Image Projection Optics for Multi-Depth Virtual Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image projection apparatuses project images in low resolution in the horizontal direction, which affects the user's perception of image quality when displaying two virtual images at different imaging distances.
Innovation Solution
The image projection apparatus employs a configuration with a projection light emission unit, first and second optical elements, and a concave mirror to project two screens at different imaging distances while maintaining high resolution, using a display surface divided into regions with pixels arranged in a grid pattern, and optical elements that reflect and transmit light to form virtual images at distinct locations in the user's field of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional image projection apparatuses display two virtual images at different imaging distances, then the user can perceive multiple depth information, but the resolution in the horizontal direction deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The display surface is divided into a first area and a second area, with each area corresponding to a different virtual image at a different imaging distance. The pixels are arranged such that even-numbered pixels display the first virtual image and odd-numbered pixels display the second virtual image, enabling simultaneous display of multiple images without horizontal resolution loss
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the display surface are assigned different functions: the first area displays virtual images at a first imaging distance while the second area displays virtual images at a second imaging distance. This local differentiation allows each region to maintain optimal resolution for its specific purpose while contributing to the overall multi-depth display capability
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 allows for the display of two virtual images with different imaging distances without compromising resolution, providing a clearer and more detailed image in the horizontal direction, enhancing user experience by maintaining high resolution in the x-direction.
Implementation Method 1
optical elements that reflect and transmit light to form virtual images at distinct locations
Implementation Method 2
optical elements that reflect and transmit light to form virtual images at distinct locations
Data Source
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AI summary
An image projection apparatus 1 includes a projection light emission unit 10, a first optical element 21, a second optical element 22, and an optical system 23. The projection light emission unit 10 has a display surface 12 in which a first region and a second region are arranged in an x direction. The first optical element 21 reflects first projection light from the first region. The second optical element 22 reflects the first projection light reflected by the first optical element 21 and transmits second projection light from the second region. The optical system 23 projects the first projection light reflected by the second optical element 22 and the second projection light transmitted by the second optical element 22 into a field of view of a user. The first direction corresponds to a direction in which both eyes are aligned when the first projection light and the second projection light are projected into the field of view of the user. The display surface 12 includes subpixels constituting one pixel arranged in the first direction and subpixels constituting different pixels in a second direction that intersects the first direction.