Head-Mounted Optical Module Layout for Compact Lens Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head-mounted devices face challenges in accommodating the specific distances between display screens and lenses, leading to larger package sizes and potential damage from external contaminants.
Innovation Solution
The optical module includes a housing assembly with a lens retention system using projections and channels, a vent port with a filter element, and a dust trap to secure the lens, while allowing air circulation and preventing particle entry, along with an infrared emitter and eye camera for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the display assembly and lens are positioned at specific distances apart, then the optical performance is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical module housing assembly integrates multiple components including the display assembly, lens, eye camera, infrared emitter, and protection structures within a compact nested configuration. The lens is retained between housing portions with integrated protection, the eye camera and infrared emitter are positioned at the same end of the housing, and internal spaces are efficiently utilized to accommodate all components at required distances while minimizing overall device volume.
2Reliability
If the lens is exposed to external environment, then the optical pathways remain clear, but the lens becomes vulnerable to damage from contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
A lens protection structure is integrated into the optical module housing assembly, positioned to protect the lens from external contaminants while maintaining optical pathway clarity. The protection structure acts as an intermediary barrier between the lens and external environment, allowing light to pass through while restraining foreign particles from reaching the lens surface.
3Reliability
If the internal space is sealed completely, then components are protected from contaminants, but air circulation is blocked causing overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The optical module housing assembly implements selective sealing with different protection levels at different locations. The lens retention structure and housing portions provide sealed protection for critical optical components, while vent ports with filter elements provide controlled air circulation pathways. This local differentiation allows the internal space to maintain protection for sensitive components while permitting necessary air flow for thermal management.
4Volume of moving object
If multiple components are integrated in compact arrangement, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical module is designed as a segmented integrated assembly with distinct functional portions: a lens retention structure with first and second housing portions, a display assembly, an eye camera, and an infrared emitter. Each segment can be manufactured and positioned separately then assembled into the compact configuration, reducing overall device size while managing manufacturing complexity through modular assembly processes.
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 configuration reduces the device's overall size and protects sensitive components from damage, while enabling effective content presentation and biometric identification through improved structural design and optical pathways.
Implementation Method 1
a filter element that restrains foreign particles from entering the internal space
Implementation Method 2
the lens is connected to the optical module housing assembly and positioned at the first end of the optical module housing assembly. The display assembly is configured to cause the content to be displayed to the user through the lens
Implementation Method 3
An infrared emitter is located between the lens and the display assembly in the internal space of the optical module housing assembly. The infrared emitter is configured to emit infrared radiation through the lens
Implementation Method 4
The eye camera is connected to the optical module housing assembly and is configured to obtain images through the lens
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module for a head-mounted device is configured to present content to a user. The optical module includes a housing, a first optical module disposed in the housing, and a second optical module disposed in the housing. The optical module includes an interpupillary distance adjustment assembly including supports coupled to the housing and configured to guide motion of the first optical module and the second optical module with respect to the housing to allow adjustment of a distance between the first optical module and the second optical module. The optical axes of the first optical module and the second optical module extend generally in a front-to-back direction of the housing. Motion axes of the supports extend generally in a side-to-side direction of the housing.