Full-color lens-array holographic optical element for three-dimensional optical see-through augmented reality

Area of Science:

• Optics
• Augmented Reality
• Holography

Background:

• Optical see-through augmented reality (AR) systems require advanced display elements.
• Holographic Optical Elements (HOEs) offer potential for integrating display functions.
• Achieving full-color and lens-array capabilities in HOEs is a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and demonstrate a novel optical see-through AR system.
• To develop a full-color lens-array holographic optical element (HOE).
• To integrate HOE technology for enhanced 3D virtual image display in AR.

Main Methods:

• Development of a holographic optical element (HOE) with combined full-color and lens-array functions.
• Utilizing spatial multiplexing for large-area HOE recording.
• Employing wavelength multiplexing for full-color imaging capabilities.
• Construction of a dedicated HOE recording setup.

Main Results:

• A 30 mm × 60 mm full-color lens-array HOE was successfully recorded.
• The HOE demonstrated see-through properties, functioning as a lens array for Bragg-matched lights.
• Experimental validation confirmed the display of full-color 3D virtual images.

Conclusions:

• The proposed full-color lens-array HOE is effective for optical see-through AR systems.
• This technology enables the display of high-quality, full-color 3D virtual imagery.
• The developed HOE represents a significant advancement in AR display technology.