Various technologies to realize the augmented reality (AR) devices have been proposed. Holographic optical element (HOE) is among the most appealing optical components for the optical combiner of AR devices. With the compact size and bendable material, HOE can be applied to AR systems with various form factors. Since HOE has high angular selectivity, the light from the real scene remains nearly intact, making HOE the most promising technology for see-through AR displays. However, several issues of HOE still remain to be resolved, such as narrow field of view or eye box, and severe aberration. In this invited paper, we present the basic characteristics and issues of HOE and introduce how we can resolve the issues.
Holographic optical elements (HOEs) are very interesting optical devices based on the holography technique and have been spotlighted in the augmented reality (AR) application recently. The HOEs have optically see-through property due to their high angular-selectivity, which has an extensive potential to be employed as an image combiner for the AR devices. Various optical functions, such as reflection, lens and diffusing, can be implemented with thin-layer HOEs. This advantage can replace the conventional bulky optics with HOEs for a compact form factor. In addition, multi-functionality can be realized with multiplexed recording, and optical mass production is possible, which is especially useful for AR display systems.
We first discuss the key factors of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) displays. Various requirements for immersive experiences are categorized as six factors that must be considered when designing the AR/VR head-mounted displays (HMDs). These factors have a strong correlation with other factors and should maintain a moderate balance between them. Based on recent researches we second introduce various technologies for AR/VR. By comparing the pros and cons of each method, we discuss the progression of AR/VR devices that can provide more affordable HMD devices for the public.
Recent developments in ultra-high-definition (UHD) displays have a major impact on holographic displays as well as conventional display systems. A spatial light modulator (SLM) can reproduce hologram data through wavefront modulation of the incident light, and a holographic printer can record a high-quality hologram by sequentially recording a number of holograms reproduced by the SLM on a holographic material. As UHD (4K) resolution SLMs have been popularized, higher quality holograms can be reproduced compared to previous 2K resolution SLMs. When applied to the holographic printer, it is possible to manufacture holographic optical elements (HOEs) having a multifunctioning property and a wide field of view. In this paper, we introduce the holographic printer system using an amplitude UHD SLM and its applications. The holographic printer consists of optical systems to generate high-quality hologram from UHD SLM and mechanical systems to record the hologram on holographic material. The details of the total system are introduced. Furthermore, we introduce a holographic near-eye display system using UHD SLM and an image combiner HOE which is manufactured by the holographic printer.
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