Augmented reality 2D/3D compatible display using reflective polarizer

In order to apply two-dimensional(2D)/three-dimensional(3D)compatible display technology into augmented reality display devices, this paper proposed an augmented reality 2D/3D compatible display system based on lens array holographic optical element and reflective polarizer. By using reflective polarizer to reflect or transmit the projection light,the reflected light loaded with 2D image source is used to realize 2D display,and the transmitted light loaded with 3D image source is used to realize 3D display after being modulated by lens array holographic optical element. Both reflective polarizer and lens array holographic optical element have good ambient transmittance,which makes the display system own optical see-through property for augmented reality application. The experimental results indicate that the proposed augmented reality 2D/3D compatible display system can switch freely between 2D and 3D display modes,and the ambient contrast ratio of the system is higher than 3:1,which is the standard value of display.