Depth plane adaptive integral imaging system using a vari-focal liquid lens array for realizing augmented reality

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive experience of a real-world environment where the objects that reside in the real world are enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information. Despite its attractive features, AR has not become popular because of the visual fatigue that many people face when they experience it. Many methods have been introduced to solve this visual fatigue problem and one of these methods is an integral imaging system that provides images almost continuous viewpoints and full parallax. However, the integral imaging system, which uses a lens array with a fixed focal length, has limited depth of focus (DOF) range. As a result, images that are outside of the DOF range become distorted. In this paper, a vari-focal liquid lens array was fabricated and the optical characteristics of the lens array were evaluated. Using the vari-focal liquid lens array, the DOF range was extended and high-resolution images are realized without restriction of depth range in an AR system.

Crosstalk Reduction in Voxels for a See-Through Holographic Waveguide by Using Integral Imaging with Compensated Elemental Images

“…For further extension of the expressible depth range, one can implement multiple (relayed) CDPs using a vari-focal lenslet-array or focus tunable relay lens in the InIm system, as proposed in Refs. [28,29].…”

Variable optical elements for fast focus control

“…Dielectric lens : Dielectric liquid with high voltage source [14][15][16] 20 to 2000 100 μm -10 mm Electro-wetting lens : Conducting liquid with high voltage source [17][18][19][20][21] -500 to 1500 100 μm -10 mm Mechanical-wetting lens : Immiscible liquids and sharp interface with microfluidics -Ferrofluidic actuator 22,23 -Piezoelectric transducer 24 -Manual actuation 25 -Hydrogel lens 26 :…”

Integral imaging display with enhanced depth of field based on bifocal lens array

“…However, it requires complex mechanical motion, and the multilayered display devices not only increase the system volume but also deteriorate the light loss. Varifocal or multifocal lens array can be realized by using liquid lens, 12,13 liquid crystal lens, 14 stepped and composite lens array, 15,20 and multifocal lens 16–19 . The manufactures of the liquid lens array and liquid crystal lens array are complicated, and active driving devices are required.…”