Scanning Waveguide Display MicroLED Resolution

The invention moves from 2D planar display to 3D volumetric display, where multiple MicroLED arrays are positioned at different depths along the optical axis. This allows the display to achieve high brightness through the combined emission of multiple arrays while maintaining a compact form factor by distributing the light-emitting elements throughout a small volumetric space rather than spreading them out in a large 2D plane. The volumetric arrangement enables efficient use of space, achieving high brightness without proportionally increasing display size.

The patent employs a nested arrangement where multiple MicroLED arrays are positioned within a compact volumetric envelope, with arrays at different depths nested along the optical axis. This nesting approach allows multiple light-emitting arrays to be contained within a small overall display volume, achieving high brightness through the cumulative effect of multiple arrays while maintaining compactness. The nested structure enables efficient space utilization, with each array contributing to the overall brightness without requiring proportional increase in display size.

The patent utilizes the third dimension (depth/volume) to achieve wide field of view without requiring complex lateral scanning mechanisms. By arranging multiple MicroLED arrays at different depths along the optical axis and controlling their individual emission patterns, the system creates a volumetric light field that naturally provides wide angular coverage. This volumetric approach to expanding field of view is less complex than traditional 2D scanning systems because it leverages the spatial distribution of multiple arrays rather than requiring mechanical scanning components to sweep a single array across a wide area.

Each MicroLED array in the volumetric configuration serves multiple functions simultaneously: it contributes to overall brightness, defines specific regions of the 3D light field, and participates in creating the wide field of view through its spatial position and emission characteristics. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, as the arrays themselves perform multiple roles that would otherwise require separate scanning mechanisms, optical elements, or control systems, thereby reducing overall device complexity while achieving wide field of view.