To enhance the accessibility of augmented reality (AR) eyewear and virtual reality (VR) headsets, it is crucial to offer a cost-effective and high-quality display solution. Liquid crystal (LC) technology has been extensively researched for this purpose, with Liquid-Crystal Polarization Holograms (LCPHs) standing out as a compact, lightweight solution with versatile optical capabilities essential for AR/VR systems. The fabrication of LCPHs utilizes polarization selectivity and self-assembly, enabling potential cost-effective streamlined production and advanced fabrication approaches. However, there are material requirements and technical challenges that need to be addressed together to achieve an immersive viewing experience with LCPHs. By exploring these opportunities and addressing the challenges, the integration of LCPHs holds the promise of revolutionizing AR/VR optics and providing an accessible, high-quality, and immersive viewing experience for various applications.
This paper explores how Liquid Crystal (LC) technologies can enable the metaverse by enhancing Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual Reality (VR) optics. We highlight the potential of Liquid-Crystal Polarization Holograms (LCPHs) developed by Reality Labs Research (RLR) at Meta Platforms, Inc. LCPHs offer compact, lightweight solutions with versatile optical capabilities, including eye-tracking, accommodation, compact VR viewing optics with improved image quality, AR waveguide combiners with enhanced efficiency, and simplified fabrication processes. These advancements show promising potential to make a real impact in the AR/VR industry. LC technologies, especially LCPHs, are paving the way for more comfortable and immersive AR/VR viewing experiences.
To make augmented reality (AR) eyewears widely available, it is necessary to provide a cost-effective and high-quality AR waveguide combiner solution. The polarization volume hologram (PVH) gratings made of liquid crystal (LC) polymer is a promising candidate with unique polarization properties. In this presentation, we review the physical properties of PVH and provide a thorough discussion about how the performance of the waveguide combiner is influenced by the characteristics of PVH and fabrication capabilities. Our study provides guidance to the development of PVH waveguide technology and promotes scale-up solutions.
An approximate beam propagation method is proposed as an intuitive simulation of the optics of Pancharatnam–Berry phase (PPD) and polarization volume hologram (PVH) devices. Using this method, the connection between, and polarization properties of, these two types of devices are made clear.
Liquid crystal photonic technology has been widely explored aiming to provide the immersive Augmented Reality (AR) experience. In this paper, we discuss the potential of using this technology to build AR waveguide displays. We start from the physical understanding of one type of the LC elements-Polarization Volume Holograms (PVH). Then we discuss the benefits/issues of using PVH as waveguide couplers. Finally, we explore the potential scale up manufacturing path of the PVH waveguides. We expect to provide the future AR glasses with small form factor, great image performance and low cost using Liquid crystal photonic technology.
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