Optical Combiner for AR Displays Using Semi-Transparent Reflective Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional virtual and augmented reality devices suffer from significant chromatic aberrations and optical distortions, complex optical element arrangements that cause obstructions and difficulty in adjusting image projection sizes and positions.
Innovation Solution
A display apparatus comprising a context image renderer, a focus image renderer, and an optical combiner with semi-transparent reflective elements that optically combine projections to minimize aberrations and distortions, allowing for adjustable image positioning and reduced obstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional optical elements are used in virtual and augmented reality devices, then the device can project images to the user, but significant chromatic aberrations and optical distortions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into multiple discrete optical elements (lens elements, prisms, waveguides) arranged in specific configurations. Each element performs a specific function (focusing, beam directing, wavefront shaping) to collectively eliminate chromatic aberrations and optical distortions while maintaining image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary optical element or coating is introduced between the image source and the user's eye to correct chromatic aberrations and optical distortions. This intermediary component modifies the light path to compensate for aberrations without requiring complete redesign of the entire optical system.
2Reliability
If complex optical element arrangements are used, then image projection is achieved, but obstructions are introduced in the projection path
Solution Approach 1:
The optical elements are arranged in three-dimensional space rather than a single plane, allowing light to travel through multiple dimensions without obstruction. This spatial arrangement enables complex optical functions while maintaining clear projection paths by utilizing depth and angular separation.
Solution Approach 2:
Curved optical surfaces and waveguides are used to redirect light paths around obstructions rather than requiring straight-line propagation. The curved geometry allows light to navigate complex internal structures while maintaining efficient transmission and avoiding blockages.
3Reliability
If multiple optical elements are arranged complexly, then image projection is achieved, but adjustment of image projection size and position becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system incorporates movable or adjustable components that can dynamically change the projection size and position. These dynamic elements allow real-time adjustment of image parameters without requiring complete disassembly or complex realignment of the entire optical system.
Solution Approach 2:
A single optical element or mechanism performs multiple functions simultaneously, including image projection, focusing, and adjustable positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate adjustment mechanisms needed while maintaining full control over projection size and position.
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 effectively eliminates chromatic aberrations and optical distortions, facilitates easy adjustment of image size and position, and minimizes obstructions in the display apparatus, enhancing the user's experience by providing a robust and efficient display.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one context image renderer is arranged in a manner that the projection of the rendered context image emanating therefrom is incident upon the first side of the first semi-transparent reflective element and reflected towards the exit optical element therefrom
Implementation Method 2
the at least one focus image renderer is arranged in a manner that the projection of the rendered focus image emanating therefrom is incident upon the second side of the first semi-transparent reflective element and reflected towards the second semi-transparent reflective element therefrom, and is then reflected from the second semi-transparent reflective element towards the first semi-transparent reflective element
Implementation Method 3
from where the projection of the rendered focus image is allowed to pass through towards the exit optical element
Implementation Method 4
at least one optical combiner for optically combining a projection of the rendered context image with a projection of the rendered focus image to create a visual scene
Data Source
AI summary
A display apparatus and method of displaying, via the display apparatus. The display apparatus includes context image renderer for rendering context image; focus image renderer for rendering focus image; exit optical element; and optical combiner for optically combining projection of the rendered context image with projection of the rendered focus image to create visual scene. The optical combiner includes first semi-transparent reflective element; and a second semi-transparent reflective element. The context image renderer is arranged in a manner that projection of rendered context image is incident upon first semi-transparent reflective element and reflected towards exit optical element therefrom. The focus image renderer is arranged in a manner that projection of rendered focus image is incident upon first semi-transparent reflective element and reflected towards second semi-transparent reflective element, and then reflected towards first semi-transparent reflective element, from where projection thereof is allowed to pass through towards exit optical element.