Multi-Layer Aberration-Compensated Guided Image Conformal Head-Mounted Display

ABSTRACT: To address the Air Force need for a curved waveguide visor display, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to continue advancing, in Phase II, the new Multi-Layer Aberration-Compensated Guided Image Conformal Head-Mounted Display (MAGIC-HMD). Successfully developed and proven feasible in Phase I, MAGIC-HMD is based on chirped volume holographic elements that compensate for the compound curvature of the waveguide visor substrate and chromaticity profile of the display engine. POCs MAGIC-HMD utilizes the common visor form-factor to route display imagery to the user in order to generate full-color see-through imagery by using the initial high resolution microdisplays, leading directly to visual acuity matching resolution within a 40-degree field of view (FOV). In Phase I, POC has successfully demonstrated monochrome imagery routed through both cylindrical and spherical waveguides using multiple lamination techniques for compatibility with polycarbonate visors. In Phase II, POC proposes to incrementally improve the MAGIC-HMD through a two-stage development process, from a fully integrated and stand-alone monochrome waveguide (Stage I), to a breadboard validation waveguide for demonstrating full color and display content with an equivalent 20/20 visual acuity initial waveguide (Stage II). We have partnered with Rockwell Collins to assist with integration and testing and transition to a fielded platform. BENEFIT: Commercial applications of the MAGIC-HMD will include the replacement of current classical optics-based HMD systems and head-up display (HUD) systems with a thin, light, and low-profile HMD system that can provide more capable, ergonomic, digital vision systems. Due to its extreme compactness, the MAGIC-HMD technology can be expected to have a variety of commercial applications, including use for aerial firefighting, highway patrol, medical, commercial aviation, space exploration, personal displays, and gaming/entertainment systems. Other than the Air Force JHMCS application, major military applications for the MAGIC-HMD include Distributed Mission Training, pilot and combat vehicle crew HMDs, thermal weapon sights, Soldier's Integrated Protective Ensemble (SIPE), and logistics and training. Homeland Security and the State Department can benefit from the MAGIC-HMD technology for security operations as well.