Reflective LCD Arrays for 3D Focus Depth Control in AR HUDs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating 3D images using heads-up displays (HUDs) for augmented reality applications often result in viewing offset issues due to the combination of 2D projected images with 3D real-world images, as they lack depth information, leading to non-homogeneous 3D representations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a 2D image projector, a 2D to 3D image converter using multiple reflective LCD arrays and a reflective screen, which converts 2D projected images into 3D images by varying optical paths, allowing for pixel-by-pixel or region-by-region focus depth control, and combines these with 3D real-world images to create a homogeneous 3D image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 2D projected image is overlaid onto the eye along with a real world image to generate a combined image, then the system provides augmented reality functionality, but the different dimensions of the input images create viewing offset issues and non-homogeneous 3D representation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the 2D projected image into a 3D image by adding depth information through multiple reflective LCD arrays that create different optical path lengths. This dimensionality change allows the projected image to match the 3D nature of the real world view, eliminating viewing offset issues and creating homogeneous 3D representation in the combined image
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses multiple reflective LCD arrays (first, second, and third arrays) that are independently controlled to create different optical path lengths for different portions of the image. This segmentation allows precise control over depth information for various regions of the projected image, enabling accurate 3D representation
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple reflective LCD arrays are used to convert 2D projected image to 3D image by varying optical paths, then depth information is added to create homogeneous 3D representation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple reflective LCD arrays serve multiple functions: they act as both the conversion medium for creating 3D images and as the display medium for presenting the final combined image to the user. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture despite the complexity of the conversion process
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 solution effectively addresses viewing offset issues by adding depth to 2D projected images before combining them with 3D real-world images, resulting in a more realistic and correctly represented combined 3D image, enhancing the visual experience in HUDs for augmented reality applications.
Implementation Method 1
controlling a reflective liquid crystal display (LCD) pixel array to reflect a portion of the 2D projected image away from the reflective LCD pixel array and transmit another portion of the 2D projected image through the reflective LCD pixel array
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed for controlling the focus depth of a 2D projected image on a pixel by pixel basis or on a region by region basis to create a 3D projected image that may be used for a heads up display (HUD) for augmented reality applications. The 3D projected image may be overlaid or combined with a 3D real world view using multiple reflective LCD arrays. The multiple reflective LCD arrays may receive a 2D projected image and may generate different length optical paths that may add depth to the 2D projected image to create a 3D projected image. The 3D projected image may be combined with the real world 3D image to create a 3D image encompassing a real world image and a 3D projection image that looks real and contains depth within the image.