Transparent Optical Module With Synchronized Microlens Array Modes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) systems face issues such as large form factor, awkward wearability, heavy hardware, high power demand, thermal limitations, insufficient brightness for daylight operation, and high manufacturing costs, which hinder their widespread adoption and integration with eyewear and ophthalmic lenses.
Innovation Solution
A transparent optical module (TOM) system utilizing a patch unit with a micro-lenslet array (aMLA) that synchronizes with a display to provide variable focal length and temporal modulation, allowing seamless integration with real-world viewing, enhanced brightness, and reduced power consumption through pulsed light emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If existing AR/MR systems use traditional display architectures, then they can provide virtual image generation, but they suffer from large form factor, heavy hardware, and high power demand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements pulsed light emission from display pixels synchronized with the aMLA activation cycles. Instead of continuous light emission, the system uses periodic pulsed emission that coincides with when the aMLA is in the 'on' state, dramatically reducing average power consumption while maintaining perceived brightness through temporal integration by the human eye
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: aMLA 'on' state for virtual image generation and aMLA 'off' state for see-through transparency. This dynamic state change allows the system to optimize between providing bright virtual images and consuming minimal power, with the ability to adapt to different viewing conditions and user needs
2Illumination intensity
If existing AR/MR systems use traditional optical architectures, then they can generate virtual images, but they have large form factor and awkward wearability
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into discrete patch units, each comprising a small region of display pixels and an associated aMLA. This segmentation allows the optical module to be distributed across the display surface rather than requiring a single large optical component, enabling compact form factor and integration with eyewear
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the temporal dimension by implementing time-varying optical properties through the aMLA. The aMLA transitions between 'on' and 'off' states in synchronization with display pixel activation, adding a time dimension to the optical system that allows a single static physical structure to provide multiple functional states, thereby reducing spatial requirements
3Reliability
If existing AR/MR systems use fixed optical configurations, then they can provide stable image generation, but they lack adaptability for different viewing modes and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The aMLA provides dynamic adaptability by switching between 'on' and 'off' states, enabling the system to adapt between different viewing modes (virtual image generation vs. see-through transparency). The focal length of the aMLA can also be varied when in the 'on' state, providing additional adaptability for different viewing conditions and user preferences while maintaining stable optical performance within each mode
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 TOM system achieves scalable, low-complexity, and cost-effective AR/MR experiences with improved brightness, reduced stray light, and adaptable functionality, resolving vergence accommodation conflict and enhancing immersion through synchronized virtual and real-world image integration.
Implementation Method 1
an associated 2D array of small micro lenses (generally referred to herein as 'lenses,' 'lenslets,' or 'micro lenses'), for example on an aMLA. The lenslet is capable of collecting some or most of the light from the display pixels and transmitting that display-emitted light to an eye of the wearer of the TOM which then focuses the light to form a retinal image
Implementation Method 2
enhanced brightness, and reduced power consumption through pulsed light emission
Implementation Method 3
A Milo, Inc. aMLA, as described herein, may be synchronized (in time) to a display
Data Source
AI summary
A multiplexed, synchronized Active (micro) Lens(let) Array and display providing a user or manufacturer with the ability to choose different modes of functionality of a transparent optical module, such as three-dimensional virtual image generation, two-dimensional image generation, static MLA functionality, augmented, mixed, or enhanced reality, variations in brightness, and other modes.