Augmented reality display having multi-element adaptive lens for changing depth planes

A display device comprising:

• a waveguide assembly comprising a waveguide configured to output outcoupled light along an output surface of the waveguide;
• and
• a first adaptive lens assembly having a first major surface facing the output surface, the first adaptive lens assembly comprising:
• a first waveplate lens;
• a second waveplate lens;
• and
• a first switchable waveplate interposed between the first waveplate lens and the second waveplate lens, wherein the switchable waveplate is selectively switchable between:
• a first state configured to pass the outcoupled light without altering a polarization state of the outcoupled light;
• and
• a second state configured to alter the polarization state of the outcoupled light passing therethrough;
• and
• a second adaptive lens assembly having a second major surface facing an external scene opposite the output surface, and a second minor surface facing the first major surface, the second adaptive lens assembly comprising:
• a third waveplate lens;
• a fourth waveplate lens;
• and
• a second switchable waveplate interposed between the third waveplate lens and the fourth waveplate lens, wherein the second switchable waveplate is selectively switchable between:
• a third state configured to pass light from the external scene without altering a polarization state of the light from the external scene;
• and
• a fourth state configured to alter the polarization state of the light from the external scene passing therethrough.