DISPLAY DEVICE WITH OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE AND PROJECTOR

Smart overview of the Invention

The display device integrates an optical waveguide and a projector to present augmented or virtual reality images. The optical waveguide includes input and output optical elements for receiving and displaying images. The projector is directly attached to the waveguide and housed in a movable casing, allowing it to switch between blocking and allowing real-world views through the waveguide. This dual functionality enables the device to operate in both augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) modes.

Field of Use

The invention pertains to display devices designed for AR and VR applications. It leverages imaging waveguides to project information directly to a user's eye, typically in head-mounted displays. Depending on its configuration, the device can either completely block real-world light for a VR experience or permit real-world light to blend with projected images for an AR experience.

Background

Traditional devices are limited to either AR or VR functionalities. For example, the Oculus Rift® offers VR experiences, while Microsoft's HoloLens® provides AR experiences. However, this invention uniquely allows users to choose between these modes by adjusting the projector housing relative to the optical waveguide, effectively acting as a shutter mechanism.

Technical Details

The projector housing serves dual purposes: housing the projector components and functioning as a movable screen that toggles between AR and VR modes. The housing's movement is achieved through rotational or translational adjustments relative to the waveguide. This design eliminates the need for extra components to switch modes, simplifying the device's operation.

Design Configurations

The device can be configured with one or two output optical elements for monocular or binocular displays. It includes mechanisms for rotating or sliding the projector housing in relation to the optical waveguide. The projector may also feature an image processor that corrects image orientation based on its position relative to the waveguide. These configurations ensure flexibility in design and functionality, accommodating various user preferences and operational scenarios.