With the main objectives of designing, manufacturing and testing ordinary looking ARE devices based on free-form holographic mirror technology, POPULAR approach is both holistic and user centric.
All the main scientific and technologic challenges were addressed. It included the following developments:
1) RGB OLED stacks with optimized emission wavelength to match the reflection band of the holographic mirrors, while minimizing energy consumption and cross-talk between pixels
2) RGB holographic resins to record efficient holographic mirrors while ensuring mechanical stability of the layer and photoinitiator stability in the formulation
3) ARE optical architectures optimizing eye box, optical aberrations and aesthetics,
4) Optical simulation tools to model holographic mirror behaviour and optimize the holographic recording process
5) Coating processes close to ophthalmic industrial environment, including protection means for the holographic layer
6) Color SDK to drive the microdisplay according to the user needs.
In addition, Human Driven Design Methodologies were applied using user feedback at the main stages of prototype development. It included extensive survey campaigns combining both qualitative and quantitative research. 869 completed questionnaires were analyzed. Applications were developed to answer user needs in 1) logistic where the operator is presented with a list of tasks to complete, 2) training in health where a student is displayed with a list of tasks to perform on a manikin, and 3) sport to provide key data during rowing training sessions.
