aberration correction component. By making this single component multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate components for each function, thereby managing device complexity while achieving precise vision correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines different optical materials and components (light-field display elements, holographic or dichroic mirror materials, and vision correction coatings) into a composite optical system. This composite approach enables simultaneous achievement of dynamic display and precise vision correction without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the array of optical micro-elements is moved to adjust gaze direction and visualization distance, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to automatic control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors (luminance sensors, eye-trackers) that automatically detect wearer gaze direction and environmental conditions, providing feedback to the control system. This feedback enables automatic adjustment of the light-field display and electrochromic cell without requiring manual operation, maintaining ease of use while achieving dynamic adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by using its own sensors to detect wearer needs and automatically modifying the display parameters. The eye-trackers and luminance sensors enable the device to serve itself by autonomously optimizing the visualization experience without external intervention.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electrochromic cells are added to control luminance and luminosity, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and energy use increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic cell is merged with the existing optical path components (mirror or lens), combining the luminance control function with the existing structural elements. This integration approach adds the electrochromic functionality without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the electrochromic material is incorporated into existing components rather than adding separate bulk components.
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 solution enhances wearer comfort by providing customizable and adaptive augmented reality experiences, effectively correcting ametropia and secondary aberrations, and improving image quality and visualization comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a light-field display, wherein the light-field display comprises: an array of optical micro-elements... controlling a location of the array of optical micro-elements with respect to the digital display element... so as to adjust the gaze direction and distance of visualization
Implementation Method 2
a see-through mirror (M)... wherein the image source (IS) is configured for the emission of a light beam towards the mirror, wherein the emitted light beam is reflected onto the mirror (M, HM) and thereby is directed towards the eye of the wearer
Implementation Method 3
a see-through mirror (M), such as a holographic mirror (HM)... configured for adjusting at least partially the wearer's vision for the visualization of said displayed computer-generated image
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The present invention generally provides methods and systems for image display with a head-mounted device. In general terms, the present invention involves the use of a light-field display. Such display is useful for providing augmented reality.