Automated System for Holographic Lightfield 3D Display Metrology (HL3DM)

ABSTRACT: Lightfield 3D displays are being developed to reduce viewer eyestrain normally found on stereoscopic displays caused by the mismatch of the focus and stereo vergence on the display. These lightfield or Field of Light Displays (FoLD) systems generate a light field by any of several approaches including holographic, volumetric, integral-imaging, and multiple-2D-depth-planes. The different approaches of FoLD systems provide unique performance results. Characterization of their optical properties are important to further improve performance and compare the different display systems. Based on the investigation of best testing methods Adi-Displays will do a design for an automated lightfield photometric inspection system designed to analyze the proper metrics required to evaluate FoLD system performance. This same metrology system can also provide consistent display calibration and analyze existing stereoscopic 3D displays for comparison. The metrics we choose will mimic the senses of human perception in order to quantify acceptable FoLD system performance. Today there are no dedicated FoLD photometric systems available in the marketplace. We intends to use commercial photometers, cameras and instruments mounted on custom designed precision motorized stages using translation and rotation in order to complete an automated sequence of tests controlled by the test computer. BENEFIT: Adi-Displays believes that a 3D lightfield display metrology system is required to determine the proper tests relevant to evaluating performance. At the conclusion of building this system for the Air Force we can propose a metrology and calibration standard that can be published and adopted by a reputable standards committee such as the ICDM. Another benefit is that this automated system can evaluate traditional 2D and stereoscopic 3D displays for comparable performance. Other government agencies, display companies and instrument companies may be interested in these specialized systems.