Tunable Diffractive Mirror for AR Vision Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing augmented reality head-mounted devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust the visualization of computer-generated images based on the wearer's vision, including distance, direction, and optical aberrations, leading to discomfort and reduced effectiveness in providing personalized and adaptive augmented reality experiences.

Innovation Solution

A head-mounted device equipped with a see-through tunable diffractive mirror, such as a holographic or LCD array mirror, that adjusts the visualization of computer-generated images by tuning the mirror's optical properties to correct ametropia, adjust focal points, and optimize image display based on wearer data, including prescription data and eye tracking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed optical system is used in head-mounted devices, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different wearer vision requirements and provides poor visual comfort

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to wearer visionVSAvoidoptical system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a tunable diffractive mirror that can dynamically adjust its optical properties (focal length, reflection angle) in real-time to adapt to different wearer vision requirements. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to provide personalized augmented reality experiences while maintaining a relatively compact device structure, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes optical parameters (focal distance, gaze direction, aberration correction) of the diffractive mirror to accommodate different wearer conditions including ametropia and presbyopia. By adjusting these parameters rather than redesigning the entire optical system, the patent achieves high adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If computer-generated images are displayed at fixed distance and direction, then the display system is simple, but it causes visual discomfort and reduces effectiveness for different wearer conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeffectiveness of augmented realityVSAvoidvisualization adjustment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates eye tracking functionality that provides feedback on wearer gaze direction and focus distance. This feedback is used by the controller to dynamically adjust the diffractive mirror's optical properties, ensuring that computer-generated images are always displayed at the optimal position and orientation for the wearer's current viewing conditions, thereby improving reliability without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts image display parameters (distance, direction, focal point) based on real-time wearer conditions. This dynamic adaptation ensures consistent visual comfort and effectiveness across different usage scenarios, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If optical aberrations are not corrected, then the device structure remains simple, but visual comfort and image quality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical aberrationsVSAvoidoptical correction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tunable diffractive mirror is configured to correct optical aberrations including aspherization and field aberrations by adjusting its surface profile parameters. This parameter-based correction approach eliminates the need for additional complex optical elements while improving image quality and visual comfort, effectively resolving the contradiction between aberration correction and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 wearer comfort and effectiveness of augmented reality by dynamically adjusting image display to match the wearer's vision, correcting optical aberrations, and providing personalized visualization experiences.

Implementation Method 1

the image source (IS) is configured for the emission of a light beam towards said mirror (M), wherein said emitted light beam is reflected onto said mirror (M) and thereby is directed towards said eye of the wearer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

tuning the mirror (M) for adjusting at least partially the wearer's vision, adjusting the focal point for visualization of the computer-generated image to the position of the eye of the wearer, correcting secondary optical aberrations

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS11762199B2Methods and systems for augmented reality
Publication Date: 2023.09.19 ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL(COMPAGNIE GENERALE D OPTIQUE)
  • US11762199B2 patent drawing
  • US11762199B2 patent drawing
  • US11762199B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system for image display with a head-mounted device, which use a seethrough tunable diffractive mirror, such as a see-through tunable holographic mirror or seethrough tunable LCD array mirror, which mirror is useful in providing augmented reality.