Miniature Integrated Retinal Projector for Wearable Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to integrate modern display functions, such as receiving text messages and viewing maps, into traditional watches and other small electronic devices without altering their appearance significantly.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a mini viewer based on femtoprojector technology, which includes a microdisplay and projection optics, within small devices like watches, car keys, and rings, allowing images to be projected onto the retina when held close to the eye, maintaining the device's conventional look.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional display is integrated into a small device like a watch, then modern display functions are achieved, but the device's appearance and size are significantly altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the display function from a traditional visible display and relocates it to a retinal projection system. The microdisplay and projection optics are hidden within the device body, with only a small optical window visible on the exterior. This allows the device to maintain its traditional appearance while providing modern display capabilities through retinal projection when held close to the eye.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the human eye's retina as an intermediary display surface. Instead of projecting images to an external screen or surface, the system uses the retina itself as the display medium. This intermediary approach allows the display to be invisible when not in use and provides a clear image when activated, resolving the conflict between visibility and traditional appearance.
2Measurement precision
If a microdisplay and projection optics are integrated into a small device, then high-resolution image projection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where the microdisplay is positioned within the device body, and the projection optics are nested around it. The entire optical system is contained within the small form factor of the device, with components arranged concentrically or in layered configurations. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization and maintains a compact, simple external appearance despite the complex internal optical system.
3Ease of operation
If a display is made visible on the device, then modern functionalities are accessible, but the device's conventional look is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic display system that transitions between invisible and visible states. The retinal projection is activated only when needed (when the user holds the device close to their eye), making the display invisible during normal wear and visible only during active use. This dynamic behavior allows the device to maintain its conventional appearance at all times while providing full display functionality when required.
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
Enables high-resolution image projection without changing the device's appearance, providing modern functionalities like text messaging and sensor data display through a small, unnoticeable display.
Implementation Method 1
projection optics structured to magnify images produced by the display such that projected images are focused on a retina of a person
Data Source
AI summary
A personal object such as a ring or wristwatch includes an integrated femtoprojector that operates as a mini viewer. The object includes an object body (such as a ring body or watch head) that may be wearable. A display is inset in the object body and is viewable through a window from a position external to the object body. Projection optics may be inset in the object body in an optical path between the display and the window. The projection optics are structured to magnify images produced by the display such that projected images are focused on a retina of a person when viewed from a viewing distance within a range of zero to two inches. A battery internal to the object body provides power to the display via a bus.