WO2026010468A1 - Wearable electronic device including eye-tracking wave guide - Google Patents

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a wearable electronic device comprises: a housing including a lens frame and a wearable member rotatably connected to the lens frame; a wave guide disposed on the lens frame and including a first diffractive layer that causes light reflected by an eyeball of a user to be transmitted toward the wearable member; and a camera which is disposed inside the wearable member, faces the wave guide, and is configured to capture an image of light output from the wave guide. The first diffractive layer may be configured to diffract light which has been reflected from a single point on the eyeball of the user and has struck a plurality of points on the first diffractive layer. The first diffractive layer may be configured to diffract light rays, which have passed through the diffractive layer, to be at angles parallel to each other. Various other embodiments may also be possible.

Description

Wearable electronic device including a waveguide for eye tracking

Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to wearable electronic devices, for example, wearable electronic devices including waveguides for eye tracking.

Portable electronic devices, such as electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, or tablet PCs, typically feature display elements and batteries, and have typically had bar-type, folder-type, or sliding-type appearances due to the shape of the display elements or batteries. Recently, as the performance of display elements and batteries has improved, they have become smaller, leading to the commercialization of wearable electronic devices that can be worn on parts of the body, such as the wrist or head. Since wearable electronic devices are directly worn on the body, portability and/or user accessibility can be improved.

Among wearable electronic devices, an electronic device that a user can wear on their face, such as a head-mounted device (HMD), is disclosed. Head-mounted devices can be usefully utilized to implement virtual reality or augmented reality. For example, a wearable electronic device can implement virtual reality by providing a three-dimensional image of a virtual space in a game enjoyed through a television or computer monitor while blocking the image of the actual space in which the user is located. Another type of wearable electronic device can provide an environment in which the user can visually perceive an actual image of the space in which the user is located, while implementing a virtual image to provide the user with various visual information, thereby providing augmented reality.

The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

A wearable electronic device for implementing virtual reality or augmented reality can track the direction of a user's gaze, for example, the direction in which the pupil of the user's eye is directed, and when the user focuses on a specific part of a display member (for example, a lens or a display) of the wearable electronic device (for example, when looking at a specific part), it can enlarge or reduce a virtual image of the corresponding part, or change or optimize the arrangement of the virtual image, thereby optimizing the operation and arrangement of the virtual image visually exposed to the user.

A wearable electronic device may be equipped with a camera for tracking the user's gaze direction. The camera may be positioned so as to be exposed on the outside of the housing of the wearable electronic device.

However, when the camera is positioned so that it is exposed outside the wearable electronic device, it presents disadvantages in terms of miniaturization and design. Furthermore, because the camera's position is limited, the accuracy of the user's gaze direction acquired through the camera is limited.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device capable of tracking a user's gaze direction through a wave guide disposed on a display member of the wearable electronic device and a camera disposed on a wearing member of the wearable electronic device may be provided.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since a camera is placed inside the wearable electronic device, miniaturization of the wearable electronic device is possible, and a wearable electronic device with improved design freedom can be provided.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device may be provided that provides a clear image of an image taken of a user's eye or a direction of the user's gaze located relatively close to the wearable device.

However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device includes a housing including a lens frame and a wearing member rotatably connected to the lens frame; a wave guide disposed on the lens frame, the wave guide including a first diffractive layer disposed on the lens frame and configured to transmit light reflected by a user's eye toward the wearing member; and a camera disposed inside the wearing member and facing the wave guide, the camera configured to capture an image of light output from the wave guide, wherein the first diffractive layer may be configured to diffract light reflected from a point of the user's eye and incident on a plurality of points of the first diffractive layer, and to diffract light passing through the first diffractive layer to have parallel angles with each other.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device includes a housing; a light source disposed in the housing and configured to irradiate light in an infrared band toward a user's eye; a wave guide disposed in the housing and configured to allow light irradiated from the light source and reflected by the user's eye to be incident thereon and directed toward a user's eye when the user wears the wearable electronic device; and a camera disposed inside the housing and configured to face the wave guide and capture an image of light output from the wave guide, wherein the wave guide may include a substrate; a first diffractive layer disposed on the substrate and including a plurality of regions having different diffraction periods; and a second diffractive layer disposed on the substrate and positioned corresponding to the camera.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device capable of tracking a user's gaze direction through a wave guide disposed on a display member of the wearable electronic device and a camera disposed on a wearing member of the wearable electronic device may be provided.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device can be provided in which the accuracy and reliability of the tracked gaze direction of the user can be improved as the wearable electronic device tracks the gaze direction of the user by capturing an image of the user's eye from the front through a wave guide by a camera.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device may be provided that provides a clear image of an image taken of a user's eye or a direction of the user's gaze located relatively close to the wearable device.

The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and/or advantages of one embodiment of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an internal configuration of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figure 7a is a schematic diagram for explaining a wave guide according to a comparative example.

Figure 7b is a schematic diagram for explaining an image overlapping state according to a comparative example.

FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8b is a schematic diagram illustrating a period of grating of a diffractive element of a first diffractive layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8c is a schematic diagram illustrating the period of grating of a diffractive element of a first diffractive layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram illustrating a period of grating of a diffractive element of a first diffractive layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9b is a drawing showing an image of a user's eye according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first diffractive layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a photographing area for a user's eye when a wearable electronic device photographs the user's eye according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and/or structures.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network can be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), deep Q-networks, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model can additionally or alternatively include a software structure.

The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and/or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199). The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, ‘non-transitory’ simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiment of FIG. 2 can be combined with the embodiment of FIG. 1, or the embodiments of FIGS. 3 to 14.

The configurations of the embodiment of FIG. 2 may be partially or entirely identical to the configurations of the embodiment of FIG. 1 or the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 3 to 14.

Referring to FIG. 2, a wearable electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) is an electronic device in the form of glasses, which allows a user to visually perceive surrounding objects or environments while wearing the wearable electronic device (101). For example, the wearable electronic device (101) may include smart glasses that can provide images directly in front of the user's eyes. The configuration of the wearable electronic device (101) of FIG. 2 may be partially or completely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1. Although not illustrated, embodiments of the wearable electronic device (101) of the present disclosure and descriptions thereof described below may also be applied to a head mounting device (HMD).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a housing (210) that forms at least a portion of the exterior of the wearable electronic device (101). The housing (210) may provide a space in which components of the wearable electronic device (101) may be placed. For example, the housing (210) may include a lens frame (202) and at least one wearing member (203).

According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (101) may include a display member (201) disposed at least partially within a housing (210).

According to one embodiment, the display member (201) can output a visual image. For example, the wearable electronic device (101) can include at least one display member (201) that can provide visual information (or images) to a user. For example, the display member (201) can include a module equipped with a lens, a display, a waveguide, and/or a touch circuit. According to one embodiment, the display member (201) can be formed transparently or translucently. According to one embodiment, the display member (201) can include a window member whose light transmittance can be adjusted by adjusting the glass of a translucent material or the tinting concentration.

In one embodiment, the lens frame (202) can accommodate at least a portion of the indicator member (201). For example, the lens frame (202) can surround at least a portion of an edge of the indicator member (201). In one embodiment, the lens frame (202) can position at least one of the indicator members (201) to correspond to a user's eye. In one embodiment, the lens frame (202) can include a rim of a typical eyeglass structure. In one embodiment, the lens frame (202) can include at least one closed curve surrounding the indicator member (201). In one embodiment, the lens frame (202) can include a first rim portion (202a) and a second rim portion (202b) opposite the first rim portion (202a). The first rim portion (202a) may be positioned adjacent to the first wearing member (203a), and the second rim portion (202b) may be positioned adjacent to the second wearing member (203b).

According to one embodiment, the lens frame (202) may include a bridge portion (202c) connecting a first rim portion (202a) and a second rim portion (202b).

According to one embodiment, a display member (201) corresponding to the user's right eye may be arranged in the first rim portion (202a). A display member (201) corresponding to the user's left eye may be arranged in the second rim portion (202b).

In one embodiment, the wearing member (203) may extend from the lens frame (202). For example, the wearing member (203) may extend from an end of the lens frame (202) and, together with the lens frame (202), may be supported or positioned on the user's body (e.g., an ear). In one embodiment, the wearing member (203) may be rotated relative to the lens frame (202) via a hinge structure (229).

In one embodiment, the wearable member (203) may include an inner side configured to face the user's body and an outer side opposite the inner side. In one embodiment (not shown), at least a portion of the wearable member (203) may be formed of a flexible material (e.g., rubber). For example, at least a portion of the wearable member (203) may be formed in a band shape that surrounds at least a portion of the user's body (e.g., an ear).

According to one embodiment, the first wearing member (203a) may be positioned to correspond to the user's right ear when the wearable electronic device (101) is worn by the user. The first wearing member (203a) may include a first connection portion (2032a) and a first extension portion (2031a). According to an embodiment, the first connection portion (2032a) may be defined and/or interpreted as a part of the lens frame (202) and/or the first rim portion (202a).

According to one embodiment, the first connecting portion (2032a) may extend from the first rim portion (202a) of the lens frame (202).

According to one embodiment, the first extension portion (2031a) may be rotatably connected to the first connection portion (2032a). The first extension portion (2031a) may extend from the first connection portion (2032a). The first extension portion (2031a) may be defined and/or referred to as a first leg portion.

In one embodiment, the first extension portion (2031a) can be rotatably coupled to the first connection portion (2032a) via a hinge structure (229). For example, the first extension portion (2031a) can be rotated to fold or unfold relative to the first connection portion (2032a) and the lens frame (202). Accordingly, the first wearing member (203a) can be rotated relative to the first rim portion (202a) and the lens frame (202).

According to one embodiment, the first connecting portion (2032a) may accommodate a camera (e.g., the camera (330) of FIG. 5) and/or a display engine (e.g., the light output module (211) of FIG. 3). For example, the camera and/or the display engine may be positioned within the first connecting portion (2032a) and not exposed to the outside of the first wearing member (203a).

According to one embodiment, the first wearing member (203a) may be positioned to correspond to the user's right ear when the wearable electronic device (101) is worn by the user. The first wearing member (203a) may include a first extension portion (2031a) and a first connection portion (2032a). According to an embodiment, the first connection portion (2032a) may be defined and/or interpreted as a part of the lens frame (202) and/or the first rim portion (202a).

According to one embodiment, the first connecting portion (2032a) may extend from the first rim portion (202a) of the lens frame (202).

According to one embodiment, the first extension portion (2031a) may be rotatably connected to the first connection portion (2032a). The first extension portion (2031a) may extend from the first connection portion (2032a). The first extension portion (2031a) may be defined and/or referred to as a first leg portion.

In one embodiment, the first extension portion (2031a) can be rotatably coupled to the first connection portion (2032a) via a hinge structure (229). For example, the first extension portion (2031a) can be rotated to fold or unfold relative to the first connection portion (2032a) and the lens frame (202). Accordingly, the first wearing member (203a) can be rotated relative to the first rim portion (202a) and the lens frame (202).

In one embodiment, the second wearing member (203b) may be positioned to correspond to the user's left ear when the wearable electronic device (101) is worn by the user. The second wearing member (203b) may include a second extension portion (2031b) and a second connection portion (2032b). In some embodiments, the second connection portion (2032b) may be defined and/or interpreted as a part of the lens frame (202) and/or the second rim portion (202b).

According to one embodiment, the second connecting portion (2032b) may extend from the second rim portion (202b) of the lens frame (202).

According to one embodiment, the second extension portion (2031b) may be rotatably connected to the second connection portion (2032b). The second extension portion (2031b) may extend from the second connection portion (2032b). The second extension portion (2031b) may be defined and/or referred to as a second leg portion.

In one embodiment, the second extension portion (2031b) can be rotatably coupled to the second connection portion (2032b) via a hinge structure (229). For example, the second extension portion (2031b) can be rotated to fold or unfold relative to the second connection portion (2032b) and the lens frame (202). Accordingly, the second wearing member (203b) can be rotated relative to the second rim portion (202b) and the lens frame (202).

According to one embodiment, the second connecting portion (2032b) may accommodate a camera (e.g., the camera (330) of FIG. 5) and/or a display engine (e.g., the light output module (211) of FIG. 3). For example, the camera and/or the display engine may be disposed within the second connecting portion (2032b) and not be exposed to the outside of the second wearing member (203b).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (229) configured to fold the wearing member (203) relative to the lens frame (202). The hinge structure (229) may be positioned between the lens frame (202) and the wearing member (203).

In one embodiment, the hinge structure (229) may include a first hinge structure (229a) connected to a first connecting portion (2032a) and a first extending portion (2031a). The first hinge structure (229a) may allow the first extending portion (2031a) to rotate relative to the first connecting portion (2032a). Accordingly, the first wearing member (203a) and/or the first extending portion (2031a) may rotate relative to the lens frame (202) (e.g., the first rim portion (202a)).

In one embodiment, the hinge structure (229) may include a second hinge structure (229b) connected to a second connecting portion (2032b) and a second extending portion (2031b). The second hinge structure (229b) may allow the second extending portion (2031b) to rotate relative to the second connecting portion (2032b). Accordingly, the second wearing member (203b) and/or the second extending portion (2031b) may rotate relative to the lens frame (202) (e.g., the second rim portion (202b)).

According to one embodiment, when the user is not wearing the wearable electronic device (101), the user can fold the wearing member (203) so that a portion overlaps the lens frame (202) and carry or store it.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a glasses-type device capable of providing augmented reality to a user.

In the present disclosure, 'Augmented Reality' may mean overlaying a virtual image generated by a computer onto a physical, real-world environment or real-world object to display it as a single image.

In the present disclosure, a "real scene" refers to a scene of the real world viewed by an observer or user through an augmented reality display device (e.g., a wearable electronic device (101)), and may include real world objects. Meanwhile, a "virtual image" may be an image generated by a display engine. The "virtual image" may include an image of a virtual object. The virtual image may include both static and dynamic images. Such a virtual image may be an image overlaid on a real scene, showing information about a real object in the real scene, information about the operation of an augmented reality device, or a control menu.

According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (101) may include a display engine (e.g., a light output module (211) of FIG. 3) for generating a virtual image composed of light generated from a light source.

According to one embodiment, at least one display member (201) may include a wave guide configured to guide a virtual image provided from the display engine to the user's eyes.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) can capture and/or recognize the trajectory of the user's eye (e.g., pupil or iris) or gaze. For example, a wave guide (e.g., wave guide (400) of FIG. 6) and a camera (e.g., camera (330) of FIG. 5) of at least one display member (201) can be used to capture and/or recognize the trajectory of the user's eye or gaze. For example, the wearable electronic device (101) can be configured to track the user's gaze direction.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may be configured to track the direction of the user's gaze, and when the user focuses on a specific portion on the display member (201) (e.g., looks at a specific portion), enlarge or reduce a virtual image of the corresponding portion, or change or optimize the arrangement of the virtual image, thereby optimizing the operation and arrangement of the virtual image visually exposed to the user.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an internal configuration of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiments of FIGS. 3 and 4 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 2, or the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 14.

The configurations of the display member (201), the lens frame (202), the wearing member (203), and the hinge structure (229) of FIG. 3 and/or FIG. 4 may be partially or entirely identical to the configurations of the display member (201), the lens frame (202), the wearing member (203), and the hinge structure (229) of FIG. 2.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a wearable electronic device (101) (e.g., the wearable electronic device (101) of FIG. 2) may include a display member (201), a lens frame (202), a wearing member (203), a hinge structure (229), at least one circuit board (241), at least one battery (243), at least one power transmission structure (246), a camera module (250), and/or a sensor module (280).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may acquire and/or recognize a visual image of an object or environment in a direction (e.g., +Y direction) that the user is looking at or that the wearable electronic device (101) is facing by using a camera module (253, 255), and may receive information about the object or environment from an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1 or the server (108) of FIG. 1) through a network (e.g., the first network (198) or the second network (199) of FIG. 1). In another embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may provide the received information about the object or environment to the user in an acoustic or visual form. The wearable electronic device (101) may provide the received information about the object or environment to the user in a visual form through a display member (201) by using a display module (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1). For example, the wearable electronic device (101) can implement augmented reality by visualizing information about objects or the environment and combining it with actual images of the user's surroundings.

According to one embodiment, the display member (201) may be provided as a pair and may be arranged to correspond to the left and right eyes of the user, respectively, when the wearable electronic device (101) is worn on the user's body. For example, the display member (201) may include a first display member (201a) and a second display member (201b) arranged spaced apart from the first display member (201a). The first display member (201a) may be arranged to correspond to the user's right eye, and the second display member (201b) may be arranged to correspond to the user's left eye.

According to one embodiment, the first display member (201a) may be disposed on a first rim portion of the lens frame (202) (e.g., the first rim portion (202a) of FIG. 2), and the second display member (201b) may be disposed on a second rim portion of the lens frame (202) (e.g., the second rim portion (202b) of FIG. 2).

According to one embodiment, the display member (201) may include a first side (F1) facing a direction in which external light is incident (e.g., -Y direction) and a second side (F2) facing an opposite direction (e.g., +Y direction) of the first side (F1). When a user wears the wearable electronic device (101), at least a portion of light or an image incident through the first side (F1) may pass through the second side (F2) of the display member (201) arranged to face the user's left eye and/or right eye and be incident on the user's left eye and/or right eye.

According to one embodiment, the lens frame (202) may include at least two frames. For example, the lens frame (202) may include a first frame (2021b) and a second frame (2021b).

According to one embodiment, when a user wears a wearable electronic device (101), the first frame (2021a) may be a frame that faces the user's face, and the second frame (2021b) may be a part of a lens frame (202) spaced apart in a direction of the user's gaze (e.g., +Y direction) with respect to the first frame (2021a).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a light output module (211) (e.g., a display engine) configured to provide images and/or videos to a user. For example, the light output module (211) may include a display panel (not shown) capable of outputting videos and a lens (not shown) corresponding to a user's eye and guiding the videos to a display member (201). For example, the user may obtain videos output from the display panel of the light output module (211) through the lens of the light output module (211).

According to one embodiment, the light output module (211) may include a device configured to display various information. For example, the light output module (211) may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a digital mirror device (DMD), a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), or a micro light emitting diode (micro LED). According to one embodiment, when the light output module (211) and/or the display member (201) include one of a liquid crystal display, a digital mirror display, or a silicon liquid crystal display, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a light source that irradiates light to a display area of the light output module (211) and/or the display member (201). According to another embodiment, when the light output module (211) and/or the display member (201) includes one of an organic light emitting diode or a micro LED, the wearable electronic device (101) can provide a virtual image to the user without including a separate light source.

According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the light output module (211) may be disposed within the housing (210). For example, the light output module (211) may be disposed within the wearable member (203) and connected to the display member (201), and may provide an image to the user through the display member (201). For example, an image output from the light output module (211) may be incident on the display member (201) through an input optical member (not shown) positioned at one end of the display member (201), and may be radiated toward the user's eye through a wave guide (e.g., a wave guide (400) of FIG. 6) positioned at at least a portion of the display member (201) and an output optical member. The output optical member may form an eye-box corresponding to the user's eye.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a circuit board (241) (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB), a printed board assembly (PBA), a flexible PCB (FPCB), or a rigid-flexible PCB (RFPCB)) that accommodates components for driving the wearable electronic device (101). For example, the circuit board (241) may include at least one integrated circuit chip, and at least one of a processor (not shown) (e.g., a processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (not shown) (e.g., a memory (130) of FIG. 1), a power management module (not shown) (e.g., a power management module (188) of FIG. 1), or a communication module (e.g., a communication module (190) of FIG. 1) may be provided on the integrated circuit chip. According to one embodiment, the circuit board (241) may be disposed within the wearing member (203) of the housing (210). For example, the circuit board (241) may include a first circuit board (241a) disposed within a first wearing member (203a) and a second circuit board (241b) disposed within a second wearing member (203b). According to one embodiment, the communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) may be disposed within the first wearing member. A first circuit board (241a) located within a member (203a) may be mounted, and a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be mounted within a second circuit board (241b) located within a second wearable member (203b). According to one embodiment, the circuit board (241) may be electrically connected to a battery (243) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1) via a power transmission structure (246). According to one embodiment, the circuit board (241) may be an interposer board.

According to one embodiment, the battery (243) may be electrically connected to components of the wearable electronic device (101) (e.g., the light output module (211), the circuit board (241), the speaker module (245), the microphone module (247), and/or the camera module (250)) and may supply power to the components of the wearable electronic device (101).

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the battery (243) may be disposed in the wearable member (203). In one embodiment, the battery (243) may include a first battery (243a) disposed within the first wearable member (203a) and a second battery (243b) disposed within the second wearable member (203b). In one embodiment, the battery (243) may be disposed adjacent to an end (203c, 203d) of the wearable member (203).

According to one embodiment, the speaker module (245) (e.g., the audio module (170) or the sound output module (155) of FIG. 1) can convert an electrical signal into sound. At least a portion of the speaker module (245) can be disposed within the wearing member (203) of the housing (210). According to one embodiment, the speaker module (245) can be positioned within the wearing member (203) to correspond to the user's ear. According to one embodiment (e.g., FIG. 3), the speaker module (245) can be disposed next to the circuit board (241). For example, the speaker module (245) can be disposed between the circuit board (241) and the battery (243). According to another embodiment (not shown), the speaker module (245) can be disposed on the circuit board (241). For example, the speaker module (245) may be placed between the circuit board (241) and the inner case (e.g., the inner case (231) of FIG. 4).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a power transmission structure (246) configured to transmit power from the battery (243) to an electronic component (e.g., an optical output module (211)) of the wearable electronic device (101). For example, the power transmission structure (246) is electrically connected to the battery (243) and/or the circuit board (241), and the circuit board (241) may transmit power received through the power transmission structure (246) to the optical output module (211). According to one embodiment, the power transmission structure (246) may be a configuration capable of transmitting power. For example, the power transmission structure (246) may include a flexible printed circuit board or a wire. For example, the wire may include a plurality of cables (not shown). In one embodiment, the shape of the power transmission structure (246) may be variously modified in consideration of the number and/or type of cables.

According to one embodiment, the microphone module (247) (e.g., the input module (150) and/or the audio module (170) of FIG. 1) may convert sound into an electrical signal. According to one embodiment, the microphone module (247) may be disposed within the lens frame (202). For example, at least one microphone module (247) may be disposed at the bottom (e.g., in the direction toward the -Z axis) and/or the top (e.g., in the direction toward the +Z axis) of the wearable electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may recognize the user's voice more clearly by using voice information (e.g., sound) acquired from the at least one microphone module (247). For example, the electronic device (101) may distinguish voice information from ambient noise based on the acquired voice information and/or additional information (e.g., low-frequency vibration of the user's skin and bones). For example, a wearable electronic device (101) can clearly recognize a user's voice and perform a function of reducing ambient noise (e.g., noise canceling).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a light source (251). The light source (251) may be disposed in the lens frame (202), but is not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, the light source (251) may be configured to correspond to the left and right eyes of the user, respectively. The light source (251) may include, but is not limited to, an IR light source (e.g., an IR LED) that irradiates IR (infrared radiation) light.

In one embodiment, the light source (251) may be configured to irradiate light of a preset wavelength band (e.g., an infrared band) toward the user's eye. The user's eye, a body part adjacent to the eye (e.g., an eyelid), or the pupil of the user's eye may reflect the light incident from the light source (251).

In one embodiment, light reflected from a user's eye, a part of the body, or the pupil may be incident on the display member (201). The light incident on the display member (201) may be incident on a camera (e.g., camera (330) of FIG. 5) positioned within the wearable member (203) through a wave guide (e.g., wave guide (400) of FIG. 6) positioned on at least a portion of the display member (201).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) can identify the direction in which the user's pupil is directed (e.g., the direction of the user's gaze) by acquiring light reflected by the user's pupil from a light source (251) using the camera (e.g., the camera (330) of FIG. 5).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a camera module (253, 255). The camera module (253, 255) may capture still images and/or moving images. The camera module (253, 255) may include at least one of a lens, at least one image sensor, an image signal processor, or a flash. According to one embodiment, the camera module (253, 255) may be disposed within a lens frame (202) and may be disposed around a display member (201).

According to one embodiment, a first camera module (253) may be included. According to one embodiment, the first camera module (253) may capture an external image. According to one embodiment, the first camera module (253) may capture an external image through a second optical hole (223) formed in the second frame (2021b). For example, the second camera module (253) may include a high-resolution color camera, and may be a high-resolution (HR) or photo video (PV) camera. According to one embodiment, the first camera module (251) may provide an auto focus (AF) function and an optical image stabilizer (OIS) function.

According to one embodiment (not shown), the wearable electronic device (101) may include a flash (not shown) positioned adjacent to the first camera module (253). For example, the flash (not shown) may provide light to increase the brightness (e.g., illuminance) around the wearable electronic device (101) when the first camera module (251) acquires an external image, and may reduce difficulties in acquiring images due to dark environments, mixing of various light sources, and/or reflection of light.

According to one embodiment, at least one second camera module (255) can capture a user's action through a first optical hole (221) formed in the lens frame (202). For example, the second camera module (255) can capture a user's gesture (e.g., hand motion). The second camera module (255) and/or the first optical hole (221) may be respectively disposed at opposite side ends of the lens frame (202) (e.g., the second frame (2021b)), for example, at opposite ends of the lens frame (202) (e.g., the second frame (2021b)) in the X direction. According to one embodiment, the second camera module (255) may be a global shutter (GS) type camera. For example, the second camera module (255) may be a camera that supports 3DoF (degrees of freedom) or 6DoF, which may provide 360-degree space (e.g., omnidirectional), position recognition, and/or movement recognition.

According to one embodiment, the second camera module (255) may perform a movement path tracking function (simultaneous localization and mapping, SLAM) and a user movement recognition function using a plurality of global shutter type cameras of the same standard and performance as a stereo camera. According to one embodiment, the second camera module (255) may include an IR (infrared) camera (e.g., a time of flight (TOF) camera or a structured light camera). For example, the IR camera may operate as at least a part of a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) for detecting a distance to a subject.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the second camera modules (255) may be replaced with a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1). For example, the sensor module may include at least one of a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), an infrared sensor, and/or a photodiode. For example, the photodiode may include a positive intrinsic negative (PIN) photodiode or an avalanche photodiode (APD). The photodiode may be interpreted as a photo detector or a photo sensor.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the first camera module (253) or the second camera module (255) may include a plurality of camera modules (not shown). For example, the first camera module (253) may be configured with a plurality of lenses (e.g., wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors and may be arranged on one side (e.g., the side facing the -Y direction) of the wearable electronic device (101). For example, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a plurality of camera modules, each having a different property (e.g., angle of view) or function, and may be controlled to change the angle of view of the camera module based on a user's selection and/or trajectory information. For example, at least one of the plurality of camera modules may be a wide-angle camera, and at least another may be a telephoto camera.

According to one embodiment, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may determine movement of the wearable electronic device (101) and/or movement of the user by using information of the wearable electronic device (101) acquired using at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, or an acceleration sensor of a sensor module (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) and a user's motion (e.g., approach of the user's body to the electronic device (101)) acquired using a second camera module (255). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include, in addition to the described sensors, a magnetic (geomagnetic) sensor capable of measuring a direction using a magnetic field and magnetism, and/or a Hall sensor capable of acquiring movement information (e.g., a moving direction or a moving distance) using the strength of a magnetic field. For example, the processor may determine movement of the electronic device (101) and/or movement of the user based on information acquired from the magnetic (geomagnetic) sensor and/or the Hall sensor.

According to one embodiment (not shown), the wearable electronic device (101) can perform an input function (e.g., a touch and/or pressure sensing function) that enables interaction with a user. For example, a component configured to perform a touch and/or pressure sensing function (e.g., a touch sensor and/or a pressure sensor) may be disposed on at least a portion of the wearable member (203). The wearable electronic device (101) can control a virtual image output through the display member (201) based on information acquired through the component. For example, the sensor related to the touch and/or pressure sensing function may be configured in various ways, such as a resistive type, a capacitive type, an electromagnetic induction (EM) type, or an optical type. According to one embodiment, the component configured to perform the touch and/or pressure sensing function may have part or all of the same configuration as the input module (150) of FIG. 1.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a reinforcing member (260) disposed in the internal space of the lens frame (202) and formed to have a rigidity higher than the rigidity of the lens frame (202).

In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a lens structure (273). The lens structure (273) may refract at least a portion of light. For example, the lens structure (273) may be a prescription lens having a specified refractive power. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the lens structure (273) may be positioned behind the display member (201) (e.g., in the +Y direction). For example, the lens structure (273) may be positioned between the display member (201) and the user's eye.

In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a hinge cover (227) that may conceal a portion of the hinge structure (229). Another portion of the hinge structure (229) may be accommodated or concealed between an inner cover (231) and an outer cover (233), which will be described later.

In one embodiment, the wearable member (203) may include an inner cover (231) and an outer cover (233). For example, the inner cover (231) is a cover configured to face the user's body or to come into direct contact with the user's body, and may be made of a material with low thermal conductivity, for example, a synthetic resin. In one embodiment, the inner cover (231) may include an inner side that faces the user's body. For example, the outer cover (233) may include a material (for example, a metal material) that can at least partially transmit heat, and may be coupled to face the inner cover (231). In one embodiment, the outer cover (233) may include an outer side opposite the inner side. In one embodiment, at least one of the circuit board (241) or the speaker module (245) may be accommodated in a space separated from the battery (243) within the wearable member (203). In the illustrated embodiment, the inner cover (231) may include a first cover (231a) that accommodates a circuit board (241) and/or a speaker module (245), and a second cover (231b) that accommodates a battery (243), and the outer cover (233) may include a third cover (233a) that is coupled to face the first cover (231a), and a fourth cover (233b) that is coupled to face the second cover (231b). For example, the first cover (231a) and the third cover (233a) may be combined (hereinafter, 'the first cover portion (231a, 233a)') to accommodate a circuit board (241) and/or a speaker module (245), and the second cover (231b) and the fourth cover (233b) may be combined (hereinafter, 'the second cover portion (231b, 233b)') to accommodate a battery (243).

According to one embodiment, the first cover portion (231a, 233a) is rotatably coupled to the lens frame (202) via a hinge structure (229), and the second cover portion (231b, 233b) can be connected or mounted to an end of the first cover portion (231a, 233a) via a connection structure (235). According to one embodiment, a portion of the connection structure (235) that comes into contact with the user's body can be made of a material having low thermal conductivity, for example, an elastic material such as silicone, polyurethane, or rubber, and a portion that does not come into contact with the user's body can be made of a material having high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material. For example, when heat is generated in the circuit board (241) or the battery (243), the connection structure (235) can block the heat from being transferred to the portion coming into contact with the user's body, and can disperse or release the heat through the portion that does not come into contact with the user's body. According to one embodiment, a portion of the connection structure (235) that is configured to come into contact with the user's body may be interpreted as a part of the inner cover (231), and a portion of the connection structure (235) that is not configured to come into contact with the user's body may be interpreted as a part of the outer cover (233). According to one embodiment (not shown), the first cover (231a) and the second cover (231b) may be configured as an integral body without the connection structure (235), and the third cover (233a) and the fourth cover (233b) may be configured as an integral body without the connection structure (235). According to one embodiment, in addition to the illustrated components, other components (e.g., antenna module (197) of FIG. 1) may be further included, and information about objects or environments may be provided from an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1, or server (108) of FIG. 1) through a network (e.g., first network (198) or second network (199) of FIG. 1) using a communication module (e.g., communication module (190) of FIG. 1).

According to one embodiment, the lens frame (202) may include a bridge portion (274) (e.g., bridge portion (202c) of FIG. 2) between the first display member (201a) and the second display member (201b). For example, the bridge portion (274) may be interpreted as a portion corresponding to a nose pad of glasses.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a connection member (205). According to one embodiment, the circuit board (241) is connected to the connection member (205) and may transmit electrical signals to components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the light output module (211) and/or the camera module (250)) through the connection member (205). For example, a control signal transmitted from a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) located on the circuit board (241) may be transmitted to the electronic components using at least a portion of the connection member (205). For example, at least a portion of the connection member (205) may include wiring (not shown) electrically connected to components of the electronic device (101).

In one embodiment, the connecting member (205) can include a first connecting member (205a) at least partially disposed within the first wearing member (203a) and a second connecting member (205b) at least partially disposed within the second wearing member (203b). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first connecting member (205a) and/or the second connecting member (205b) can face the hinge structure (229). For example, the first connecting member (205a) can extend from the first circuit board (241a) across the hinge structure (229) into the interior of the lens frame (202). The second connecting member (205b) can extend from the second circuit board (241b) across the hinge structure (229) into the interior of the lens frame (202). For example, a portion of the first connecting member (205a) and a portion of the second connecting member (205b) may be placed within the wearing member (203), and the other portion may be placed within the lens frame (202).

In one embodiment, the first connecting member (205a) and the second connecting member (205b) may include structures that can be folded or unfolded based on the rotation of the hinge structure (229). For example, the first connecting member (205a) and/or the second connecting member (205b) may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). In one embodiment, the first connecting member (205a) may be electrically and/or mechanically connected to the first circuit board (241a). In one embodiment, the second connecting member (205b) may be electrically and/or mechanically connected to the second circuit board (241b). In one embodiment, the first connecting member (205a) and/or the second connecting member (205b) may include structures (e.g., wiring and/or cables) for transmitting signals.

According to one embodiment, the sensor module (280) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) can detect light passing through the display member (201). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (280) can include a first sensor module (281) capable of detecting light passing through the first display member (201a) and a second sensor module (282) capable of detecting light passing through the second display member (201b). For example, the first sensor module (281) can detect light from the rear (e.g., in the -Y direction) of the first display member (201a), and the second sensor module (282) can detect light from the rear of the second display member (201b). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (280) can include a third sensor module (283) capable of detecting light from the front (e.g., in the +Y direction) of the display member (201). For example, the third sensor module (283) can detect light in front of the display member (201) (e.g., in the +Y direction). In one embodiment, the sensor module (280) can be a light sensor. In one embodiment, the third sensor module (283) can have part or all of the same configuration as the first camera module (253).

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiment of FIG. 5 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 4, or the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 14.

The configurations of the embodiment of FIG. 5 may be partially or entirely identical to the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 4, or the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 14.

Referring to FIG. 5, a wearable electronic device (101) (e.g., the wearable electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 4) may include a housing (310) including a lens frame (302) (e.g., the lens frame (202) of FIGS. 2 to 4) and a wearing member (303) (e.g., the wearing member (203) of FIGS. 2 to 4).

According to one embodiment, the lens frame (302) may be coupled with an indicator member (320, 321) (e.g., the indicator member (201) of FIGS. 2 to 4). For example, the edge of the indicator member (320, 321) may be surrounded by the lens frame (302).

According to one embodiment, the lens frame (302) may include a first rim portion (311) coupled with a first indicator member (320) corresponding to the user's left eye (e.g., the second rim portion (202b) of FIG. 2), and a second rim portion (312) coupled with a second indicator member (321) corresponding to the user's right eye (e.g., the first rim portion (202a) of FIG. 2).

According to one embodiment, the wearing member (303) may include a first leg portion (315) rotatably connected to a first rim portion (311) (e.g., the second wearing member (203b) of FIG. 2) and a second leg portion (316) rotatably connected to a second rim portion (312) (e.g., the first wearing member (203a) of FIG. 2).

In one embodiment, the first leg portion (315) may correspond to the user's left ear. The second leg portion (316) may correspond to the user's right ear.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a light source (370) (e.g., light source (251) of FIGS. 3 and 4). According to one embodiment, the light source (370) may be disposed in the lens frame (302).

In one embodiment, a light source (370) (e.g., an IR LED) may be configured to irradiate infrared light toward a part of a user's body (e.g., an eye (10)). In one embodiment, light irradiated from the light source (370) may be reflected by the eye (10) and incident on the display member (320, 321).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a camera (330). The camera (330) may include an IR camera capable of capturing images in the infrared band. The camera (330) may capture light transmitted through the display member (320). For example, the camera (330) may capture light reflected from the user's eye (10).

According to one embodiment, the camera (330) may be positioned inside the wearable member (303). For example, the camera (330) may include at least one pair of cameras, each positioned inside the first leg portion (315) and the second leg portion (316). Since the camera (330) is positioned inside the wearable member (303), the camera (330) may not be exposed to the outside of the wearable electronic device (101). Accordingly, the design of the wearable electronic device (101) may be improved.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) may include a circuit board (340) (e.g., circuit board (241) of FIG. 4). The circuit board (340) may be disposed within the wearable member (303). The circuit board (340) may be electrically connected to the camera (330). The circuit board (241) may include at least one pair of circuit boards disposed within the first leg portion (315) and within the second leg portion (316).

According to one embodiment, the circuit board (340) may include a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) and memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1).

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (101) and/or the processor can track the direction of gaze of the user's pupil based on an image of the user's eye (10) obtained through the camera (330).

Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a case in which an image for the user's left eye is acquired through the first display member (320) arranged on the first rim portion (311) will be described, but the description thereof may be equally applied and/or applied to a case in which an image for the user's right eye is acquired through the second display member (321).

According to one embodiment, the light source (370) can irradiate infrared light toward the user's left eye (10).

According to one embodiment, light reflected from the user's left eye (10) may be incident on the first display member (320).

According to one embodiment, the first display member (320) may include a waveguide (e.g., waveguide (400) of FIG. 6) configured to transmit incident light to the camera (330). The first display member (320) may include a waveguide for tracking the user's gaze (e.g., waveguide (400) of FIG. 6), another waveguide for outputting a virtual image, or a lens structure (e.g., lens structure (273) of FIG. 4).

According to one embodiment, light incident on a wave guide (e.g., wave guide (400) of FIG. 6) may be totally reflected within the wave guide and transmitted toward the camera (330).

According to one embodiment, light output from the wave guide can be incident on a camera (330).

According to one embodiment, the camera (330) can capture an image of the user's body or the user's left eye by obtaining light output from the wave guide.

According to one embodiment, the processor (120) of the circuit board (340) can obtain and/or determine the direction (e.g., gaze direction) of the pupil of the user's left eye (10) based on an image obtained or photographed by the camera (330).

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiment of FIG. 6 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5, or the embodiments of FIGS. 7a to 14.

The configurations of the embodiment of FIG. 6 may be partially or entirely identical to the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5, or the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 7a to 14.

Referring to FIG. 6, a display member (e.g., display member (320, 321) of FIG. 5) of a wearable electronic device (e.g., wearable electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 5) may include a wave guide (400).

According to one embodiment, the waveguide (400) may include a substrate (410), a first diffractive layer (420), or a second diffractive layer (430).

According to one embodiment, the substrate (410) may include a first side (411) facing the user's eye (10) and a second side (412) opposite the first side (411).

According to one embodiment, light emitted from a light source (e.g., light source (370) of FIG. 5) may be reflected toward a wave guide (400) by the user's eye (10).

According to one embodiment, the substrate (410) may be configured to guide light reflected from the user's eye (10) and incident on the substrate (410) to a camera (330) (e.g., the camera (330) of FIG. 5).

According to one embodiment, the substrate (410) may be formed of a material (e.g., glass) that is transparent to the visible light band so that the user can recognize real objects, but is not limited thereto. For example, light in the visible light band incident on the substrate (410) from outside the wearable electronic device (101) may pass through the substrate (410) and enter the user's eye (10).

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer (420) may be disposed on the first side (411) of the substrate (410), but is not limited thereto. For example, although not shown, the first diffractive layer (420) may also be disposed on the second side (412) of the substrate (410).

According to one embodiment, when a user wears the wearable electronic device, the first diffractive layer (420) may be positioned to correspond to the user's eyeball (10), but is not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer (420) may include at least one diffractive element. The at least one diffractive element of the first diffractive layer (420) may include, but is not limited to, a diffractive optical element (DOE), a holographic optical element (HOE), a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), a meta surface, or a meta grating.

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer (420) and at least one diffractive element of the first diffractive layer (420) can diffract infrared band light that is reflected from the user's eye (10) and incident on the first diffractive element (420). For example, the infrared band light diffracted by the first diffractive layer (420) can be totally reflected within the substrate (410) and transmitted to the second diffractive layer (430). For example, the first diffractive layer (420) can diffract infrared band light incident on the substrate (410) so as to satisfy the total reflection condition of the substrate (410).

According to one embodiment, the second diffractive layer (430) may be disposed on the first side (411) of the substrate (410), but is not limited thereto. For example, although not shown, the second diffractive layer (430) may also be disposed on the second side (412) of the substrate (410).

In one embodiment, when a user wears the wearable electronic device, the second diffractive layer (430) may be positioned corresponding to, but not limited to, the camera (330).

According to one embodiment, the second diffractive layer (430) may include at least one diffractive element. The at least one diffractive element of the second diffractive layer (430) may include, but is not limited to, a diffractive optical element (DOE), a holographic optical element (HOE), a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), a meta surface, or a meta grating.

According to one embodiment, the second diffractive layer (430) and at least one diffractive element of the second diffractive layer (430) may be configured to diffract light that is totally reflected within the substrate (410) and output it to the camera (330). For example, light in the infrared band that is diffracted by the first diffractive layer (420), totally reflected within the substrate (410), and transmitted to the second diffractive layer (430) may be diffracted by the second diffractive layer (430) and output it to the camera (330).

According to one embodiment, the camera (330) may be configured to capture or acquire an image of the user's eye (10) by receiving light output from the second diffractive layer (430) to the camera (330).

Figure 7a is a schematic diagram for explaining a wave guide according to a comparative example.

Figure 7b is a schematic diagram for explaining an image overlapping state according to a comparative example.

FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8b is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8c is a schematic diagram illustrating the period of grating of a diffractive element of a first diffractive layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram illustrating a period of grating of a diffractive element of a first diffractive layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9b is a drawing showing an image of a user's eye according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiments of FIGS. 7A to 9B can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6, or the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 14.

The configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 7A to 9B may be partially or entirely identical to the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6, or the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 14.

Referring to Fig. 7a, a wave guide according to a comparative example is illustrated.

Referring to FIG. 7a, a wave guide (4000) according to a comparative example may include a substrate (4100) and a first diffractive layer (4200).

According to a comparative example, infrared band lights (L1, L2, L3) reflected from multiple points (T1, T2, T3) of a user's eye (e.g., eye (10) of FIG. 5) can be incident on the first diffractive layer (4200).

According to a comparative example, the light (L1, L2, L3) diffracted in the first diffractive layer (4100) is totally reflected within the substrate (4100) and can be transmitted to the second diffractive layer.

According to a comparative example, the first diffractive layer (4200) may include a plurality of regions (A-1, ..., A-n). The plurality of regions may be defined as regions divided in the longitudinal direction of the first diffractive layer (4100). According to a comparative example, the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (4200) may have substantially the same period. The period of the diffractive element of the first diffractive layer (4200) may be defined as the repeating interval of the periodic structure formed on the surface of the diffractive layer (4200).

According to a comparative example, light (L1) reflected from a point (T1) of the eye and incident on the first diffractive layer (4200) may be incident at different incident angles on the first region (A-1) positioned closest to the second diffractive layer and the n-th region (A-n) positioned farthest from the second diffractive layer. For example, since the user's eye is close to the waveguide (4000), even if the light is reflected from the same point (e.g., T1) of the user's eye, the incident angle of the light may vary depending on the location of the region of the first diffractive layer (4200) where it is incident. Since the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (4200) each have the same diffraction period, the degree to which light having different incident angles is diffracted may be the same/similar. Accordingly, light diffracted by the first diffractive layer (4100) and incident on the substrate (4100) may have different incident angles. For example, the incident angle of light (L1) passing through the first region (A-1) may be G-1, and the incident angle of light (L1) passing through the nth region (A-n) may be G-n. The incident angle of G-1 may be greater than the incident angle of G-n. That is, since the incident angles of the lights are different, the lights incident on the substrate (4100) may not be parallel. In this case, there is a concern that the lights may overlap in the image sensor of the camera, resulting in a blur being formed in the image (10b) capturing the user's eye, as in FIG. 7b, or that the user's eye may overlap between different regions in the image (10b).

Referring to FIG. 8a, a wave guide (400) according to one embodiment may include a substrate (410) and a first diffractive layer (420).

According to one embodiment, infrared band lights (L1, L2, L3) reflected from multiple points (T1, T2, T3) of a user's eye (e.g., eye (10) of FIG. 5) can be incident on the first diffractive layer (420).

According to one embodiment, the light rays (L1, L2, L3) diffracted in the first diffractive layer (410) are totally reflected within the substrate (410) and can be transmitted to the second diffractive layer.

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer (420) may include a plurality of regions (A-1, ..., A-n). The plurality of regions may be defined as regions divided in the longitudinal direction of the first diffractive layer (420). According to one embodiment, the diffractive elements positioned in the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (420) may have different grating periods. The grating period of the diffractive elements of the first diffractive layer (420) may be defined as the repeating interval of a periodic structure formed on the surface of the diffractive layer (420).

Referring to FIG. 8B, for example, light reflected from the same point (T2) of the user's eye (e.g., one point) may be incident on a plurality of points (e.g., 420-1, 420-2, 420-3) of the first diffractive layer (420). The light incident on the plurality of points of the first diffractive layer (420) may be diffracted by a diffractive element positioned at each point. The grating period of the diffractive element positioned at each point may be designed so that light incident from one point (T2) is diffracted and incident on the substrate (400) at the same incident angle (G-2). For example, different points (420-1, 420-2, 420-3) of the first diffractive layer (420) can diffract light reflected from a point (T2) of the user's eye so that the light is incident on the substrate (400) at the same incident angle. To this end, the grating periods of the diffractive elements of the multiple points of the first diffractive layer (420) may have different values, but are not limited thereto. For example, referring to FIGS. 8b and 8c, when the wavelength of light reflected from a point (T2) is about 850 nm, the width (W) of the first diffractive layer (410) is about 20 mm, and the distance (L) between the first diffractive layer (410) and the eye is about 20 mm, in order to design the incident angle of light incident on the substrate (400) to be about 60 degrees, the grating period of the diffractive element at the central point (420-1) of the first diffractive layer (420) may have a value of about 600, the grating period of the diffractive element at one end point (420-2) may have a value of about 1000, and the grating period of the diffractive element at the other end point (420-3) may be designed to have a value of about 500, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 9, the grating period of the diffractive elements positioned in a plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (420) is illustrated. For example, the period (e.g., the grating period of the diffractive element) may be defined as the spacing of the structure of the diffractive element formed on the surface of the corresponding region of the first diffractive layer (420), but is not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, the grating period of the diffractive element of the first region (A-1) positioned closest to the second diffractive layer may be the first period (P-1). The grating period of the diffractive element of the nth region (A-n) positioned farthest from the second diffractive layer may be the nth period (P-n). The nth period (P-n) may be greater than the first period (P-1). The grating period of the diffractive element may be from the first region (A-1).

According to one embodiment, the lattice period of any one region between the first region (A-1) and the n-th region (A-n) may be greater than the first period (P-1) and less than the n-th period (P-n).

According to one embodiment, the grating periods of the diffractive elements of the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (420) may increase from a region positioned adjacent to the second diffractive layer toward a region positioned away from the second diffractive layer. The degree to which the periods increase may be linear, but is not limited thereto, and may increase nonlinearly.

In one embodiment, the grating period of a region of the first diffractive layer (420) may be related to the degree to which light is diffracted in that region. For example, the degree to which light is diffracted in an n-th region (A-n) having a relatively large grating period may be greater than the degree to which light is diffracted in a first region (A-1) having a relatively small grating period. In one embodiment, the grating period of a region of the first diffractive layer (420) may be designed to have a grating period such that light passing through the first diffractive layer (420) is incident on the substrate (410) to propagate toward the second diffractive layer, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 8A to 9B, light (L1) reflected from any one point (T1) of the eye and incident on the first diffractive layer (420) may be incident at different incidence angles on the first region (A-1) positioned closest to the second diffractive layer and the n-th region (A-n) positioned farthest from the second diffractive layer, respectively. For example, since the user's eye is close to the waveguide (400), even if light is reflected from the same point (e.g., T1) of the user's eye, the incidence angle of the light may vary depending on the location of the region of the first diffractive layer (420) into which it is incident. Since the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (420) each have different diffraction grating periods, the degree to which light having different incidence angles is diffracted may vary.

According to one embodiment, the light rays diffracted by the first diffractive layer (410) and incident on the substrate (410) may have substantially the same incident angle. For example, the incident angle of the light (L1) passing through the first region (A-1) may be G-1, and the incident angle of the light (L1) passing through the n-th region (A-n) may be G-n. Since diffraction is relatively less in the first region (A-1) and diffraction is relatively more in the n-th region (G-n), the incident angle of G-1 may be the same as the incident angle of G-n. That is, since the incident angles of the light rays are the same, the light rays incident on the substrate (410) may be parallel. In this case, since the lights from the image sensor of the camera (330) do not overlap, the image of the user's eye (10c) can be made clearer as in FIG. 9b, and accordingly, the accuracy of the wearable electronic device tracking the trajectory of the user's eye or gaze can be improved.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first diffractive layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a photographing area for a user's eye when a wearable electronic device photographs the user's eye according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9b, or the embodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14.

The configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12 may be partially or entirely identical to the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9b, or the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the wave guide (500) (e.g., the wave guide (400) of FIGS. 6 and 8) may include a substrate (510), a first diffractive layer (520), or a second diffractive layer (530).

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer (520) may include a plurality of regions (521, 522, 523). The periods (P1, P2, P3) of the plurality of regions (521, 522, 523) may increase in a direction from a region (510) positioned closest to the second diffractive layer (520) toward a region (530) positioned farthest from the second diffractive layer (520).

According to one embodiment, the second diffractive layer (530) may be positioned corresponding to the camera (330). The camera (330) may include a barrel (331), a lens (332), and an image sensor (333). The barrel (331) may form the overall appearance of the camera (330) and protect components positioned therein. The lens (332) may focus light output from the second diffractive layer (530) onto the image sensor (333).

According to one embodiment, light rays (L1, L2, L3) reflected from multiple points (T1, T2, T3) of the user's eye and incident on the first diffractive layer (520) may be diffracted by the first diffractive layer (520) and transmitted through total reflection toward the second diffractive layer (530) within the substrate (510).

According to one embodiment, light transmitted to the second diffractive layer (530) may be diffracted by the second diffractive layer (530) and output to the camera (330). Accordingly, the wearable electronic device may capture or acquire an image of the user's eye through the light incident on the camera (330).

According to one embodiment, the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (520) may be spaced apart from each other. For example, an air gap (g1, g2) may be formed between the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer (520). Accordingly, the coverage area of the user's eye or a part adjacent to the eye covered by the wave guide (500) may be relatively large. For example, the coverage area may be defined as a photographing area of the user's eye or a part adjacent thereto, obtained through the image sensor (333) of the camera (330).

Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the photographing area for the user's eye and its adjacent parts will be described.

For example, depending on the size or shape of the user's head or the position of the eye on the user's face, the position of the first diffractive layer (520) of the wave guide (500) relative to the user's eye or the user's iris (10a) may vary.

According to one embodiment, an area corresponding to the first region (521) of the first diffractive layer (520) may be defined as a first photographing region (521a), an area corresponding to the second region (522) of the first diffractive layer (520) may be defined as a second photographing region (522a), and an area corresponding to the third region (523) of the first diffractive layer (520) may be defined as a third photographing region (523a). For example, light from a part of the first region (521) of the first diffractive layer (520) that is closest to the second diffractive layer (530) (e.g., light having an incident angle of K-1 in FIG. 10) and light from a part of the third region (523) of the first diffractive layer (520) that is farthest from the second diffractive layer (530) (e.g., light having an incident angle of K-n in FIG. 10) may correspond to the outermost lights among the lights reflected from the actual user's eye. That is, the corresponding lights may correspond to the outermost parts of the photographing area (EB) illustrated in FIG. 12.

In one embodiment, a plurality of regions (521, 522, 523) of the first diffractive layer (510) may form air gaps (g1, g2) therebetween, thereby forming regions (g1a, g2a) of the user's eye that are not actually imaged. When the user's pupil is located in such regions, the wearable electronic device may perform a calibration operation to track the direction in which the user's pupil is facing.

According to one embodiment, the air gap (g1, g2) may increase the imaging area (EB) for the user's eye and adjacent parts thereof.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wave guide according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 12.

The configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14 may be partially or entirely identical to the configurations of the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 12.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the wave guide (500) (e.g., the wave guide (500) of FIG. 10) may include a substrate (510), a first diffractive layer (520), or a second diffractive layer (530).

Referring to FIG. 13, the second diffractive layer (530) may be disposed on one surface of the substrate (510) (e.g., the surface facing the camera (630). The camera (630) may face the second diffractive layer (530). For example, the optical tube (631) of the camera (630) may be connected to the second diffractive layer (530). Light output from the second diffractive layer (530) may directly reach the image sensor (633) inside the optical tube (631). That is, the camera (630) of the wearable electronic device described as an example in FIG. 13 does not include a separate lens, and the second diffractive layer (530) may function as the lens of the camera (630). Accordingly, the size of the camera (630) may be reduced, and the overall size of the wearable electronic device may be reduced.

Referring to FIG. 14, an image sensor (732) may be placed on one surface of the substrate (510). On the other side of the substrate (510), a second diffractive layer (531) (e.g., the second diffractive layer (530) of FIG. 13) may be arranged. That is, the image sensor (732) and the second diffractive layer (531) may face each other with the substrate (510) therebetween. Light diffracted by the second diffractive layer (531) may pass through the substrate (510) and reach the image sensor (732). That is, the wearable electronic device described with reference to FIG. 14 as an example may not include a separate optical tube that accommodates the image sensor (733), and the substrate (510) may serve as the optical tube. In addition, the second diffractive layer (731) may serve as a lens of the camera. Accordingly, the overall size of the wearable electronic device may be reduced.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device includes a housing including a lens frame and a wearing member rotatably connected to the lens frame; a wave guide disposed on the lens frame, the wave guide including a first diffractive layer disposed on the lens frame and configured to transmit light reflected by a user's eye toward the wearing member; and a camera disposed inside the wearing member and facing the wave guide, the camera configured to capture an image of light output from the wave guide, wherein the first diffractive layer may be configured to diffract light reflected from a point of the user's eye and incident on a plurality of points of the first diffractive layer, and to diffract light passing through the first diffractive layer to have parallel angles with each other.

According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a light source configured to irradiate light toward the user's eye.

In one embodiment, the waveguide may further include: a substrate; the first diffractive layer disposed on the substrate; and a second diffractive layer disposed on the substrate and positioned corresponding to the camera.

According to one embodiment, the diffraction periods of the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer may be configured to decrease in a direction from a region positioned closest to the second diffractive layer toward a region positioned farthest from the second diffractive layer.

According to one embodiment, the diffraction periods of the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer may be configured to decrease linearly or nonlinearly in the direction.

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer may be disposed on one surface of the substrate, and the second diffractive layer may be disposed on the one surface of the substrate.

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer may be disposed on one surface of the substrate, and the second diffractive layer may be disposed on the other surface of the substrate opposite to the one surface.

In one embodiment, the camera may include: a barrel; an image sensor disposed in the barrel; and a lens disposed in the barrel and configured to focus light output from the second diffractive layer onto the image sensor.

In one embodiment, the camera may include a barrel connected to the second diffractive layer; and an image sensor disposed in the barrel.

In one embodiment, the camera includes an image sensor disposed on one surface of the substrate, and the second diffractive layer may be disposed on the other surface of the substrate opposite to the one surface.

According to one embodiment, an air gap may be formed between the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer.

According to one embodiment, the light irradiated from the light source may be light in the infrared band.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device includes a housing; a light source disposed in the housing and configured to irradiate light in an infrared band toward a user's eye; a wave guide disposed in the housing and configured to allow light irradiated from the light source and reflected by the user's eye to be incident thereon and directed toward a user's eye when the user wears the wearable electronic device; and a camera disposed inside the housing and configured to face the wave guide and capture an image of light output from the wave guide, wherein the wave guide may include a substrate; a first diffractive layer disposed on the substrate and including a plurality of regions having different diffraction periods; and a second diffractive layer disposed on the substrate and positioned corresponding to the camera.

According to one embodiment, the diffraction periods of the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer may be configured to decrease in a direction from a region positioned closest to the second diffractive layer toward a region positioned farthest from the second diffractive layer.

According to one embodiment, the diffraction periods of the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer may be configured to decrease linearly or nonlinearly in the direction.

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer may be disposed on one surface of the substrate, and the second diffractive layer may be disposed on the one surface of the substrate.

According to one embodiment, the first diffractive layer may be disposed on one surface of the substrate, and the second diffractive layer may be disposed on the other surface of the substrate opposite to the one surface.

In one embodiment, the camera may include: a barrel; an image sensor disposed in the barrel; and a lens disposed in the barrel and configured to focus light output from the second diffractive layer onto the image sensor.

In one embodiment, the camera may include a barrel connected to the second diffractive layer; and an image sensor disposed in the barrel.

According to one embodiment, the camera includes an image sensor disposed on one surface of the substrate, and the second diffractive layer may be disposed on the other surface of the substrate opposite to the one surface.

According to one embodiment, an air gap may be formed between the plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer.

Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims (11)

In wearable electronic devices, A housing comprising a lens frame and a wearing member rotatably connected to the lens frame; a waveguide disposed on the lens frame and including a first diffractive layer for transmitting light reflected by the user's eye toward the wearing member; and A camera is disposed inside the wearable member and configured to face the wave guide and capture an image of light output from the wave guide. The above first diffractive layer is, A wearable electronic device configured to diffract light reflected from a point of the user's eye and incident on a plurality of points of the first diffractive layer, and to diffract light passing through the first diffractive layer so as to have parallel angles with each other. In the first paragraph, further comprising a light source arranged in the lens frame and configured to irradiate light toward the user's eye, The above wave guide, substrate; The first diffractive layer disposed on the substrate; and A wearable electronic device further comprising a second diffractive layer disposed on the substrate and positioned corresponding to the camera. In the second paragraph, The diffraction periods of the plurality of regions of the first diffraction layer are, A wearable electronic device configured to decrease in size in a direction from a region positioned closest to the second diffractive layer toward a region positioned farthest from the second diffractive layer. In the third paragraph, The diffraction periods of the plurality of regions of the first diffraction layer are, A wearable electronic device configured to decrease linearly or non-linearly in the above direction. In the second paragraph, The above first diffractive layer is, is placed on one side of the above substrate, The second diffractive layer is, A wearable electronic device disposed on the above surface of the above substrate. In the second paragraph, The above first diffractive layer is, is placed on one side of the above substrate, The second diffractive layer is, A wearable electronic device disposed on the other side of the substrate opposite to the one side. In the second paragraph, The above camera, Kyungtong; an image sensor arranged in the above-mentioned optical tube; and A wearable electronic device comprising a lens arranged in the above-described optical tube and configured to focus light output from the second diffractive layer onto the image sensor. In the second paragraph, The above camera, a tube connected to the second diffractive layer; and A wearable electronic device comprising an image sensor disposed in the above-mentioned body. In the second paragraph, The above camera, including an image sensor disposed on one side of the substrate, The second diffractive layer is, A wearable electronic device disposed on the other side of the substrate opposite to the one side. In the first paragraph, A wearable electronic device in which an air gap is formed between a plurality of regions of the first diffractive layer. In the first paragraph, A wearable electronic device in which light irradiated from the above light source is light in the infrared band.