Variable Mask for Wearable Display Image Washout Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable image display devices, such as augmented reality goggles and night vision goggles, face issues with image degradation when combining two images, where dark areas in one image can become washed out or invisible due to the brightness of the other image.
Innovation Solution
A display apparatus with a beam combiner and a variable mask that masks portions of the second image based on the content of the first image, using transmissive, non-transmissive, and partially transmissive portions controlled by a controller to prevent washout of dark areas in the combined image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two images are combined in a wearable display device, then additional information is displayed, but dark areas in one image become washed out or invisible due to brightness of the other image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making different portions of the mask have different transmissivity characteristics. The mask includes first portions with first transmissivity and second portions with second transmissivity, allowing selective control of light transmission in different spatial regions. This resolves the contradiction by preserving dark areas in the first image while allowing bright areas to be augmented, achieving both information display and brightness uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamics by using a variable mask whose transmissivity can be dynamically adjusted. The mask's transmissivity in different portions can be changed based on the content being displayed, allowing the system to adapt to different imaging scenarios and maintain optimal image quality across varying conditions.
2Illumination intensity
If a variable mask is used to block portions of the second image, then dark areas are preserved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the mask into multiple discrete portions with different transmissivity characteristics. This segmentation allows independent control of different mask regions, enabling precise control over which areas of the second image are blocked. The segmented approach simplifies the control logic compared to continuous variable adjustment while achieving the same dark area preservation effect.
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
Preserves dark areas in the combined image by blocking bright portions of the second image that overlap with dark areas of the first image, ensuring they remain visible and avoiding pixelation, thus enhancing image quality in wearable display devices.
Implementation Method 1
A variable mask is configured to mask portions of the second image from the beam combiner... A controller is configured to shape the variable mask according to the content of the first image
Data Source
AI summary
A display apparatus includes a beam combiner receiving a first image projected by a source, and a second image. The beam combiner combines the first image and the second image into a third image. A variable mask is configured to mask portions of the second image from the beam combiner. A controller is configured to shape the variable mask according to the content of the first image.