Present and Future of Everyday-Use Augmented Reality Eyeglasses

Area of Science:

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

Background:

• Augmented reality (AR) is poised to become a ubiquitous wearable technology, transforming industries.
• Significant investment is being made in AR eyeglasses, but current designs are bulky and not socially acceptable.
• Realizing the potential of AR eyeglasses requires overcoming form factor and display challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop socially acceptable, everyday-use augmented reality eyeglasses.
• To address limitations in current AR display technology and enable diverse applications.
• To achieve well-focused virtual and real imagery for AR users.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing computational imaging, display, and perception techniques.
• Developing advanced algorithms for compact, high-quality, true 3-D holographic displays using digital holography.
• Implementing robust 3-D eye tracking via Purkinje Images with custom hardware and software.
• Creating automatic focus-adjusting display eyeglasses.

Main Results:

• Advances in digital holography enabling compact and high-quality 3-D holographic displays.
• Development of a comprehensive 3-D eye-tracking system using Purkinje Images.
• Creation of AR display eyeglasses with automatic focus adjustment for clear visuals.
• Progress towards achieving a socially acceptable, everyday-use AR eyeglasses form factor.

Conclusions:

• The research contributes key advancements towards realizing everyday-use augmented reality eyeglasses.
• The developed technologies in holographic displays and eye tracking are crucial for future AR wearable devices.
• This work paves the way for widespread adoption of AR in medicine, education, and navigation.