Steering Optical Device Two-Axis Rotation AR Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) display technologies face challenges in providing a wide viewing angle and realistic experience due to limitations in light path design and optical systems, which restrict the area a viewer can see the multi-image display effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-image display apparatus is designed with a light source, spatial light modulator, and a unique optical system that includes a steering optical device capable of two-axis rotation and a holographic optical element, forming a Maxwellian view optical system to focus image information at a point in the pupil and deliver both image light and external light to the viewer through non-parallel light paths, increasing the viewing area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a conventional light path design is used in AR display, then the device structure is simple, but the viewing area is limited and the field of view is narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into multiple independent light paths (first light path for image light, second light path for external light) that can be independently optimized. The steering optical device is segmented into multiple actuators (first actuator, second actuator, third actuator, fourth actuator) that can independently control different degrees of freedom, enabling precise control of the viewing area without overwhelming complexity in a single monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering optical device is designed to rotate around multiple axes (first axis, second axis, third axis, fourth axis) rather than being limited to single-axis rotation. This multi-dimensional rotation capability expands the field of view and viewing area by allowing the optical device to redirect light in multiple directions simultaneously, transforming a 1D rotation problem into a 3D spatial control solution.
2Area of stationary object
If the light path is designed to deliver image light and external light separately, then the viewing area is increased, but the device complexity increases due to multiple optical paths
Solution Approach 1:
The first light path and second light path are merged at the steering optical device, which processes both image light and external light through a single integrated component. The multiple actuators work together to control the same optical device, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms for each light path while maintaining the benefits of separate light delivery channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering optical device serves multiple functions: it steers image light through the first light path, redirects external light through the second light path, and can independently control viewing angles in multiple dimensions. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall device complexity while expanding viewing area.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed optical device is used, then the device structure is simple, but the field of view is limited and cannot adapt to different viewing positions
Solution Approach 1:
The steering optical device transitions from a fixed position to a dynamically controllable position through multiple actuators. The device can rotate around multiple axes and adjust its orientation in real-time based on viewing requirements. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different viewing positions and angles while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular actuator design.
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 configuration enhances the viewing area and provides a more realistic AR experience by allowing a wider field of view and accurate image projection, addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a spatial light modulator configured to modulate the light emitted by the light source and generate image light
Implementation Method 2
The steering optical device may include a half-transmittance mirror configured to reflect half of incident light and transmit a remaining half of the incident light
Implementation Method 3
The steering optical device may include a polarization beam splitter configured to reflect light having a first linear polarization component and transmit light having a second linear polarization component that is orthogonal to the first linear polarization component
Implementation Method 4
The first optical system may be configured to form a real image of the image light between the concave reflector and a focal point of the concave reflector
Implementation Method 5
a holographic optical element configured to be two-axis rotated, the holographic optical element including a first surface, which faces a pupil of a viewer, and at which a hologram optical pattern focusing the image light to the pupil is formed
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a multi-image display apparatus including a light source configured to emit light, a spatial light modulator configured to modulate the light emitted by the light source and generate image light, a first optical system configured to deliver the image light through a first light path and a second light path that is not parallel with the first light path, and a second optical system configured to deliver external light and the image light delivered through the second light path to a pupil of a viewer, through a third light path that is not parallel with the second light path, wherein the second optical system includes a steering optical device provided at a crossing point of the second light path and the third light path and configured to be two-axis rotated.