The Z-30 features the company’s Z-Lens 2D waveguide architecture and a smaller field-of-view (30 degrees) so that it can be seamlessly fitted within standard glasses sizes, offering signficant functional and aesthetic benefits.
“We’re firmly committed to building optical engines for a diverse set of AR glasses designs and use cases, and the announcement of Z-30 specifically addresses what the entry-level consumer market needs,” said Lumus CEO Ari Grobman. “Our solution features the same best-in-class image quality as the Z-50 but with a smaller field-of-view, which makes integration within standard glasses form factors easy. The design also extends device battery life, ultimately paving the way for broader widespread consumer adoption.”
The Z-30 delivers some important improvements to the performance aspects of AR glasses. For example, glasses that feature an integrated Z-30 optical engine will now require lower processing requirements and less powerful hardware thanks to having fewer pixels to render, which makes them more affordable to produce.
In addition, devices with a mid-sized field-of-view operate more efficiently, creating a smoother visual experience and help to extend battery life – making them more compatible for long-term consumer use.
The Z-30 is lightweight at 14.5g, offers full colour 720 x 720 pixels resolution, and a brightness of >3,000 nits/Watt. With a 50% reduction in weight and volume compared to the Z-50, it will enable the development of even smaller form factors for AR glasses, which has been a critical barrier to entry.
“Offering a mid-range field of view option for consumer glasses grants major aesthetic benefits; manufacturers can build even smaller form factors that appeal to a consumer audience, and wearers will feel like they are wearing standard glasses and not clunky devices,” Grobman added.
The Z-30 optical engine integrates Lumus’ Z-Lens waveguide architecture, which offers enhanced image quality and allows for smaller projector designs. It also enables flexible positioning of the eye-box, reduced world ghost effects, and the possibility for direct bonding of Rx lenses or protective plastic elements.
Additional benefits of the Z-Lens waveguide architecture include compatibility with microLED projectors, enabling even slimmer and more power efficient design options.
“We are expanding our product portfolio to offer solutions for all AR applications and product specifications, from immersive gaming and entertainment to data snacking,” added Grobman. “The introduction of the Z-30 optical engine gives manufacturers the tools they need to appeal to mainstream markets.”
