Patent Description:
The present technology relates to near eye optical display systems and, more particularly but not exclusively to near-eye optical waveguide systems. Some embodiments relate to waveguide systems configured for augmented reality and/or virtual reality devices. Some embodiments relate to near-eye optical displays incorporating the waveguides systems. Some embodiments relate to augmented reality and/or virtual reality displays incorporating the waveguide systems. Some aspects relate to optical methods relating to the waveguide systems. Some method embodiments relate to optical methods for mitigating optical distortion in the waveguides systems.

Optical waveguides may be used in near-eye display systems, such as augmented reality displays and/or virtual reality displays. An augmented reality display allows a user to view their surroundings as well as projected images. These projected images may, for instance, convey additional information about the user's surroundings so as to augment their perception of the physical world. These projected images are first generated by a light projector or other light engine, then collected by, channeled via, replicated by and directed by a waveguide system towards the user's eye. Because the waveguide is transparent, a user is able to see the real world as though wearing ophthalmic glasses. The projected images, due to their higher brightness, are overlaid on the image of the user's surroundings so as to form the final image perceived by the user. The waveguide system is thus an intricate optical piece of equipment that simultaneously accomplishes several tasks. By way of example, to do so, it may comprise a transparent waveguide substrate accommodating an input area and an output area located either on the same major surface or on opposing major surfaces; alternatively, the input or output areas may be within the thickness of the transparent waveguide substrate. The projector light is coupled in by the input area into the transparent waveguide substrate, then propagates along said substrate via total internal reflection until being coupled out from said substrate by the output area towards the user's eye. The input area and the output area are typically made of a refractive index matched spin coated polymer layer on the transparent waveguide substrate surface that may be embossed by a master mold and cured by UV light (nano-imprinting), or exposed to UV through a mask and etched via a chemical process that discriminates between exposed and unexposed areas (nano-lithography), so as to form nanometer-sized patterns able to diffract light in a controlled manner.

The input area and output area may be diffractive optical nanostructures such as gratings, surface relief gratings or holographic optical elements.

The waveguide system family may include not only diffractive waveguide systems such as the ones mentioned earlier but also reflective waveguide systems such as the one based on glass-embedded tilted reflective structures. The precise nature of the nanostructures that diffract the image bearing light introduced to the transparent waveguide substrate by the input area and subsequently directed towards the eye of a user through the output area may be susceptible to environmental contamination. The presence of water vapor and/or dust particles in the atmosphere may affect the optical behavior of the nanometer-sized diffractive patterns and consequently compromise the operation of the waveguide system. It is thus desirable to exclude water vapor and dust particles from the waveguide system.

In <CIT>, a system is disclosed for maintaining the spacing between waveguides in an optical element of a near eye display.

In <CIT>, an optical device usable in a head-mounted display which comprises a light conducting element and at least one wafer is disclosed.

In <CIT>, an optical combiner lens for a wearable heads-up display is disclosed.

According to one aspect of the present technology, an encapsulated waveguide system for a near eye optical display may comprise: a first outer layer, a second outer layer, at least one waveguide substrate comprising an input area and an output area, a first spacer, a sealing element, wherein the at least one waveguide substrate is disposed between the first and second outer layers and spaced therefrom by the first spacer wherein the sealing element joins the first and second outer layers so as to encapsulate the at least one waveguide substrate within a cavity formed by the first and second outer layers; and wherein the formed cavity comprises a first cavity between the at least one waveguide substrate and the first outer layer and a second cavity between the at least one waveguide substrate and the second outer layer, characterized by the first cavity having an identical pressure to the second cavity.

In order that embodiments of the present disclosure may be more readily understood, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

The drawings referred to in this description should be understood as not being drawn to scale, except if specifically noted, in order to show more clearly the details of the present disclosure. Same reference numbers in the drawings indicate like elements throughout the several views. Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from accompanying drawings and from the detailed description that follows.

In the following description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth, such as particular embodiments, procedures, techniques, etc. in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced in other embodiments that depart from these specific details.

The present technology sets out to minimize the dependence of the optical performance of waveguide systems (irrespective of their type) upon moisture, particulate debris and variations of ambient temperature and pressure.

The terms 'ambient pressure' and 'ambient temperature' refer to the pressure and temperature of the ambient atmosphere surrounding the waveguide system, respectively. The ambient atmosphere is characterized by several parameters such as pressure, temperature and composition (gases, liquids e.g., droplets, solids e.g., dust).

Technical features described in this application can be used to construct various embodiments of encapsulated waveguide systems.

In one approach, an encapsulated waveguide system for a near eye optical display has a first outer layer and a second outer layer. One or more waveguide substrates are included in the system. The one or more waveguide substrates have an input area and an output area. A first spacer and a sealing element are included in the system. The waveguide substrate is disposed between the first and second outer layers and spaced therefrom by the first spacer. The sealing element joins the first and second outer layers so as to house or encapsulate the waveguide within a cavity formed by the first and second outer layer. The formed cavity comprises a first cavity between the waveguide substrate and the first outer layer and a second cavity between the waveguide substrate and the second outer layer. The formed cavity may be filled with nitrogen or other inert gas or dry air or other fluid.

As will be explained in more detail below, in some embodiments the first cavity and the second cavity can be in fluid communication with one another to thereby form one entire cavity whilst in some other embodiments, the first cavity and second cavity can be effectively isolated from one another.

In some embodiments, the first outer layer and second outer layer comprise a first optical cover and a second optical cover, respectfully.

In some embodiments, the first cavity is formed between the first cover and the waveguide substrate and a second cavity is formed between the second cover and the waveguide substrate.

In some embodiments, the encapsulated waveguide system is a unibody system for AR/VR near eye display systems.

As shown in <FIG>, some current waveguide systems include a projector module <NUM> that projects images <NUM> and have a transparent cover <NUM> affixed on the major surface of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> supporting the input area <NUM> and the output area <NUM> via the application of a double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> surrounding both input and output areas: an air cavity <NUM> is thus formed when the major surface of the transparent waveguide substrate supporting the input and output areas are encased. The gasket also allows for keeping the transparent cover several tens of microns apart from the transparent waveguide substrate in order to avoid any parasitic optical interaction between the transparent cover and the transparent waveguide substrate. Alternatively, particle loaded adhesive may be used in place of the double-sided adhesive tape gasket to ensure a desired gap distance is achieved between respective components joined using such adhesive. Other means of joining parts to achieve a defined gap distance may also be used. For the purpose of the disclosure, double sided adhesive tape is described, however this may be replaced by other suitable sealing means as will be apparent to the person skilled in the art. Any such adhesive should not compromise the functional performance of the waveguide. A user's eye <NUM> views the projected images <NUM> overlaid on an image of the user's surroundings <NUM>.

If such a waveguide system were to be subjected to a sudden increase in ambient temperature and/or a sudden decrease in ambient pressure <NUM>, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> and transparent cover <NUM> may bend outward due to expansion of the air trapped in the cavity <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>): the ambient atmosphere-facing major surface of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> and transparent cover <NUM> would adopt a convex form; and the input area <NUM> and the output area <NUM> would be thus distorted.

If such a waveguide system were to be subjected to a sudden decrease in ambient temperature and/or a sudden increase in ambient pressure <NUM>, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> and transparent cover <NUM> would bend inward induced by the contraction of the air trapped in the cavity (as shown in <FIG>): the ambient atmosphere-facing major surface of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> and transparent cover <NUM> would adopt a concave form and the input area <NUM> and the output area <NUM> would be thus distorted. Accordingly, the variations of ambient pressure and/or variations of ambient temperature would result in the distortion of the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, causing the irremediable alteration of the projected images. Image aberration, artefacts, loss of sharpness i.e., loss of Modulation Transfer Function, loss of focus, color dispersion, image distortion would be possible symptoms of the aforementioned issue. (If the input and output areas <NUM>, <NUM> were to be located within the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, they would be distorted as long as the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is.

<FIG> and <FIG> respectively depict a schematic exploded view and side view of an encapsulated waveguide system according to a first embodiment of the present technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>), is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material). A viewer's surroundings <NUM> may also be seen by a user's eye <NUM> in some embodiments where the second transparent cover <NUM> is transparent.

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is attached to or affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> cover via double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. In some embodiments, spacers other than gaskets may be adopted. This arrangement results in the formation of two air or other fluid cavities <NUM>, <NUM> spaced apart from the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>). The gaskets <NUM>, <NUM> may be continuous, as shown in <FIG>, or may be discontinuous, as shown by way of example in <FIG>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> comprises an input area <NUM> and an output area <NUM> on its major surface facing the user's eye <NUM> and the projector module <NUM>. The input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are diffractive optical nanostructures such as gratings, surface relief gratings or holographic optical elements. In some other embodiments, the input area <NUM> and/or output area <NUM> may be any other type of input area and/or output area used in waveguides for near eye waveguide systems.

The first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> are depicted with respect to a user's eye <NUM>, with the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> being closest to the eye position and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> being furthest from the eye position. Sealing element <NUM> is applied around the perimeter of the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> so as to cover the edges or minor surfaces of the rigid covers and a portion of the major surface in proximity to the minor surfaces since the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>). The sealing element <NUM>, the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> may be made of the same material. The first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined by processes such as laser welding or ultrasonic welding, which effectively cause fusing of the materials without the need for glue. Another possibility would involve 3D printing the first and second transparent rigid covers in one single action and depositing the transparent waveguide substrate during the printing process. In some other embodiments, the first cover <NUM> may be made from a different material to the second cover <NUM>.

Alternatively, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined using a sealing element in the form of but not limited to adhesives including any one or combination of and not limited to pressure sensitive adhesive, cyanoacrylate, UV cured adhesive, epoxy resin, heat seal adhesive or the like.

Sealing element <NUM> and the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may provide a sufficiently resilient encapsulation of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, such that the latter is unaffected by changes in the ambient pressure. In other words, there is no pressure differential across the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> i.e., the respective pressures in cavities <NUM>, <NUM> are identical. Therefore, the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> of the transparent waveguide substrate are not distorted. The first embodiment of the present technology is thus insensitive to the environmental conditions of the ambient atmosphere e.g., protection from environmental contamination like dust and particulate debris, as well as protection against moisture and changes in ambient pressure.

The input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> may be preferentially located on the proximal major surface of the transparent waveguide substrate, which surface, when the optical system is in use, is nearest the user's eye <NUM>. Alternatively, the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> may be located on the distal major surface of the transparent waveguide substrate, which surface, when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the user's eye <NUM> or they may be located on opposite major surfaces of, or within, the transparent waveguide substrate, taking advantage of the possibility of using reflective or transmissive areas and the fact that both major surfaces of the transparent waveguide substrate are shielded from the ambient atmosphere.

<FIG> and <FIG> respectfully depict a schematic exploded view and a side view of an encapsulated waveguide system according to a second embodiment of the present technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>), is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material).

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. The substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> cover via discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively (or other gap spacing adhesive) to effectively define a connected volume within the encapsulated waveguide system. In some embodiments, spacers other than gaskets may be adopted. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>). Non limiting examples of discontinuous gaskets <NUM>, <NUM> that may be used are shown in <FIG>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> comprises an input area <NUM> and an output area <NUM> on its major surface facing the user's eye <NUM> and the projector module <NUM>. The input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are diffractive optical nanostructures such as gratings, surface relief gratings or holographic optical elements. In some embodiments, the input area <NUM> and/or output area <NUM> may be other types of input area and/or output area used in near eye waveguide systems.

The first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> are depicted with respect to a user's eye <NUM>, with the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> being closest to the eye position and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> being furthest from the eye position.

Sealing element <NUM> is applied around the perimeter of the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> so as to cover the minor surfaces and a portion of the major surface in proximity to the minor surfaces since the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>).

The sealing element <NUM>, the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> may be made of the same material. For instance, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined by processes such as laser welding or ultrasonic welding, which effectively cause fusing of the materials without the need for glue. Another possibility would involve 3D printing the first and second transparent rigid covers in one single action and depositing the transparent waveguide substrate during the printing process. In some other embodiments, the first cover <NUM> may be made from a different material to the second cover <NUM>.

Alternatively, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined using a sealing element in the form of but not limited to adhesives including any one or combination of and not limited to pressure sensitive adhesive, cyanoacrylate, UV cured adhesive, epoxy resin, heat seal adhesive or the like. Sealing element <NUM> and the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may not provide a sufficiently resilient encapsulation of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, such that the transparent waveguide substrate may be affected by changes in the ambient pressure. To avoid any pressure differential across the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> i.e., to avoid having two different pressures in cavities <NUM>, <NUM>, both cavities <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to each other via the use of discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>. Consequently, the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are not distorted. (The fluid connection between cavities <NUM>, <NUM> is insured by using discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM> and the fact that at least one dimension of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>).

<FIG> represent examples of discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM>, <NUM> that could be used in the third embodiment of the present technology. <FIG> depicts a gasket presenting a single discontinuity while <FIG> a gasket having a plurality of discontinuities by using a plurality of small pieces of double-sided adhesive tape, spaced from each other.

<FIG> and <FIG> respectfully depict a schematic exploded view and a side view of an encapsulated waveguide system according to a third embodiment of the present technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>), is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material).

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. The substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> cover via discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM> (See <FIG>), respectively (or other gap spacing adhesive) to effectively define a connected volume within the encapsulated waveguide system. In some embodiments, spacers other than gaskets may be adopted. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>). The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> comprises an input area <NUM> and an output area <NUM> on its major surface facing the user's eye <NUM> and the projector module <NUM>. The input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are diffractive optical nanostructures such as gratings, surface relief gratings or holographic optical elements. In some embodiments, the input area <NUM> and/or output area <NUM> may be other types of input area and/or output area used in near eye waveguide systems.

A pressure relief element <NUM> configured to equalize or balance pressure of the space or volume defined by the first cavity <NUM>, the second cavity <NUM> and the rest of the space comprised between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and the ambient atmosphere may be located on or in a major surface of one of the transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> (See <FIG>). The pressure relief element in this way forms a vent structure that may mitigate ingress of debris and moisture, while ensuring the pressure within the enclosed or encapsulated waveguide is equilibrated with the ambient environment.

The pressure relief element <NUM> may comprise a semi-permeable membrane that allows for the ingress and egress of (i.e., the exchange of)specific gases (e.g. oxygen, nitrogen) into the volume defined by the first cavity <NUM>, the second cavity <NUM> and the rest of the space comprised between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM>, while preventing droplets, solid particles and steam to penetrate within it and balancing the pressure within the encapsulated waveguide system with the ambient pressure.

Alternatively, the pressure relief element <NUM> may comprise a sintered frit performing the same functions as the semi-permeable membrane.

The sealing element <NUM>, the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> may be made of the same material. For instance, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined by laser welding or ultrasonic welding, for example, which effectively cause fusing of the materials without the need for glue. Another possibility would involve 3D printing the first and second transparent rigid covers in one single action and depositing the transparent waveguide substrate during the printing process. In some other embodiments, the first cover <NUM> may be made from material that is different from the material from which the second cover <NUM> is made. Alternatively, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined using a sealing element in the form of but not limited to adhesives including any one or combination of and not limited to pressure sensitive adhesive, cyanoacrylate, UV cured adhesive, epoxy resin, heat seal adhesive or the like.

Sealing element <NUM> and the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may not provide a sufficiently resilient encapsulation of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, such that the transparent waveguide substrate may be affected by changes in ambient pressure. To avoid any pressure differential across the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> i.e., to avoid having two different pressures in cavities <NUM>, <NUM>, both cavities <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to each other via the use of discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>. Consequently, the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are not distorted. (The fluid connection between cavities <NUM>, <NUM> is insured by using discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM> and the fact that the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>).

In some other embodiments, a plurality of transparent waveguide substrates rather than a single transparent waveguide substrate may be adopted in the waveguide systems. In some embodiments, a waveguide system is provided that corresponds to any of the waveguide systems of embodiments disclosed herein as having a single substrate but has a plurality of transparent waveguide substrates instead of the single substrate. By way of non-limiting examples, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an encapsulated waveguide system including a plurality of transparent waveguide substrates separated from one another by spacers according to some embodiments. Components <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG> correspond to elements of the embodiments of encapsulated waveguide systems described in detail above with reference to <FIG>, and thus are not again described in detail with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the encapsulated waveguide system of <FIG>. In the embodiment of an encapsulated waveguide system of <FIG> and <FIG>, the system includes a sealing element <NUM>, a discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> affixing first transparent cover <NUM> on transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, a first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, a first cavity <NUM>, a first transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, an input area <NUM> of the first transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, output area <NUM> of the first transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, second cavity <NUM>, discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> affixing the first transparent waveguide <NUM> on the second transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, input area <NUM> of second transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, output area <NUM> of the second transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, hole <NUM> drilled through the first transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, hole <NUM> drilled through second transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> affixing the second transparent waveguide <NUM> on second transparent rigid cover <NUM>, third cavity <NUM> and a pressure relief element <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an encapsulated waveguide including a plurality of transparent waveguide substrates according to some embodiments. Once again, components <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG> correspond to elements of the embodiments of encapsulated waveguide systems described in detail above with reference to <FIG>, and thus are not again described in detail with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the encapsulated waveguide system of <FIG>. In the embodiment of an encapsulated waveguide system of <FIG> and <FIG>, the system includes sealing element <NUM>, a first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, a first cavity <NUM>, a first transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, an input area <NUM> of the first transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, an output area <NUM> of the first transparent waveguide substrate, a second cavity <NUM>, a discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> affixing the first transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> on second transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, an input area <NUM> of the second transparent waveguide substrate, an output area <NUM> of the second transparent waveguide substrate, a discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> affixing the second transparent waveguide <NUM> on second transparent rigid cover <NUM>, a third cavity, and a pressure relief element <NUM>.

Each of the plurality of transparent waveguide substrates include an input area and an output area. The plurality of transparent waveguide substrates form a waveguide subsystem and are separated or spaced apart from one another. The first, second and third embodiments or other embodiments of the present technology disclosed herein as having a single transparent waveguide may comprise a plurality of transparent waveguide substrates, each possessing an input area and an output area specially designed to interact with a light of given wavelength; each transparent waveguide substrate spaced apart from the other by a spacer such as a double- sided adhesive tape gasket or spacer particles-filled glue (in this respect, the spacer particles may be glass beads of several tens of micrometers).

Additionally, in some embodiments, the plurality of transparent waveguide substrates may be joined using discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets (or other gap spacing adhesive) to effectively define a connected volume within the encapsulated waveguide system (for example in a similar manner to that used to join the covers and single substrate together in the second and third embodiments shown in <FIG> and <FIG>).

In one aspect of the present technology, a through aperture is provided in an exterior or external surface of first transparent rigid cover and aligned with the input area of the waveguide system. In some embodiments, the waveguide system corresponds to any one of the first, second, third with respect to <FIG>, <FIG> <FIG>. or any one of the other embodiments disclosed herein (including <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> etc.). An aperture (<NUM>) (depicted in <FIG>) is provided in the external surface of first transparent rigid cover (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) aligned with the input area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). The aperture (not shown) is configured to receive the projector module (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and orient the projector module (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) with respect to input area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) such that image bearing light provided by the projector module (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) enters the waveguide at an appropriate angular position to ensure faithful reproduction of the image across the eyebox region (the region over which a user's eye may perceive the projected image) of the output area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). A viewer looking through an AR module comprising an encapsulated waveguide system according to the present technology is thus able to correctly perceive the information contained in the image bearing light superimposed on the real world. Aperture (<NUM>) is further configured to ensure projector (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is hermetically sealed into the encapsulated waveguide system, thereby maintaining the desired characteristics of the encapsulated transparent waveguide substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) with respect to effects of temperature and pressure.

Aperture (<NUM>) thus serves to both optically align projector (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) with input area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) as well as maintaining the hermetic encapsulation of the transparent waveguide substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).

In yet a further aspect, as depicted in <FIG>, at least one of the first or second transparent rigid covers disclosed herein with respect to any one of the embodiments of the waveguide system disclosed herein may comprise protrusions (<NUM>) intended to locate and secure the encapsulated waveguide system into a frame, such as a prescription spectacle frame. Typically, ophthalmic lenses comprise a raised protrusion around the full perimeter of the lens, which is used to locate and hold the lens in place within the frame. However, due to the fragile nature of the encapsulated waveguide system compared with a standard ophthalmic lens, use of such a continuous protrusion, or glazing bump, may result in damage of the waveguide during insertion of the encapsulated waveguide system into a frame. Accordingly, protrusions <NUM> are designed to reduce the force required to insert the lens into the frame, while ensuring accurate location of the lens within the frame.

<FIG> and <FIG> respectfully depict a schematic exploded view and a side view of an encapsulated waveguide system according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>), is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material).

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> cover via double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively (See <FIG>). In some embodiments, spacers, other than gaskets may be adopted. In some embodiments the gaskets or other spacers are discontinuous whilst in some other embodiments the gaskets or other spacers are continuous.

This arrangement results in the formation of two air cavities <NUM>, <NUM> spaced apart from the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> has the same length as the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>). The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> comprises an input area <NUM> and an output area <NUM> on its major surface facing the user's eye <NUM> and the projector module <NUM>. The input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are diffractive optical nanostructures such as gratings, surface relief gratings or holographic optical elements. In some embodiments, the input area <NUM> and/or output area <NUM> may be other types of input area and/or output area used in near eye waveguide systems.

Sealing element <NUM> is applied to the minor surfaces of the first and second transparent rigid covers and a portion of the major surface in proximity to the minor surfaces since the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> has the same length as the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>).

The sealing element <NUM>, the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> may be made of the same material. The first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may be joined together by laser welding or ultrasonic welding, which effectively causes fusing of the materials without the need for glue. Another possibility would involve 3D printing the first and second transparent rigid covers in one single action and depositing the transparent waveguide substrate during the printing process. In some other embodiments, the first cover <NUM> may be made from material that is different from the material from which the second cover <NUM> is made.

Alternatively, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined using a sealing element in the form of but not limited to adhesives including any one or combination of and not limited to pressure sensitive adhesive, cyanoacrylate, UV cured adhesive, epoxy resin, heat seal adhesive or the like. Sealing element <NUM> and the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may provide a sufficiently resilient encapsulation of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, such that the latter is unaffected by changes in ambient pressure. In other words, there is no pressure differential across the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> i.e., the respective pressures in cavities <NUM>, <NUM> are identical. Therefore, the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> of the transparent waveguide substrate are not distorted. The fourth embodiment of the present technology is thus insensitive to the environmental conditions of the ambient atmosphere e.g., dust, particulate debris, moisture, ambient pressure.

<FIG> and <FIG>, respectfully, depict a schematic exploded view and side view of an encapsulated waveguide system according to a fifth embodiment of the present technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>) is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material). A viewer's surroundings <NUM> may also be seen by a user's eye <NUM> in embodiments where the second transparent cover <NUM> is transparent. The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. The substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> cover via discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively (See <FIG>). In some embodiments, spacers other than gaskets may be adopted. This arrangement results in the formation of two air (or fluid) cavities <NUM>, <NUM> spaced apart from the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> has the same length as the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>). The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> may exhibit a hole <NUM> or other passageway (formed for example by drilling through the substrate) in order to connect the first cavity <NUM> and second cavity <NUM>. The passageway extending through the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is configured to enable pressure equilibrium around the waveguide. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> comprises an input area <NUM> and an output area <NUM> on its major surface facing the user's eye <NUM> and the projector module <NUM>. The input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are diffractive optical nanostructures such as gratings, surface relief gratings or holographic optical elements. In some embodiments, the input area <NUM> and/or output area <NUM> may be other types of input area and/or output area used in near eye waveguide systems.

The sealing element <NUM>, the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> may be made of the same material. The first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may be joined laser welding or ultrasonic welding, which effectively cause fusing of the materials without the need for glue. Another possibility would involve 3D printing the first and second transparent rigid covers in one single action and depositing the transparent waveguide substrate during the printing process. In some other embodiments, the first cover <NUM> may be made from material that is different from the material from which the second cover <NUM> is made. In some embodiments, the 3D printing process also produces or fabricates one of the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> as an ophthalmic lens.

Alternatively, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined using a sealing element in the form of but not limited to adhesives including any one or combination of and not limited to pressure sensitive adhesive, cyanoacrylate, UV cured adhesive, epoxy resin, heat seal adhesive or the like. Sealing element <NUM> and the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may not provide a sufficiently resilient encapsulation of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, such that the transparent waveguide substrate may be affected by changes in ambient pressure. To avoid any pressure differential across the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> i.e., to avoid having two different pressures in cavities <NUM>, <NUM>, both cavities <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to each other via the hole <NUM> or other passageway drilled through the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> (See <FIG>). Consequently, the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are not distorted.

<FIG> and <FIG> respectfully depict a schematic exploded view and side view of an encapsulated waveguide system according to a sixth embodiment of the present technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>), is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material). A viewer's surroundings <NUM> may also be seen by user's eye <NUM> in embodiments where the second transparent cover <NUM> is transparent. In some embodiments, the first and/or second outer layers are ophthalmic lenses. Each ophthalmic lens is, in some embodiments, prepared using a standard ophthalmic lens blank. Each ophthalmic lens is, in some embodiments, prepared using a standard laboratory milling machine.

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. The substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> cover via discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively (See <FIG>) to effectively define a connected volume within the encapsulated waveguide system. In some embodiments, spacers other than gaskets may be adopted. This arrangement results in the formation of two air cavities <NUM>, <NUM> spaced apart from the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> has the same length as the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in at least one direction e.g., the z-axis direction (See <FIG>). The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> may exhibit a hole <NUM> or other passageway (for example drilled through the substrate) in order to connect the first cavity <NUM> and second cavity <NUM>. The passageway extending through the transparent waveguide substrate is configured to enable pressure equilibrium around the waveguide.

A pressure relief element <NUM> is configured to balance pressure between the volume defined by the first cavity <NUM>, the second cavity <NUM> and the rest of the space comprised between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and the ambient atmosphere may be located on or in a major surface of one of the transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> (See <FIG>). The pressure relief element <NUM> may mitigate ingress of debris and moisture, while ensuring the pressure within the encapsulated waveguide is equilibrated with the ambient environment.

The pressure relief element <NUM> may comprise either a semi-permeable membrane that allows for the ingress and egress of specific gases (e.g. oxygen, nitrogen) into the volume defined by the first cavity <NUM>, the second cavity <NUM> and the rest of the space comprised between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM>, while preventing droplets, solid particles and steam to penetrate within it and balancing the pressure within the encapsulated waveguide system and the ambient pressure. Alternatively, the pressure relief element <NUM> may comprise a sintered frit performing the same functions as the semi-permeable membrane.

The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> comprises an input area <NUM> and an output area <NUM> on its major surface facing the user's eye <NUM> and the projector module <NUM>. The input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are diffractive optical nanostructures such as gratings, surface relief gratings or holographic optical elements. In some embodiments, the input area <NUM> and/or output area <NUM> may be other types of input area and/or output area used in near eye waveguide systems.

The sealing element <NUM>, the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> may be made of the same material. For instance, the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may be joined using laser welding or ultrasonic welding, which effectively cause fusing of the materials without the need for glue. Another possibility would involve 3D printing the first and second transparent rigid covers in one single action and depositing the transparent waveguide substrate during the printing process. In some other embodiments, the first cover <NUM> may be made from material that is different from the material from which the second cover <NUM> is made. Alternatively, the first and second transparent rigid covers may be joined using a sealing element in the form of but not limited to adhesives including any one or combination of and not limited to pressure sensitive adhesive, cyanoacrylate, UV cured adhesive, epoxy resin, heat seal adhesive or the like.

Sealing element <NUM> and the first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> may not provide a sufficiently resilient encapsulation of the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>, such that the transparent waveguide substrate may be affected by changes in ambient pressure. To avoid any pressure differential across the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> i.e., to avoid having two different pressures in cavities <NUM>, <NUM>, both cavities <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to each other via the hole or other passageway <NUM> drilled through the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> (See <FIG>). Consequently, the input area <NUM> and output area <NUM> are not distorted.

As already indicated hereinbefore, any one of the embodiments the fourth, fifth and sixth embodiments of the present technology may comprise a single transparent waveguide substrate, or may comprise a plurality of transparent waveguide substrates each possessing an input area and output area that are specially designed to interact with a light of given wavelength; each transparent waveguide substrate spaced apart from the other by a double-sided adhesive tape gasket or spacer particles -filled glue (in this respect, the spacer particles may be glass beads of several tens of micrometers).

Additionally, in the fourth and fifth embodiments, the plurality of transparent waveguide substrates may be joined using discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gaskets (or other gap spacing adhesive) and be provided with a hole through them, to effectively define a connected volume within the encapsulated waveguide system.

In one aspect, with respect to the fourth, fifth and sixth embodiments described with respect to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, an aperture (<NUM>) (depicted in <FIG>) is provided in the external surface of first transparent rigid cover (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) aligned with the input area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). The aperture (<NUM>) is configured to receive the projector module (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and orient the projector module (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) with respect to input area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) such that image bearing light provided by the projector module (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) enters the waveguide at an appropriate angular position to ensure faithful reproduction of the image across the eyebox region (the region over which a user's eye may perceive the projected image) of the output area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). A viewer looking through an AR module comprising an encapsulated waveguide system according to the present technology is thus able to correctly perceive the information contained in the image bearing light superimposed on the real world. Aperture (not shown) is further configured to ensure projector (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is hermetically sealed into the encapsulated waveguide system, thereby maintaining the desired characteristics of the encapsulated transparent waveguide substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) with respect to effects of temperature and pressure.

In yet a further aspect, as depicted in <FIG>, at least one of the first or second transparent rigid covers may comprise protrusions (<NUM>) intended to locate and secure the encapsulated waveguide system into a frame, such as a prescription spectacle frame. Typically, ophthalmic lenses comprise a raised protrusion around the full perimeter of the lens, which is used to locate and hold the lens in place within the frame. However, due to the fragile nature of the encapsulated waveguide system compared with a standard ophthalmic lens, use of such a continuous protrusion, or glazing bump, may result in damage of the waveguide during insertion of the encapsulated waveguide system into a frame. Accordingly, protrusions <NUM> are designed to reduce the force required to insert the lens into the frame, while ensuring accurate location of the lens within the frame. The protrusions <NUM>, which are discrete glazing bumps in some embodiments, reduce the force required to insert or fix the encapsulated waveguide system into a frame.

The utilization of push/pull lenses, such as for example described in <CIT> provide a means of modulating the focal plane of image information displayed in the waveguide, without compromising the view of the real world through the waveguide system. In certain aspects of the present technology as described with reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the encapsulated waveguide system may be provided in a configuration which comprises a push/pull lens configuration (as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>) intended to alter the focal distance at which the projected image is perceived. In such a configuration first transparent rigid cover may be provided as a push lens and second transparent rigid cover may be provided as a pull lens, such that the rigid covers work together to modulate the focal distance of the projected image. Additionally, the push and pull lenses may be configured to provide the same pressure-controlled cavity surrounding the waveguide as described herein above.

<FIG> shows a cross sectional view of the encapsulated waveguide system according to a seventh embodiment of the technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. The first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> are a pull lens and a push lens, respectively. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in every considered direction i.e., the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis directions. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>), is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material).

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> and first transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via a discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> (See <FIG>). In some embodiments, a spacer other than the gasket may be adopted.

The major surface of the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> facing away from the viewer's surroundings <NUM> may present a pocket for accommodating the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> and to have it sufficiently spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> to avoid any optical interaction between them. The cavities <NUM> and <NUM> are connected to each other via discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> and form thus a single cavity.

<FIG> shows a cross sectional view of the encapsulated waveguide system according to an eighth embodiment of the technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. The first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> are a pull lens and a push lens, respectively. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>). is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material).

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is smaller than the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in every considered direction i.e., the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis directions.

The substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> and first transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via a discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> (See <FIG>). In some embodiments, a spacer other than a gasket may be adopted.

The major surface of the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> facing away from the viewer's surroundings <NUM> may present a pocket for accommodating the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> and to have it sufficiently spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> to avoid any optical interaction between them. The cavities <NUM> and <NUM> are connected to each other via the discontinuous double-sided adhesive tape gasket <NUM> and form thus a single cavity.

A pressure relief element <NUM> is configured to balance pressure between the single cavity formed by cavities <NUM>, <NUM> and the ambient atmosphere and may be located on or in a major surface of one of the transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a cross sectional view of the encapsulated waveguide system according to a ninth embodiment of the technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. The first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> are a pull lens and a push lens, respectively. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>). is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material).

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> has the same size as the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in every considered direction i.e., the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis directions.

The substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> arranged between the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM> is hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively (See <FIG>) to avoid any optical interaction with them. In some embodiments, spacers other than gaskets may be adopted.

The cavities <NUM> and <NUM> are connected to each other via a hole or other passageway193 (formed for example by drilling through the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>) so as to form a single cavity. The passageway extending through the transparent waveguide substrate is configured to enable pressure equilibrium around the waveguide.

<FIG> depicts a cross sectional view of the encapsulated waveguide system according to a tenth embodiment of the technology. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first outer layer, which in <FIG> is the first transparent rigid cover <NUM>, and a second outer layer, which in <FIG> is second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via one or more spacers. The first and second transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM> are a pull lens and a push lens, respectively.

The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> has the same size as the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> in every considered direction, i.e. the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis directions. In some other embodiments, such as for virtual reality display systems, the cover <NUM>, which when the optical system is in use, is furthest from the eye (second transparent cover in <FIG>), is made opaque rather than transparent (for example by covering with a reflective coating or using non-transparent cover material). A viewer's surroundings <NUM> may also be seen by user's eye <NUM> in embodiments where the second transparent cover <NUM> is transparent.

The transparent waveguide is made from an optical transparent material such as but not limited to glass. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is disposed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and the second transparent rigid cover <NUM>. The transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is arranged between a first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and a second transparent rigid cover <NUM> hermetically sealed by a sealing element <NUM>. In some embodiments, the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM> is affixed on and spaced apart from the first transparent rigid cover <NUM> and second transparent rigid cover <NUM> via double-sided adhesive tape gaskets <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively (See <FIG>) to avoid any optical interaction with them. In some embodiments, spacers other than gaskets may be adopted.

The cavities <NUM> and <NUM> are connected to each other via a hole or other passageway <NUM> (formed by for example drilling through the transparent waveguide substrate <NUM>) so as to form a single cavity. The passageway extending through the transparent waveguide substrate is configured to enable pressure equilibrium around the waveguide.

A pressure relief element <NUM> is configured to balance pressure between the single or entire cavity formed by cavities <NUM>, <NUM> and the ambient atmosphere and may be located on or in a major surface of one of the transparent rigid covers <NUM>, <NUM>.

The encapsulated waveguide system of the present technology may be constructed and assembled using transparent rigid covers that are similar in profile to standard ophthalmic lenses, thereby allowing standard prescription frames to be utilized.

In yet a further aspect, and particularly wherein when the first and second transparent rigid covers are formed using a process of 3D printing, such rigid covers may provide for ophthalmic correction of a user's vision, thus providing an arrangement that would permit a user in need of vision correction to require only a single lens to view the real world with superimposed projected images provided by the waveguides. In such arrangements, the innermost rigid cover (that being the one between a user's eye and the at least one waveguide) provides for vision correction, while the outermost rigid cover provides for focal depth compensation of the real-world view. Unlike the prior art which requires a user in need of vision correction to wear ophthalmic lenses near the eye with smart glasses in front of the ophthalmic lenses in order that they may perceive the projected image, which is typically focused at infinity, the present technology may thus permit a user to wear a single lens that both corrects their vision as well as providing for augmented or mixed reality information by way of the integrated encapsulated waveguide.

According to some aspects, there is provided a near eye optical display system. The near eye optical display system may include any one of the encapsulated waveguide systems of the embodiments described herein. In some aspects, any one of the encapsulated waveguide systems of the embodiments described herein may be implemented in a near-eye optical display system having an eyeglass form factor. In some embodiments, the near-eye optical display system has a light engine (projector or other light engine), a battery and an encapsulated waveguide system of any one of the embodiments described herein. The near-eye optical display system may be an AR or VR optical display system. By way of example, near-eye optical display system has a light projector <NUM>, an encapsulated waveguide system <NUM> (which may be an encapsulated waveguide system according to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein) and a battery1003. The light projector <NUM>, is optically coupled to the encapsulated waveguide system <NUM> and electrically coupled to the battery <NUM>. The light projector, encapsulated waveguide system and battery are carried on a frame of the eyeglasses and arranged for example as shown in <FIG>.

It will be appreciated that various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications such as head up type displays. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the present disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It will be understood that one or more elements of an embodiment may be omitted or combined with any of the other embodiments, where appropriate.

Claim 1:
An encapsulated waveguide system for a near eye optical display, comprising:
a first outer layer (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
a second outer layer (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
at least one waveguide substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising an input area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and an output area (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
a first spacer (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), and
a sealing element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
wherein the at least one waveguide substrate is disposed between the first and second outer layers and spaced therefrom by the first spacer wherein the sealing element joins edges of the first and second outer layers so as to encapsulate the at least one waveguide substrate within a cavity formed by the first and second outer layers; and
wherein the formed cavity comprises a first cavity (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) between the at least one waveguide substrate and the first outer layer and a second cavity (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) between the at least one waveguide substrate and the second outer layer, characterised by the first cavity having an identical pressure to the second cavity.