Depth-Fused AR Display Using Broadband Pancharatnam-Berry Phase Lenses

We develop a depth-fused 3D augmented reality (AR) display using broadband Pancharatnam-Berry phase lenses (PBLs). Employing a multi-layer twisted liquid crystal structure, the broadband PBLs can achieve high diffraction efficiency across the visible spectrum, effectively reducing ghost images in the color imaging. The depth-fused AR system employs a tunable lens comprising of 2 broadband PBLs to generate two image planes. Utilizing depth fuse technology, the system can achieve continuous depth variations by controlling the luminance ratio of the two virtual image planes. It can provide correct depth cues and realistic 3D effect, and thus offers great potential for compact and lightweight AR display applications.