OPTICAL MODULE DESIGN FOR AUGMENTED REALITY GLASSES

Subject of Research. The paper considers an optical module design method for augmented reality glasses. The module contains a translucent beam-splitting element that provides observation of real objects with superimposed additional virtual image (OST HMD — optical see-through head-mounted display). The central element of the optical module is a prism that views two channels simultaneously: a real world picture and a virtual image. As a result, the user is able to see an augmented reality image. The functional scheme of the optical module with the introduced eye tracking system is considered. Method. Optimization of the prism surfaces, as well as tilts and relative positions, was performed using Zemax OpticStudio. It is based on the idea of applying free-form surfaces, which enables the sizes to be reduced, the field of view to be increased and the image quality to be improved. Main Results. The initial parameters of the optical element and an algorithm for optimization of free-form surfaces are developed, that gives the possibility to obtain a relatively wide field of vision (54° diagonally), compactness and high image quality parameters. Practical Relevance. The results of this work can be used in the design and development of augmented reality glasses in various fields, such as: medicine, online education, defense industry, sports, and marketing.