Waveguide Layout for Adjustable AR Virtual Image Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented reality display devices face limitations in providing flexible and dynamic adjustments to virtual image parameters such as position, distance, and field of view, due to their single image guiding unit architecture.
Innovation Solution
A waveguide device with multiple image coupling-in and coupling-out elements in a radial alignment, allowing independent light guiding and output control of light beams with different diffraction angles and wave functions, enabling diverse and adjustable virtual image presentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single image guiding unit is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability of virtual image parameters (position, distance, field of view) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide device is segmented into multiple independent image guiding units (first and second image guiding units), each capable of independently guiding light beams and generating virtual images. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for specific parameter ranges while collectively providing broad adaptability across multiple parameters including position, distance, and field of view.
Solution Approach 2:
Each image guiding unit is designed with multi-functional capability to guide light beams with different wavelengths and generate virtual images with different parameters. The waveguide substrate serves multiple functions by integrating multiple coupling-in elements and coupling-out elements that can handle various light beams simultaneously, achieving universal adaptability without requiring separate dedicated systems for each parameter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image guiding units are used, then virtual image parameter adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple image guiding units are merged into a single integrated waveguide device structure. The first and second image guiding units share common components including the waveguide substrate, coupling-in elements, and coupling-out elements. This merging approach reduces overall device complexity by eliminating redundant structures while maintaining the adaptability benefits of having multiple independent guiding units.
Solution Approach 2:
The image guiding units are nested within a unified waveguide device architecture. Each guiding unit is embedded in the waveguide substrate with its specific coupling-in and coupling-out elements positioned at appropriate locations. This nesting arrangement allows compact integration of multiple functional units without significantly increasing the overall device footprint or structural complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light beams with different diffraction angles are guided independently, then virtual image diversity is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each coupling-in element and its corresponding coupling-out element are designed with localized optimization for specific light beam parameters including diffraction angle and wavelength. The coupling elements are positioned and configured with precise local characteristics tailored to their specific function, allowing independent control of multiple light beams with different parameters while maintaining manufacturability through localized rather than globally uniform precision requirements.
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 a flexible and diversified virtual image experience by allowing independent control of virtual image position, distance, and field of view, overcoming limitations of current single-image guiding unit designs.
Implementation Method 1
The first image coupling-in element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a first light beam to propagate in the at least one light-transmitting substrate
Implementation Method 2
The first image coupling-out element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam propagating in the at least one light-transmitting substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A waveguide device includes at least one light-transmitting substrate, a first image coupling-in element, a first image coupling-out element, a second image coupling-in element, and a second image coupling-out element. The light-transmitting substrate includes a central region and a peripheral region surrounding the central region. The first image coupling-in element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a first light beam into the light-transmitting substrate. The first image coupling-out element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted first light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling-in element is located in the peripheral region and is configured to diffract a second light beam into the light-transmitting substrate. The second image coupling-out element is located in the central region and is configured to diffract the diffracted second light beam propagating in the light-transmitting substrate.