One-Dimensional Waveguide Diffractive Elements for AR Eyebox

The patent divides the traditional two-dimensional eyebox into two separate one-dimensional eyeboxes oriented perpendicular to each other. The first diffractive optical element creates a first one-dimensional eyebox, and the second diffractive optical element creates a second one-dimensional eyebox. This segmentation allows the system to maintain adequate viewing area while directing light more precisely toward the viewer's eye, reducing light loss.

The patent transitions from a conventional two-dimensional eyebox to two separate one-dimensional eyeboxes. By changing the dimensionality approach, the system achieves similar functional coverage while improving light directionality and efficiency. The first one-dimensional eyebox extends in one direction and the second one-dimensional eyebox extends perpendicular to it, together providing comprehensive viewing coverage.

The patent segments the pupil expansion function into two separate diffractive optical elements, each handling one dimension independently. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each element to be optimized and fabricated separately with relaxed tolerances, rather than requiring a complex series of expansion gratings to achieve two-dimensional expansion simultaneously.

Each diffractive optical element is designed with specific local properties optimized for its particular function. The first diffractive optical element has properties optimized for creating the first one-dimensional eyebox, while the second diffractive optical element has properties optimized for creating the second one-dimensional eyebox. This localized optimization reduces overall manufacturing complexity and improves design flexibility.

The patent divides the light coverage function into two separate one-dimensional expansion functions. The first diffractive optical element expands light in one dimension to create the first one-dimensional eyebox, and the second diffractive optical element expands light in the perpendicular dimension to create the second one-dimensional eyebox. This segmentation reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for a series of interconnected expansion gratings.

The patent changes from a two-dimensional expansion approach to two separate one-dimensional expansion approaches. This dimensional transformation simplifies the optical design and manufacturing process, as each diffractive optical element can be independently designed and fabricated with standard techniques, reducing overall device complexity.