Augmented Reality: Part 3

In part one we had a brief overview of augmented reality spectacles, predominantly from Project Glass (Google Glasses). In part two we took a look at Innovega Inc.'s amazing contact lens design for augmented reality displays. Today I want to look at some of the patents behind Google's augmented reality effort. Join me after the break...




So after some digging around on the internet I have managed to drag up some patents on the augmented reality display. It transpires that sometime between March 30th and April 12th Google purchased/acquired three patents from a U.S. based company called Motion Research Technologies Incorporated, according to the U.S. patent database (the date range is due to my limited understanding of U.S. patent law, I think the first date represents purchase and the second assignment). Let's take a look at the patent images:

Image two: Detailed look

Image one: Overview

 We can see from image one above that the augmented reality display apparatus will clip onto a conventional (apparently rimless!) frame. Interestingly the patent does not discuss the nature of the spectacle lens material.  Also of interest is the use of two clip on units, presumably one for power and the other for processing.  The armature appears to drop in and out of place, answering some peoples safety concerns with regards driving using augmented reality displays. Image two houses a mirrored barrel system to increase the light levels to the display.

Image three: Uses

The most interesting is of-course the applications of this technology. Thankfully we aren't left wanting in this regard an image from the original patent shows some possible applications...none of which are medical..yet! It appears that the system will connect your current mobile phone display and allow apps to run in augmented mode, allowing for heads-up display (HUD) of vital data.

How do you think the system will work with conventional eye-wear? Sound off below....