Waveguide Projector Dual Pupil Expander Wide Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional augmented reality display systems have limitations in providing an extended field of view, which restricts user experience and application potential in computer vision and image display systems.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple pupil expander assemblies and diffractive waveguides in wearable displays, allowing for the projection of multiple fields of view that can be tiled or overlapped, increasing the overall field of view beyond conventional systems by optimizing light delivery and angular range through total internal reflection and diffractive elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional waveguide display systems use a single pupil expander assembly, then the device complexity is low, but the field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide display system is divided into multiple pupil expander assemblies, each responsible for a specific angular range or field of view sector. This segmentation allows the system to achieve a wider total field of view by combining the outputs of multiple assemblies, directly resolving the contradiction between limited field of view and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the field of view by utilizing angular dimension through multiple pupil expander assemblies that project images at different angles. This dimensional approach allows the system to double the field of view while managing complexity through structured angular distribution of optical elements.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple pupil expander assemblies are used to double the field of view, then the field of view is extended, but the light distribution and optical alignment become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Diffractive optical elements serve as intermediaries between the multiple pupil expander assemblies and the waveguide, managing light distribution and angular redirection. These intermediary elements simplify the overall light distribution complexity by providing a unified method for directing light from multiple sources into the waveguide structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in optical parameters such as diffraction angles and waveguide thickness to control and optimize light distribution across multiple pupil expander assemblies. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves improved light distribution while maintaining the extended field of view capability.
3Area of stationary object
If diffractive elements are used to optimize light delivery, then the angular range and field of view are improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical optical elements with diffractive optical elements that achieve angular control through light diffraction rather than mechanical alignment. This substitution improves the angular range and field of view while the diffractive structures can be manufactured using standard photolithography techniques, managing the precision requirements through established manufacturing processes.
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
This approach effectively doubles the field of view, enabling binocular processing and providing a more immersive experience with increased depth planes and improved light distribution, enhancing user experience and application capabilities in augmented reality systems.
Implementation Method 1
optimizing light delivery and angular range through total internal reflection and diffractive elements
Implementation Method 2
optimizing light delivery and angular range through total internal reflection and diffractive elements
Data Source
AI summary
A waveguide display disposed in glasses includes a first pupil expander assembly operable to project a first image defined by a first field of view, and a second pupil expander assembly disposed adjacent the first pupil expander assembly and operable to project a second image defined by a second field of view different from the first field of view. The first pupil expander assembly is operable to emit light at a first non-zero angle with respect to a first emission plane associated with the first pupil expander assembly. The second pupil expander assembly is operable to emit light at a second non-zero angle with respect to a second emission plane associated with the second pupil expander assembly. The first non-zero angle is opposite to the second non-zero angle.