Transparent LCD Embedded in Optical Lens for Augmented Reality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs) are not suitable for augmented reality applications that require transparency and the ability to superimpose information on the real world, as they typically rely on backlights or reflective surfaces, which obstruct the view when not rendering images.
Innovation Solution
A transparent LCD system is embedded within a lens frame that positions the LCD in front of the user's eye, using orthogonal polarization filters and independently controllable liquid crystal molecules to render images while maintaining transparency, allowing users to see through the display and filter ultraviolet light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a conventional LCD with backlight is used, then image rendering capability is improved, but transparency and view of real world deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the backlight unit from the LCD structure, extracting the light source component that causes obstruction. The display now relies on ambient light passing through the liquid crystal layer, enabling transparency when no image is displayed while maintaining image rendering capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The LCD transitions between two dynamic states: transparent state where ambient light passes through unchanged, and image display state where liquid crystal molecules rotate to modulate light polarization. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction between transparency and image rendering.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a reflective LCD is used, then image rendering without backlight is improved, but viewing angle and brightness control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the liquid crystal layer by applying voltage to rotate molecules between 0 and 90 degrees, dynamically controlling light polarization. This enables precise control of display brightness and viewing characteristics without relying on reflective surfaces, resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and brightness control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an augmented reality display is added to a lens system, then information superimposition capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the LCD display structure directly with the lens system by embedding the LCD within the lens housing and using the lens curvature to conform to the eye's surface. This integration combines optical functions and display functions into a single unified structure, reducing overall device complexity while enabling augmented reality functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens system serves multiple functions: optical focusing, structural support for the LCD, and augmented reality display surface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while achieving augmented reality capability.
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
Enables the user to view augmented reality information and communicate wirelessly while maintaining a clear view of the surroundings, supporting applications like messaging and gaming with dynamic image rendering and user input recognition.
Implementation Method 1
The pixels in an LCD are formed by a layer of liquid crystal molecules that are disposed between two transparent electrode layers. These liquid crystal and electrode layers are positioned between polarization filter layers. The polarization of the two filter layers is orthogonal to effectively block the passage of light. The electrode layers control the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules that modifies the polarization of the light
Implementation Method 2
The electrode layers control the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules that modifies the polarization of the light and enables the light to pass through the filters to the viewer
Implementation Method 3
Lens system 101 comprises one or more transparent materials, such as glass, plastic, or some other see-through material
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication system includes a transparent lens system coupled to a frame that positions the lens system in front of a user's eye when the frame is mounted on the user's head. A wireless transceiver wirelessly receives display control signals and transfers the display control signals to an LCD system that is embedded within the transparent lens system. The LCD system renders images and transparency in response to the display control signals. In some examples, an optical receiver transfers the optical information signals to the wireless transceiver, and the transceiver wirelessly transfers the optical information signals. In some examples, a wireless communication device wirelessly transfers the display control signals and receives the optical information signals.