Near-eye displays have emerged as the future of portable devices, providing users with immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences. The primary goals of developing these displays are to create immersive experiences and ensure visual comfort. This article explores the advancements in high-resolution light field displays for VR, addressing challenges such as Vergence-Accommodation-Conflict (VAC) and limited viewing angles.
Earlier light field displays in VR were constrained by small sizes and low resolutions, resulting in limited viewing angles and screen window effects. However, researchers have made significant breakthroughs in this area. A recent paper published in the Journal of Optical Microsystems presents the successful utilization of a 3.1-inch 3k3k LC display to overcome these limitations. This integration of light field technology allows for an improved VR experience with a larger field of view and enhanced viewing angles.
Transitioning to high-resolution VR LCD displays presented material and process challenges that required attention. The authors of the paper emphasize the importance of employing high-resolution liquid crystal displays (LCDs) to address light field resolution issues. To enhance LCD resolution, the paper explores strategies such as aperture and contrast ratio improvements through specialized pixel designs and driving techniques.
Beyond its use in VR displays, light field technology has shown potential in vision correction for VR systems. By utilizing light field technology, both vision correction and the expansion of the eyebox are achieved, enhancing the overall VR experience and user comfort. The paper investigates the optics of light field VR, demonstrating the creation of elemental image (EI) arrays through a lens array and spatially multiplexed light field optics. This approach generates volumetric virtual images that accurately simulate proper eye accommodation, eliminating the need to address VAC.
The authors focus on a recently developed INNOLUX LCD with impressive resolution and pixel density. By introducing a 15-degree tilt between panels, the binocular field of view (FOV) is expanded, ensuring exceptional angular resolution. The Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) across the image field guarantees the faithful reproduction of high-quality images.
The paper also addresses visual correction within the realm of light field VR. It introduces a ray tracing-based graphical process called “corrected eye box mapping,” which facilitates the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Parameters like spherical power (SPH), cylinder power (CYL), and cylinder axis (AXIS) are taken into account for comprehensive visual correction.
This paper offers a comprehensive exploration of the development of high-resolution light field displays for VR. It encompasses advancements in display design, pixel architecture, and vision correction through the integration of light field technology. This research significantly contributes to the progression of light field displays, creating enriched visual experiences within high-resolution VR systems. With further advancements and refinements, the future of near-eye displays looks promising, promising even more immersive and visually comfortable VR experiences.
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