Apple inc. (20240111169). Electronic Device with a Lens Module simplified abstract

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Electronic Device with a Lens Module

Organization Name

apple inc.

Inventor(s)

Ran He of Cupertino CA (US)

Francois R. Jacob of Sunnyvale CA (US)

Zachary A. Granger of Redwood City CA (US)

Brent J. Bollman of Alameda CA (US)

Electronic Device with a Lens Module - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240111169 titled 'Electronic Device with a Lens Module

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a head-mounted display with an optical system that includes a quarter wave plate, a reflective polarizer, and a linear polarizer, all coated without adhesive layers. Additionally, a circular reflective polarizer with a cholesteric liquid crystal layer may be used to provide optical power to the lens module.

  • The optical system of the head-mounted display includes a quarter wave plate coated to the first lens element without an adhesive layer.
  • A reflective polarizer and a linear polarizer are also part of the optical system, with the linear polarizer coated directly on the reflective polarizer without adhesive.
  • A single circular reflective polarizer can be used instead of the quarter wave plate and reflective polarizer, providing optical power to the lens module.
  • The circular reflective polarizer may include a cholesteric liquid crystal layer.

Potential Applications

The technology described in the patent application could be used in virtual reality headsets, augmented reality glasses, and other head-mounted displays for immersive experiences and enhanced visual quality.

Problems Solved

This technology solves the problem of optical distortion and glare in head-mounted displays by using advanced optical components like the quarter wave plate, reflective polarizer, and circular reflective polarizer to improve image quality and reduce unwanted reflections.

Benefits

The benefits of this technology include improved image clarity, reduced glare, enhanced visual experience, and potentially lower manufacturing costs due to the simplified optical system design.

Potential Commercial Applications

The technology could be applied in consumer electronics, gaming, medical imaging, military training, and other industries where head-mounted displays are used. A potential commercial application could be in the development of high-end virtual reality headsets for gaming and entertainment.

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art for this technology could be the use of quarter wave plates, reflective polarizers, and circular reflective polarizers in optical systems for other types of displays or imaging devices. Additionally, advancements in liquid crystal technology and optical coatings may have influenced the development of this technology.

Unanswered Questions

How does the circular reflective polarizer provide optical power to the lens module in the head-mounted display?

The patent application does not provide detailed information on how the circular reflective polarizer specifically provides optical power to the lens module. Further research or experimentation may be needed to understand this aspect of the technology.

What are the potential challenges in manufacturing head-mounted displays with the described optical system?

While the patent application highlights the benefits of the optical system, it does not address any potential challenges or limitations in manufacturing head-mounted displays with these components. Understanding the manufacturing process and any associated difficulties could be crucial for implementing this technology on a larger scale.


Original Abstract Submitted

a head-mounted display may include a display system and an optical system that are supported by a housing. the optical system may be a catadioptric optical system having one or more lens elements. the optical system may include a quarter wave plate that is coated to the first lens element without an intervening adhesive layer. the optical system may further include a reflective polarizer and a linear polarizer. the linear polarizer may be formed as a coating directly on the reflective polarizer (without an intervening adhesive). a single circular reflective polarizer may be used instead of a quarter wave plate and a reflective polarizer. the circular reflective polarizer may be coated to the first lens element without an intervening adhesive layer. the circular reflective polarizer may optionally provide optical power to the lens module. the circular reflective polarizer may include a cholesteric liquid crystal layer.