How an Augmented Reality Headset Shows a Stable Virtual Monitor

This patent describes an augmented reality headset that uses special liquid lenses and an occlusion matrix to display a stable virtual computer monitor, even as the user moves their head or body, while also preventing visual artifacts.

What it covers

This patent describes an augmented reality (AR) head-mountable device designed to replace a physical computer monitor with a virtual one. The device includes a micro display that shows the virtual image and a liquid lens placed in front of it (Claim 1). A liquid lens controller adjusts the tilt and focus of this lens to move the virtual image in any direction, making it appear anchored to a fixed spot in the real world even when the wearer moves their head or body (Claim 2, 9). For example, if you turn your head, the virtual screen stays in the same perceived spot. The system also uses a binocular occlusion matrix, which works with the liquid lens controller to make parts of the virtual screen opaque, preventing blurry 'ghosting' effects (Claim 1, 4). The virtual monitor can also automatically hide if the wearer moves their head past a certain angle or moves more than a set distance (Claim 12, 13, 14).

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover AR systems that display virtual content without using a liquid lens to adjust the projected image's position or focus.
• —Does not cover AR systems that lack a binocular occlusion matrix to prevent 'ghosting' of the virtual display.
• —Does not cover virtual monitors that are built directly into the head-mountable device and are not interfaced with an external video source (like a PC or TV).
• —Does not cover systems where the virtual display does not appear to stay fixed in a real-world location when the user moves.
• —Does not cover systems that do not automatically hide the virtual display in response to specific wearer movements, such as turning their head more than 15 degrees or moving more than 10 inches.
• —Does not cover AR systems that use traditional mechanical lenses instead of liquid lenses for dynamic image manipulation.

The clever bit

The clever part is the combination of liquid lenses with an occlusion matrix. Liquid lenses dynamically adjust the virtual image's position and focus in real-time as the user moves, making the virtual screen feel stable. The occlusion matrix then precisely blocks real-world light behind the virtual image, eliminating distracting ghosting and making the virtual display appear solid and clear.

Why it matters

This patent addresses key challenges in augmented reality, particularly in creating comfortable and usable virtual displays. By using liquid lenses and an occlusion matrix, it aims to reduce issues like simulator sickness, which can occur during prolonged AR use. The ability to anchor a virtual screen in a fixed real-world position allows users to interact with virtual content as if it were a physical monitor, enhancing productivity and immersion. This technology is foundational for AR applications that seek to replace or augment traditional screens in work and entertainment.

Real-world examples

• 1.Microsoft HoloLens 2 (for virtual display stability)
• 2.Magic Leap 2 (for virtual display stability)
• 3.Varjo XR-3 (for high-fidelity virtual content)
• 4.Future enterprise AR headsets for remote work