US Patent 11852827 Switchable artificial reality device

A device is provided. The device includes a reflective polarizer configured to selectively reflect or transmit a polarized light based on a polarization of the polarized light. The device also includes a display element disposed at a first side of the reflective polarizer, and configured to output a first image light representing a virtual image. The device also includes a polarization switch disposed between the display element and the reflective polarizer, and configured to switch or maintain a polarization of the first image light. The device further includes an active dimming device disposed at a second side of the reflective polarizer, and configured to provide an adjustable transmittance of an input light.