Abstract: There is provided by this invention an apparatus for combining a reflected image in a heads-up-display system with an unobstructed view of the outside world and a system for providing a heads-up-display. The heads-up-display system utilizes a dielectric combiner in order to eliminate flare and increase the system's mechanical stability. The combiner apparatus is comprised of a transmissive substrate and a plurality of dielectric layers which selectively reflects light within a narrow range of wavelengths. The use of dielectric thin films provides a mechanically stable and durable combiner element for a heads-up-display system while eliminating the deleterious effects of flare present in combiner elements utilizing a holographic optical element.

Abstract: This modulator mirror comprises at least two partially transparent reflector stacks bonded to two separate substrates held apart by spacers to create a parallel gap between the partially transparent reflector stacks wherein the gap has a reference spacing of an even number of quarter wavelengths of the light energy contained within the beam to be modulated. The modulation is accomplished by causing a physical displacement between the two substrates such that the gap spacing varies between the reference pass position of the even number of quarter wavelengths and a second reference no pass position of about .+-. one quarter wavelength. The physical motion may be accomplished by electrostatic, piezo-electric, magnetic or other means.