Total-Reflection Optical Waveguide Arrays for Wide-Field Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging technologies face limitations in large-field and large-aperture imaging displays due to optical aberrations and inefficiencies in light energy utilization, particularly in naked-eye 3D displays, where light loss and uneven intensity at various viewing angles hinder effective 3D imaging.
Innovation Solution
The optical waveguide unit employs a structure with total reflection layers and sub-waveguides arranged in specific configurations to modulate light at different angles, improving light collection efficiency and uniformity across viewing angles, and a flat lens design using orthogonal optical waveguide arrays to achieve symmetrical imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lens is used for imaging, then imaging function is achieved, but optical aberrations occur and field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the waveguide structure into multiple sub-waveguides with different orientations (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) and incorporates multiple total reflection layers at specific positions. This segmentation allows different light paths to be controlled independently, achieving large-field imaging while eliminating optical aberrations that plague single-lens systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 3D lens imaging to a 2D planar waveguide structure. By using total internal reflection at multiple interfaces within a planar waveguide, the system achieves large-field imaging without the spherical aberration and field curvature inherent in lens-based 3D imaging systems.
2Loss of energy
If total reflection layers are added to reduce light loss, then light energy utilization improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places total reflection layers at specific locations within the waveguide structure rather than uniformly throughout. The layers are positioned at critical interfaces where light reflection is needed to prevent loss, maintaining simplicity in regions where reflection is not required. This localized approach optimizes light energy utilization while minimizing added structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates total reflection layers directly into the waveguide structure, merging the reflection function with the light guiding function. By combining these functions into a unified structure rather than adding separate components, the system improves light energy utilization without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Illumination intensity
If sub-waveguides are arranged to collect light at different angles, then viewing angle uniformity improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sub-waveguides with asymmetric angular arrangements (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) rather than symmetric uniform distribution. This asymmetric configuration optimizes light collection from different incident angles while providing tolerance for manufacturing variations, as the angular relationships are designed to work effectively within practical fabrication tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes specific geometric parameters of the sub-waveguides and total reflection layers (such as widths, spacing, and angular orientations) to achieve uniform viewing angle characteristics. By carefully selecting these parameters, the system attains viewing angle uniformity while maintaining manufacturability within standard precision capabilities.
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 solution enhances light energy utilization and uniformity, reducing light loss and improving the imaging quality, enabling high-resolution 2D or 3D displays with enhanced viewing effects.
Implementation Method 1
at least one group of total reflection layers, each group including at least one type of total reflection layer
Implementation Method 2
optical waveguide unit includes: at least one group of total reflection layers
Data Source
AI summary
An optical waveguide unit, an optical waveguide array including optical waveguide units, and a flat lens including optical waveguide arrays. The optical waveguide unit includes: at least one group of total reflection layers, each group including at least one type of total reflection layer, and each type of total reflection layer including at least one single total reflection layer; and at least two sub-waveguides, one group being arranged between every two adjacent sub-waveguides.