High-performance reflection-type augmented reality 3D display using a reflective polarizer

Abstract

We propose a high-performance reflection-type augmented reality (AR) 3D display by using a reflective polarizer (RP). The RP functions as a reflective imaging device as well as an image combiner that combines the real scenes and the 3D images reconstructed by the integral imaging display unit. Benefiting from the flawless imaging of the RP, the proposed reflection-type AR system can achieve high-definition 3D display. A prototype based on the proposed reflection-type AR structure is developed, and it presents good 3D display effects and reflection-type AR performances. The developed prototype is very compact, as thin as 3.4 mm, which makes it be a potential candidate in stomatology and vehicle AR display.