See-Through Near-Eye Optical Module Integrated With Ophthalmic Lens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current augmented and mixed reality systems have a large form factor, are heavy, power hungry, and expensive, making them difficult to adapt to existing eyewear and ophthalmic lens manufacturing and distribution.
Innovation Solution
A see-through near eye optical module is integrated with an eyewear lens, comprising a see-through near eye display and a micro-lens array, ensuring optical alignment and power compatibility to provide clear real and virtual images, with the optical power within 20% of the original eyewear lens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current augmented and mixed reality systems are used, then they provide AR/MR functionality, but they have large form factor, heavy weight, high power consumption, and high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a see-through near eye optical module containing display and micro-lens array, and an eyewear lens providing optical power. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall system weight while maintaining AR/MR functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The eyewear lens serves dual functions: providing corrective optical power for vision and serving as the mounting substrate for the near eye optical module. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate heavy structural components, reducing overall system weight.
2Adaptability or versatility
If current augmented and mixed reality systems are used, then they provide AR/MR functionality, but they have large form factor
Solution Approach 1:
The near eye optical module is positioned within or on the eyewear lens structure, with the micro-lens array integrated into the optical path of the eyewear lens. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall volume occupied by the AR/MR system while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical components are arranged in a compact three-dimensional configuration along the optical path, utilizing the depth dimension efficiently. The micro-lens array is positioned close to the eye with minimal spacing, reducing the forward projection distance and overall system volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If current augmented and mixed reality systems are used, then they provide AR/MR functionality, but they consume high power
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a micro-lens array to optically copy and redirect real-world images through the eyewear lens, eliminating the need for heavy, power-consuming image processing and rendering hardware. This optical copying approach dramatically reduces power consumption while maintaining AR/MR functionality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If current augmented and mixed reality systems are used, then they provide AR/MR functionality, but they are expensive and difficult to adapt to existing eyewear manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The eyewear lens serves as both the optical power element and the mounting platform for the near eye optical module. This universal design allows integration with existing eyewear manufacturing processes and distribution channels, significantly improving ease of manufacture and adoption.
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 solution enables a compact, efficient, and cost-effective augmented or mixed reality experience by maintaining optical power compatibility and reducing the system's size and power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a see-through near eye display in optical alignment with a micro-lens array
Implementation Method 2
an ophthalmic lens in optical communication with a see-through near eye optical module
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a see-through near eye optical module that in most cases is fabricated as a standalone unit. The see-through near eye optical module is in certain embodiments then placed in optical communication and alignment with an eyewear lens having appropriate optical power such that when a wearer thereof looks through the see-through near eye optical module he or she can see a real world image and virtual image clearly. In other embodiments the appropriate optical power is provided in the rear section of the see-through near eye optical module. Thus, the combination of both the see-through near eye optical module and the appropriate optical power provides the wearer with a clear augmented reality or mixed reality experience. The placement can be by way of positioning within an open notch, hole, groove, recess, or other section of an eyewear lens.