Introduction to Virtual and Augmented Reality Displays
Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR and AR) headsets may seem to be similar technologies, but they’ve distinct differences. One key area where they diverge is of their display systems. While VR headsets have already gained mass market appeal, AR headsets are still working to crack the mainstream market. A big challenge for AR headsets is their display requirements, which should be extremely brilliant, compact, high-resolution, and low-cost.
Challenges in AR Displays
AR headsets require displays that may compete with ambient light and pair with inefficient waveguide optical combiners. They must even be power-efficient to permit for reasonable battery life without making the headset too heavy. Additionally, the displays must be compact and light-weight enough to suit into slim frames that resemble normal spectacles. Furthermore, they will need to have high resolution for good legibility of text and notification content, and even full Mixed Reality (MR) experiences. Meeting all these requirements in a single package is a frightening task, and multiple approaches are being explored.
Display Technologies for AR
Several display technologies are being considered for AR headsets, including microLED microdisplays, laser beam scanning displays, OLED-on-Silicon, and Liquid Crystal-on-Silicon. Each technology has its strengths and weaknesses, and the alternative of display will rely on the intended application and the optical technologies used.
MicroLED Microdisplays
MicroLED microdisplays are a promising technology for AR headsets. They offer high brightness-to-volume ratio and might maximize pixel density. However, they’re still within the early stages of development, and manufacturing at scale stays a big challenge. Currently, China’s Jade Bird Display is the one company commercially producing microLED microdisplays for AR headsets.
Laser Beam Scanning Displays
Laser beam scanning displays are one other technology being explored for AR headsets. They may be made compact and might couple efficiently with waveguide optics. However, they’re sensitive to environmental conditions and require precise alignment. Despite these challenges, firms like TriLite Technologies are making progress in developing LBS displays for AR applications.
Established Technologies
OLED-on-Silicon and Liquid Crystal-on-Silicon are more established display technologies utilized in AR headsets. OLED-on-Si offers high resolution at a comparatively low price, but its low brightness makes it incompatible with waveguide optics. LCOS, then again, is usually utilized in high-end AR devices, but its high cost and limited brightness efficiency are drawbacks.
Future Developments
The AR display market is anticipated to proceed evolving, with multiple technologies coexisting and improving over time. IDTechEx’s research report, "Displays for Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality 2024-2034," provides an in depth evaluation of the spatial computing display landscape. The report includes granular ten-year market forecasts and assessments of the potential for achievement of varied display technologies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the event of AR displays is a fancy and difficult task. Multiple technologies are being explored, each with its strengths and weaknesses. As the AR market continues to grow, we will expect to see improvements in display technologies, resulting in more efficient, compact, and high-resolution displays. The alternative of display technology will rely on the intended application, and a spread of technologies will likely coexist out there. Ultimately, the event of AR displays will play a critical role in determining the success of AR headsets within the mainstream market.
