Tunable Astigmatism Lens Stack with Segmented Cylindrical Lenses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for tunable astigmatism are complex, inaccurate, and not suitable for mass production, particularly in the context of AR-VR applications, which require compact, low-power, and cost-effective solutions for correcting astigmatic aberrations.
Innovation Solution
A lens stack comprising two cylindrically tunable lenses positioned at a predetermined angle, with actuators on transparent membranes and connected via a rigid assembly, allowing for the creation of tunable astigmatism within a range of +/- 3 diopters in any orientation, and optionally including a third lens for improved focusing functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current lens stack solutions are used to create tunable astigmatism, then astigmatic correction is achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing accuracy becomes difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the astigmatic correction function into two separate cylindrical lenses (first and second cylindrical lenses) positioned at different orientations. Each lens handles a specific meridian of astigmatism, simplifying the individual lens design and manufacturing while achieving comprehensive correction through their combination. This segmentation allows each lens to be optimized independently for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a spatial dimension by positioning the two cylindrical lenses at different angular orientations (first orientation and second orientation) relative to each other. This angular arrangement in the spatial domain enables the system to correct astigmatism in multiple meridians simultaneously, transforming a complex single-lens problem into a manageable multi-component solution with controlled geometry.
2Reliability
If complex lens stack solutions are implemented for tunable astigmatism, then correction capability is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the correction function into two simple cylindrical lenses rather than one complex lens, the invention enables each component to be manufactured using standard, well-established processes. The simplified geometry of cylindrical lenses compared to complex aspheric or freeform lenses makes them more suitable for mass production with consistent quality control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses two cylindrical lenses with similar geometric characteristics and material properties, allowing for standardized manufacturing processes, tooling, and quality inspection methods to be applied across both components. This homogeneity in design simplifies the supply chain and manufacturing workflow compared to using dissimilar optical elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If AR-VR applications require compact tunable astigmatism solutions, then application suitability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates tunability by making the cylindrical lenses adjustable in power and/or orientation, allowing the optical system to adapt to different users' astigmatic requirements in real-time. This dynamic adjustment capability, achieved through mechanisms such as variable focal length elements or rotatable mounts, provides the versatility needed for AR-VR applications while maintaining a relatively simple structural footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens stack design provides multi-functionality by simultaneously correcting astigmatism in multiple meridians, enabling focus adjustment, and potentially integrating with other AR-VR optical functions. This universal design approach allows a single compact assembly to serve multiple optical correction needs, reducing the overall system complexity compared to having separate components for each function.
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 provides an accurate and dynamic means to correct astigmatic aberrations, offering a compact, low-power, and cost-effective solution suitable for mass production, addressing the limitations of existing technologies in AR-VR applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first cylindrically tunable lens comprising a lens body sandwiched between a first and a second transparent membrane and one or more actuators located onto the first transparent membrane or onto the second transparent membrane
Data Source
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AI summary
A lens stack for creating tunable astigmatism comprising one or more cylindrically tunable lenses.