KR20210106927A - Optical device for augmented reality using diffractive element - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element. The present invention includes: a diffractive element providing a virtual image to a user by transmitting virtual image light emitted from an image output unit toward the user's pupil and transmitting real object image light emitted from a real world object to the user's pupil; and optical means for transmitting the real object image light emitted from the real object toward the user's pupil with the diffractive element disposed. The optical means is provided with: a first surface where the real object image light and the virtual image light transmitted through the diffractive element are emitted toward the user's pupil; and a second surface facing the first surface and allowing the real object image light to be incident. The diffractive element is embedded in the inside between the first and second surfaces of the optical means.

Description

Optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element

The present invention relates to an optical device for augmented reality, and more particularly, to an optical device for augmented reality capable of reducing a form factor by transmitting a virtual image to a user's pupil using a diffractive element.

Augmented reality (AR), as is well known, means providing a virtual image provided by a computer or the like on top of a real image of the real world. That is, it refers to a technology for simultaneously providing virtual image information augmented from visual information in the real world to a user.

In order to implement such augmented reality, an optical system capable of providing a virtual image generated by a device such as a computer overlaid on an image of the real world is required. However, the conventional device using an optical system has a problem in that it is inconvenient to wear because the structure is complicated and the weight and volume are considerable, and the manufacturing process is also complicated, so that the manufacturing cost is high.

In addition, conventional devices have a problem in that the virtual image becomes out of focus if the user changes the focal length while gazing at the real world. In order to solve this problem, a technique using a prism capable of adjusting a focal length for a virtual image or a technique for electrically controlling a variable focus lens according to a change of a focal length has been proposed. However, this technique also has a problem in that a user needs to perform a separate operation to adjust the focal length, and separate hardware and software for controlling the focal length are required.

In order to solve the problems of the prior art, the present applicant has developed a technology for projecting a virtual image onto the retina through the pupil using a pin mirror-shaped reflector having a size smaller than that of a human pupil ( See Prior Art Document 1).

1 shows a side view of an optical device 100 for augmented reality as described in Prior Art Document 1 .

The optical apparatus 100 for augmented reality of FIG. 1 includes an optical means 10 , a reflection unit 20 , and an image output unit 30 .

The optical means 10 transmits real object image light, which is image light emitted from an object in the real world, while emitting the virtual image image light reflected by the reflection unit 20 to the pupil 40 .

A reflection unit 20 is embedded in the optical means 10 . The optical means 10 may be formed of, for example, a transparent material such as a spectacle lens, and may be fixed by a frame (not shown) such as a spectacle frame.

The image output unit 30 is a means for emitting virtual image image light, for example, a micro display device for displaying a virtual image on the screen and emitting a virtual image image light corresponding to the displayed virtual image, and image light emitted from the micro display device may be provided with a collimator for collimating the

The reflection unit 20 reflects the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 and transmits it toward the user's pupil 40 .

The reflector 20 of FIG. 1 is formed to have a size smaller than that of a human pupil. Since the size of a human pupil is known to be about 4 to 8 mm, it is preferable that the reflective part 20 be formed to be 8 mm or less. By forming the reflection unit 20 to be 8 mm or less, the depth of field for light incident to the pupil 40 through the reflection unit 20 can be made close to infinity, that is, very deep.

Here, the depth of field refers to a range recognized as being in focus. As the depth increases, the focal length of the virtual image also increases correspondingly. Therefore, even if the user changes the focal length for the real world while gazing at the real world, the virtual image is always recognized as in focus regardless of the change. This can be seen as a kind of pinhole effect.

Accordingly, by forming the reflector 20 to be smaller than the pupil, the user can always observe a clear virtual image even if the user changes the focal length of the real object.

Meanwhile, the present applicant has developed an optical device 200 for augmented reality using a plurality of reflectors based on the basic principle of the optical device 100 for augmented reality as shown in FIG. 1 (see Prior Art Document 2).

2 shows a side view of the optical device 200 for augmented reality disclosed in Prior Art Document 2 .

The optical device 200 for augmented reality of FIG. 2 also includes an optical means 10 , a reflector 20 and an image output unit 30 , and the basic configuration is the same as the optical device 100 for augmented reality of FIG. 1 . do. However, in the optical device 200 for augmented reality of FIG. 2 , when viewed from the side, the reflective unit 20 is composed of a plurality of reflective modules 21 to 29 , and can transmit the virtual image image light to the pupil 40 . It is different in that it is arranged to form a gentle curved shape.

The optical device 200 for augmented reality of FIG. 2 has the advantage of providing a wide viewing angle and improving light efficiency, but a plurality of reflection modules 21 to 29 are precisely arranged inside the optical means 10 . Therefore, there is a problem that the manufacturing process is difficult. In addition, since the plurality of reflection modules 21 to 29 must be disposed inside the optical means 10 , as shown in FIG. 2 , the plurality of reflection modules 21 to 29 are spaced in the left and right directions inside the optical means 10 . will occupy Therefore, there is also a problem that the form factor is limited.

Furthermore, since the plurality of reflection modules 21 to 29 are spaced apart from each other inside the optical means 10, the positions and shapes of the reflection modules 21 to 29 and the image output unit ( 30), there is a problem in that the correction process of the virtual image is additionally required.

Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-1660519 (published on September 29, 2016) Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2192942 (Announcement on Dec. 14, 2020)

An object of the present invention is to provide an optical device for augmented reality capable of reducing a form factor by transmitting a virtual image to a user's pupil using a diffraction element to solve the above problems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an optical device for augmented reality capable of reducing manufacturing cost by simplifying the manufacturing process and increasing efficiency in the manufacturing process.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an optical device for augmented reality capable of providing a virtual image clearly by improving the optical uniformity of the virtual image.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, and provides a virtual image to the user by transmitting the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit toward the pupil of the user's eye. and a diffraction element that transmits real object image light emitted from an object in the real world to the pupil of the user's eye; and optical means for transmitting the real object image light emitted from the real object to the pupil of the user's eye, wherein the diffractive element is disposed, wherein the optical means is a virtual image image transmitted through the diffractive element A first surface on which light and real object image light are emitted toward a user's pupil, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and on which real object image light is incident, the diffractive element is the first surface of the optical means There is provided an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is embedded in the interior between the surface and the second surface.

Here, the diffractive element may be a reflective diffractive element or a transmissive diffractive element.

In addition, a holographic optical element (HOE) may be used instead of the diffractive element.

In addition, the diffractive element may be formed in a single plane.

Also, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit may be totally reflected on the first surface or the second surface of the optical means and then transmitted to the diffraction element.

In addition, the diffractive element may be disposed inside the first surface or the second surface of the optical means.

In addition, an inner space may be formed inside the optical means, and the inner space may have a first surface on which the diffractive element is disposed, and a second surface that is opposite to the first surface.

Also, the inner space may be in a vacuum state.

In addition, the inner space may be filled with a medium having a refractive index different from that of the optical means.

In addition, the diffractive element may be formed in a curved surface.

In addition, the diffractive element may be composed of a plurality of diffraction modules spaced apart from each other.

Also, the diffraction modules may be arranged so as not to be located on one single straight line when viewed from the side.

In addition, the diffraction modules may be arranged such that they do not appear to be spaced apart from each other when viewed from the front.

In addition, the diffractive element may be disposed to be inclined so as not to be parallel to the first and second surfaces of the optical means when viewed from the side.

According to another aspect of the present invention, as an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit is transmitted toward the pupil of the user's eye to provide a virtual image to the user, a diffraction element that transmits the real object image light emitted from the object to the pupil of the user's eye; and optical means for transmitting the real object image light emitted from the real object to the pupil of the user's eye, wherein the diffractive element is disposed, wherein the optical means is a virtual image image transmitted through the diffractive element A first surface on which light and real object image light are emitted toward a user's pupil, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and on which real object image light is incident, the diffractive element is the first surface of the optical means It provides an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is disposed on the outside of the surface or the second surface.

Here, it may further include a surface cover formed outside the first surface or the second surface of the optical means so as to be spaced apart from the diffractive element to cover the diffractive element.

In addition, an inner space may be formed between the surface cover and the diffractive element, and the inner space may be filled with a medium having a refractive index different from that of the optical means.

In addition, the surface of the surface cover may be formed in a curved surface.

In addition, the diffractive element may be a reflective diffractive element or a transmissive diffractive element.

In addition, a holographic optical element (HOE) may be used instead of the diffractive element.

In addition, the diffractive element may be formed in a single plane.

According to another aspect of the present invention, as an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit is transmitted toward the pupil of the user's eye to provide a virtual image to the user, and the real world a plurality of diffraction elements that transmit the real object image light emitted from the object of the user to the pupil of the user's eye; and a plurality of optical means in which the plurality of diffractive elements are disposed, respectively, and transmits the real object image light emitted from the real object to the pupil of the user's eye, wherein each of the plurality of optical means includes the plurality of A first surface through which virtual image image light and real object image light transmitted through four diffraction elements are emitted toward a user's pupil, and a second surface opposite the first surface and onto which real object image light is incident, Each of the plurality of diffractive elements is respectively disposed outside a second surface of the plurality of optical means, wherein the first surface of each optical means is directed toward the pupil and the second surface of each optical means is a real object Augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the plurality of diffraction elements each transmit virtual image image light corresponding to different wavelength bands to the pupil. An optical device is provided.

According to another aspect of the present invention, as an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit is transmitted toward the pupil of the user's eye to provide a virtual image to the user, and the real world a plurality of diffraction elements that transmit the real object image light emitted from the object of the user to the pupil of the user's eye; and optical means for transmitting the real object image light emitted from the real object to the pupil of the user's eye, wherein the plurality of diffractive elements are disposed, and the optical means is transmitted through the plurality of diffractive elements A first surface on which the virtual image image light and the real object image light are emitted toward the user's pupil, and a second surface opposite the first surface and onto which the real object image light is incident, wherein the plurality of diffraction elements are Diffraction characterized in that it is stacked on the outside of the second surface of the optical means in the front direction from the pupil of the user, and each of the plurality of diffraction elements transmits virtual image image light corresponding to different wavelength bands to the pupil. An optical device for augmented reality using a device is provided.

Here, a holographic optical element (HOE) may be used instead of the diffractive element.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an optical device for augmented reality capable of reducing a form factor by transmitting a virtual image to a user's pupil using a diffractive element.

In addition, the present invention may provide an optical device for augmented reality capable of reducing manufacturing cost by simplifying the manufacturing process and increasing efficiency in the manufacturing process.

In addition, the present invention may provide an optical device for augmented reality that can provide a clear virtual image by improving the optical uniformity of the virtual image.

In particular, due to the wavelength-dependent characteristics of the diffraction phenomenon, the diffraction element operates as a refracting or reflecting element only for light that matches the design wavelength band of the nanostructure, and a window that simply passes light in other wavelength bands. Because it can play a role, by using such a diffractive element instead of a plurality of reflection modules, the transparency is increased to secure more brightness of the fluoroscopic image, and because the optical synthesizer structure is not observed from the outside, the appearance of the product is similar to ordinary glasses. This has the effect of providing a better optical device for augmented reality.

1 shows a side view of an optical device 100 for augmented reality as described in Prior Art Document 1 .
2 shows a side view of the optical device 200 for augmented reality disclosed in Prior Art Document 2 .
3 to 5 are views for explaining an optical device 300 for augmented reality using a diffractive element according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which Fig. 3 is a perspective view, Fig. 4 is a front view, and Fig. 5 is a side view, respectively. it has been shown
6 is a side view of an optical device 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a side view of an optical device 500 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a perspective view of an optical device 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA′ of FIG. 8 .
10 and 11 are perspective and side views of an optical device 700 according to still another embodiment of the present invention.
12 to 14 are perspective views, front views, and side views of an optical device 800 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
15 is a side view of an optical device 900 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
16 is a side view of an optical device 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
17 is a side view of an optical device 1100 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
18 to 20 show an optical device 1200 according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a perspective view, FIG. 19 is a front view, and FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA′ of FIG. .
21 is a side view of an optical device 1300 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
22 is a side view of an optical device 1400 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

3 to 5 are views for explaining an optical device 300 for augmented reality using a diffractive element according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which Fig. 3 is a perspective view, Fig. 4 is a front view, and Fig. 5 is a side view, respectively. it has been shown

3 to 5 , the optical device 300 for augmented reality according to the present embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as “optical device 300”) includes an optical means 10 and a diffractive element 20 .

The optical means 10 is a means in which the diffractive element 20 is disposed, and transmits the real object image light emitted from the object in the real world to the pupil 40 of the user's eye.

The optical means 10 includes a first surface 11 through which virtual image image light and real object image light transmitted through the diffraction element 20 are emitted toward the user's pupil 40, and the first surface 11 and a second surface 12 opposite to and onto which the actual object image light is incident.

In addition, the optical means 10 may include a third surface 13 that is a bottom surface of the optical means 10 and a fourth surface 14 that is an upper surface of the optical means 10 . Here, the fourth surface 14 is defined as a surface on which the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is incident.

The diffractive element 20 is spaced apart from the first surface 11 to the fourth surface 14 of the optical means 10, respectively, and is disposed to be embedded in the optical means 10, as will be described later.

The diffraction element 20 is a means for providing a virtual image to the user by transmitting the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 toward the pupil 40 of the user's eye.

In addition, the diffraction element 20 transmits the real object image light emitted from the object in the real world to the pupil 40 of the user's eyes.

Here, the image output unit 30 is a means for displaying a virtual image and emitting virtual image light that is image light corresponding to the virtual image, for example, a small LCD, OLED, LCoS It includes a collimator that collimates the image light incident with the conventionally known micro display device, such as the like, and emits the collimator as parallel light. Accordingly, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is collimated collimated light or image light for which a focal length is intended.

In the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3 to 5 , the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is totally reflected on the inner surface of the optical means 10 and transmitted to the diffraction element 20 , but this As an example, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 may be directly transmitted to the diffraction element 20 without total reflection from the inner surface of the optical means 10 . In addition, of course, it may be transmitted to the diffraction element 20 after being totally reflected at least twice on the inner surface of the optical means 10 .

Meanwhile, the image output unit 30 may further include an optical element composed of a combination of at least any one of a reflecting means, a refraction means, and a diffraction means. In this case, the optical element reflects, refracts, or diffracts the virtual image image light emitted from the micro display device and transmits it to the diffraction element 20 .

3 to 5 , the image output unit 30 is shown to be disposed above the upper surface of the optical means 10 , but this is exemplary and may be disposed at other locations.

The diffractive element 20 is disposed embedded in the optical means 10 as described above. That is, the diffractive element 20 is spaced apart from the first surface 11 , the second surface 12 , the third surface 13 and the fourth surface 14 of the optical means 10 , respectively, and the optical means 10 . It is disposed in the inner space of the virtual image image light transmitted from the image output unit 30 is transmitted toward the pupil (40) of the user's eye.

In the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3 to 5 , as described above, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is totally reflected on the first surface 11 of the optical means 10 and then the diffraction element (20) is passed.

Meanwhile, in the present invention, the diffractive element 20 refers to an optical element that refracts or reflects incident virtual image image light through a diffraction phenomenon. That is, the diffraction element may be an optical element that provides various optical functions by using the diffraction phenomenon of light.

The diffraction element has the advantage of being able to have a point-to-point image without aberration and a planar structure, and to control aberrations such as an aspherical surface. In addition, although the diffraction element has a very thin thickness of several μm, it is advantageous in reducing the volume and weight of the optical system because it functions similarly to a general lens, prism, or mirror having a thickness of several mm.

In particular, due to the wavelength-dependent characteristics of the diffraction phenomenon, the diffraction element operates as a refracting or reflecting element only for light that matches the design wavelength band of the nanostructure, and a window that simply passes light in other wavelength bands. plays a role Therefore, by using such a diffractive element instead of the conventional reflective module as described in the background art, the brightness of the fluoroscopic image is further secured by increasing the transparency, and the appearance of the product is similar to that of ordinary glasses because the optical synthesizer structure is not observed from the outside. There is an advantage in that it is possible to provide an optical device for augmented reality with better similar aesthetics.

The diffractive element 20 may be divided into a reflective diffractive element and a transmissive diffractive element. 3 to 5 is a case in which a reflective diffractive element is used.

The reflective diffractive element refers to a diffractive element that reflects light incident from a specific direction and position, and the transmissive diffractive element refers to a diffractive element that transmits light incident from a specific direction and position. means small.

Since the basic configuration and characteristics of such a diffractive element, a reflective diffractive element, and a transmissive diffractive element are known in the prior art, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

On the other hand, the diffractive element 20 is preferably formed in a rectangular planar shape when viewed from the front, as shown in FIGS. is of course

In addition, the diffraction element 20 may be formed in a curved surface as will be described later.

Further, the diffractive element 20 is formed in a single plane. Accordingly, compared to the optical device 200 using the plurality of reflection modules 21 to 29 as shown in FIG. 2 , it has an advantage in that the luminance distribution of the virtual image can be uniform. In addition, as described in the background art, unlike the optical device 200 using a plurality of reflection modules 21 to 29, when viewed from the side, it hardly occupies space in the left and right direction of the optical means 10. 10) and the form factor of the optical device 300 can be significantly reduced.

The size of the diffractive element 20 is one of a size corresponding to the exit pupil region required by various conditions such as the size of the virtual image transmitted to the pupil 40 by the diffractive element 20 and the viewing angle. It can be formed as a single flat surface or a curved surface. Considering this point, the diffractive element 20 may be formed to have a larger size than the pupil 40 when viewed from the front.

In addition, as described above, since the diffraction element 20 transmits the real object image light emitted from the object in the real world and transmits it to the pupil 40 of the user's eye, a single unit having a larger size than the pupil 40 Even if it is formed in a plane, the actual object image light may pass through the diffraction element 20 and be transmitted to the pupil 20 . Accordingly, it can be seen that the detailed configuration of the optical path of the virtual image and the real object image light in the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3 to 5 and the effect thereof are completely different from the optical device 200 of FIG. 2 . This point is also the same in the embodiments to be described later.

Meanwhile, in the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3 to 5 , the virtual image image light is transmitted to the diffraction element 20 after being totally reflected on the first surface 11 of the optical means 10 , but the diffraction element Of course, in the case where 20 is a transmissive diffractive element, it may be transmitted to the diffractive element 20 after total reflection from the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 . This can also be applied to all embodiments to be described later.

Meanwhile, in the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3 to 5 , a holographic optical element (HOE) may be used instead of the diffractive element 20 . This can also be applied to all embodiments to be described later.

6 is a side view of an optical device 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 400 of FIG. 6 is the same as the optical device 300 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3 to 5 , except that the diffractive element 20 is disposed on the inside of the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 . There is a difference in point.

In the optical device 400 of FIG. 6 , the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is directly transmitted to the diffraction element 20 without total reflection on the inner surface of the optical means 10 , and the diffraction element 20 . transmits the incident virtual image image light to the pupil 40 .

Meanwhile, when a transmissive diffractive element is used, the diffractive element 20 may be disposed inside the first surface 11 of the optical means 10 .

Meanwhile, in FIG. 6 , it should be noted that the virtual image image light is emitted from the image output unit 30 , but the image output unit 30 is omitted. This is also the case in the following examples.

7 is a side view of an optical device 500 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 500 of FIG. 7 is basically the same as the optical device 300 of the embodiments of FIGS. 3 to 5 except that the diffractive element 20 is a transmissive diffractive element.

In the embodiment of FIG. 7 , the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is totally reflected on the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 and transmitted to the diffraction element 20 , and then the diffraction element 20 . ) and transmitted to the pupil (40).

8 and 9 show an optical device 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the optical device 600, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG.

The optical device 600 of FIGS. 8 and 9 is the same as the optical device 300 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3 to 5 , except that the diffractive element 20 is disposed in the inner space 50 of the optical means 10 . There is a difference in point.

The inner space 50 is formed inside the optical means 10 and includes a first surface 51 on which the diffractive element 20 is disposed, and a second surface 52 which is a surface opposite to the first surface 51 . have

As shown, the first surface 51 and the second surface 52 are formed to be spaced apart from each other to provide an internal space 50 inside the optical means 10 .

Since the inner space 50 is a space formed when the optical means 10 is manufactured, the first surface 51 and the second surface 52 have the same material as that of the optical means 10 .

In addition, since the diffractive element 20 is disposed on the first surface 51 , the first surface 51 has a shape and size corresponding to the shape and size of the diffractive element 20 .

In the optical device 600 of FIGS. 8 and 9 , since a reflective diffractive element is used, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is totally reflected on the first surface 11 of the optical means 10 , It is transmitted to the diffraction element 20 through the first surface 51 of the inner space 50 . Accordingly, the first surface 51 of the internal space 50 acts as a surface on which the virtual image image light is incident.

Meanwhile, the inner space 50 may be in a vacuum state.

In addition, the inner space 50 may be filled with a medium having a refractive index different from that of the optical means 10 .

For example, when the optical means 10 is formed of a glass or plastic material, its refractive index is about 1.5, so the inner space 50 may be filled with a medium having a refractive index different from this.

For example, the inner space 50 may be filled with air having a refractive index of about 1.0003 or other gas other than air having a value close to 1.

On the other hand, a liquid may be used as the medium. For example, since water has a refractive index of about 1.33, the inner space 50 may be filled with water. In addition, other liquids having a refractive index different from that of the optical means 10 may be used as a medium.

In addition, a solid having a refractive index different from that of the optical means 10 may be used as a medium.

In addition, various other materials having a refractive index different from the refractive index of the optical means 10 may be used as a medium.

Meanwhile, the internal space 50 may be filled with a phase change material whose refractive index changes according to at least one of a voltage difference, a temperature, and a pressure.

For example, a phase change material used in a hologram memory, an optical storage device, etc. has a characteristic that the refractive index varies according to conditions such as temperature or pressure in the process of crystallization after applying energy.

Representative materials used in optical storage devices include Sb2Se3, Ge2Sb2Te5, and TeOx (0<x<2) represented by GeSbTe (GST). It changes to a crystalline phase when cooled slowly, and at this time, a difference in refractive index between the crystalline phase and the amorphous phase occurs.

Representative materials used for hologram memories and the like include acrylate-based copolymers, and the refractive index is changed by exposure to a laser.

The phase change material is filled in the inner space 50, and the refractive index in the inner space 50 can be adjusted by the difference in refractive index between the meta material and the optical means 10 by using a change in refractive index according to the condition of the phase change material. have.

In addition, other metamaterials whose refractive index can be changed by an electrical or chemical method may be used as a medium.

On the other hand, the medium filled in the inner space 50 is preferably formed of a transparent material or a translucent material.

As described above, since the inner space 50 is filled with a medium having a refractive index different from the refractive index of the optical means 10 , by appropriately using the properties of the medium, it is possible to provide a visual acuity correction function for the actual object image light. For example, if the inner space 50 is filled with a medium having a refractive index different from that of the optical means 10 and the second surface 52 of the inner space 50 has a curvature, the inner space 50 is a kind of vision. It acts like a corrective lens.

In addition, if the medium is properly selected, the inner space 50 may act like a kind of sunglasses when the external light is bright.

Meanwhile, in the optical device 600 of FIGS. 8 and 9 , a reflective diffractive element has been described as an example, but it goes without saying that a transmissive diffractive element may also be used. In the case of using the transmission type diffraction element, the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is totally reflected on the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 to form the second surface 52 of the internal space 50 . It is incident through and transmitted to the diffraction element 20 .

10 and 11 are perspective views and side views of an optical device 700 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 700 of FIGS. 10 and 11 is basically the same as the optical device 300 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3 to 5 , but a transmission type diffractive element is used as the diffractive element 20 , and the diffractive element 20 is used as the diffractive element 20 . It is different in that it is formed as a curved surface.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , it can be seen that the diffractive element 20 is formed to appear as a smooth "C"-shaped curved surface when viewed from the side.

12 to 14 are perspective views, front views, and side views of an optical device 800 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 800 of FIGS. 12 to 14 is similar to the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3 to 5 , but a transmission type diffractive element is used as the diffractive element 20, and the diffractive element 20 is not a single plane. There is a difference in that it is formed of a plurality of diffraction modules (21, 22, 23).

As shown, the diffraction element 20 is composed of three diffraction modules 21, 22, and 23, and the diffraction modules 21, 22, and 23 are arranged spaced apart from each other when viewed from the side as shown in FIG. It can be seen that it has been

Each of the diffraction modules 21 , 22 , and 23 may be formed as a single flat surface or a curved surface as described above.

Further, each of the diffraction modules 21 , 22 , 23 is arranged so as not to be located on one single straight line when viewed from the side.

In addition, the diffraction modules 21, 22, and 23 are arranged at a slight distance from each other inside the optical means 10 as shown in FIG. 13 when viewed from the front, but the diffraction modules 21, 22, and 23 ) may be arranged so that when viewed from the front, they do not appear to be spaced apart from each other because the actual object image light is transmitted to the pupil 40. Of course, even in this case, each of the diffraction modules 21, 22, and 23 is arranged so as not to be located on one single straight line when viewed from the side.

15 is a side view of an optical device 900 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 900 of FIG. 15 is basically the same as the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3 to 5 except that a transmission type diffraction element is used as the diffractive element 20, and as shown in the figure, the diffractive element when viewed from the side There is a difference in that 20 is inclined so as not to be parallel to the first surface 11 and the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 .

16 is a side view of an optical device 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 1000 of FIG. 16 is a combination of the diffractive elements 20 of the optical devices 700 to 900 of FIGS. 10 to 15 . That is, the diffraction element 20 is composed of a plurality of diffraction modules 21, 22, and 23, and at least some of the diffraction modules 21, 22, 23 are formed in a curved surface, while the diffraction modules 21, 22, 23) is characterized in that it is inclined so as not to be parallel to the first surface 11 and the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 when viewed from the side.

Meanwhile, in the optical devices 700 to 1000 of FIGS. 10 to 16 , a case in which a transmissive diffractive element is used as the diffractive element 20 has been described as an example, but it goes without saying that a reflective diffractive element may be used.

17 is a side view of an optical device 1100 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 1100 of FIG. 17 is similar to the optical device 400 of FIG. 6 , except that the diffractive element 20 is attached and disposed outside the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 . have.

The optical device 1100 of FIG. 17 shows a case in which a reflective diffractive element is used, but when a transmissive diffractive element is used as the diffractive element 20, the diffractive element 20 is the first surface ( 11) can be attached to the outside of the arrangement.

18 to 20 show an optical device 1200 according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is a perspective view, FIG. 19 is a front view, and FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA′ of FIG. .

The optical device 1200 of FIGS. 18 to 20 is the same as the optical device 1100 of FIG. 17 except that it further includes a surface cover 60 .

The surface cover 60, as shown, is spaced apart from the diffractive element 20 and is formed on the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 in the form of covering the diffractive element 20 .

The surface cover 60 is preferably formed of the same material as the optical means 10 since it is necessary to transmit the real object image light from the object in the real world.

Here, the inner space formed between the surface cover 60 and the diffractive element 20 may be filled with a medium having a refractive index different from that of the optical means 10 as described above.

By disposing the surface cover 60 as described above, there is an advantage in that contamination or damage to the diffractive element 20 can be prevented.

In addition, when the surface cover 60 is formed to have a curved surface instead of a flat surface, the space between the surface cover 60 and the diffractive element 20 can act like a lens, so that it is possible to provide a visual acuity correction function for the actual object image light. In addition, by filling the space between the surface cover 60 and the diffraction element 20 with an appropriate medium, it is possible to perform a function such as sunglasses that change color when external light goes out to a bright place.

21 is a side view of an optical device 1300 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 1300 of FIG. 21 is similar to the optical device 300 of FIGS. 3-5, but includes a plurality of diffractive elements 20A, 20B, 20C and a plurality of optical means 10A, 10B, 10C. There is a difference in doing it.

Here, the plurality of optical means 10A, 10B, and 10C, respectively, each of the virtual image image light and the real object image light having different wavelengths transmitted through the plurality of diffraction elements 20A, 20B, and 20C is the user's pupil. The first surfaces 11A, 11B, and 11C emitted toward the 40, and the second surfaces 12A, 12B, and 12C opposite to the first surfaces 11A, 11B, and 11C and onto which the actual object image light is incident. to provide

Further, in the plurality of optical means 10A, 10B, 10C, the first surface 11A, 11B, 11C of each optical means 10A, 10B, 10C is directed toward the pupil 40, and each optical means 10A, 10B , 10C) is stacked in the front direction from the user's pupil 40 so that the second surfaces 12A, 12B, and 12C face the real object.

That is, the plurality of optical means 10A, 10B, and 10C are stacked and spaced apart from each other in the front direction in the pupil 40 with the diffractive elements 20A, 20B, and 20C interposed therebetween.

Further, each of the plurality of diffractive elements 20A, 20B, and 20C is disposed outside the second surfaces 12A, 12B, and 12C of the plurality of optical means 10A, 10B, and 10C, respectively, so that each of the diffractive elements 20A , 20B, and 20C transmit virtual image image light corresponding to different wavelength bands to the pupil 40 .

For example, the diffraction element 20A receives virtual image image light corresponding to a wavelength band of a red (R) series, and the diffraction element 20B receives virtual image image light corresponding to a wavelength band of a green (G) series, and the diffraction element At 20C, the virtual image image light corresponding to the wavelength band of the blue (B) series may be transmitted to the pupil 40 , respectively.

According to such a configuration, there is an advantage in that a plurality of diffractive elements and optical means respectively corresponding to virtual image image light of various wavelength bands can be used.

22 is a side view of an optical device 1400 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The optical device 1400 of FIG. 22 is similar to the optical device 1300 of FIG. 21 , but a single optical means 10 is used, and a plurality of diffractive elements 20A, 20B, and 20C are formed of the optical means 10 . There is a difference in that the second surface 12 is sequentially stacked and disposed.

In the optical device 1400 of FIG. 22 , the plurality of diffractive elements 20A, 20B, and 20C are stacked on the outside of the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 in the front direction from the user's pupil 40 . .

In addition, the plurality of diffractive elements 20A, 20B, and 20C are spaced apart from each other in the front direction in the pupil 40 and are stacked on the outside of the second surface 12 of the optical means 10 .

According to such a configuration, there is an advantage in that a plurality of diffractive elements corresponding to virtual image image light of various wavelength bands can be transmitted to the pupil 40 using one optical means.

In the above, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention has been described, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the present invention as understood by the appended claims. Be careful.

As described above, the diffractive element 20 may be formed of a reflective diffractive element or a transmissive diffractive element, which can be applied to all of the above-described embodiments as long as the position of the diffractive element 20 is appropriately selected.

In addition, a holographic optical element (HOE) may be used instead of the diffractive element 20 , and this may also be applied to all the above-described embodiments.

In addition, in the above embodiments, the virtual image image light incident into the pupil 40 is parallel to the front direction from the pupil 40 and the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 is also all parallel. , it should be noted that this is shown as an example for convenience of description. The virtual image image light emitted from the real image output unit 30 may have various angles and directions, and the virtual image image light transmitted to the pupil 40 through the diffraction element 20 may also have various different angles and directions. It should be noted that all field of view (FOV) angles can be covered according to the direction and angle of the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit 30 by properly disposing the diffraction element 20 .

100, 200 ... conventional optical devices for augmented reality
300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 ... Optical device for augmented reality using diffractive elements
10...optical means
20...diffraction element
30...image exit
40...pupil
50...internal space
60...surface cover

Claims (24)

An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, comprising:
It provides a virtual image to the user by transmitting the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit toward the pupil of the user's eye, and transmits the image light of the real object emitted from the object in the real world to the pupil of the user's eye. diffraction element; and
An optical means in which the diffractive element is disposed, and transmits the real object image light emitted from the real object toward the pupil of the user's eye
including,
The optical means may include a first surface through which the virtual image image light and the real object image light transmitted through the diffraction element are emitted toward the user's pupil, and a second surface opposite the first surface and onto which the real object image light is incident. prepare a side,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is embedded in the interior between the first surface and the second surface of the optical means. The method according to claim 1,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is a reflective diffractive element or a transmissive diffractive element. The method according to claim 1,
An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that a holographic optical element (HOE) is used instead of the diffractive element. The method according to claim 1,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is formed in a single plane. The method according to claim 1,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit is transmitted to the diffractive element after being totally reflected on the first surface or the second surface of the optical means. The method according to claim 1,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is disposed inside the first surface or the second surface of the optical means. The method according to claim 1,
An internal space is formed inside the optical means,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the inner space has a first surface on which the diffractive element is disposed, and a second surface that is opposite to the first surface. 8. The method of claim 7,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the inner space is in a vacuum state. 8. The method of claim 7,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the inner space is filled with a medium having a refractive index different from that of the optical means. The method according to claim 1,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is formed in a curved surface. The method according to claim 1,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it consists of a plurality of diffractive modules spaced apart from each other. 12. The method of claim 11,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the diffraction modules are arranged so as not to be located on one single straight line when viewed from the side. 13. The method of claim 12,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the diffraction modules are arranged so as not to be spaced apart from each other when viewed from the front. The method according to claim 1,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is inclined so as not to be parallel to the first and second surfaces of the optical means when viewed from the side. An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, comprising:
It provides a virtual image to the user by transmitting the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit toward the pupil of the user's eye, and transmits the image light of the real object emitted from the object in the real world to the pupil of the user's eye. diffraction element; and
An optical means in which the diffractive element is disposed, and transmits the real object image light emitted from the real object toward the pupil of the user's eye
including,
The optical means may include a first surface through which the virtual image image light and the real object image light transmitted through the diffraction element are emitted toward the user's pupil, and a second surface opposite the first surface and onto which the real object image light is incident. prepare a side,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is disposed outside the first surface or the second surface of the optical means. 16. The method of claim 15,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is spaced apart from the diffractive element and further comprises a surface cover formed on the outside of the first or second surface of the optical means to cover the diffractive element. 17. The method of claim 16,
An inner space is formed between the surface cover and the diffractive element,
The optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the inner space is filled with a medium having a refractive index different from that of the optical means. 17. The method of claim 16,
An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that the surface of the surface cover is formed in a curved surface. 16. The method of claim 15,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is a reflective diffractive element or a transmissive diffractive element. 16. The method of claim 15,
An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that a holographic optical element (HOE) is used instead of the diffractive element. 16. The method of claim 15,
The diffractive element is an optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that it is formed in a single plane. An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, comprising:
It provides a virtual image to the user by transmitting the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit toward the pupil of the user's eye, and transmits the image light of the real object emitted from the object in the real world to the pupil of the user's eye. a plurality of diffractive elements; and
The plurality of diffractive elements are respectively disposed, and a plurality of optical means for transmitting the real object image light emitted from the real object toward the pupil of the user's eye.
including,
Each of the plurality of optical means includes a first surface through which virtual image image light and real object image light transmitted through the plurality of diffraction elements are emitted toward a user's pupil, and a first surface facing the first surface and real object image light and a second surface on which the incident
Each of the plurality of diffractive elements is respectively disposed outside the second surface of the plurality of optical means,
The plurality of optical means are stacked in a front direction from the user's pupil so that the first surface of each optical means faces the pupil and the second surface of each optical means faces the real object,
The optical apparatus for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that each of the plurality of diffractive elements transmits virtual image image light corresponding to different wavelength bands to the pupil. An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, comprising:
It provides a virtual image to the user by transmitting the virtual image image light emitted from the image output unit toward the pupil of the user's eye, and transmits the image light of the real object emitted from the object in the real world to the pupil of the user's eye. a plurality of diffractive elements; and
An optical means in which the plurality of diffractive elements are disposed, and transmits the real object image light emitted from the real object toward the pupil of the user's eye
including,
The optical means includes a first surface through which the virtual image image light and the real object image light transmitted through the plurality of diffraction elements are emitted toward the user's pupil, and the first surface opposite the first surface and the real object image light is incident having a second side;
The plurality of diffractive elements are stacked on the outside of the second surface of the optical means in the front direction from the user's pupil,
The optical apparatus for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that each of the plurality of diffractive elements transmits virtual image image light corresponding to different wavelength bands to the pupil. 24. The method of claim 22 or 23,
An optical device for augmented reality using a diffractive element, characterized in that a holographic optical element (HOE) is used instead of the diffractive element.

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