Augmented reality and virtual reality displays: emerging technologies and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Display Technology

Background:

• Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are advancing rapidly, requiring high-performance near-eye displays that are also compact and lightweight.
• Traditional optical components face significant challenges in meeting the demands of next-generation AR/VR systems.
• Holographic optical elements (HOEs) and lithography-enabled devices present promising alternatives for overcoming these optical engineering hurdles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fundamental principles and properties of HOEs and lithography-enabled devices for AR and VR applications.
• To analyze the performance characteristics of various advanced optical elements relevant to near-eye displays.
• To discuss state-of-the-art architectures and future research directions in photonic devices for AR/VR.

Main Methods:

• Introduction to AR/VR headset structures and optical principles.
• Detailed analysis of HOE properties: wavelength/angle selectivity, multiplexing, polarization, active switching.
• Examination of lithography-enabled devices: micro-LED fabrication, metasurface design freedom.

Main Results:

• HOEs offer unique properties like wavelength selectivity and multiplexing capabilities.
• Liquid crystal HOEs provide polarization control and active switching.
• Micro-LEDs and metasurfaces enable compact, high-performance display components.
• Analysis of advanced architectures demonstrating enhanced AR/VR performance.

Conclusions:

• HOEs and lithography-enabled photonic devices are crucial for advancing AR and VR display technology.
• These technologies address key challenges in optical engineering for near-eye displays.
• Future developments hold significant potential for more immersive and capable AR/VR experiences.