GB2634095A

GB2634095A - Optical display device

Info

Publication number: GB2634095A
Application number: GB2315004.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Clark Jonathan
Original assignee: Innerscene Ltd
Current assignee: Innerscene Ltd
Priority date: 2023-09-29
Filing date: 2023-09-29
Publication date: 2025-04-02
Also published as: GB202315004D0

Abstract

The transparent member mounting system 50, particularly for a sky scene display device 4, comprises a support structure 52 for mounting the transparent member 22. In use, a support portion (56, figure 8) of the support structure extends around a side face 40 and a periphery of an exterior 38 and/or interior 36 face of the transparent member, and a gasket portion (58, figure 8) provides an appearance of a gasket of a window glass. Also claimed is a display device comprising the mounting system and an output light generation system, optionally including a waveguide 18 with redirecting members for decoupling light to the output aperture and a waveguide mounting system 80 including a further gasket portion 88. A spacing between the two gasket portions may correspond to a thickness of a glass member of a window, and optionally a spacer 110 may be provided to resemble a side face seal of a glass member.

Description

OPTICAL DISPLAY DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to electrically operated optical display devices for creating an artificial sky light, wherein an observer experiences a perception of a sky scene when gazing into an output aperture of said device.

BACKGROUND

US11143364B2 discloses a device to provide an artificial skylight, with an arrangement to create an infinity edge, which is said to create an effect of the emitting surface of the device being detached from, and floating above (e.g., at infinity) a frame of the device. The frame may also include a shroud to closely resemble a skylight frame. Such a device may lack the realism of an actual skylight.

Therefore, in spite of the effort already invested in the development of said devices further improvements are desirable.

SUMMARY [General Device]

The present disclosure provides an optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the optical display device comprising: an output light generation system, and; an output aperture for the output light.

In embodiments, the output light generation system comprises a diffuse light generation system to generate a diffuse sky light component in the output light. A diffuse light generation system may provide an appearance of a sky in the sky scene. In embodiments, the diffuse light generation system includes a waveguide with redirecting members to diffusively decouple light projected within the waveguide to the output aperture. In embodiments, a light source is optically coupled to the waveguide (e.g., at one or more side faces thereof).

In embodiments, the output light generation system comprises, a collimated light generation system arranged to generate a collimated sunlight component in the output light. A collimated light generation system may provide an appearance of a sun in the sky scene.

In embodiments, the output aperture comprises a transparent member. The output light is typically transmitted though the transparent member. In embodiments, the transparent member includes an interior face and an exterior face. The interior face may face the output light generation system and an exterior face may face away from the output light generation system, e.g., towards an observer gazing into said device. The output light is typically projected to the interior face, through the thickness of the transparent member, and from the exterior face. In embodiments, the output aperture comprises a frame. In embodiments, the frame extends around the output aperture, e.g., to define the output aperture.

[Mounting System] In embodiments, the optical display device comprises a transparent member mounting system comprising a support structure for mounting the transparent member to the frame. In embodiments, the support structure includes a support portion arranged to extend around (e.g., fully or partially over) a side face (including just a periphery thereof) of the transparent member and around (e.g., partially over) at least one of a periphery of an exterior face and an interior face of the transparent member. In embodiments, the support structure includes a gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance (e.g., the appearance to an observer when gazing into the output aperture, which may include the appearance presented in the output light) of at least one gasket to seal a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.

By implementing the support structure to extend around the side face of the transparent member to the exterior face and/or the interior face, the support structure may securely retain the transparent member in an assembled configuration whilst providing a combinatory effect of the appearance of a gasket, as found on a real-life glass member of a window.

In embodiments, the support structure (e.g., the gasket portion and support portion) are integrally formed. By configuring the support structure to integrally provide (e.g., as one piece) both a support and a gasket effect, a convenient to manufacture and/or assemble support structure may be provided.

In embodiments, the support portion is arranged to extend contiguous the transparent member on one or more of: the side face; the exterior face, and; the interior face. Said arrangement may be entirely contiguous in respect of the one or more faces. As used herein the term "contiguous" may refer to in contact with or in close proximity thereto, which may include a gap of less than 1 or 2 mm.

In embodiments, the gasket portion is arranged as a first portion of the support portion, which protrudes from the frame to overlap (e.g., around a periphery of an exterior face of the transparent member) the transparent member to provide said gasket appearance. By arranging the gasket portion to extend outwardly from the frame, and as a peripheral rim, an effect of a gasket may be realistically achieved. In embodiments, the first portion protrudes from the frame by an extent of up to 2 or 4 or 10 mm.

In embodiments, the support portion includes a second portion which overlaps around a periphery of an interior face of the transparent member. In embodiments, the first portion protrudes from the frame by a greater extent than the second portion. By arranging the first portion to protrude by a greater amount than the second portion, the second portion may be concealed, whilst still proving a supporting function. In embodiments, the second portion is arranged flush (including level or substantially level) or set back (e.g., sunk within) within the frame.

In embodiments, the first portion is arranged to obscure visibility of the second portion when viewed from downstream of the output aperture and with the first portion to form the gasket portion. As used herein the term "obscure visibility' may refer to, for a predetermined viewing angle range (wherein a viewing angle is defined relative a vector normal to the output aperture) said feature not being visible within the predetermined viewing angle range.

By arranging the first portion to obscure visibility/prevent direct viewing of the second portion from some or all viewing positions downstream of the output aperture, the second portion can provide the support function without appearing as a gasket to an observer. Since it may be desirable to implement a relatively thin transparent member (compared to an actual thickness of a glass member in a real-life window e.g., for cost efficacy and/or weight saving), an appearance of two gasket portions directly adjoining either side of said thin transparent member is conveniently avoided, since this would lack realism. The first portion may, for example, have a degree of extension relative the second portion that prevents a head of a user from being position such that a gaze of a user can directly (e.g. within the predetermined viewing angle range) the second portion.

In embodiments, the frame is configured (e.g., in combination with the configuring of the first proportion) to obscure visibility/prevent direct viewing of the second portion from downstream of the output aperture. The frame may, for example, have a depth that prevents a head of a user from being position such that a gaze of a user can directly see the second portion.

In embodiments, the transparent member has a thickness of 0.5 -10 mm or 0.5 -5 mm. By implementing a relatively thin transparent member compared to an actual thickness of a glass member in a real-life window the arrangement may be cost and/or weight optimised.

In embodiments, the support structure is arranged to extend continuously/and/or contiguously around a periphery of the transparent member. By arranging the support structure to extend (e.g., to overlap in a contiguous manner) over the peripheries of one or more of: the interior face; the exterior face, and; the side face, of the transparent member a secure/precise connection may be achieved, which may also provide an appearance of a gasket.

In embodiments, the transparent member mounting system comprises a cavity of the frame for insertion of the transparent member and/or the support structure. A cavity in an interior side face of the frame that corresponds in shape to the support structure may implement a secure fixture, which maybe convenient to assemble.

In embodiments, the support portion connects to the transparent member with a fixing system, which comprises one or more of: a press fit; an adhesive connection; a mechanical fastener. In embodiments, the support portion connects to the frame with a fixing system, which comprises one or more of: a press fit; an adhesive connection; a mechanical fastener. Said fixing systems may implement a secure fixture, which maybe convenient to assemble.

In embodiments, wherein the output light generation system comprises the diffuse light generation system, which includes the waveguide with redirecting members to diffusively decouple light projected within the waveguide to the output aperture, the optical display device comprises a waveguide mounting system for mounting the waveguide to the frame.

In embodiments, the waveguide mounting system includes a gasket portion arranged to extend over an exterior face of the waveguide to provide an appearance of a gasket when viewed from downstream of the output aperture. By implementing a gasket portion of the waveguide mounting system, an appearance of a gasket at the waveguide may be provided, which may provide an appearance of a thick glass member of a window that extends up to the waveguide.

In embodiments, a gap in a depth direction between the gasket portion of the waveguide mounting system and the gasket portion of the transparent member mounting system corresponds to a thickness of a glass member of a window, e.g., a gap of 5 mm to 5 cm. Such a gap dimension may provide an appearance of a thick glass member of a window.

In embodiments, the support structure is arranged to extend continuously and/or contiguously around a periphery of the waveguide.

In embodiments, the gasket portion of the waveguide mounting system; the gasket portion of the transparent member mounting system, and; the frame, are configured with both gasket portions visible when viewed from downstream of the output aperture. By implementing said gasket portions to be visible, an appearance of a thick glass member of a window that extends from the exterior face of the transparent member and up to the waveguide may be provided.

In embodiments, a support portion of the waveguide mounting system is interposed between the exterior face of the waveguide and an inset portion of the frame, which is arranged to inset the waveguide with respect to the frame. By arranging the support portion of the waveguide mounting system to be sandwiched between the exterior face of the waveguide and the frame, support portion and gasket portion feature may be conveniently provided. Convenient assembly may also be provided, since the waveguide may be clamped to the frame by applying a clamp around the interior face of the waveguide and the inset portion of the frame. In embodiments, the support portion comprises an extension for location in a complimentary groove of the frame, e.g., of the inset portion. As used herein the term "inset portion" of the frame may refer to a cavity or otherwise stepped in portion of the frame relative an interior side face of the frame.

In embodiments, the optical display device comprises a gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of a first and second gasket around a glass member of a window, when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.

In embodiments, a spacer is arranged between the between the gasket portion of the waveguide mounting system and the gasket portion of the transparent member mounting system. By implementing the spacer between said gasket portions an appearance of a thick glass member that extends between the gasket portions may be provided.

[Spacer] In embodiments, the optical display device comprises a spacer arranged to create an appearance (e.g., the appearance to an observer when gazing into the output aperture, which may include the appearance presented in the output light) of a seal to seal a side face of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.

By implementing a spacer (e.g., a strip and/or membrane) that gives an impression of sealing a virtual transparent member, an appearance of a seal sealing the transparent member may be replicated, which may improve realism of the device. By giving the impression of sealing a virtual transparent member (e.g., different to the actual transparent member implemented) the device is not limited to creating the impression for just the actual transparent member. Moreover, the spacer may obviate the need to refinish this portion of the frame should a first portion of the frame be refinished, since it is observed as a separate aspect from the first portion of the frame.

In embodiments, the spacer is arranged the between a diffuse light generation system of the output light generation system and an interior face of a transparent member of the output aperture. By arranging the spacer to extend between the transparent member and the diffuse light generation system (e.g., proximal an exterior surface of the waveguide thereof) an impression of a virtual transparent member that is thicker than the transparent member may be created.

In embodiments, the spacer has a greater width (e.g., at least 2 or 3 times, and/or a maximum of times) in a depth direction than that of the transparent member.

In embodiments, the transparent member is arranged in an inset portion of the frame. In embodiments, the optical display device is arranged (e.g., due to a depth D of the frame and/or a degree of extension of a first gasket portion) to obscure visibility of a side face of the transparent member when viewed from downstream of the output aperture, and the spacer does not extend over the side face of the transparent member. In such an example, it may not be necessary to extend the spacer over the side face of the transparent member since it is not visible to an observer, which may simplify construction. In embodiments, the support structure extends over an interior face of the transparent member, and the spacer extends over the support structure or up to the support structure.

In embodiments, the spacer comprises a plurality of perforations, which may be arranged in a linear manner along a longitudinal length of the spacer. By implementing perorations (which may be through holes or blind, and may be circular, slot or otherwise shaped) in the spacer, an appearance of a seal sealing the transparent member may be replicated, which may improve realism of the device.

In embodiment, the spacer is metallic in appearance, including being formed of a metallic material. In embodiments, the spacer is formed of a strip, e.g., a flexible membrane, including a tape. In embodiments, the spacer is at least partially reflective. e.g., to at least 50 or 80% of incident light. In embodiments, the spacer as a different surface finish to the frame, e.g., the inner side face of the frame.

In embodiments, the optical display device comprises a first and second gasket portion arranged to create an appearance of a gasket, wherein the spacer is arranged between the first and second gasket portion. By arranging the spacer to extend between, including fully between to adjoin each gasket portion, an impression of a virtual transparent member may be improved. The first gasket portion may be arranged on an exterior face of transparent member, and the second gasket portion may be arranged on a virtual interior face of virtual transparent member and/or the exterior face of the waveguide.

In embodiments, the spacer has a different surface finish to the frame. For example, the surface finish may implement a greater degree of specular reflection and/or may have a different colour tone.

[Projection arrangement] In embodiments, the optical display device comprises a reflector arrangement arranged to reflect an image (e.g., the appearance of an image to an observer when gazing into the output aperture, which may include the appearance presented in the output light) of a feature that is downstream of the output light generation system.

By implementing the reflector arrangement to create an image (e.g., as a reflection) of said feature a realism of the optical display device may be improved, since the feature may appear as a "ghost image" in a real-life window.

In embodiments, the feature is an object downstream of the optical display device. As used herein the term "an object downstream of the optical display device" may refer to any object that the output light encounters (e.g., walls of a room of furniture of a room that said device projected into) and/or any object that can emit light into the output aperture (e.g., a light source of a room that said device projected into).

In embodiments, the object downstream of the optical display device comprises a light source. By implementing the reflector arrangement to create a reflection of a light source that emits light into the output aperture, a realism of said device may be improved. In embodiments, the reflector arrangement is arranged to reflect a first and second image of the light source. By implementing the reflector arrangement to create a double reflection of a light source that emits light into the output aperture, a realism of said device may be improved.

In embodiments, the feature is a component of the optical display device. As used herein the term "a component of the optical display device" may refer to any component of the device that is downstream of the output light generation system. In embodiments, the feature is one or more of: the frame; a spacer arranged to create an appearance of a seal to seal a side face of a glass member of a window; a gasket portion to provide an appearance of at least one gasket around a glass member of a window, and; a transparent member of the output aperture, and; a virtual glass member of a window of the output aperture. Virtual images in the output of said one or more features may improve a realism of the optical display device.

In embodiments, wherein the feature is the frame, the feature is a first portion of the frame that is downstream of a transparent member of the output aperture. In embodiments, the frame does not comprise a second frame portion upstream of the transparent member, and the reflector arrangement is configured to reflect the first portion of the frame to create an impression of said second portion. By implementing a virtual image of the first portion of the frame, which is downstream of the transparent member, an illusion of a second portion of the frame may be provided, which may obviate the formation of an actual second portion of the frame upstream of the transparent member/virtual transparent member. Hence an apparent finish of the frame may be changed by changing the first portion, which is projected as the second portion, which may be particularly convenient since a dedicated second portion of the frame would otherwise be arranged internal the device, and therefore complicated to access and change.

In embodiments, where the feature is the gasket portion, the gasket portion may be arranged as a first gasket portion arranged around an exterior face of the transparent member and/or a second gasket portion arranged around an exterior face of the waveguide of the diffuse light generation system. By implementing said gasket portions an illusion of a virtual glass member of a window may be provided between said gasket portions, with their further projection as a virtual image a realism of the optical display device may be improved.

In embodiments, the spacer is arranged between the first and second gasket portions, and the feature is the gasket portions and the spacer. By implementing said gasket portions and a spacer an illusion of a glass transparent member of a window may be provided between said gasket portions, with their further reflection as a virtual image a realism of the optical display device may be improved.

In embodiments, the reflector arrangement comprises a partially reflective member, which is semitransparent and is arranged upstream of said feature for reflection of light from said feature and may be arranged for transmission of the output light therethrough. By implementing a partially reflective member within the device, which is upstream of the feature (e.g., the output light passes through the partially reflective member before reflecting from the feature), light reflected from the feature may be in turn reflected from the partially reflective member and emitted as a virtual image of the feature in the output light.

In embodiments, the partially reflective member may comprise a semi-silvered mirror or a dielectric tint applied to a surface of a member. Such an arrangement may provide a desired degree of reflection and transparency.

In embodiments, the partially reflective member comprises a projecting surface of a waveguide of a diffuse light generation system of the output light generation system. Such an arrangement of the partially reflective member may be conveniently integrated into an optical display device.

In embodiments, the partially reflective member comprises an element disposed between the waveguide of the diffuse light generation system and the transparent member.

In embodiments, the partially reflective member is partially diffusively reflective (e.g., it reflects a greater percentage of light diffusely than was present in the incident light). Such an arrangement may provide a realistic virtual image of one or more of the aforedescribed features since a degree of blurring is implemented in the virtual image.

In embodiments, the partially reflective member is configured to reflect light with a darker colour tone. Such an arrangement may provide a realistic virtual image of one or more of the aforedescribed features.

In embodiments, the partially reflective member is configured to reflect light with a reflectivity of 4% ± 20 or 30%. In embodiments, the partially reflective member has a refractive index 1.4 -1.7 In embodiments, the reflector arrangement further comprises a second partially reflective member, which is semi-transparent and is arranged downstream of the partially reflective member. The second partially reflective member may be arranged to project therethrough the output light of the output light generation system. The second partially reflective member may reflect light that has been previously reflected from the partially reflective member (e.g., to create a double image of the feature). The second partially reflective member may be downstream or upstream of the feature.

In embodiments, the second partially reflective member is arranged on an interior face of the transparent member. Such an arrangement of the partially reflective member may be conveniently integrated into an optical display device. In such an example the transparent member may be referred to as an aperture member.

In embodiments, the optical display device comprises a reflector arrangement comprising a first partially reflective member, which is semi-transparent, and is arranged to project therethrough the output light of the output light generation system, and; a second partially reflective member, which is semi-transparent, and is arranged opposed to the first partially reflective member to reflect light to the first partially reflective member, and may be arranged to project therethrough the output light of the output light generation system.

[Virtual Transparent Member] In embodiments, the optical display device comprises a virtual glass member system that is arranged to create an appearance (e.g., the appearance to an observer when gazing into the output aperture) of a virtual glass member of a window (without the virtual glass member of a window present).

By implementing a virtual glass member system that creates a perception of a virtual transparent member, increased realism of the device may be provided without the need for an actual glass 25 member of a window.

In embodiments, the virtual glass member system is arranged to create an appearance of a virtual glass member of a window of greater thickness than that of the transparent member.

By implementing virtual glass member system that creates a perception of a virtual transparent member that is thicker than the actual transparent member, a relatively thin transparent member may be implemented in the optical display device (compared to an actual thickness of a glass member in a real-life window), hence the arrangement may be cost and/or weight optimised, whilst the impression of a glass member in a real-life window is created by the virtual transparent member.

In embodiments, the virtual glass member of a window comprises a first and second sheet of glass with a cavity there between. Hence a perception of these components may be created by the virtual glass member system.

In embodiments, the virtual transparent member system comprises the gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of a first and second gasket around a glass member of a window, when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.

In embodiments, the virtual transparent member system comprises the spacer arranged to create an appearance of a seal to seal a side face of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.

In embodiments, the virtual transparent member system comprises the reflector arrangement arranged to reflect an image of a feature that is downstream of the output light generation system.

[Obscuring of Lightsource] In embodiments, the optical display device is arranged with the output light generation system comprising a diffuse light generation system to generate a diffuse sky light component in the output light, wherein the diffuse light generation system includes a waveguide with redirecting members to diffusively decouple light projected within the waveguide to the output aperture and a light source optically coupled to a side face of the waveguide; an output aperture for the output light, comprising a transparent member, and; a frame, wherein the optical display device is configured arranged to prevent direct viewing of the light source from downstream of the output aperture.

By positioning the various components of the device (e.g., primarily the frame and waveguide relative each other) so that the light source can not be seen directly from downstream of the output aperture (e.g., at a greater depth position than that of the frame, which thereby precludes viewing positions from inside the frame), visual cues from the light source that are not present in a real-life sky scene may be minimised/eliminated.

As used herein the term "prevent direct viewing of the light source" may refer to there not being an unbroken line of sight from an observer directly to the light source. This may not include reflection along the light of sight from other objects.

In embodiments, the arrangement of the frame and waveguide to prevent direct viewing of the light source from downstream of the output aperture may be achieved by one or more of the following configurations: A) the waveguide is arranged with the side face to which the light source is coupled set-in from a side face of the frame, with a degree of set-in S selected to prevent said direct viewing of the light source; B) a depth D of the frame from the waveguide is selected to prevent said direct viewing of the light source; C) a longitudinal distance L between opposed lateral members that form the frame portion is selected to prevent said direct viewing of the light source; D) the transparent member has a different refractive index to air and said refractive index i and/or a thickness T of the transparent member are selected to prevent said direct viewing of the light source.

E) the waveguide has a refractive index i and a thickness T selected to prevent said direct viewing of the light source.

In embodiments, the light source of the diffuse light generation system includes one or more of the following: an element for conversion of electrical energy to light emission; a guide to guide the light emission to the waveguide; a coupler to couple the light emission to the waveguide. The arrangement of the items A) -E) to prevent said direct viewing of the light source from downstream of the output aperture, may include one or more of the aforesaid components not being visible.

[Trim Pannel] In embodiments, the frame comprises a trim portion that is arranged as a front face and an inner side face of the frame and is removably attached to a body of the frame.

By implementing the trim portion to form both a front face and an inner side face of the frame, the exposed portion of the frame is conveniently arranged as a signal component, thus it may be finished with the same surface finish. By implementing the trim portion to be removable, it may be conveniently removed/replaced to refinish the visible aspect of the device. The removable element may also provide convenient access to the internal components of the device.

In embodiments, the trim portion is removable as one piece. By implementing the trim portion as a single component, it may conveniently be removed to replace the front face and side face of the frame at the same time, including as one operation.

In embodiments, the trim portion is integrally formed. A signal piece (rather than a multiple piece formation) may be cost effective. A single piece construction may also avoid unsightly join lines around the frame, which are not present in a real-life window. In embodiments, the trim portion has an L-shaped cross-section.

In embodiments, the optical display device comprises control electronics for control of the output light generation system, wherein the control electronics are arranged within a cavity defined by the body of the frame, and the trim portion is arranged to close the cavity. By arranging control electronics in a recess in the frame, which is accessible by the trim portion, said control electronics may be conveniently accessed from the front of the device.

In embodiments, the trim portion comprises an extension, which extends in a lateral and/or longitudinal direction beyond an exterior side face of the frame. By implementing an extension to extend beyond the other components at the outside face frame, an edge of an installation surface that the device is arranged on may be concealed.

In embodiments, the trim portion forms only the front and inner side face exterior faces of the 20 frame.

In embodiments, the frame comprises a removable attachment system, with a first attachment interface arranged on the trim portion and a complimentary second attachment interface arranged on a body of the frame.

In embodiments, the removable attachment system is configured for one or more of: press-fit; snap fit; mechanical fastener.

In embodiments, an exterior surface of the front face and the inner side face of the frame portion have a same surface finish. The surface finish may be the same in respect of one or more of: colour; surface roughness; reflectivity, or; other perceivable quantity.

In embodiments, the trim portion forms the entire front face of the frame. By arranging the trim portion to form all of a visible portion of the front face of the frame, visible join lines may be avoided, which may lack realism.

In embodiments, the trim portion forms the entire visible inner side face of the frame. By arranging the trim portion to form all of a visible portion of the inner side face of the frame (e.g., it extends up to the gasket portion/transparent member, visible join lines may be avoided, which may lack realism.

In embodiments, the frame does not comprise an exposed second frame portion upstream of a transparent member of the output aperture and the trim portion comprises a first frame portion downstream of the transparent member.

By implementing no visible second portion of the frame, the trim portion may be changed to change an appearance of the frame (e.g., a colour to march a room), and at the same time because there is no second portion of the frame (which is visible) the second portion does not need changing, which would typically be a more complex operation since the second portion is upstream of the transparent member.

In embodiments, a spacer is arranged to create an appearance of a seal to seal a side face of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture, the spacer arranged upstream of the trim portion.

The spacer may sit where a second portion of the frame would otherwise be visible. The presence of the spacer would thus obviate changing an appearance of the second portion of the frame to match a changed first portion.

[Mounting System] The present disclosure provides a transparent member mounting system for an optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the transparent member mounting system according to any preceding embodiment or another embodiment system herein. [Use]

The present disclosure provides use of a transparent member mounting system (e.g., a support structure thereof) for an optical display device. The transparent member mounting system and support structure may implement the features of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The present disclosure provides use of a spacer for an optical display device arranged to create an appearance of a sky scene in output light, the spacer configured to create a perception of a seal to seal a side face of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture. The optical display device and spacer may implement the features of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The present disclosure provides use of a reflector arrangement for an optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the reflector arrangement arranged to reflect an image of a feature that is downstream of an output light generation system. The optical display device and reflector arrangement may implement the features of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The present disclosure provides use of a virtual glass member system for an optical display device arranged to create an appearance of a sky scene in output light. In embodiments, the virtual glass member system configured to create an appearance of a virtual glass member of a window of greater thickness than that of the transparent member.

The present disclosed provides use of a frame and waveguide arrangement of an optical display device to prevent direct viewing of a light source that is optically coupled to the waveguide from downstream of the output aperture.

The present disclosed provides use of a trim portion for an optical display device to create a perception of a sky scene in output light device, the trim portion arranged for removable attachment as a front face and an inner side face of the frame and for removable attachment to a body of the frame.

[Method of assembly] The present disclosure provides a method of assembling an optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the method may implement the features of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

In embodiments, the method comprises interconnecting a transparent member and a frame of the optical display device with a transparent member mounting system; wherein the transparent member mounting system comprises a support structure for structurally supporting the transparent member and for connecting the transparent member to the frame, the support structure having a support portion arranged to extend around a side face of the transparent member and at least one of a periphery of an exterior face and an interior face of the transparent member, and a gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of at least one gasket when viewed from downstream of the output aperture. In embodiments, the method comprises connecting the support structure to the transparent member, and subsequently; connecting the support structure to the frame.

In embodiments, the method comprises arranging a spacer to create an appearance perception of a seal to seal a side face of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture. In embodiments the method comprises connecting transparent member to the frame with a support structure, and (e.g., subsequently or before); connecting the spacer to a frame.

In embodiments, the method comprises arranging a reflector arrangement to reflect an image of a feature that is downstream of an output light generation system.

In embodiments, the method comprises creating an appearance of a virtual glass member of a window of greater thickness than that of the transparent member.

In embodiments, the method comprises arranging the optical display device to prevent direct viewing from downstream of the output aperture of a light source optically coupled to a waveguide of a diffuse light generation system.

In embodiments, the method comprises removably attaching a trim portion as a front face and an inner side face of a frame to a body of the frame.

The present disclosure provides a method of servicing a device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the method comprising removing a trim portion that forms a front face and an inner side face of a frame from a body of the frame to access control electronics arranged in a cavity of the body. In embodiments the method comprises interfacing with the control electronics, e.g., to change a setting or a component. In embodiments the method comprises removably attaching the trim portion.

[Method of generating sky scene] The present disclosure provides a method of generating a perception of a sky scene in output light (e.g., through a perception of an aperture in a building). The method may implement the features of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

In embodiments, the method comprises projecting the output light through a transparent member.

In embodiments, the method comprises creating with a gasket portion of a support structure a perception of a gasket around a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.

In embodiments, the method comprises supporting the transparent member with a support portion of the support structure that extends around a side face of the transparent member and at least one of a periphery of an exterior face and an interior face of the transparent member.

In embodiments, the method comprises creating an appearance of a seal that seals a side face of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.

In embodiments, the method comprises reflecting an image of a feature that is downstream of an output light generation system.

In embodiments, the method comprises arranging a virtual glass member system to create an appearance of a virtual glass member of a window of greater thickness than that of the transparent member.

In embodiments, the method comprises preventing direct viewing from downstream of the output aperture of a light source optically coupled to a waveguide of a diffuse light generation system.

The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some embodiments to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and/or proceeding embodiments may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further embodiments.

Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description of Embodiments, Figures, and Claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Aspects, features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments in reference to the appended drawings in which like numerals denote like elements.

Figure 1 is a block system diagram showing an embodiment system for creating an artificial sky scene.

Figures 2 and 3 are block system diagrams showing embodiment optical display devices for creating an artificial sky scene of the system of figure 1.

Figure 4 is an illustrative diagram showing the embodiment optical display device of figure 3.

Figures 5 is a block system diagram showing an embodiment optical display device for creating an artificial sky scene of the system of figure 1.

Figure 6 is an illustrative diagram showing the embodiment optical display device of figure 5.

Figures 7 to 9 are to scale side cross-sectional views showing an embodiment optical display device of the system of figure 1.

Figure 10 is an illustrative diagram showing a spacer of the optical display device of figures 7 -9.

Figure 11 is an illustrative diagram showing an embodiment optical display device of the system of figure 1.

Figure 12 is an illustrative diagram showing a view an observer experiences when gazing into an output aperture of the optical display device of figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Before describing several embodiments of the device, it is to be understood that the device is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the device is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations: As used herein the term "optical display device" or "device" may refer to electrically operated optical apparatus that is capable of providing an observer with a perception of a real-life sky when gazing into an output aperture of the device. The device creates a virtual sky scene. The virtual sky scene may have a perception of infinite depth (as for a real-life sky). The device may be dimensioned such that it is suitable for attachment to a ceiling or wall of an interior or a building, e.g., it is less than 1.5 meters or 2 meters or 3 meters in lateral and/or longitudinal dimension; it may be greater than 0.25 meters in lateral and/or longitudinal dimension; it may have a depth of less than 0.5 meters.

The device may recreate characteristics of said real-life sky. As used herein, the term "characteristics of a real-life sky" may refer to any optical characteristic of the real-life sky that is capable of measurement and replication in output light from the optical display device. A characteristic may include one or more of the following: a real-life colour of a real-life sky light component; a real-life colour of a real-life sun light component; a real-life intensity of a real-life sky light component; a real life intensity of a real life sun light component, and; an angle of the real life sun light component. As used herein, the term "intensity" may refer to any quantity related to a brightness perceived by a user, e.g., one or more of a: radiant intensity, measured in watts per steradian (W/sr); luminous intensity, a measured in lumens per steradian (Im/sr), or candela (cd); Irradiance; luminous power, or luminous flux) measured in lumen. As used herein, the term "colour" may refer to a colour measured by a suitable colour system which may enable digital representation, e.g., colour correlated temperature (CCT) or a colour space, including RGB, sRGB, a Pantone collection, CIELAB or CIEXYZ etc. As used herein, the term "real-life colour" may refer to a colour as measured by a colour system, which is assigned, e.g., as an average or other numerical approximation, to an object. The object can be the sun or the sky. Said colour of the object may be measured without interference (including substantial interference) from other objects in the sky scene.

As used herein the term "real-life sky" may refer to a sky view that an observer observes when gazing through a window (e.g., in a side wall or ceiling) of a structure or otherwise from the ground. The portion of the sky view observed typically comprises the sun and surrounding sky, but in some cases, it may only comprise only the former or the latter. Hence a real-life sky may include a real-life sky light component and/or may include a real-life sun light component. The real-life sun light component may include a circular (including substantially circular) yellow/white sun (e.g., a warm colour) and includes direct light. The real-life sky light component includes indirect light from the sun and is absent the real-life sun light component. The real-life sky light component may include: a clear sky component, e.g., a blue/cold colour, and/or; cloud component e.g., a white/grey colour. The clear sky component may surround (including partially or fully) the circular sun. The cloud component can surround and extend over (including partially or fully) the sun.

As used herein "warm" in respect of the sun light component may refer to a yellow and/or white colour. The CCT may be 3000 -5000k. As used herein "cold" in respect of the sky light component may refer to a blue and/or white colour. The CCT may be 5000 -10000K.

As used herein the term "perception of infinite depth" may refer to a depth of an object (e.g., the sky and/or sun) in three dimensions being perceived as infinitely far away from an observer with stereopsis (e.g., binocular vision). A perception of infinite depth may be provided by one or more of: binocular convergence; motion parallax, and; accommodation visual depth perception cues, e.g., no conflict exists between these visual perception cues. The condition of infinite depth may be determined based on gaze vectors of the eyes of an observer having the same and/or a similar alignment when looking into the device as for looking at the sky and/or sun in the real-life sky. The condition of infinite depth based on motion parallax may be determined based on the image of the sun appearing to be projected from the same location, e.g., moving, as an observer moves laterally and/or longitudinally across the output aperture. An observer user may maintain the same gaze vector associated with infinite depth during said motion.

As used herein the term "sky scene" or "virtual sky scene" may refer to a scene comprising a virtual representation that an observer observes when gazing through the output aperture of the optical display device. A sky scene may include a virtual sky light component and/or may include a virtual sun light component as defined herein. The sky scene may include a circular (including substantially circular) sun coloured image of the sun light component. The sun may be surrounded (including partially or fully) and/or overlapped (including partially or fully) by the sky light component. Alternatively, the sky scene may include the sky light component and no sunlight component.

As used herein the term "perception of a sky scene" may refer an observer perceiving a sky scene as being present in the real world, based on the construction by the device of a virtual sky scene that is sufficiently representative, e.g., in terms of chromatic and spatial distribution of light, to present as in the real-life sky.

As used herein the term "artificial sky light component" or "diffuse light component" may refer to artificial light that is representative of the real-life sky light component (e.g., absent the real-life sun light component), which can include a clear sky component and/or a cloud component (where both components are present the average component may be used) during daylight, sunset or sunrise. It may be representative of the real-life sky light component in respect of one or more of: colour, e.g., as defined by a CCT (e.g., 5000 -10000K); diffusivity; luminance profile or intensity; other suitable parameter, and; a variance of any of the aforesaid over an output aperture of the device. The diffuse light component may be uniform such that is does not vary by more than 10% or 20% or 30% or 40% over the entire output aperture, e.g., in terms of one or more of: colour diffusivity; luminance profile; intensity, and other suitable parameter. More particularly, said one or more parameters may be uniform to the extent where they do not vary by more than 10% or 20% or 30% or 40% for any given circular area on the output aperture of 10 mm diameter over at least 90% of the output aperture. In a particular example, the diffuse light is propagated over a HWHM solid angle that is at least 4 times larger or 9 times larger or 16 times larger than for the subtending HWHM solid angle of the sun light measured in Sr.

As used herein the term "sun light component" or "direct light component" may refer to artificial light that is representative of the real-life sun light component. It may be representative of the real-life sun light component in respect of one or more of: colour, e.g. as defined by a CCT (e.g. 3000 -5000k, which is less than that of the sky light component); divergence (e.g. an angle of divergence of the light rays may be no more than 5 or 2 or 1 or 0.5 degrees relative each other); luminance profile or intensity; other suitable parameter, and; a variance of any of the aforesaid over an output aperture of the device. In a particular example, the luminance profile of the sun light may have a narrow peak in the angular distribution around the direction of propagation which is subtended by a HWHM solid angle smaller than 0.2 sr or 0.3 sr. The sun light component may be projected uniformly over the output aperture, e.g., such that an average direction of propagation within a circle of diameter 10 mm at any position over the output aperture does not vary in angle by more than 2 or 5 or 10%. The sun light component may present to a user when looking into the device, as a circular disc positioned at infinity. As used herein the term "collimated light" may refer to light that has been processed by a collimated light generation system, which may form the sun light component.

As used herein the term "output aperture" may refer to a viewing window of the device into which an observer can gaze. The output aperture may be 0.3 -2 m x 0.3 -2 m. The output aperture outputs the output light which is generated by the device. The output aperture may include a transparent member or a void instead of such a member. The output aperture may include a frame that frames the transparent member. As used herein the term "transparent member" may refer to a medium through which the output light is projected. The transparent member may be planar. The transparent member may be formed of glass or plastic or other suitable material.

As used herein the term "reflective member" may refer to an object that is capable of reflecting an image by specular reflection. It can include a member with any surface in which the texture or roughness of the surface is smaller (smoother) than the wavelength of the incident light. It may include surfaces formed of one or more of the following reflective materials: metals; metal oxides, and; dielectric materials. Examples of which include silver, aluminium, a titanium oxide based material including titanium dioxide or titanium trioxide. Any of the aforementioned may be applied as a thin coating on a glass carrier.

As used herein the term "a reflective and partially transmissive member" or "partially reflective member' may refer to a reflective member as defined above, which is additionally configured to transmit therethrough a portion of light which is not reflected. An example of which is a member formed with a lesser thickness than for the aforedescribed reflective material. The transmissivity maybe less than 50% or 30% for incident electromagnetic radiation. The thickness of the reflective material may be any one or the following: less than 700 nm; less than 100 nm; less than 50 nm, and; less than 5 nm, with any of the aforementioned maximum thickness ranges implemented with a minimum thickness of 1 nm.

As used herein the term "output light generation system" may refer to a single (or a distributed system) capable of generating the output light. The output light generation system maybe implemented as a diffuse light generation system and/or a collimated light generation system. The output light generation system may generate all the output light, or part of the output light. For example, output light may also include a portion of light down stream of the output aperture (e.g. other lighting in a room where said device is installed) which is transmitted into the device, via the output aperture, reflected and projected back out.

As used herein the term "diffuse light generator" or "diffuse light generation system" may refer to a single or a distributed system capable of generating the diffuse light component, e.g., light which is scattered at many angles as opposed to one angle as with specular reflection/collimated light. The diffuse light generator may generate the diffuse light component by redirecting/scattering light that is incident/encounters uncoupling/redirecting features. The light may be supplied by a dedicated light source. The diffuse light generator may be at least partially transparent and may at least partially generate the diffuse light component from the light transmitted therethrough (which can include light from the collimated light generation system). The uncoupling features/redirecting features may be implemented as one or more of the following: particles to scatter light; conical micro cones; micro lenses; quantum dots; surface features, including surface etching, and; other suitable implementations. As used herein the term "scattering light" may refer to a process performed on light by the diffuse light generator to generate diffuse light, any may include Rayleigh scattering. As used herein the term "particles to scatter light" may refer to particles with a diameter selected to scatter some or all wavelengths of visible light. The diameter of the particles may be micro or nano (e.g., to operate in the Rayleigh regime). The diffuse light generator can include said particles arranged in a medium, e.g., as a waveguide. Examples include titanium dioxide suspended in PMMA. As used herein the term "light guide panel" or "waveguide" may refer to a generally planar member, which is arranged to convey light in an in-plane direction, e.g., by total internal reflection. The waveguide may be edge lit or otherwise lit by a light source. The waveguide may be implemented as the diffuse light generator, e.g., with a diffuse light component to exit the waveguide upon encountering an uncoupling/redirecting feature.

As used herein the term "light source" may refer to any arrangement capable of generating artificial light. It can include arrangements that transform electrical current into a light emission, e.g. as luminous radiation. The light may have wavelengths in the range of 400-700 nm. The light source can include one or more of the following: a white light source, or perceived as such by the eye, e.g., an incandescent lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a mercury vapor discharge lamp; an LED or a white light laser diode (that is, such that the primary source is combined with a phosphor or several phosphors) or a combination of LEDs or laser diodes of different colour, and; other suitable light source. The light source may include a light guide panel to receive light from an emitting portion and convey the light, e.g., by total internal reflection, to an output surface. The light source may be arranged to emit with a CCT of 3K to 20K, or over a daylight locus. The luminance profile may not vary by more than 20% over any circular area of 10 mm diameter. The light source may include a light guide to guide the light to the output light generation system or the other components of the output light generation system.

As used herein the term "chromatic system" may refer to an arrangement capable of imparting a particular colour to light, e.g., from the light source. The colour may be representative of the real-life colour of sky/sun light component, including daylight, sunset or sunrise. It may for example include a filter.

As used herein the term "collimated light generation system" may refer to a system for processing light from a light source to the collimated light. It may include one or more of the following collimating systems: a lens, including a Fresnel lens; a parabolic reflector; a closed cell structure, through the cells of which light is projected, and; other suitable system. The collimated light generation system may include a light source.

As used herein, the term "prism sheet" or may refer to an arrangement of prisms on a planar member, which maintain an initial degree of collimation of an incident light beam, but which expands said beam. The expansion may be achieved by reflection or reflection and/or refraction. An example of such an arrangement is disclosed in W02017048569A.

As used herein, the term "electrical circuitry" or "circuitry" or "control electrical circuitry" may refer to one or more hardware and/or software components, examples of which may include: an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); electronic/electrical componentry (which may include combinations of transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors etc); one or more processors; a non-transitory memory (e.g. implemented by one or more memory devices), that may store one or more software or firmware programs; a combinational logic circuit; interconnection of the aforesaid. The electrical circuitry may be located entirely at the device, or distributed between one or more of: the device; external devices; a server system.

As used herein, the term "computer readable medium/media" or "data storage" may include any medium capable of storing a computer program, and may take the form of any conventional non-transitory memory, for example one or more of: random access memory (RAM); a CD; a hard drive; a solid state drive; a memory card; a DVD. The memory may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuitry.

As used herein, the term "processor' or "processing resource" may refer to one or more units for processing, examples of which include an ASIC, microcontroller, FPGA, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), state machine or other suitable components. A processor may be configured to execute a computer program, e.g., which may take the form of machine-readable instructions, which may be stored on a non-transitory memory and/or programmable logic. The processor may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuitry. As used herein, any machine executable instructions, or computer readable media, may be configured to cause a disclosed method to be carried out, e.g., by the device or system as disclosed herein, and may therefore be used synonymously with the term method, or each other.

As used herein, the term "communication resources" or "communication interface" may refer to hardware and/or firmware for electronic information transfer. The communication resources/interface may be configured for wired communication ("wired communication resources/interface") or wireless communication ("wireless communication resources/interface").

Wireless communication resources may include hardware to transmit and receive signals by radio and may include various protocol implementations e.g. the 802.11 standard described in the Institute of Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and Bluetooth TM from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group of Kirkland Wash. Wired communication resources may include; Universal Serial Bus (USB); Ethernet, DMX, or other protocol implementations. The device may include communication resources for wired or wireless communication with an external device and/or server system.

As used herein, the term "network" or "computer network" may refer to a system for electronic information transfer between a plurality of apparatuses/devices. The network may, for example, include one or more networks of any type, which may include: a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN); a telephone network (e.g. a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and/or a wireless network); a local area network (LAN); a metropolitan area network (MAN); a wide area network (WAN); an Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network; a private network; the Internet; an intranet; personal area networks (PANs), including with Bluetooth a short-range wireless technology standard.

As used herein, the term "external device" or "external electronic device" or "peripheral device" may include electronic components external to one or more of: the device, and; the server system, e.g. arranged at a same location or remote therefrom, which communicate therewith over a computer network. The external device may comprise a communication interface for electronic communication. The external device may comprise devices including: a smartphone; a PDA; a video game controller; a tablet; a laptop; or other like device.

As used herein the term "database" may refer to a data storage configuration which may be implemented as a key-value paradigm, in which an electronic record as a key and is associated with a value.

As used herein, the term "server system" may refer to electronic components external to one or more of: the device, and; the external device, e.g. arranged at a same location or remote therefrom, which communicate therewith over a computer network. The server system may comprise a communication interface for electronic communication. The server system can include: a networked-based computer (e.g., a remote server); a cloud-based computer; any other server system.

As used herein, the term "transparent member mounting system" may refer to an arrangement configured to mount the transparent member to a frame of the device. The mounting system may implement a support structure and a fixing system(s), to secure the support structure to the frame and/or transparent member. The support structure may implement a support portion and/or a gasket portion. As used herein, the term "support portion" may refer to a portion of the support structure that supports the transparent member. As used herein, the term "gasket portion" may refer to a portion of the support structure that provides an appearance of least one gasket. The gasket portion and support portion may be separate portion or overlapping. As used herein, the term "appearance of at least one gasket" may refer to an impression of a real-life gasket of a window being presented to a user, e.g., a thin rim which may have a black or dark grey colour.

As used herein, the term "spacer' or "edge member" may refer to a member that creates an appearance of a seal that seals over a side face of a glass member of a window, including between sheets of glass/a cavity therebetween. As used herein, the term "appearance of a seal" may refer to an impression of a real-life seal of a window being presented to a user, e.g., viewed from downstream of the output aperture. The spacer may have a metallic appearance, e.g., grey and reflective, to recreate and appearance of an aluminium spacer. The spacer may be formed from a flexible membrane, e.g., a tape. The surface finish of the spacer may be different to that of the frame, e.g., so that it may be clearly identified as a spacer.

As used herein the term "reflector arrangement" may refer to an arrangement/configuring of components to provide a reflected image, e.g., a ghost image, as is observed when a user looks into a real-life window, particularly at night. The image may appear in the output aperture, e.g., when a user gazes into the device. The image may be of a feature of the device or a room in which the device is installed, e.g., a light source that is present in the room and not the device. In some examples the image comprises a first and a second image, e.g., a double reflection of the same image.

As used herein the term "virtual image" or "image" may refer to a reflection of a feature that is present in the output light in addition to the actual feature, but at a different position.

As used herein, the term "providing an appearance in output light" or like term, may refer to photons of light being perturbed e.g., spatially and/or chromatically by an item/feature of the optical device and made visible to a user by their projection/conveying to an eye of a user when gazing into the output aperture of the optical display device.

As used herein, the term "viewed from downstream of the output aperture" may refer to any and/or all viewing positions that are achievable by a user from downstream (e.g., from a side of a transparent member of the output aperture comprising an exterior face) the output aperture. Said position may include downstream of the frame since the frame forms the output aperture, and may preclude a viewing position within the bounds of the frame.

As used herein, the term "virtual transparent member" or "glass member of a window" may refer to an arrangement that provides an appearance in the output light of an actual glass member of a window (e.g., as an image observed in the output aperture), which may be different to the appearance of the actual transparent member, which is present in the device. The glass member of a window that is observed virtually may comprise two or more sheets of glass separated by cavities(s), with a spacer therebetween.

As used herein the term "trim portion" may refer to a portion of the frame that is removable from a body of the frame to provide a different finish for a visible portion of the frame, which maybe visible when viewed from downstream of the output aperture and/or access to control electronics.

[General system description]

Referring to figure 1, the system 2 comprises: devices 4 for output of output light 6, and electrical circuitry 8 for control of various characteristics of the output light 6, as will be discussed. The electrical circuitry 8 may be distributed on one or more of: one or more of the devices 4; a server system (not illustrated); an external device (not illustrated).

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the system comprises a single or other number of devices, in the instance of multiple devices, said devices can be arranged in series with each other as a combinatory assembly; each device comprises its own dedicated electrical circuitry rather than the electrical circuitry controlling multiple devices.

Referring to figure 2, a general device 2 comprises: an output light generation system 10 for generation of the output light 6; an output aperture 12 for of the output light 6, and the electrical circuitry 8 for control of the output light generation system 10. The output light 6 is generally projected in the depth directed 104, which is orthogonal to the plane of the output aperture 12.

[First Example]

Referring to figure 3 a first example of the device 2, which incorporates features and associated variants of the aforedescribed general device 2, comprises the output light generation system 10 arranged as a diffuse light generation system 14. In the first example, the output light generation system 10 does not comprise a collimated light generation system, hence the output light 6 includes only a sky light component 16.

Referring to figure 4, in further detail the first example comprises the diffuse light generation system 14 arranged with a waveguide 18 and a light source 20. The output aperture 12 comprises a transparent member 22 and is defined by a frame 24. The device 2 includes a housing 26 to house said components.

The output aperture 12 is planar and is aligned in the longitudinal direction 100 and lateral direction 102. A thickness of the device 4 is arranged in the depth direction 104.

The frame 26 surrounds the transparent member 22 and gives an impression of a real-life window or skylight frame.

The light source 20 emits light in the longitudinal direction 100 into a side face of the waveguide 18. The waveguide 18 includes redirecting features (not illustrated) though its section which scatter the internally reflected light from the light source 20. The light emitted from the light source 20 is retained within the waveguide 18 by total intemal reflection until it encounters a redirecting features and is scattered enabling it to exit the waveguide 18 as the diffuse sky light component 18.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the diffuse light generation system is alternatively configured; the uncoupling features are on an edge of the waveguide, which are configured to decouple the light therefrom; the diffuse light generation system comprises a backlit rather than an edge lit arrangement.

The transparent member 22 includes an interior face 36 that faces into the device 2, and into the output light generation system 10 and an exterior face 38 that faces away from the device 2 (which an observer gazes directly into) and A side face 40 extends between the interior face 36 and the exterior face 38 and around a periphery of the interior face 36 exterior face 38. The transparent member 22 is aligned in the longitudinal direction 100 and lateral direction 102.

The frame 24 includes: an interior side face 42; an outer side face 44; a top face 46, and; a bottom face 48. The top face 46 is arranged at a greater depth in the depth direction 104 than the bottom face 48.

[Second Example]

Referring to figure 5 a second example includes the features of the first example and associated variants, but with the output light generation system 10 additionally implementing a collimated light generation system 28 to generate a sun light component 30.

The collimated light generation system 28 includes a light source 32 and a collimating system 34. The light source 32 projects a light beam (not illustrated) to the collimating system 34, which processes the received light beam to output collimated light which subsequently becomes the sun light component 30.

The light source 32 is implemented as a 2-dimmensional array of LEDs, which can be arranged on a common substrate (not illustrated) that extends in the lateral direction 100 and the longitudinal direction 102. The collimating system 34 is implemented as a 2-dimmensional array of lenses (not illustrated), each of which being associated with an LED. A homogenising element (not illustrated) may optionally be implemented subsequent to the collimating system 34 to remove stray light which may be introduced by the collimating system 34 and/or the light source 32, e.g. as an absorbent honeycomb through which the collimated light passes.

In variant embodiments, the collimated light generation system is alternatively implemented, including: as a single or 1-dimensional array of light sources, which are expanded over the output aperture, e.g. by using an expansion system, which can include one or more reflective members and prism sheets, and; the collimating system is alternatively implemented as parabolic reflectors or other collimating systems; the collimated light generation system is implemented as a laser light source, which may obviate the collimating system. The collimated light generation system may also be separate from the diffuse light generation system, e.g., as a spotlight.

[Mounting System] Referring to figures 7 and 8, the optical display device 4 comprises a transparent member mounting system 50 for mounting the transparent member 22 to the frame 24. The transparent member mounting system 50 may be implemented in any of the previously discussed general, first, or second examples including any of the associated variant embodiments.

Referring to figure 8, the transparent member mounting system 50 comprises a support structure 52 to support the transparent member 22 and a fixing system 54 to fix the support structure 52 to the frame 24. The support structure 52 includes a support portion 56 for said support. The support portion 56 is arranged to extend around the transparent member 22. In particular, said extension is in an entirely contiguous manner, in respect of the side face 40, and at a periphery of both the interior face 36 and the exterior face 38 of said transparent member 22.

Herein, the periphery may be defined as a position on either the interior face 36 or the exterior face 38, which is within 0.5 mm -5 cm of the edge adjoining the side face 40 and the interior face 36 or the exterior face 38.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the extension may not be entirely contiguous, e.g., on at least one or the faces, for example, there may be grooves in the support portion; the support portion may have other configurations, including to only extend adjoining one or the exterior face or interior face.

The support structure 52 also includes a gasket portion 58 arranged to provide an appearance, when gazing into the output aperture 12, of a gasket to seal an exterior face VE of a virtual glass member V of a window (as will be discussed).

It will be understood that there is a degree of overlap between the support portion 56 and the gasket portion 58, e.g., both can provide the effect of the other.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the gasket portion is alternatively arranged, e.g., not as part of the transparent member mounting system.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the gasket portion may be omitted, e.g., the support structure only provides a support function and not the appearance of a gasket. Other arrangements are also to be contemplated, e.g., only a gasket portion.

In more detail, referring to figure 8, the support portion 56 includes: a interior portion 60; a exterior portion 62, and, interposed therebetween, a side portion 64. The aforesaid are arranged contiguous to, and correspond in shape to, the respective interior face 36, exterior face 38, and side face 40 of the transparent member 22.

The support structure 52 (e.g., the support portion 54 and gasket portion 58) is integrally formed from a single component. Said component may be one or more of: a plastic-based material; a metal-based material; a polymer including rubber, or; other suitable material.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, said components may be separately formed, e.g. and bonded together.

The gasket portion 58 is arranged as a first gasket portion 66, which is arranged at an end of the exterior portion 62 of the support portion 56, which is distal the side portion 64. The first gasket portion 66 protrudes from the interior side face 42 of the frame 24. In the illustrated arrangement, in which a lateral direction 102 extending portion of the frame 24 is shown, a direction of said protrusion is in the longitudinal direction 100. An extent of said protrusion in the longitudinal direction 100 is 1 -4 mm from the side face 42 of the frame 24. It will be appreciated that for a longitudinal direction 100 extending portion of the frame 24 (not illustrated), a direction of said protrusion is in the lateral direction 102. The first gasket portion 66 includes a fully chamfered rim.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: other profiling of the first portion is implemented, e.g., curved; the first gasket portion may also be fluish or set-in from the interior side face of the frame; the end of the exterior portion of the support portion may not be implemented as a gasket portion.

The interior portion 60 of the support portion 56 terminates to be set-in from the interior side face 42 of the frame 24, hence it does not form a gasket portion.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the interior portion 60 of the support portion 56 forms a visible section gasket portion, e.g., it maybe flush or protruding.

The exterior portion 62 (which maybe referred to as a first portion) of the support portion 56 protrudes from the interior side face 42 of the frame 24 by a greater extent than the interior portion (which maybe referred to as a second portion) of the support portion 56 portion. By arranging said first portion to protrude by a greater amount than said second portion, the second portion may be concealed from a predetermined viewing angle range, whilst still proving a supporting function. In this manner only the first gasket portion 66 can be observed from predetermined viewing angle range, hence the support structure 52 creates an impression of a single gasket.

As best seen in figure 7, the frame 24 comprises a first portion 68, which is arranged in the counter depth direction 104 from the transparent member 22 and a second portion 70, which is arranged in the depth direction 104 from the transparent member 22.

A depth d of the first portion 68 frame 24, which extends from the exterior face 38 of the transparent member 22 is configured (e.g., in combination with the configuring of the extension first gasket portion 66/first portion) to conceal the second portion from downstream of the output aperture 12. In particular, the depth d can be selected to prevent a head of a user from being positioned such that a gaze of a user can directly see the second portion, when said head is positioned downstream of said depth distance d. With such an arrangement a user generally does not insert their hear into the bounds of the frame 24.

The transparent member mounting system 50 further includes, at the interior side face 42 of the frame 24, an inset portion, which is illustrated as a cavity 70. The cavity 70 is arranged to correspond in shape to an exterior surface of the support structure 52.

The fixing system 54 is implemented as a press fit: between the cavity 70 is and an exterior surface of the support structure 52, and; between an interior surface of the support structure 52 and the exterior of the faces 36, 38, 40 of the transparent member 22.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the fixing system comprises one or more of: a press fit; an adhesive connection; a mechanical fastener; other suitable connection.

Referring to figures 7 and 9, the optical display device 4 comprises a waveguide mounting system 80 for mounting the waveguide 18 to the frame 24. The waveguide 18 includes an interior face 82, and an interior face 84, which are interposed by a side face 86.

The waveguide mounting system 80 includes a gasket portion 88 and a support portion 90. The gasket portion 88 is arranged to extend over the exterior face 84 of the waveguide 18 to provide an appearance of a second gasket to seal an interior face VI of the virtual glass member V of a window, when viewed from downstream of the output aperture 12. The support portion 90 is arranged to support the waveguide 18 and is interposed between the exterior face 84 of the waveguide and an inset portion 92 of the interior side face 42 frame 24. The inset portion 92 of the interior side face 42 frame 24 comprises a portion on the frame that is set-in from the side face 42, to provide a surface than extends in the longitudinal direction 100 and lateral direction 102, for support of the wave guide 18 in the depth direction 104.

It will be understood that there is a degree of overlap between the support portion 90 and the gasket portion 88, e.g., both can provide the effect of the other.

The gasket portion 88 has a straight edge, although any suitable profiling may be implemented, e.g., chamfered as discussed for the preceding gasket portion.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the second gasket portion is alternatively arranged, e.g., not as part of the waveguide mounting system; second gasket portion is omitted.

Referring to figure 7, a gap G in a depth direction 104 between the gasket portion 88 of the waveguide mounting system 80 and the gasket portion 58 of the transparent member mounting system 50 corresponds to a thickness of an actual glass member of a window, e.g., a gap of 5 mm to 5 cm. Such a gap dimension may provide an appearance of a thick glass member of a window, or alternatively, put of the virtual transparent member V. In the illustrated example, both the gasket portion 88 of the waveguide mounting system 80 and the gasket portion 58 of the transparent member mounting system 50 are visible when viewed from downstream of the output aperture 12. By implementing said gasket portions to be visible, said appearance of a thick glass member of a window that extends from the exterior face 38 of the transparent member 22 and up to the exterior face 84 of the waveguide 18 may be provided.

As best seen in figure 9, the support portion 90 comprises an abutment portion 94, which is arranged to extend entirely continuously and contiguously over a periphery of the exterior face 84 of the waveguide 18.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, other implementation of the abutment portion include partially contiguous etc. As best seen in figure 7, the waveguide mounting system 80 comprises a fixing system 96, which is implemented with a screw, which clamps the waveguide 18 to the frame 24 by applying a clamping force in the depth direction 104 to the interior face 82 of the waveguide 18 and the inset portion 92 of the frame 24 to compress the abutment portion 94 therebetween.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: other mechanical fasteners can be implemented other that a screw, or a bracket; the connection may also be bonded.

The support portion 90 comprises an extension portion 98 for location in a complimentary groove 99 of the inset portion 92 frame 24. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated extension portion may be omitted.

[Spacer] Referring to figures 7 -9, the optical display device 4 comprises a spacer 110 arranged to provide an appearance, when gazing into the output aperture 12, of a seal to seal a side face VS the virtual glass member V, e.g. a virtual cavity between two virtual sheets of glass forming a virtual glass member. The spacer 110 may be implemented in any of the previously discussed general, first, second or other examples disclosed herein including any of the associated variant embodiments.

Since a spacer conventionally extends over a side face of a real-life glass member of a window to seal a cavity between two pains of glass, having a spacer 110 present in the device 4 in this position creates and impression of a present of such glass member.

The spacer 110 is arranged the between a diffuse light generation system 14 of the output light generation system 10 and the interior face 36 of a transparent member 22 of the output aperture 12. In more detail, the spacer 110 is arranged the between the gasket portion 88 of the waveguide mounting system 80 and the support portion 56 of the transparent member mounting system 50.

The spacer 110 is arranged to extend up to the interior portion 60 the support portion 56, but not to overall said portion. In other examples, the interior portion 60 can be overlapped, e.g., for its concealment.

Moreover, since the gasket portion 88 of the waveguide mounting system 80 and the gasket portion 58 of the transparent member mounting system 50 present as two gaskets, an observer interprets the virtual glass member V as arranged therebetween. In particular, an observer conventionally expects there to be separate glass sheets adjoining the gasket portions, with a cavity therebetween. The presence of a spacer 110 between said gasket portions therefore reinforces the impression of this cavity, and therefore also reinforces the present of the virtual glass member V. The spacer 110 is arranged over the interior side face 42 of the frame 24 between the support structure 52 and the waveguide 18, which is referred to as the second portion 70 of the frame. Although the spacer 110 does not overlap the support structure 52 and transparent member 22 (e.g., in the depth direction 104, as would be observed for a real-life glass member of a window) this arrangement can not be observed, (e.g., the side face 40 of the transparent member 22 is not observable) from conventional viewing angles (e.g., within a predetermined angle range as discussed above). This is due to a combination of: the extension of the first portion 66 of the gasket portion 58 of the support structure 52 from the interior side face 42 of the frame 24; the transparent member 22 being relatively thin, and; the side face 40 of the transparent member being set into the cavity 70.

The spacer 110 may obviate a need to refinish the second portion 70 of the frame 24 (since it is covered by the spacer 110) should a first portion 68 of the frame be refinished. This is because it is observed as a separate aspect from the first portion 68 of the frame (as will be discussed).

In embodiments, the spacer 110 has a greater width (e.g., at least 2 or 3 times, and/or a maximum of 10 times) in a depth direction 104 than that of the transparent member 22.

Referring to figure 10, the spacer 110 comprises a plurality of perforations 112, which are arranged in a linear manner along a longitudinal length (which when implemented on the device 4 is the longitudinal direction 100 or the lateral direction 102 depending on whether the portion of the frame 24 extends in said direction) of the spacer 110. The perorations 112 (which may be through holes or blind, including indented) are circular shaped (although other shapes, including square or slot etc., may be implemented). Two lines of perforations 112 are illustrated, although other numbers may be implemented. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the perforations may be omitted.

The spacer 110 is formed of a flexible aluminium strip, and so is metallic in appearance (although other materials may be implemented, including plastic-based, and non-metallic, and flexible membranes, including tapes.). The spacer 110 is at least partially reflective, including specular reflection, e.g., to at least 50 or 80% of incident light.

The spacer 110 is selected to have a different surface finish to the first portion 68 of the frame 24, in terms of one or more: colour; diffusive/specular reflective; roughness.

The spacer 110 is typically bonded to the interior side face 42 of the frame 24, although other connection systems may be implemented, e.g., a mechanical fastener including a rivet or a bracket.

The spacer 110 may be formed as four separate members, one for each of the two laterally extending and longitudinally extending portions of the frame 24, which adjoin each other at the corners of the frame 24. Alternative, the spacer 110 may be formed as a single member, which is forded at said corners. Other configurations may also be implemented. In general, the spacer 110 extends continuously (e.g., in an unbroken manner) around the interior side face 42 of the frame 24.

[Reflector Arrangement] Referring to figure 11, the optical display device 4 comprises a reflector arrangement 120 arranged to reflect an image of a feature that is downstream of the output light generation system 10, which may comprise a feature of the device 4 itself or a room in which the device 4 is installed, examples of which will be provided. The reflector arrangement 120 may be implemented in any of the previously discussed general, first, second or other examples disclosed herein including any of the associated variant embodiments.

The reflector arrangement 120 comprises a first partially reflective member 122, which is at least partially transparent (e.g., substantially transparent) to the output light 6 traveling therethrough from the output light generation system 10, and at least partially reflective to light incident, which travels in a generally opposed direction to the output light 6, on its surface, examples of which will be provided.

The first partially reflective member 122 is implemented as the exterior face 84 of the wave guide 18. The first partially reflective member 122 may comprise a semi-silvered mirror or a dielectric tint applied to a surface or other coating and/or surface finish, including a matte finish. Such an arrangement provides a desired degree of reflection and transparency.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated the first partially reflective member may be alternatively implemented, e.g., on a dedicated planar member that extends across the output aperture which is disposed down stream of the waveguide.

The reflector arrangement 120 comprises a second partially reflective member 124, which is at least partially transparent (e.g., substantially transparent) to output light 6 traveling therethrough from the output light generation system 10, and at least partially reflective to light incident traveling in into its, particularly incident light that travels oblique to the output light 6, examples of which will be provide.

The second partially reflective member 124 is implemented as the interior face 36 of the transparent member 22. The second partially reflective member 122 may comprise a semi-silvered mirror or a dielectric tint applied to a surface or other coating and/or surface finish, including a matte finish. Such an arrangement provides a desired degree of reflection and transparency.

The second partially reflective member 124 is arranged to reflect light that has been previously reflected from the first partially reflective member 122 back to the first partially reflective member 122 (e.g., to create a double image of the feature, examples of which will be provided). The second partially reflective member may be downstream or upstream of the reflected feature, depending on the specific example of the feature.

The first and second partially reflective members 122, 124 can be implemented to be partially diffusely reflective to the incident light, such that they reflect a greater percentage of light diffusely than was present in the incident light, e.g., to implement blurring on the image of the reflected feature. The first and second partially reflective members 122, 124 can be implemented to reflect the incident light with a darker colour tone.

Figures 11 and 12 illustrate examples of features that are reflected by the reflector arrangement 120. Where the feature is an object that is object downstream of the optical display device 4, said feature in a first example can be a light source L. which may be present in a room (not illustrated) in which the device 4 is arranged and into which the output light 6 is projected.

The light source L projects light 126 that is reflected by the first partially reflective member 122 as first reflected light 128, which is observed as a first image L1 of the Lightsource L by an observer 0. The second partially reflective member 124 reflects a portion of said first reflected light 128 as second reflected light 130 back to the first partially reflective member 122, which subsequently reflects the second reflected light 130 as fourth reflected light 132, which is observed as a second image L2 of the Lightsource L by the observer 0.

Referring specifically to figure 12, the observer 0 when gazing into the output aperture 12 sees the first image L1 and the second image L2 of the light source offset from each other, e.g., as a double reflected image.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the second partially reflective member may be omitted, for such an example only the first image L1 would present in figure 12, e.g., the reflector arrangement would not be doubly reflected.

The reflected feature as an object that is object downstream of the optical display device 4, can include any other objects in the room, e.g., a window, door or furniture etc, it will be appreciated that the feature that is reflected therefore depends on the room.

The feature as a component of the optical display device 4 can include any component downstream of the first partially reflective member 122.

Referring to figures 11 and 12, in a second example, the feature comprises the first portion 68 of the frame 24. Referring to figure 12, illustratively, the observer 0 when gazing into the output aperture 12 sees the first image Fl of the first portion 68 of the frame 24, which conveniently presents as a virtual second portion of the frame 24. Since the first image F1 is a reflection of the first portion 68, it matches the appearance of the first portion 68. Consequent, if a surface finish of the first portion 68 is changed, there is automatic matching from the first image Fl, which is more convenient then if an actual visible second portion were present.

In the same manner, the first gasket portion 58, second gasket portion 88 and spacer 110 (shown in figure 12) can be reflected as virtual images (not illustrated). Their reflected image may provide the appearance of the virtual glass member V having twice the thickness in the depth direction 104 to that illustrated.

[Virtual transparent Member] Referring to figures 7 and 12, the optical display device 4 comprises a virtual glass member system that is arranged to create an appearance of the virtual glass member V of a window (without the virtual glass member present).

As can be best seen in figure 7, the virtual glass member V has a greater apparent thickness than that of the transparent member 22.

The virtual glass member V is idealised as a first sheet of glass at the exterior face VE and second sheet of glass interior face VI with a cavity there between. Hence a perception of these components may be created by the virtual glass member system.

The perception of the virtual glass member V being present may be created by one or more of the previously described features/systems: the gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of a first 58 and second gasket 88 around the virtual glass member V; the spacer 110 arranged to create an appearance of a seal to seal a side face of virtual glass member V; the reflector arrangement 120 arranged to reflect an image of a feature that is downstream of the output light generation system.

As used in this specification, any formulation used of the style "at least one of A, B or C", and the formulation "at least one of A, B and C" use a disjunctive "or' and a disjunctive "and" such that those formulations comprise any and all joint and several permutations of A, B, C, that is, A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in any order, A and C in any order, B and C in any order and A, B, C in any order. There may be more or less than three features used in such formulations.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word 'comprising' does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps then those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as "at least one" and "one or more" in the claims should not be construed to imply that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim element to inventions containing only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an." The same holds true for the use of definite articles. Unless stated otherwise, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such elements. The mere fad that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated as incompatible, or the physics or otherwise of the embodiments, example or claims prevent such a combination, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples, and of the following claims may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially ones where there is a beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to only any specified benefit, and instead may arise from an "ex post facto" benefit. This is to say that the combination of features is not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g. numbering) of the example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of the claim(s). Moreover, this also applies to the phrase "in one embodiment", "according to an embodiment" and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording and are not to be construed as limiting the following features to a separate embodiment to all other instances of the same or similar wording. This is to say, a reference to 'an', 'one' or 'some' embodiment(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and/or all embodiments, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, the reference to "the" embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment.

The foregoing description of one or more implementations provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various implementations of the present disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCES

2 System 4 Device(s) 6 Output light Output light generation system 14 Diffuse light generation system 16 Sky light component 18 Waveguide 82 Interior face 84 Exterior face 86 Side face Light source 28 Collimated light generation system Sun light component 32 Light source 34 Collimating system 12 Output aperture 22 Transparent member 36 Interior face 38 Exterior face 40 Side face 24 Frame 42 Interior side face Cavity 92 Inset portion 99 Groove 44 Exterior side face 46 Top face 48 Bottom face 68 First portion 70 Second portion 26 Housing 50 Transparent member mounting system 52 Support structure 56 Support portion Interior portion 62 Exterior portion 64 Side portion 58 Gasket portion 66 First portion 54 Fixing system Waveguide member mounting system 88 Gasket portion Support portion 94 Abutment portion 98 Extension portion 96 Fixing system Spacer 112 Perforations Reflector arrangement 122 First partially reflective member 124 Second partially reflective member 8 Electrical circuitry

Claims

CLAIMS1. An optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the optical display device comprising: an output light generation system to generate the output light; an output aperture for the output light comprising a transparent member and a frame extending around the output aperture, and; a transparent member mounting system comprising a support structure for mounting the transparent member to the frame, the support structure including: a support portion arranged to extend around a side face of the transparent member and at least one of a periphery of an exterior face and an interior face of the transparent member, and; a gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of at least one gasket to seal a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.
2. The optical display device of any preceding claim, wherein the support portion is arranged to extend entirely contiguous the transparent member on one or more of: the side face; the exterior face, and; the interior face.
3. The optical display device of either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the gasket portion is arranged as a first portion of the support portion, which protrudes from the frame to overlap around a periphery of an exterior face of the transparent member to provide said gasket appearance.
4. The optical display device of claim 3, wherein the first portion protrudes from the frame by an extent of least 2 or 4 mm.
5. The optical display device of either of claims 3 or 4, wherein the support portion includes a second portion which overlaps around a periphery of an interior face of the transparent member, and the first portion protrudes from the frame by a greater extent than the second portion.
6. The optical display device of claim 5, wherein the second portion is arranged flush to or set back within the frame.
7. The optical display device of either of claims 5 or 6, wherein the first portion is arranged to obscure visibility of the second portion when viewed from downstream of the output aperture and with the first portion to form the gasket portion.
8. The optical display device of claim 7, further configured with the frame and first portion to obscure visibility of the second portion from downstream of the output aperture.
9. The optical display device of any preceding claim, wherein the transparent member has a thickness of 0.5 -5 mm.
10. The optical display device of any preceding claim, wherein the output light generation system comprises a diffuse light generation system, which includes a waveguide with redirecting members to diffusively decouple light projected within the waveguide to the output aperture, wherein the optical display device further comprises a waveguide mounting system for mounting the waveguide to the frame, wherein the waveguide mounting system includes a gasket portion arranged to extend over an exterior face of the waveguide to provide an appearance of a gasket when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.
11. The optical display device of claim 10, wherein a gap in a depth direction between the gasket portion of the waveguide mounting system and the gasket portion of the transparent member mounting system corresponds to a thickness of a glass member of a window, including a gap of 5 or 10 mm to 5 cm.
12. The optical display device of either of claims 10 or 11, comprising a spacer to create an impression of a seal to seal a side face of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture, wherein the spacer is arranged between the between the gasket portion of the waveguide mounting system and the gasket portion of the transparent member mounting system.
13. The optical display device of any of claims 10 to 12, wherein: the gasket portion of the waveguide mounting system; the gasket portion of the transparent member mounting system, and; the frame, are configured with both gasket portions visible when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.
14. The optical display device of any of claims 10 to 13, wherein a support portion of the waveguide mounting system is interposed between the exterior face of the waveguide and an inset portion of the frame, which is arranged to inset the waveguide with respect to the frame.
15. A transparent member mounting system for an optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the transparent member mounting system comprising a support structure for mounting the transparent member to the frame of the optical display device, the support structure including: a support portion arranged to extend around a side face of the transparent member and at least one of a periphery of an exterior face and an interior face of the transparent member, and; a gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of at least one gasket of a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.
16. Use of the transparent member mounting system of claim 15 for an optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light.
17. A method of assembling an optical display device that is arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the method comprising: interconnecting a transparent member and a frame of the optical display device with a transparent member mounting system; wherein the transparent member mounting system comprises a support structure for structurally supporting the transparent member and for connecting the transparent member to the frame, the support structure having a support portion arranged to extend around a side face of the transparent member and at least one of a periphery of an exterior face and an interior face of the transparent member, and a gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of at least one gasket when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.
18. The method of claim 17 comprising: connecting the support structure to the transparent member, and subsequently; connecting the support structure to the frame.
19. A method of creating a perception of a sky scene in output light, the method comprising: projecting the output light through a transparent member; creating with a gasket portion of a support structure a perception of a gasket around a glass member of a window when viewed from downstream of the output aperture, and; supporting the transparent member with a support portion of the support structure that extends around a side face of the transparent member and at least one of a periphery of an exterior face and an interior face of the transparent member.
20. An optical display device arranged to create a perception of a sky scene in output light, the optical display device comprising: an output light generation system to generate the output light; an output aperture for the output light comprising a transparent member, a frame, and; a gasket portion arranged to provide an appearance of a first and second gasket around a glass member of a window, when viewed from downstream of the output aperture.