Overview
IEC 63145-20-20:2019 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines the fundamental measurement conditions and methods for assessing the image quality of eyewear displays. The standard applies specifically to both non-see-through (virtual reality, VR goggles) and see-through (augmented reality, AR glasses) types of eyewear displays utilizing virtual image optics. Devices such as contact-lens type and retina direct projection displays are not included within the scope of this document.
IEC 63145-20-20:2019 is widely recognized in the AR/VR industry as the authoritative reference for conducting accurate and repeatable measurement of image quality in emerging visual display technologies. Following this standard ensures globally consistent results and supports product innovation, regulatory compliance, and market acceptance.
Key Topics
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Standard Measurement Conditions:
The standard details environmental factors, power supply specifications, device warm-up periods, and dark room conditions required for reliable measurement of eyewear display image quality.
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Measurement Equipment and Setups:
- Use of light measuring device (LMD), both spot and 2D imaging types, calibrated for accuracy and suitability for human visual perception.
- Stage set-ups, including biaxial goniometers and three-axis translation stages, to facilitate precise alignment and measurement.
- Importance of aligning device under test (DUT) and LMD optical axes for consistent results.
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Test Patterns and Measurement Points:
- Application of checkerboard, solid color, and Michelson contrast test patterns to evaluate different aspects of image quality.
- Measurement at central and multi-point locations across the field of view for thorough assessment.
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Measurement Methods:
The standard describes procedures for measuring:
- Distortion: Quantifies geometric deformation of the virtual image.
- Color Registration Error: Assesses misalignment between color channels.
- Michelson Contrast: Evaluates image resolution and contrast through specific test patterns.
- Focal Distance (Dioptre): Measures virtual image focus accuracy, which is critical for user comfort and perceived image sharpness.
- Field of View (FOV) and Eye-Box: Based on Michelson contrast, ensuring the practical usability of the display across different viewing positions.
Applications
IEC 63145-20-20:2019 serves as a foundational tool for various stakeholders in the wearable display industry:
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Product Development and Quality Control:
Developers of VR goggles and AR glasses leverage the standard to benchmark and improve image quality, supporting the delivery of immersive and visually comfortable user experiences.
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Research and Innovation:
Academic and industrial researchers utilize these measurement methods to compare new optical architectures, validate improvements, and support scientific publications with standardized metrics.
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Compliance and Certification:
Manufacturers refer to this IEC standard to ensure products meet international quality expectations and regulatory guidelines, facilitating smoother global market entry.
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Procurement and Specification:
Buyers and integrators use the measurements defined in the standard when evaluating display modules and systems, ensuring consistency across suppliers and products.
Related Standards
For a comprehensive understanding of eyewear display measurement and performance, consider these related standards:
- IEC 63145-20-10:
Eyewear display-Part 20-10: Fundamental measuring methods – Optical properties. This related standard covers the measurement of core optical characteristics.
- ISO 9241-302:2008:
Ergonomics of human-system interaction-Terminology for electronic visual displays, providing definitions and terminology used across display measurements.
- IEC TR 63145-1-1:
Additional technical reports detailing eyewear display technologies and supplementary measurement considerations.
By implementing the practices and methods described in IEC 63145-20-20:2019, professionals in the AR and VR sectors can ensure industry-leading image quality assessment, drive technological advancement, and enhance user acceptance of next-generation wearable displays.
