Metalens Array for Transparent AR Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications face challenges due to mirror arrays blocking user vision, being distracting, and being difficult and costly to manufacture, with traditional optics also requiring complex alignment and focusing lenses.
Innovation Solution
The use of metalens arrays, which are partially transparent to visible light, allowing for the reflection and collimation of light beams while enabling the observer to see both projected images and the environment, and are easier to manufacture using existing semiconductor processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If mirror arrays are used to project images for VR/AR, then the image can be reflected to appear in front of the user, but the user's vision is blocked and the metallic shine is distracting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters by transitioning from traditional metallic mirrors to metalens arrays with specific refractive index properties. The metalens elements have controlled refractive indices that enable light collimation while maintaining transparency, fundamentally altering how light is manipulated to eliminate the harmful reflective properties of traditional mirrors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures by combining metalens elements with substrate materials. This composite approach allows the system to achieve both the image projection function and the transparency requirement, as the metalens array can be designed to work with transparent substrates that allow light transmission while providing the necessary optical control.
2Illumination intensity
If mirror arrays are used to reflect images, then the projected image can be seen, but the spacing and alignment control is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment system of traditional mirror arrays with a lithographically-fabricated metalens array. The metalens elements are patterned directly onto substrates using semiconductor manufacturing processes, eliminating the need for mechanical alignment and spacing control that characterizes traditional mirror array assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the manufacturing approach by transitioning from mechanical assembly processes to lithographic fabrication processes. This parameter change in the manufacturing methodology enables precise control of metalens element geometry and spacing through photolithography, which is more scalable and less costly than mechanical alignment processes.
3Measurement precision
If traditional focusing lenses are added to the imaging system, then the image can be properly focused, but the manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple optical components into a single metalens array structure. The metalens elements simultaneously provide image projection, collimation, and focusing functions that would traditionally require separate mirrors and lenses, thereby reducing the number of components and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The metalens array serves multiple optical functions simultaneously - it acts as both a reflector for image projection and a collimating element, and also provides focusing capability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing requirements.
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 user visibility for VR and AR experiences by allowing simultaneous viewing of projected objects and the environment, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs, and eliminating the need for additional focusing lenses.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more metalens arrays are configured such that a first beam of light incident on the one or more metalens arrays is reflected and collimated into a reflected beam
Implementation Method 2
The one or more metalens arrays are configured such that a first beam of light incident on the one or more metalens arrays is reflected and collimated into a reflected beam
Implementation Method 3
The one or more metalens arrays are at least partially transparent to visible light in a direction parallel to the direction of the reflected beam
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system and a method of manufacturing a metalens array is provided. The imaging system includes a metalens array, and light scattered from an object is split by the metalens array, such that an image is formed in front of an observer. The metalens array is at least partially transparent to visible light, so that the observer can also see the environment. The method of manufacturing the metalens array includes bonding together a plurality of substrates, and dicing the plurality of substrates into metalens arrays. The metalens arrays can be used in the imaging system.