Suppressing optical crosstalk in microLED arrays for AR displays: a simulation and design study

Shuming Zhang , Jiahao Kang , Chengzhe Chai

Optics Letters +

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December 15, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Researchers optimized MicroLED displays for augmented reality (AR) by reducing optical crosstalk. A novel device architecture significantly improved light extraction efficiency and emission directionality for superior AR imaging.

Area Of Science

Optoelectronics
Display Technology
Nanophotonics

Background

Augmented reality (AR) displays require MicroLEDs with high light extraction efficiency (LEE) and directionality.
Optical crosstalk in MicroLEDs degrades image quality, necessitating effective suppression strategies.

Purpose Of The Study

To develop a simulation framework for investigating crosstalk suppression in MicroLEDs for AR.
To introduce and utilize collimation efficiency (CE) as a key metric for AR system performance.

Main Methods

Utilized finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations to model MicroLED device architectures.
Investigated the impact of device modifications, including n-GaN layer thinning and reflective cups, on crosstalk.
Simulated the effect of a microlens layer on enhancing collimation efficiency.

Main Results

A thinned n-GaN layer with a reflective cup effectively eliminated primary crosstalk from sidewalls and waveguiding.
The optimized architecture, including a thick microlens layer, achieved a collimation efficiency (CE) of 15.57%.
The effective optical crosstalk was reduced to a minimal 0.77%.

Conclusions

The proposed device architecture offers an effective strategy for crosstalk suppression in MicroLEDs for AR displays.
Achieving low crosstalk and high CE is crucial for enhancing AR image quality.
This simulation-driven approach provides a pathway for designing next-generation AR display technologies.