Light-field Projector SLM Optical Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ophthalmic testing devices are bulky, costly, and limited in their ability to provide a wide range of optical corrections, especially for complex 3D scenes, due to their reliance on refractive lenses and discrete correction options.
Innovation Solution
A light-field projector that uses a spatial light modulator (SLM) to generate optically corrected virtual images by modulating incident light fields and projecting them along different axes, simulating a continuous spectrum of optical corrections without the need for precise optical elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If refractive lenses and curved mirrors are used for optical corrections, then optical correction capability is provided, but device bulk and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical optical elements (refractive lenses and curved mirrors) with a spatial light modulator that uses computer-generated holograms to achieve optical corrections. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky mechanical components while maintaining correction capabilities through digital processing and light field modulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of optical correction functions through computational methods. Instead of physical lenses, the system uses digitally generated holographic patterns on the SLM that replicate the optical effects of traditional lenses, enabling corrections without physical optical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If refractive lenses are used for optical corrections, then correction function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive precision-manufactured refractive lenses with a programmable spatial light modulator. The correction function is achieved through software-generated holograms rather than precision optical manufacturing, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamically reconfigurable holographic patterns on the SLM that can be changed via software. This dynamic capability allows the same hardware to provide multiple correction functions without requiring multiple physical lens sets, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adaptability.
3Device complexity
If discrete correction options are provided, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptation to complex 3D scenes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic, continuously adjustable correction parameters through programmable holographic patterns. The SLM can generate any correction pattern within its resolution limits, providing continuous adaptation to complex 3D scenes without requiring discrete mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes correction parameters digitally through software control of the holographic patterns. This allows continuous variation of correction strength and type without mechanical movement, maintaining device simplicity while achieving high adaptability to diverse 3D viewing scenarios.
4Adaptability or versatility
If microlens arrays are used to determine resolution, then optical correction is provided, but pixel count and correction range are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces microlens arrays with a spatial light modulator that uses diffraction and interference patterns to achieve optical corrections. This substitution preserves full pixel resolution for image display while providing correction capabilities, as the SLM can simultaneously modulate light for both imaging and correction functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The SLM serves multiple functions simultaneously: it displays the full-resolution image and provides optical corrections through holographic modulation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate microlens arrays, maintaining high pixel counts while delivering comprehensive correction range.
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
Enables a more versatile and precise range of optical corrections, allowing for the display of complex 3D scenes and continuous variation of optical corrections, reducing the need for mechanical adjustments and prescription inserts.
Implementation Method 1
The SLM is configured to display a reference SLM image pattern in an SLM plane, the reference SLM image pattern being configured to modulate the incident light field and generate a modulated light field
Implementation Method 2
A projection optic is configured to project the modulated light field along a reference optical axis such as to project a virtual image along the reference optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
A light-field projector comprising a light source configured to emit an incident light field illuminating a spatial light modulator (SLM) configured to display a reference SLM image pattern in an SLM plane. The reference SLM image pattern is configured to modulate the incident light field and generate a modulated light. A projection optic is configured to project the modulated light field along a reference optical axis such as to project a virtual image along the reference optical axis. The SLM is configured to display a corrected SLIM image pattern corresponding to the reference SLM image pattern shifted in the SLM plane, such that the virtual image is projected along an apparent projection axis that differs from the reference optical axis and such that the virtual image simulates at least an optical correction. The present disclosure further concerns a method for generating corrected virtual images by using the light field projector.