Transparent Optical Module Patch-Lenslet Layout for Compact AR Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) systems have a large form factor, are heavy, power-hungry, and expensive, making them difficult to adopt and integrate with existing eyewear and ophthalmic lens manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A transparent optical module (TOM) system with a patch unit and patch group architecture, utilizing micro-lenslets and light-emitting pixels to create scalable, transparent, and transmissive displays that integrate virtual images with the real world, employing dynamic micro-lenslet arrays to minimize stray light and enhance image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If existing AR/MR systems use traditional optical architectures, then they can provide sufficient image quality and field of view, but they result in large form factor, heavy weight, and high power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple lenslets arranged in an array, where each lenslet corresponds to a specific pixel or pixel group on the display. This segmentation allows the system to achieve the desired field of view and image quality through distributed optical paths rather than requiring a single large optical component, thereby reducing the overall form factor and weight while maintaining performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D display architectures to a 3D spatial arrangement where lenslets are positioned at specific distances from the display plane. This dimensional change enables light from each pixel to be directed through corresponding lenslets to form focused images at different virtual focal planes, achieving high image quality in a compact configuration
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional display architectures are used, then sufficient brightness can be achieved, but power consumption increases and integration with existing eyewear becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The display is segmented into pixel patches that can be independently controlled and optimized. Each pixel patch works with corresponding lenslets to create efficient light paths, reducing overall power consumption while allowing the system to be configured in various form factors including eyewear integration
Solution Approach 2:
The optical module design is made universal by using standard lenslet arrays and pixel patch configurations that can be adapted to different display sizes and eyewear frame types. The modular architecture allows the same basic optical principles to be applied across multiple product configurations, from contact lenses to glasses frames
3Manufacturing precision
If pixel patches are densely arranged to improve resolution, then image clarity increases, but stray light between pixels increases and manufacturing complexity rises
Solution Approach 1:
Lenslets serve as intermediary optical elements between the pixel patches and the eye. Each lenslet is positioned to receive light from its corresponding pixel or pixel group and direct it to a specific location in the user's eye. This intermediary arrangement allows for controlled light paths that minimize stray light even when pixels are densely arranged, as the lenslets act as individual light guides
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality optimization by assigning specific optical properties to different regions. Each lenslet is optimized for its specific position and function, with parameters such as focal length and aperture tailored to the local requirements. This allows dense pixel arrangements to achieve high resolution while maintaining control over stray light through localized optical optimization
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 TOM system provides a compact, efficient, and cost-effective solution that enhances image clarity and brightness while allowing integration with existing eyewear, reducing eye strain and enabling multiple focal planes and gaze-dependent views.
Implementation Method 1
The lenslet is capable of transmitting display-emitted light to an eye of the wearer of the TOM, which then focuses the light to form a retinal image
Implementation Method 2
A transparent optical module (TOM) system with a patch unit and patch group architecture, utilizing micro-lenslets and light-emitting pixels to create scalable, transparent, and transmissive displays that integrate virtual images with the real world
Data Source
AI summary
A transparent optical module system or device comprising an optical architecture hierarchy based on a patch unit. In aspects, the transparent optical module comprises a display sparsely populated with pixels. The patch unit comprises one or more regions of display pixels, or a pixel pattern(s), and an associated lenslet, for example on a microlens array. The lenslet is capable of transmitting display-emitted light to an eye of the wearer of the transparent optical module, which then focuses the light to form a retinal image, which is seen or perceived by the wearer. The patch units can be combined further into patch groups, wherein members of a group serve a similar role in retinal image production as a patch unit and/or lenslet. This hierarchy allows the system to be scaled to larger and more complex systems.