See-Through Computer Display Optics for Stray Light

The patent converts harmful stray light into beneficial control by using polarizing beamsplitters and wave plates to manage polarized light paths. The system intentionally directs stray light through specific optical paths where it can be controlled and eliminated, transforming the harmful scattering into a manageable optical design parameter that improves overall image quality.

The patent introduces intermediary optical components including polarizing beamsplitters, wave plates, and polarized mirrors that mediate between the light source and the viewer's eye. These intermediaries selectively transmit and block specific polarized light paths, filtering out stray light while preserving intended image information through controlled polarization management.

The patent designs optical components to perform multiple functions simultaneously. For example, polarizing beamsplitters serve both as light separators and as polarization control elements, while wave plates simultaneously adjust polarization states and control light paths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing complexity while improving contrast.

The patent employs adjustable and reconfigurable optical elements that can dynamically adapt to different operational requirements. The system allows for flexible arrangement and reconfiguration of polarizing components and wave plates, enabling optimization of stray light management for different display modes and environmental conditions without requiring completely different hardware configurations.