Collimating image from an LCD display

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    Image Lcd Optics
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of collimating an image from an LCD display for use in a head-up display (HUD). Participants explore various methods and configurations to achieve proper collimation, including the use of lenses and light sources, while addressing issues related to focus and image quality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the lens is positioned correctly relative to the LCD display to achieve collimation.
  • Another participant suggests that placing an object at the focal point of the lens should result in an image at infinity, which is a common principle in HUD design.
  • A participant describes the typical optical setup in HUDs involving a lens or mirror with a display at its focus to produce a collimated image.
  • Concerns are raised about the precision of the lens distance and whether varying this distance might improve image quality.
  • Some participants inquire about the focus quality across the display, suggesting that lens aperture limitations might cause only part of the image to be collimated.
  • Chromatic aberration is mentioned as a potential issue affecting image quality due to varying focal lengths for different colors.
  • One participant shares their experience of achieving a focused image but emphasizes the need for collimation at infinity, questioning if this can be done without replacing the backlight.
  • Another participant proposes two approaches for a similar project: using Fresnel lenses in front of the screen or stripping the backlight and using a point light source with a lens.
  • Discussion includes considerations of safety and visibility when installing a DIY HUD in a vehicle, referencing commercial options and their limitations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the feasibility of achieving collimation from an LCD display, with no consensus reached on the best method or configuration. Some agree on the principles of collimation, while others question the specifics of implementation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note various technical challenges, including the precision of lens placement, the effects of chromatic aberration, and the limitations of different light sources. The discussion also reflects uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of proposed methods and the quality of components being used.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals working on optical systems, DIY HUD projects, or those exploring the integration of LCD displays in collimated applications.

  • #31
Hello Anorlunda,
I took a look at the 'Spyglass' Android app. Looks interesting in it's own right. Not quite what I'm looking at, but interesting never the less.
 
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  • #32
PaulCarew said:
The use case is actually for tracking sailboats in a sailboat race. Each of the racers will be carrying a small gps tracker that relays their position amongst other info. This is relayed and processed and then basic facts relayed to the binocular HUD/AR device. The device includes a gyro and compass for binocular orientation.
Why not just use hull numbers or names (I'm not sure how sailboats are labeled -- whatever is equivalent to tail numbers for aircraft)? How do you plan to handle sailboats that are side-by-side and so in the same line of sight from your location?

PaulCarew said:
Working on a physical binocular attachment at the moment that includes the lens system. This bit is the *most* challenging :-)
Are you able to open up the binoculars to add your optics inside, or are you trying to do this all external to the binocs? If all external, maybe use something like Google Glass or similar HUD glasses, rather than trying to add something to the front entrance of the binocs?
 

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