Light-field Projection System Using Single Narrow-band Light Source
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light-field projectors have a large form factor and are cost-inefficient due to the need for a large array of spatially disparate point light sources.
Innovation Solution
A light-field image projection system utilizing a single narrow-band point light source per color, a splitting device to generate multiple incident light beams and virtual light sources, a spatial light modulator to create modulated beam light, and a combiner to project virtual images at virtual viewpoints within an eye box region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a large array of spatially disparate point light sources is used to generate viewpoints, then the light-field image projection can be achieved, but the form factor becomes large and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple point light sources into a single point light source by combining the viewpoint generation function with a spatial light modulator (SLM). The SLM modulates the light from the single point source to sequentially generate multiple viewpoints, eliminating the need for multiple physical light sources and reducing both form factor and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of light sources through the SLM modulation process. Instead of using physical arrays of light sources, the system generates virtual light sources by modulating a single physical light source, achieving the same light-field effect with fewer physical components.
2Ease of operation
If multiple point light sources are used to generate viewpoints, then the light-field projection is achieved, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source function with the viewpoint generation function into a single integrated system. The spatial light modulator modulates light from a single point source to create multiple viewpoints, merging what would traditionally require separate components and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spatial light modulator serves multiple functions: it acts as both a light modulation device and a viewpoint generator. By making the SLM multi-functional, the system eliminates the need for multiple dedicated light sources while maintaining the ability to generate multiple viewpoints for light-field projection.
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 achieves a small form factor, cost efficiency, and excellent see-through performance, allowing for the projection of a 3D image with monocular depth of field and reduced power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the splitting device comprises a diffracting element configured to generate the plurality of incident light beams at the different angles of incidence from the narrow-band light source
Implementation Method 2
an SLM configured to generate a modulated beam light and a virtual image for each incident light beam
Implementation Method 3
The combiner can comprise a holographic reflective holographic combiner
Data Source
AI summary
Light-field image projection system having a light source with a single narrow band point light source per color emitting narrow-band light, a splitting device sequentially generating incident light beams and form virtual light sources, a spatial light modulator generating a modulated beam light and a virtual image for each incident light beam; and a combiner projecting the virtual images at virtual viewpoints within an eye box region and transmitting natural light from the real world towards the eye box, each viewpoint containing an image of the virtual scene viewed from that viewpoint. The splitting device directs the incident light beams to the spatial light modulator such that the incident light beams are incident on the surface of the spatial light modulator at different angles of incidence. the ratio of luminous intensity of a single virtual light source over the luminous intensity of the narrow-band light is at least 1%.