Segmented Reflective Optical Component for Head-Mounted Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head-mounted displays interfere with the user's field of view and cause image distortion due to the placement of reflective mirrors or components, which can obstruct the eye and lead to interference with prescription lenses and light-shielding glasses.
Innovation Solution
A head-mounted display design featuring an optical component with multiple reflective and transmissive surfaces alternately arranged, tilted to direct image light to the eye while allowing ambient light to pass through, positioned to minimize interference and maintain a natural appearance, integrated into glasses to provide clear image visibility without deviating from standard eyewear design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reflective mirror is placed in the optical path to direct image light to the user's eye, then the image can be displayed, but the mirror obstructs the user's field of view and causes image distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective mirror is segmented into multiple reflective surfaces arranged in an array. Each surface reflects light at different angles, collectively directing image light to the user's eye while minimizing obstruction. The segmentation allows the optical component to distribute reflection functions across multiple smaller surfaces rather than one large obstructing mirror.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective surfaces are arranged in a two-dimensional array with surfaces tilted at different angles in multiple directions. This dimensional arrangement allows light reflection to occur across a plane rather than requiring a single obstructing element in the direct optical path, reducing field of view blockage while maintaining image display functionality.
2Measurement precision
If the optical component is positioned closer to the eye to improve image visibility, then the image becomes clearer, but the component interferes with prescription lenses and light-shielding glasses
Solution Approach 1:
The optical component is divided into multiple reflective surfaces that can be positioned at different locations and angles. This segmentation allows the system to achieve clear image visibility through distributed reflection points while reducing the need for a single large component positioned directly in front of the eye, thereby minimizing interference with prescription lenses and glasses.
Solution Approach 2:
Different reflective surfaces are positioned and oriented to serve specific local functions in the optical path. By optimizing the position and angle of each individual reflective surface, the system achieves clear image delivery to the eye while minimizing overall interference with external glasses and lenses.
3Device complexity
If a traditional reflective mirror design is used, then the structure is simple, but the appearance is bulky and unnatural
Solution Approach 1:
The optical component uses multiple small reflective surfaces arranged in an array rather than one large mirror. This segmentation creates a more compact and aesthetically pleasing appearance that integrates better with eyewear design, while the collective arrangement of surfaces maintains the necessary optical functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical component can be implemented as a thin film or coating structure with multiple reflective layers or surfaces. This thin-film approach reduces bulkiness and creates a more natural, sleek appearance suitable for modern eyewear, while the multi-surface configuration maintains optical performance.
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
The design allows for clear and unobstructed viewing of virtual images superimposed on the real environment, reducing interference with the eye and prescription lenses, while maintaining a compact and natural appearance of the eyewear.
Implementation Method 1
The optical component has multiple reflective surfaces arrayed in a first direction to reflect the image light to an eye in the head
Implementation Method 2
The transparent member allows the transmission of external light entering from the outside
Data Source
AI summary
A head-mounted display includes a light source to emit image light; and an optical component disposed opposite to a head, the optical component has multiple reflective surfaces arrayed in a first direction to reflect the image light to an eye in the head. At least two of the multiple reflective surfaces are disposed in a second direction tilted with respective to the first direction.