Multi-Wavelength Optical Assembly for Compact AR Eye Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality devices are hindered by large and bulky optical assemblies, limiting their portability and user comfort.
Innovation Solution
An optical system comprising a light source assembly, a light guiding element, and a first optical assembly that utilizes different wavelength lights, with microstructures on optical elements to diffract and direct these lights, allowing for miniaturization and improved eye-tracking functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional optical projection technology is used for AR, then virtual content can be delivered to users, but the optical assembly becomes large and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (light guiding, diffraction, and eye-tracking) into a single integrated optical assembly. The light guiding element with embedded diffraction gratings and the eye-tracking sensor are merged into one compact structure, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall device volume while maintaining virtual content delivery capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the diffraction gratings are embedded within the light guiding element, and the eye-tracking sensor is integrated into the same optical path. This nesting approach allows multiple functional layers to occupy the same spatial volume, significantly reducing the optical assembly size while preserving all necessary functions
2Use of energy by moving object
If multiple optical components are used for different wavelengths, then light transmission efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal light guiding element that handles multiple wavelengths (visible and infrared) through a single component. The diffraction gratings are configured with different periods to selectively guide different wavelengths, allowing one optical assembly to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components, thus improving light transmission efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by varying the diffraction grating parameters (period, depth, orientation) at different locations within the light guiding element. This allows specific regions to be optimized for specific wavelengths or functions, enabling efficient multi-wavelength transmission while maintaining a unified compact structure rather than requiring multiple separate 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
The optical system achieves miniaturization and enhanced eye-tracking performance, reducing the size and weight of the device while maintaining effective light transmission and eye-tracking capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The first microstructures are used for diffracting the first light
Implementation Method 2
The second microstructures are used for diffracting the second light
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system is provided. The optical system includes a light source assembly, a light guiding element, and a first optical assembly. The light source assembly is used for generating first light and second light. The light guiding element is used for transporting the first light and the second light. The first optical assembly is disposed between the light guiding element and the light source assembly and used for transporting the first light and the second light. Wavelengths of the first light and the second light are different.