Integrated holographic waveguide display system with a common optical path for visible and infrared light

Area of Science:

• Optics
• Photonics
• Display Technology

Background:

• Near-eye displays (NEDs) are crucial for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
• Miniaturization and integration of multiple functionalities, like eye tracking and AR display, are key challenges in NED development.
• Traditional holographic waveguide systems often face limitations in size and complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and demonstrate an integrated holographic waveguide display system.
• To achieve system miniaturization by enabling a common light path for both infrared (IR) eye tracking and visible light AR display.
• To develop a lightweight and thin holographic waveguide for advanced NEDs.

Main Methods:

• Recording an infrared volume holographic grating (IVHG) and a visible light grating on the same waveguide.
• Utilizing a common light path architecture for integrated functionality.
• Conducting simulations and experimental verifications to assess system performance.

Main Results:

• The integrated system successfully combined IR eye tracking and visible light AR display functionalities.
• Achieved coupling efficiencies of 40% for the IR module and 45% for the visible light module.
• The holographic waveguide demonstrated a remarkably low weight of only 4.3 grams.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method is feasible for creating a miniaturized, integrated holographic waveguide display.
• This technique offers a promising approach for developing light and thin eye-tracking near-eye displays.
• The high coupling efficiencies and low weight highlight the potential for practical AR and eye-tracking applications.