Bosch enables unconspicuous smartglasses with new light drive system
A MEMS-based collimated light scanner inside the Bosch Smartglasses Light Drive module scans a holographic element (HOE) that is embedded in the lens of the smartglasses. This HOE redirects the light beam onto the human retina surface, directly painting a picture that is always in focus. The technology enables hands-free, secure viewing of practically any data from a connected mobile device, such as a paired smartphone, overlaid in a comfortable viewing position. The projected high-resolution image is crisp, bright, private, and clearly visible even in direct sunlight thanks to its adaptive brightness.
The Bosch Light Drive technology is compatible with curved and corrective lenses, making this new tech appealing and available to users who already wear prescription glasses. Older competitor display technologies are hindered by a haze or rainbow glare called stray light that is visible when the system is switched off. It provides pleasing all-day optical transparency with minimal stray light sensitivity, meaning the view is always crystal clear, and that distracting internal reflections are a thing of the past.
With this module, there is no externally visible display or integrated camera, the two pitfalls that have alienated users of other smartglasses technologies. The smaller size allows designers to overcome the bulky, cumbersome characteristics of many of today’s smartglasses.
The perceived total transparency for the user also means a radical social acceptance because it is nearly invisible to others. Additionally, the technology can also be applied to optimize the performance of waveguide systems for which integration packages are in development.
“The Smartglasses Light Drive system is the smallest and lightest product on the market today and is, therefore, able to turn almost any regular spectacles into smartglasses,” explains Dr. Stefan Finkbeiner, CEO of Bosch Sensortec. “By eliminating distracting phone usage, smartglasses can help improve driving safety and reduce the impulse of users to constantly check their mobile devices for notifications or messages.”
The complete turnkey Light Drive system can be integrated in a volume of approximately 45-75×5-10x8mm (L x H x W), depending on customer’s design choices and weighs less than 10 grams.
The smartglasses module is enriched by several sensor solutions, such as Bosch’s smart sensor BHI260, the barometric pressure sensor BMP388, and the BMM150 magnetometer. The sensors enable intuitive user interface features such as multi-tap functions on the frame to improve convenience while operating the glasses. It will be available in 2021 to high-volume manufacturers as part number BML500P.
Bosch Sensortec – www.bosch-sensortec.com
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