Field curvature analysis and optimization method for near-eye display systems

Abstract

Near-eye display (NED) systems with a large field of view (FOV) and a large pupil are often accompanied by field curvature. In such cases, there is often a significant deviation between the virtual image seen by the human eye and an ideal plane. Currently, there is a lack of precise methods for describing and controlling the shape of virtual images in visual space. In this paper, the system is modeled, and the curvature is controlled through optimization. Under limited conditions, the system’s field curvature is controlled to approach an ideal state. When the system’s field curvature cannot be completely corrected, a method for describing the virtual image surface is introduced. This method helps optical designers effectively predict the degree of curvature and the distance of the virtual image. The image quality of the system with a curved image is evaluated and optimized based on the focusing function of the human eye. Additionally, the field curvature and pupil swim are analyzed jointly. The effectiveness of the method is verified by designing two different types of NED systems.