Lighting control data generation method and lighting control data generation apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of illumination control data generation method and illumination control data generation device capable of shortening the time required to generate illumination control data.A method for generating illumination control data for controlling a plurality of light sources in a head-up display device, the illumination control data generation method comprising: determining a plurality of measurement points P1 to Pm by the brightness of light emitted by the light source at each of a plurality of output levels set to different values from each other in a light source control unit that controls the light source with reference to the illumination control data; and an output characteristic acquisition step of acquiring an RGB output characteristic by interpolating between the plurality of determined measurement points P1 to Pm, in the measurement point determination step, a first number of measurement points is determined in a high brightness mode requiring a brightness above a threshold value, and a second number of measurement points P1 to Pm greater than the first number is determined in a low brightness mode requiring a brightness below the threshold value.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a lighting control data generation method and a lighting control data generation apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0002] For example, the head-up display device described in Patent Literature 1 reads out lighting control data stored in a storage section based on an illuminance signal of an illuminance sensor that detects the illuminance of the user's surroundings, and causes the output of a light source to change to adjust the brightness of a display image. The lighting control data is generated by calibrating at the time of manufacture in consideration of individual differences of the light source of the lighting device.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-4121 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] In the structure described in the above Patent Literature 1, a long time is required to generate the lighting control data.

[0008] The present application has been achieved in view of the above-described circumstances, and has an object to provide a lighting control data generation method and a lighting control data generation apparatus capable of shortening the time required to generate lighting control data.

[0009] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0010] To achieve the above object, a lighting control data generation method according to a first aspect of the present application, which generates lighting control data for controlling a plurality of light sources in a head-up display device, includes: a measurement point determination step of determining, by a measurement point determination section, a plurality of measurement points by the brightness of light emitted by the light sources at each of a plurality of output levels set to mutually different values in a light source control section that controls the light sources with reference to the lighting control data; and an output characteristic acquisition step of acquiring, by an output characteristic acquisition section, an output characteristic by interpolating between the plurality of measurement points determined in the measurement point determination step, the measurement points being determined in a first determination point number when a required brightness exceeds a threshold value, and the measurement points being determined in a second determination point number greater than the first determination point number when the required brightness is below the threshold value.

[0011] To achieve the above object, the lighting control data generation device of the second aspect of the present application, which generates lighting control data for controlling a plurality of light sources in a head-up display device, includes: a measurement point determination section which determines a plurality of measurement points by luminance of light emitted by the light sources at each of a plurality of output levels set to mutually different values in a light source control section which controls the light sources with reference to the lighting control data; and an output characteristic acquisition section which acquires an output characteristic by interpolating between the plurality of measurement points determined. The measurement point determination section determines the measurement points in a first determined point number when a required luminance exceeds a threshold value, and determines the measurement points in a second determined point number, which is more than the first determined point number, when the required luminance is below the threshold value.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to the present application, it is possible to shorten the time required to generate lighting control data. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a vehicle equipped with a head-up display device of an embodiment of the present application.

[0015] Figure 2 is a schematic view of a head-up display device of an embodiment of the present application.

[0016] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a lighting device of an embodiment of the present application.

[0017] Figure 4 is a schematic view of a display unit of an embodiment of the present application.

[0018] Figure 5 is a block diagram of a light source driving device of an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Figure 6 is a block diagram of a lighting control data generation device of an embodiment of the present application.

[0020] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a sample product data acquisition device of an embodiment of the present application.

[0021] Figure 8 is a block diagram of a shipped product data acquisition device of an embodiment of the present application.

[0022] Figure 9 is a schematic view showing a class to which a sample projector device of an embodiment of the present application belongs.

[0023] Figure 10is a graph showing an RGB output characteristic at the time of main data generation of one embodiment of the present application.

[0024] Figure 11 is a graph showing an RGB output characteristic in a high luminance mode at the time of product data generation of one embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Figure 12 is a graph showing an RGB output characteristic in a low luminance mode at the time of product data generation of one embodiment of the present application.

[0026] Figure 13 is a graph showing a relationship between a control mode and luminance of one embodiment of the present application.

[0027] Figure 14 is a graph showing a part of Figure 13 enlarged.

[0028] Figure 15 is a flowchart of a main data generation process of one embodiment of the present application.

[0029] Figure 16 is a subflowchart of the main data generation process of one embodiment of the present application.

[0030] Figure 17 is a flowchart of a product data generation process of one embodiment of the present application.

[0031] Figure 18 is a timing chart showing a waveform pattern of a current supplied to a light source and an operation of a switch in a high luminance mode of one embodiment of the present application.

[0032] Figure 19 is a timing chart showing a pulse of a current supplied to a light source in a low luminance mode of one embodiment of the present application.

[0033] Figure 20 is a schematic view of a variable ND filter device of one embodiment of the present application.

[0034] Figure 21 is a graph showing a part of Figure 13 enlarged.

[0035] Figure 22 is a graph showing a control mode and a DMD duty of one embodiment of the present application.

[0036] Figure 23 is a graph showing a control mode and a DMD duty of one embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] An embodiment of a lighting control data generation method, a lighting control data generation device, and a head-up display device (hereinafter referred to as a HUD device) according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, a HUD device 1 is mounted on the instrument panel of a vehicle 2, generates display light L representing an image, and radiates the generated display light L toward a windshield 3. The display light L is reflected by the windshield 3 and reaches a viewer 4 (e.g., the driver of the vehicle 2). As a result, the viewer 4 can visually recognize a virtual image V displayed in front of the windshield 3. Various vehicle information, such as engine speed and vehicle speed, is displayed on the virtual image V.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, the HUD device 1 includes a projector device 18, a transmissive screen 50, a light source driving device 5, plane mirrors 55 and 61, a concave mirror 62, a concave mirror driving unit 65, a housing 70, and a light-transmitting portion 71. The projector device 18 includes an illumination device 10 for emitting illumination light C and a display unit 19 for emitting display light L in response to the illumination light C.

[0040] The housing 70 is formed in a box shape from a light-shielding material, for example. The flat mirror 61, the concave mirror 62, and the concave mirror driving unit 65 are housed in the housing 70. The housing 70 has an opening 70a through which the display light L passes.

[0041] The light-transmitting portion 71 is formed of a light-transmitting resin such as acrylic into a curved plate shape and is provided so as to close the opening 70 a of the housing 70 .

[0042] The lighting device 10 generates illumination light C and radiates the generated illumination light C toward the display unit 19. Specifically, Figure 3 As shown, the lighting device 10 includes a light source group 11 , a light combining unit 13 , and a light source temperature detection unit 600 .

[0043] The light source group 11 comprises, for example, three light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b, each comprised of an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Light source 11r is a red light source that emits red light R. Light source 11g is a green light source that emits green light G. Light source 11b is a blue light source that emits blue light B. Light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b are each driven by a light source driver 5 to emit light at a predetermined intensity and timing.

[0044] The light synthesizing section 13 generates the illumination light C by aligning the optical axes of the red light R, the green light G, and the blue light B emitted in order from the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b, and radiates the generated illumination light C toward the display unit 19. Specifically, the light synthesizing section 13 has a mirror 13a and dichroic mirrors 13b, 13c that reflect light of a specific wavelength and transmit light of other wavelengths than the specific wavelength. The mirror 13a reflects the incident blue light B toward the dichroic mirror 13b. The dichroic mirror 13b reflects the incident green light G toward the dichroic mirror 13c and directly transmits the blue light B from the mirror 13a. The dichroic mirror 13c reflects the incident red light R toward the display unit 19 and transmits the green light G and the blue light B from the dichroic mirror 13b. Thus, the dichroic mirror 13c radiates the illumination light C obtained by synthesizing the red light R, the green light G, and the blue light B on the same optical axis toward the display unit 19.

[0045] The light source temperature detecting section 600 detects the temperatures of the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b, and outputs the detection results as light source temperature signals ST to the light source driving device 5 as shown in FIG. 6. Figure 5

[0046] As shown in FIG. 7, the display unit 19 has a prism 15, a light intensity detecting section 500, a DMD (Digital Micromirror Device) display element 30, a projection optical system 40, and a mirror 54. Figure 4

[0047] The mirror 54 reflects the illumination light C from the illumination device 10 toward the prism 15.

[0048] The prism 15 is formed in a right isosceles triangular prism shape of a light-transmissive material. The prism 15 has an inclined surface 15a opposite to the mirror 54, a right surface 15b opposite to the DMD display element 30, and a right surface 15c opposite to the projection optical system 40. The illumination light C from the mirror 54 reaches the inclined surface 15a of the prism 15. The inclined surface 15a reflects most of the illumination light C from the mirror 54 into the prism 15 and reflects a part of the illumination light C from the mirror 54 toward the light intensity detecting section 500. The illumination light C reflected into the prism 15 is emitted from the right surface 15b of the prism 15 toward the DMD display element 30. The display light L from the DMD display element 30 is reflected toward the inclined surface 15a after being incident into the prism 15 via the right surface 15b. Thereafter, the display light L reflected by the inclined surface 15a is emitted from the right surface 15c toward the projection optical system 40.

[0049] The DMD display element 30 has a plurality of movable micromirrors 30a. The plurality of micromirrors 30a are arranged in a matrix shape to correspond to the image M (refer to FIG. 1) to be displayed. Figure 2 ​​) corresponding to a pixel. The micromirror 30a includes an electrode (not shown) and is switched between an open and closed state by switching the voltage value applied to the electrode. When in the open state, the micromirror 30a reflects the illumination light C toward the transmissive screen 50. When in the closed state, the micromirror 30a reflects the illumination light C in a direction different from that of the transmissive screen 50.

[0050] Each micromirror 30a is switched between an on state and an off state by the light source driving device 5, thereby expressing the brightness and color of each pixel of the image M based on the desired color, for example, white illumination light C. Under the control of the light source driving device 5, each micromirror 30a adjusts the proportion of the period in which it is in the on state in one frame, that is, the DMD duty cycle, thereby adjusting the brightness of each pixel of the image M.

[0051] The light intensity detection unit 500 is composed of a light receiving element having a photodiode, for example, and is provided at a position to receive the illumination light C reflected by the prism 15. The light intensity detection unit 500 receives a portion of the illumination light C and detects the light intensity of each of the R, G, and B lights constituting the illumination light C in a time-division manner. Figure 5 As shown, the light intensity detection unit 500 outputs the detection result as a light intensity detection signal SFB to the second control unit 200 of the light source driving device 5 described later.

[0052] like Figure 4 As shown, the projection optical system 40 is composed of a concave lens or a convex lens, etc., which amplifies the display light L from the DMD display element 30 after passing through the prism 15, and emits the amplified display light L to the Figure 2 The plane mirror 55 is shown. The plane mirror 55 reflects the display light L toward the transmissive screen 50.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the transmissive screen 50 is composed of a holographic diffuser, a microlens array, a diffusion plate, etc., and receives the display light L from the projection optical system 40 to display the image M.

[0054] The plane mirror 61 reflects the display light L representing the image M displayed on the transmission screen 50 toward the concave mirror 62. The plane mirror 61 may be a concave mirror.

[0055] The concave mirror 62 reflects the display light L from the plane mirror 61 toward the windshield 3 . The display light L passes through the light-transmitting portion 71 of the housing 70 and is then reflected by the windshield 3 toward the viewer 4 .

[0056] The concave mirror driving unit 65 includes a motor (not shown) and a gear mechanism for transmitting the driving force of the motor to the concave mirror 62. The concave mirror driving unit 65 drives the concave mirror 62 to rotate in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation. Figure 2The concave mirror 62 rotates about a rotation axis Ax extending in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface. The concave mirror 62 rotates about the rotation axis Ax, thereby adjusting the irradiation position of the display light L with respect to the viewer 4 in the height direction.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, the light source driving device 5 includes: a light source driver 300, which supplies a constant current to the light source group 11; an inductor L1; a light source driving unit 43, which drives the light source group 11; a second control unit 200, which controls the light source driving unit 43 and the DMD display element 30, etc.; and a first control unit 100, which controls the concave mirror driving unit 65, etc.

[0058] The light source driver 300 is composed of a constant current driver IC (Integrated Circuit) that generates a constant current based on power from a vehicle-mounted battery (not shown), and is controlled by the second control unit 200 .

[0059] The light source driver 300 supplies a constant current to the light source group 11 based on a command signal from the second control unit 200. Upon receiving a command signal from the second control unit 200 to turn off the light source driver 300, the light source driver 300 stops supplying the constant current. An inductor L1 is connected between the light source driver 300 and the light source group 11.

[0060] The light source driving unit 43 includes switching units Swr, Swg, Swb, Swc, and Swa, a capacitor C1 , and a voltage detecting unit 49 .

[0061] The switch units Swr, Swg, Swb, Swc, and Swa are formed of, for example, n-channel FETs (Field Effect Transistors), and are switched between an on state (closed state) and an off state (open state) under the control of the second control unit 200 .

[0062] The switch unit Swr is connected in series with the light source 11r. The switch unit Swg is connected in series with the light source 11g. The switch unit Swb is connected in series with the light source 11b. The switch unit Swc is connected in series with the capacitor C1 and is connected in parallel with the switch units Swr, Swg, and Swb.

[0063] When the switches Swr, Swg, and Swb are switched to the on state, current from the light source driver 300 flows through the corresponding light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b, thereby lighting the corresponding light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b. When the switches Swr, Swg, and Swb are switched to the off state, current from the light source driver 300 to the corresponding light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b is cut off, thereby extinguishing the corresponding light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b.

[0064] The switch unit Swa has a function of controlling the inductor current flowing from the light source driver 300 to the inductor L1 to a target value by switching to an on state.

[0065] The switch portion Swc has a function of switching to an on state to allow a current to flow from the light source driver 300 to the capacitor C1, thereby adjusting a pulse P (see FIG. Figure 19 ) is a function of the slope of the rising part.

[0066] The voltage detection unit 49 is connected between the ground and the switching units Swr, Swg, Swb, Swc, and Swa, and outputs a voltage detection signal SV to the second control unit 200 after detecting the voltage detection signal SV.

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, the first control unit 100 is composed of a microcontroller including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and the like, and controls the concave mirror driving unit 65. A requested brightness signal SL representing the intensity of ambient light surrounding the vehicle 2, detected by the illuminance sensor 7, is input to the first control unit 100. The first control unit 100 outputs the input requested brightness signal SL, representing the requested brightness, to the second control unit 200.

[0068] The second control unit 200 is an LSI (Large Scale Integration) that realizes a desired function by hardware, and is composed of, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0069] In the second control unit 200, the image signal SE for displaying the image M is input from the image signal input unit 700, and the light source temperature signal ST detected by the light source temperature detection unit 600, the voltage detection signal SV detected by the voltage detection unit 49, and the light intensity detection signal SFB detected by the light intensity detection unit 500 are input.

[0070] The second control unit 200 includes a light source control unit 201 that sets the light intensity of the illumination light C according to the required brightness; a display element control unit 202 that controls the DMD display element 30; a storage unit 203 that stores the illumination control data Dm; and a product data generation unit 205 that corrects the illumination control data Dm. The product data generation unit 205 includes a drive capability determination unit 205a, a master data selection unit 205b, a measurement point determination unit 205c, an output characteristic acquisition unit 205d, and a data correction unit 205e.

[0071] The display element control section 202 performs opening / closing control of each micromirror 30a in the DMD display element 30 based on the image signal SE, thereby displaying the image M.

[0072] As shown in Figure 13 the illumination control data Dm includes data indicating the brightness range Bl in each control mode Q1 to Qn (n is an arbitrary natural number). The brightness range Bl in each control mode Q1 to Qn is a brightness range for radiating the illumination light C of a desired color, such as white, from the projector device 18. The central value of the brightness range Bl in the control modes Q1 to Qn becomes smaller as it approaches the control mode Qn from the control mode Q1. The control modes Q1 to Qn each include information related to which one of a low brightness mode and a high brightness mode, a gain set by the gain setting section 201a described later, a target value (limit value) of the current supplied to the light source 11r, 11g, 11b, a lighting mode including the duty of the light source 11r, 11g, 11b, the RGB output characteristics described later, and the like. For example, the gain and the target value are set to become smaller as it approaches the control mode Qn from the control mode Q1. For example, when switching the mode between the control mode Qx and the control mode Qy, the mode is switched between the low brightness mode and the high brightness mode.

[0073] The illumination control data Dm is set for each light source temperature. As an example, the illumination control data Dm corresponding to -40°C, -30°C, -10°C, 10°C, 25°C, 40°C, 50°C, 60°C, and 70°C, respectively, is prepared. With respect to the illumination control data Dm, the number and the content of the control modes Q1 to Qn and the brightness range Bl in each control mode Q1 to Qn are different for each light source temperature.

[0074] As shown in Figure 5 the light source control section 201 includes, for example, a PMIC (Power Management Integrated Circuit) that controls the power supplied to the light source group 11. The light source control section 201 refers to the illumination control data Dm related to the temperature closest to the light source temperature based on the light source temperature signal ST detected by the light source temperature detection section 600. The light source control section 201 refers to the illumination control data Dm, switches to the control mode Q1 to Qn that achieves the control based on the required brightness of the required brightness signal SL, and supplies the current to the light source group 11 via the light source driver 300 in the control mode Q1 to Qn to which it is switched. Thereby, the illumination light C becomes the brightness corresponding to the required brightness signal SL. The output level of the light source control section 201 is variable. The higher the output level of the light source control section 201, the higher the peak value Pk of the light source current (refer to Figure 18 and Figure 19) is larger and the time until the light source current reaches the target value is shorter, that is, the slope of the increase of the light source current is greater.

[0075] For example, the light source control unit 201 determines a target value based on the required brightness signal SL and compares the determined target value with the light intensity detection signal SFB. When the light intensity detection signal SFB is less than the target value, the light source control unit 201 supplies current from the light source driver 300 to the light source group 11. When the light intensity detection signal SFB is greater than the target value, the light source control unit 201 stops supplying current from the light source driver 300 to the light source group 11. Thus, the light source control unit 201 monitors the light intensity detection signal SFB and performs feedback control on the current value supplied from the light source driver 300 to the light source group 11, targeting the target value. This target value is set to a different value for each light source 11r, 11g, and 11b.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, the light source control unit 201 includes a gain setting unit 201a for setting the gain of the light intensity detection signal SFB detected by the light intensity detection unit 500. The gain setting unit 201a sets the gain higher as the required brightness (required brightness signal SL) decreases. By adjusting the gain of the light intensity detection signal SFB, the gain setting unit 201a sets the light intensity detection signal SFB to a value that can be read by the light source control unit 201. The light source control unit 201 reads the light intensity detection signal SFB, taking into account the presence or absence of offset in the gain set by the gain setting unit 201a and the amount of offset. This prevents the brightness of the illumination light C from deviating from the target value due to fluctuations in gain caused by individual differences in the light source control unit 201.

[0077] like Figure 18 As shown, the light source control section 201 turns on the switch section Swr throughout the entire lighting permission period Tr, thereby supplying the current Ir from the light source driver 300 to the light source 11 r to light the light source 11 r.

[0078] The light source control section 201 turns on the switch section Swg throughout the entire lighting permission period Tg, thereby supplying the current Ig from the light source driver 300 to the light source 11 g to light the light source 11 g.

[0079] The light source control section 201 turns on the switch section Swb throughout the entire lighting permission period Tb, thereby supplying the current Ib from the light source driver 300 to the light source 11 b to light the light source 11 b.

[0080] The light source control unit 201 selectively illuminates any one of the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b, operating in a so-called field sequential manner by switching the illuminated light source 11r, 11g, and 11b. During the display period Ton, the light source control unit 201 supplies currents Ir, Ig, and Ib to the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b. During the non-display period Tof, the light source control unit 201 stops supplying currents Ir, Ig, and Ib to the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b by disconnecting the switching units Swr, Swg, and Swb. While the image M is being displayed, the display period Ton and the non-display period Tof alternate. One display period Ton and one non-display period Tof constitute one frame, or one cycle. The display period Ton is composed of a plurality of lighting permission periods Tr, Tg, and Tb in a predetermined sequence.

[0081] The second control unit 200 switches to either a high brightness mode or a low brightness mode based on the required brightness signal SL. The second control unit 200 switches to the low brightness mode when the required brightness signal SL is below a threshold, and switches to the high brightness mode when the required brightness signal SL exceeds the threshold. For example, the threshold is set to 4000 candelas.

[0082] like Figure 18 As shown, in the high brightness mode, the second control unit 200 supplies the currents Ir, Ig, and Ib as rectangular waves to the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b. In the high brightness mode, the second control unit 200 changes the target value Tgt of the currents Ir, Ig, and Ib, the period Ti during which the currents Ir, Ig, and Ib are supplied, and the DMD duty cycle (described later) in accordance with changes in the required brightness, thereby adjusting the brightness of the illumination light C or display light L.

[0083] like Figure 19 As shown, in low-brightness mode, the second control unit 200 supplies currents Ir, Ig, and Ib to the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b as triangular waves, i.e., multiple pulses P. In low-brightness mode, the second control unit 200 increases or decreases the number of pulses P in response to changes in the required brightness, thereby adjusting the brightness of the illumination light C or display light L.

[0084] Furthermore, the second control unit 200 may adjust the brightness of the illumination light C or the display light L by increasing or decreasing the peak value Pk (target value) of the pulses P in addition to increasing or decreasing the number of pulses P, without being limited to this example.

[0085] A method of generating the pulse P in the low-brightness mode will be described.

[0086] like Figure 5 and Figure 19As shown, the second control unit 200 (light source control unit 201) turns on the switches Swr and Swc and turns off the switches Swg, Swb, and Swa during the lighting permission period Tr and before generating the pulse P. At this time, the current flows from the light source driver 300 to the ground via the capacitor C1 and the switch Swc. As a result, energy is charged into the capacitor C1. When the capacitor C1 approaches a fully charged state, the current value flowing into the capacitor C1 decreases, and the current Ir supplied to the light source 11r via the switch Swr increases. As a result, the waveform of the rising part of the pulse P is formed. The capacitor C1 can adjust the inclination of the rising part of the pulse P. Moreover, when the current Ir reaches the target value Tgt, the second control unit 200 turns on the switch Swa. At this time, the current from the light source driver 300 flows to the ground via the switch Swa, and the current Ir supplied to the light source 11r decreases. As a result, the waveform of the falling part of the pulse P is formed.

[0087] like Figure 6 As shown, the lighting control data generating device 800 generates lighting control data Dm suitable for the shipped product projector device 18, namely, the shipped product projector device 18k. The lighting control data generating device 800 includes: a sample product data acquiring device 801 that acquires the RGB output characteristics at each temperature of the sample projector devices 18a to 18j, which are sample products of the projector device 18; a master data generating unit 802 that generates master lighting control data, namely, master data M1 to M10, based on the RGB output characteristics acquired by the sample product data acquiring device 801; a shipped product data acquiring device 810 that acquires the RGB output characteristics at each temperature of the shipped product projector device 18k; and a product data generating unit 205 that selects the optimal master data Mx suitable for the shipped product projector device 18k from the master data M1 to M10 and corrects the optimal master data Mx based on the RGB output characteristics acquired by the shipped product data acquiring device 810 to generate the lighting control data Dm.

[0088] The product data generating unit 205 forms a part of the shipped product projector device 18k. The sample product data acquiring unit 801, the master data generating unit 802 and the shipped product data acquiring unit 810 are provided separately from the projector device 18.

[0089] like Figure 7 As shown, the sample product data acquisition device 801 includes an illuminometer 803 , a variable ND (Neutral Density) filter device 804 , a room temperature adjustment unit 806 , a constant temperature chamber 808 , and an inspection light irradiation unit 809 .

[0090] The constant temperature bath 808 is a container that maintains a constant internal temperature. The room temperature adjustment unit 806 adjusts the internal temperature of the constant temperature bath 808 under the control of the master data generation unit 802. Within the constant temperature bath 808, one of the sample projector devices 18a, 18j, and so on is sequentially stored. The constant temperature bath 808 includes a constant temperature bath glass 805 that transmits the display light L from the projector device 18. When the display light L is transmitted, the constant temperature bath glass 805 reduces the light intensity of the display light L. The interior of the constant temperature bath 808 acts as a darkroom.

[0091] The illuminometer 803 and the variable ND filter device 804 are located outside the constant temperature chamber 808 , that is, in a dark room.

[0092] The illuminometer 803 measures the brightness of the display light L that has passed through the variable ND filter device 804 and outputs the measured detection signal to the main data generation unit 802. The inspection light emitting unit 809 irradiates the light intensity detection unit 500 with inspection light for inspecting the presence or absence of gain offset set by the gain setting unit 201a and the amount of the offset.

[0093] The variable ND filter device 804 adjusts the brightness of the display light L that has passed through the thermostatic chamber glass 805 to within the measurable range of the illuminometer 803 under the control of the master data generating unit 802 .

[0094] In detail, Figure 20 As shown, the variable ND filter device 804 includes a plurality of filters (in this example, five filters F0 to F4) set to different light attenuation rates, a rotating plate 804a supporting the filters F0 to F4, and a rotating drive unit 804c that rotates the rotating plate 804a along a rotation direction Cw.

[0095] The magnitude relationship of the light attenuation rates of the filters F0 to F4 is set as follows: light attenuation rate of filter F0 > light attenuation rate of filter F1 > light attenuation rate of filter F2 > light attenuation rate of filter F3 > light attenuation rate of filter F4 .

[0096] The rotating plate 804a is formed into a circular plate shape and is supported so as to be rotatable in the rotation direction Cw with the rotation axis Ay as the center. The rotation direction Cw is the counterclockwise direction. The rotating plate 804a is configured to be rotatable only in the rotation direction Cw and cannot be rotated in the opposite direction of the rotation direction Cw, that is, the clockwise direction. The rotation axis Ay is located at the center of the rotating plate 804a and is arranged along the thickness direction ( Figure 20 The rotating plate 804a supports filters F0 to F4 arranged along the rotation direction Cw. Filters F0 to F4 are arranged at equal angular intervals around the rotation axis Ay, in this example at 72° intervals.

[0097] In the above description, the rotating plate 804a is exemplified as being rotatable only in the counterclockwise direction. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the rotating plate 804a may be rotatable only in the clockwise direction.

[0098] Under the control of the master data generator 802, the rotation driver 804c rotates the rotating plate 804a in the rotation direction Cw, thereby causing the illumination range 804b of the display light L emitted from the sample projector devices 18a to 18j to overlap with any of the filters F0 to F4. Illumination range 804b remains fixed relative to the rotating rotating plate 804a. The specific method for switching filters F0 to F4 when acquiring RGB output characteristics will be described in detail later.

[0099] like Figure 7 As shown, the master data generation unit 802 is comprised of, for example, a microcontroller. The master data generation unit 802 performs the master data generation process described below. The master data generation unit 802 includes a storage unit 807 for storing master data M1 to M10, a measurement point determination unit 802a, and an output characteristic acquisition unit 802b. The processing performed by the measurement point determination unit 802a and the output characteristic acquisition unit 802b will be described in detail later.

[0100] like Figure 8 As shown, the shipped product data acquisition device 810 includes an illuminometer 813 , a variable ND filter device 814 , a chamber 818 , and an inspection light emitting unit 819 .

[0101] The chamber 818 is installed on the production line where the projector device 18k for shipped products is installed, and houses the illuminometer 813 and the projector device 18k for shipped products. The chamber 818 is a darkroom.

[0102] Similar to variable ND filter device 804, variable ND filter device 814 includes multiple filters, a rotating plate that supports the multiple filters, and a rotation drive unit that rotates the rotating plate in a rotational direction. Variable ND filter device 814 is controlled by product data generation unit 205. Illuminance meter 813 has the same structure as illuminance meter 803 and outputs a detection signal to product data generation unit 205. Inspection light emitting unit 819 has the same structure as inspection light emitting unit 809 and is controlled by product data generation unit 205 to radiate inspection light to the light intensity detection unit of the shipped product projector device 18k.

[0103] (Master data generation process)

[0104] Reference Figure 15 The master data generation process executed by the master data generation unit 802 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0105] First, if Figure 9As shown, the main data generating section 802 classifies the sample projector devices 18a to 18j into the ranks Gl to G10 in accordance with the driving capability of the light source driver 300 (step Sl). The sample projector devices 18a to 18j are respectively the same type, and different in serial number. Therefore, the sample projector devices 18a to 18j respectively have individual differences. One of the individual differences is the driving capability of the light source driver 300, which is determined by the relationship between the output level of the light source control section 201 and the peak value Pk of the light source current flowing through the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b (refer to FIG. 6). The higher the driving capability of the light source driver 300, the lower the output level of the light source control section 201, and the larger the peak value Pk of the light source current flowing through the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b. The driving capability varies due to the individual differences of the light source driver 300. For example, in the case where the driving capability of the light source control section 201 of the sample projector device 18b is higher than that of the sample projector device 18a, even if the output levels of the sample projector devices 18a, 18b are the same, the peak value Pk of the light source current in the sample projector device 18b is higher than that in the sample projector device 18a, and thus the luminance of the illumination light C or the display light L becomes higher. Figure 18 and Figure 19 ) between the output level of the light source control section 201 and the peak value Pk of the light source current flowing through the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b (refer to FIG. 6). The higher the driving capability of the light source driver 300, the lower the output level of the light source control section 201, and the larger the peak value Pk of the light source current flowing through the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b. The driving capability varies due to the individual differences of the light source driver 300. For example, in the case where the driving capability of the light source control section 201 of the sample projector device 18b is higher than that of the sample projector device 18a, even if the output levels of the sample projector devices 18a, 18b are the same, the peak value Pk of the light source current in the sample projector device 18b is higher than that in the sample projector device 18a, and thus the luminance of the illumination light C or the display light L becomes higher.

[0106] As an example, in the above step Sl, the main data generating section 802 calculates the driving capability value obtained by dividing the peak value Pk of the light source current by the set output level for each of the sample projector devices 18a to 18j. That is, the driving capability value is calculated by the following formula.

[0107] Driving capability value = Peak value Pk / Output level

[0108] Thereafter, the main data generating section 802 sorts the calculated driving capability values in order of high and low, and classifies the sample projector devices 18a to 18j into the ranks Gl to G10 in order of high and low of the driving capability values. For example, in the case where the driving capability value of the sample projector device 18a is the lowest among the sample projector devices 18a to 18j, the sample projector device 18a is classified into the rank Gl. For example, in the case where the driving capability value of the sample projector device 18b is the second lowest among the sample projector devices 18a to 18j, the sample projector device 18b is classified into the rank G2. Hereinafter, the sample projector devices 18c to 18j are also similarly classified into the ranks G3 to G10.

[0109] Next, the main data generating section 802 generates the main data Ml to MlO for each of the ranks Gl to G10, and causes the generated main data Ml to MlO to be stored in the storage section 807 (step S2), and ends the main data generating process. The main data generating process is executed before the manufactured product projector device 18k is shipped.

[0110] In this step S2, the main data generating section 802 reads out the Figure 16 subflowchart shown in FIG. 8.

[0111] The processing related to the subflowchart shown in FIG. 8 is executed for each sample projector device 18a to 18j. Thereby, the main data Ml to MlO corresponding to the grades Gl to G10 are generated. Each main data Ml to MlO has the main data at each temperature. In the following example, the case where the main data Ml of the grade Gl is generated is described. In this case, before the subflowchart shown in FIG. 8 is started, the sample projector device 18a belonging to the grade Gl is set in the thermostat tank 808 shown in FIG. 8, and the power supply of the sample projector device 18a is turned on. Figure 16 Figure 16 Figure 7

[0112] First, the main data generating section 802 sets the temperature in the thermostat tank 808 to the target temperature via the room temperature adjusting section 806 (step Sll). Thereafter, the main data generating section 802 waits for the temperature in the thermostat tank 808 to stabilize at the target temperature (step S12; No). Thereafter, the main data generating section 802 acquires the gain offset information which is the IC characteristic of the light source control section 201 when it is determined that the temperature in the thermostat tank 808 has stabilized at the target temperature (step S12; Yes). In this step S13, the main data generating section 802 causes the light emission section 809 to emit the inspection light to the light intensity detecting section 500 by inspection. The inspection light is light of a brightness which is set in advance. Thereafter, in a state where the gain is set to the set value by the gain setting section 201a, the main data generating section 802 measures the light intensity detecting signal SFB when the inspection light is emitted to the light intensity detecting section 500. Thereafter, the main data generating section 802 acquires the gain offset information which indicates the offset of the gain with respect to the set value based on the difference between the measured light intensity detecting signal SFB and a reference value. The reference value is, for example, the average value of the light intensity detecting signal SFB when the inspection light is emitted to the light intensity detecting section 500 in a state where the gain is set to the set value by the gain setting section 201a in the plurality of projector devices 18.

[0113] Next, the main data generating section 802 acquires the respective RGB output characteristics of the control patterns Ql to Qn at the target temperature adjusted by the room temperature adjusting section 806 in consideration of the acquired gain offset information, and thereby generates the main data Ml (step S14).

[0114] As shown in FIG. 8, the main data generating section 802 acquires the respective RGB output characteristics of the control patterns Ql to Qn at the target temperature adjusted by the room temperature adjusting section 806 in consideration of the acquired gain offset information, and thereby generates the main data Ml (step S14). Figure 10 ​​​The RGB output characteristic is a characteristic representing the relationship between the output level of the light source control section 201 and the brightness of the display light L detected by the illuminometer 803. The RGB output characteristic includes an R output characteristic related to the light source 11r for radiating the illumination light C of a desired color, such as white, a G output characteristic related to the light source 11g, and a B output characteristic related to the light source 11b.

[0115] This step S14 includes a measurement point determination step S14a performed by the measurement point determination section 802a to determine a plurality of measurement points Pl to Px by the brightness of the light emitted by each of a plurality of different output levels of the light source control section 201 and the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b, and an output characteristic acquisition step S14b performed by the output characteristic acquisition section 802b to acquire the RGB output characteristic by interpolating between the plurality of measurement points Pl to Px determined.

[0116] Figure 10 The x of the measurement point Px shown is an arbitrary number, and in the master data, x is set to the same number, for example, 20, in both the low brightness mode and the high brightness mode. The master data requires a higher reliability. Therefore, the number of measurement points of the master data is set to be more than the number of measurement points when acquiring the RGB output characteristic in the product projector apparatus 18k described later.

[0117] In detail, the measurement point determination section 802a performs the measurement of the red light from the light source 11r, the measurement of the green light from the light source 11g, and the measurement of the blue light from the light source 11b in this order. For example, when the measurement of the red light is performed, the measurement point determination section 802a, after setting the output level of the light source control section 201 to a first value, causes the light source 11r to emit the red light, and causes the DMD display element 30 to display a red color pattern. Figure 18 As shown, the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b are sequentially supplied with currents Ir, Ig, Ib, whereby the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b are sequentially lit. The measurement point determination section 802a, when measuring the red light, causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in an open state during the period in which the light source to be measured, i.e., the light source 11r, is lit, and causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in a closed state during the period in which the light sources 11g, 11b other than the light source 11r are lit. Thereafter, the measurement point determination section 802a measures the brightness of the display light L, i.e., the red light, by the illuminometer 803, and plots a measurement point Pl at which the first value and the brightness of the red light intersect.

[0118] Next, the measurement point determination section 802a, after setting the output level of the light source control section 201 to a second value larger than the first value, measures the brightness of the display light L, i.e., the red light, by the illuminometer 803 in the same manner as described above, and plots a measurement point P2 at which the second value and the brightness of the red light intersect. Thereafter, the measurement points P3 to Px are plotted in the same manner.

[0119] Figure 10 The measurement points P1 to Px shown are set at equal intervals on the horizontal axis corresponding to the output level of the light source control section 201.

[0120] The measurement point determination section 802a determines the brightness of the red light of the light source 11r in the number of times of measurement (for example, 10 times) that is set in advance at the output level of the light source control section 201, and averages the brightnesses determined in the number of times of measurement, thereby determining the measurement points P1 to Px, in both the low brightness mode and the high brightness mode. The reliability is required to be higher for the master data. Therefore, the number of times of averaging the brightness when generating the master data is set to be more than the number of times of averaging the brightness when generating the illumination control data Dm of the product projector apparatus 18k described later.

[0121] The output characteristic acquisition section 802b acquires the R output characteristic related to the light source 11r shown by the broken line Lr by interpolating, for example, linearly between the plurality of measurement points P1 to Px determined. Figure 10

[0122] The master data generation section 802 acquires the G output characteristic related to the light source 11g shown by the broken line Lg and the B output characteristic related to the light source 11b shown by the broken line Lb, as with the R output characteristic. Figure 10 Figure 10 The master data generation section 802 causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in the open state during the period in which the light source to be measured, that is, the light source 11g is lit, and causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in the closed state during the period in which the light sources 11r, 11b other than the light source 11g are lit, when determining the measurement points of the G output characteristic. In addition, the master data generation section 802 causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in the open state during the period in which the light source to be measured, that is, the light source 11b is lit, and causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in the closed state during the period in which the light sources 11r, 11g other than the light source 11b are lit, when determining the measurement points of the B output characteristic.

[0123] In the above manner, the RGB output characteristics can be acquired. The master data generation section 802 acquires the RGB output characteristics for each control mode Q1 to Qn.

[0124] ​​For example, in a case where the gain exceeds the set value due to the gain shift, when correction taking the gain shift information into consideration is not performed, the current value of the light intensity detection signal SFB with respect to the light intensity of the light irradiated to the light intensity detection section 500 becomes high, and therefore the luminance of the display light L adjusted based on the light intensity detection signal SFB also becomes high. In this way, in order to suppress the luminance of the display light L from increasing as the gain exceeds the set value, correction taking the gain shift information into consideration is performed. For example, in a case where the gain shift information includes information indicating that the gain exceeds the set value due to the gain shift, the main data generation section 802 performs correction to shift the measurement points P1 to Px, and further the broken lines Lr, Lg, Lb, to the lower side, that is, the luminance decreasing direction, taking the acquired gain shift information into consideration. Also, similarly, for example, in a case where the gain shift information includes information indicating that the gain is below the set value due to the gain shift, the main data generation section 802 performs correction to shift the measurement points P1 to Px, and further the broken lines Lr, Lg, Lb, to the upper side, that is, the luminance increasing direction, taking the acquired gain shift information into consideration. The correction amount at this time becomes a value corresponding to the shift amount of the gain and the set value included in the gain shift information.

[0125] In the measurement point determination step S14a, the measurement point determination section 802a, when detecting the luminance of the light from the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b by the illuminance meter 803, causes the variable ND filter device 804 to overlap any one of the filters F0 to F4 with the irradiation range 804b as shown in Table 1 below, and thereby sets any one of the filters F0 to F4 as the selection filter Fs.

[0126] Table 1

[0127]

[0128] As shown in Table 1 above, the variable ND filter device 804, under the control of the main data generation section 802, acquires the RGB output characteristics in the order from high to low of the central value of the luminance range Bl from the control mode Q1 to the control mode Qn. At this time, the variable ND filter device 804 switches the selection filter Fs in the order of the filter F0→the filter F1→the filter F2→the filter F3→the filter F4, in other words, in the order from high to low of the light attenuation rate.

[0129] In Table 1 above, a, b, c, d of the control modes Qa, Qb, Qc, Qd are arbitrary numbers, and are set to the size relation of 2

[0130] In detail, as shown in Table 1 above, the variable ND filter device 804, when acquiring the R output characteristic, the G output characteristic, and the B output characteristic of the control mode Q1, sets the filter F0 as the selection filter Fs.

[0131] The variable ND filter device 804 switches the selection filter Fs from the filter F0 to the filter Fl after acquiring the B output characteristic of the control mode Ql, before starting the acquisition of the R output characteristic of the control mode Q2. At this time, as shown in FIG. 8B, the variable ND filter device 804 rotates the rotation plate 804a by the switching angle a in the rotation direction Cw via the rotation drive section 804c. This switching angle a is set to an angle obtained by dividing 360° by the number of filters. Figure 20

[0132] Furthermore, as shown in Table 1 above, from the control mode Q2 to the control mode Qa, the variable ND filter device 804 maintains the selection filter Fs as the filter Fl. Next, the variable ND filter device 804 switches the selection filter Fs from the filter Fl to the filter F2 after acquiring the B output characteristic of the control mode Qa, before acquiring the R output characteristic of the control mode Qb. At this time, as shown in FIG. 8C, the variable ND filter device 804 rotates the rotation plate 804a by the switching angle a in the rotation direction Cw via the rotation drive section 804c. Figure 20

[0133] Furthermore, as shown in Table 1 above, from the control mode Qb to the control mode Qc, the variable ND filter device 804 maintains the selection filter Fs as the filter F2. Next, the variable ND filter device 804 switches the selection filter Fs from the filter F2 to the filter F3 after acquiring the B output characteristic of the control mode Qc, before acquiring the R output characteristic of the control mode Qd. At this time, as shown in FIG. 8D, the variable ND filter device 804 rotates the rotation plate 804a by the switching angle a in the rotation direction Cw via the rotation drive section 804c. Figure 20

[0134] Furthermore, as shown in Table 1 above, from the control mode Qd to the control mode Qn-1, the variable ND filter device 804 maintains the selection filter Fs as the filter F3. Next, the variable ND filter device 804 switches the selection filter Fs from the filter F3 to the filter F4 after acquiring the B output characteristic of the control mode Qn-1, before acquiring the R output characteristic of the control mode Qn. At this time, the variable ND filter device 804 rotates the rotation plate 804a by the switching angle a in the rotation direction Cw via the rotation drive section 804c.

[0135] ​​​The above method allows for obtaining RGB output characteristics under control modes Q1 to Qn. When obtaining RGB output characteristics under control modes Q1 to Qn, the selected filter Fs is not switched to reduce the light attenuation rate. For example, to switch the selected filter Fs from filter F2 to filter F1 to reduce the light attenuation rate, the rotating plate 804a must be rotated in the rotation direction Cw by an angle greater than the switching angle α, for example, 288°. In this case, switching the selected filter Fs takes time. On the other hand, in this embodiment, switching the selected filter Fs only requires rotating the rotating plate 804a by the switching angle α, thus minimizing the time required to switch the selected filter Fs.

[0136] In this example, the variable ND filter device 804 sets a common selection filter Fs for each of the control modes Q1 to Qn, but this is not limiting. For example, the variable ND filter device 804 may switch the selection filter Fs from filter F1 to filter F2 after obtaining the R output characteristics of the control mode Qa and before obtaining the G output characteristics of the control mode Qa.

[0137] The master data generation unit 802 determines whether master data M1 has been generated at each temperature (step S15). For example, the temperatures are -40°C, -30°C, -10°C, 10°C, 25°C, 40°C, 50°C, 60°C, and 70°C. If the master data generation unit 802 determines that master data M1 has not been generated at each temperature (step S15: No), the process returns to step S11, and the room temperature adjustment unit 806 sets the target temperature to the temperature at which master data M1 has not been generated. In other words, by repeating the processes of steps S11 to S15, master data M1 is generated at each temperature.

[0138] When the master data generating unit 802 determines that the master data M1 is generated at each temperature (step S15; yes), the master data M1 generated at each temperature is stored in the storage unit 807 (step S16). Figure 16 The sub-flowchart ends. The main data M1 includes the above Figure 13 The same contents as the lighting control data Dm shown in FIG. As with the main data M1, the main data M2 to M10 are also Figure 16 The sub-flowchart shown is generated.

[0139] (Product data generation processing)

[0140] Then, follow Figure 17 The product data generation process executed by the product data generation unit 205 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0141] First, the drive capability determination section 205a determines the drive capability of the light source driver 300 of the product projector device 18k (step S21). In this step S21, the drive capability determination section 205a calculates the drive capability value of the light source driver 300 of the product projector device 18k as described above, for example.

[0142] Thereafter, the main data selection section 205b selects the optimum main data Mx from among the main data Ml to MlO based on the determined drive capability (step S22). In this step S22, the main data selection section 205b selects the main data corresponding to the group to which the sample projector device belongs as the optimum main data Mx, the drive capability value of which is closest to the calculated drive capability value among the drive capability values of the sample projector devices 18a to 18j.

[0143] Thereafter, the product data generation section 205 stores the selected optimum main data Mx as the temporary lighting control data Dm in the storage section 203 (step S23). In steps S24 to S26, the product projector device 18k operates based on the temporary lighting control data Dm.

[0144] Next, the output characteristic acquisition section 205d acquires the gain offset information of the product projector device 18k by the product data acquisition device 810 (step S24), and acquires the RGB output characteristic at normal temperature in the product projector device 18k in consideration of the acquired gain offset information (step S25). The steps S24, S25 are the same processing as the steps S13, S14 described above, respectively. The processing of the step S25 is only to acquire the RGB output characteristic at normal temperature, and thus can be performed in a short time compared to the main data generation processing to acquire the RGB output characteristic at each temperature.

[0145] The step S25 includes the measurement point determination step S25a performed by the measurement point determination section 205c to determine the plurality of measurement points Pl to Pm, Pn by the luminance of the light emitted by the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b at each of the different plurality of output levels in the light source control section 201, and the output characteristic acquisition step S25b performed by the output characteristic acquisition section 205d to acquire the RGB output characteristic by interpolating between the determined plurality of measurement points Pl to Pm, Pn, as with the step of acquiring the RGB output characteristic of the main data described above.

[0146] Hereinafter, the step S25 of acquiring the RGB output characteristic of the product will be described with a focus on the difference from the step S14 of acquiring the RGB output characteristic of the main data. In addition, in the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those of the step S14 of acquiring the RGB output characteristic of the main data, and the description thereof will be omitted. Figure 11 and Figure 12The scales of the vertical axes indicating the luminance in the graphs are different, and the reference value Sp set on the vertical axes is set to the same value. The reference value Sp is, for example, 2000 Nit.

[0147] In the high luminance mode in which the required luminance exceeds the threshold value, as shown in FIG. 6, the measurement point determination section 205c determines the measurement points Pl to Pn of the first determination point number n. In the high luminance mode, in the output characteristic acquisition step S25b, the RGB output characteristics are acquired by performing linear interpolation between the determined measurement points Pl to Pn. Figure 11

[0148] In the low luminance mode in which the required luminance is below the threshold value, as shown in FIG. 7, the measurement point determination section 205c determines the measurement points Pl to Pm of the second determination point number m. In the low luminance mode, in the output characteristic acquisition step S25b, the RGB output characteristics are acquired by performing linear interpolation between the determined measurement points Pl to Pm. Figure 12

[0149] In addition, in the low luminance mode, the output characteristic acquisition section 205d is not limited to performing linear interpolation between the determined measurement points Pl to Pm, but can perform curve interpolation. The curve interpolation is, for example, Lagrange interpolation, spline interpolation, or least square method, or the like. In the high luminance mode, the relationship between the luminance and the output level of the light source control section 201 changes linearly, and in the low luminance mode, the relationship between the luminance and the output level of the light source control section 201 tends to change in a curve. When this tendency is taken into consideration, in the low luminance mode, it is preferable to perform curve interpolation between the measurement points Pl to Pm.

[0150] The first determination point number n and the second determination point number m are each a natural number, and have a size relationship in which the second determination point number m is larger than the first determination point number n, that is, m > n. In this way, by setting the second determination point number m of the low luminance mode to be larger than the first determination point number n of the high luminance mode, it is possible to improve the reliability of the RGB output characteristics of the low luminance mode which requires higher accuracy than the high luminance mode. In the present example, the first determination point number n is 10, and the second determination point number m is 15.

[0151] The measurement points Pl to Pn and the measurement points Pl to Pm are set at equal intervals on the horizontal axis corresponding to the output level of the light source control section 201.

[0152] ​​Also, as with the measurement point determination section 802a, the measurement point determination section 205c causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in the open state during the period in which the light source to be measured among the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b is lit, and causes each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 to be in the closed state during the period in which the light source other than the light source to be measured among the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b is lit. For example, when the RGB output characteristics in the control mode Ql are acquired, the light source other than the light source to be measured is lit at the luminance of the central value of the luminance range Bl in the control mode Ql.

[0153] In the low luminance mode, the measurement point determination section 205c measures the luminance of the light of the light source to be measured at the output level set by the light source control section 201, at the second measurement number N2, and averages the luminance measured for the measurement number, thereby determining the measurement points Pl to Pm. In the high luminance mode, the measurement point determination section 205c measures the luminance of the light of the light source to be measured at the output level set by the light source control section 201, at the first measurement number Nl, and averages the luminance measured for the measurement number, thereby determining the measurement points Pl to Pn. The measurement points Pl to Pm are required to be measured with higher accuracy in the low luminance mode. Therefore, the second measurement number N2 is set to a number larger than the first measurement number Nl. As an example, the second measurement number N2 is set to five, and the first measurement number Nl is set to three.

[0154] Further, the product data generation section 205 acquires the comparison data Mc based on the acquired RGB output characteristics, as shown in Figure 13 The comparison data Mc is data compared with the optimum master data Mx, and the luminance range Bl in each control mode Ql to Qn is different from the optimum master data Mx.

[0155] Next, the data correction section 205e corrects the optimum master data Mx based on the difference between the comparison data Mc and the optimum master data Mx at normal temperature (for example, 25°C), thereby generating the lighting control data Dm (step S27).

[0156] In this step S27, as Figure 14As shown, the product data generation unit 205 obtains the difference values ​​Df1 and Df2 between the brightness range Bl1 of the optimal master data Mx at room temperature under control mode Q1 and the brightness range Bl2 of the comparison data Mc. Difference value Df1 is the difference between the maximum values ​​of the brightness ranges Bl1 and Bl2. Difference value Df2 is the difference between the minimum values ​​of the brightness ranges Bl1 and Bl2. Furthermore, the product data generation unit 205 uses the difference values ​​Df1 and Df2 as correction values ​​to adjust the brightness range Bl under control mode Q1 for the optimal master data Mx at each temperature. For example, the product data generation unit 205 increases the upper limit of the brightness range Bl1 of the optimal master data Mx by the difference value Df1 and increases the lower limit of the brightness range Bl1 of the optimal master data Mx by the difference value Df2. The brightness range Bl is similarly corrected under control modes Q2 through Qn. That is, the correction value based on the comparison between the optimal master data Mx and the comparison data Mc at room temperature is also used to correct the optimal master data Mx at temperatures other than room temperature. Therefore, the correction of the optimal master data Mx can be simplified.

[0157] The product data generation unit 205 writes the corrected optimal master data Mx as the lighting control data Dm into the storage unit 203 (step S28), completing the product data generation process. This allows the shipped product projector device 18k to utilize the lighting control data Dm appropriate for the shipped product projector device 18k, thereby enabling the brightness and chromaticity of the display light L to approach target values.

[0158] Next, the operation of the projector device 18, which is a shipped product projector device 18k in which the lighting control data Dm is written as described above, will be described.

[0159] like Figure 13 As shown, the second control unit 200 of the projector device 18 switches the mode between control modes Q1 to Qn according to the required brightness. The end of the brightness range Bl under the control modes Q1 to Qn is set as the non-use range J. The second control unit 200 switches the mode between control modes Q1 to Qn before the required brightness reaches the non-use range J. The non-use range J is a range in the brightness range Bl under the control modes Q1 to Qn that is not used by the projector device 18. Compared with the central part other than the end of the brightness range Bl, the accuracy of achieving the desired color, such as white illumination light C or display light L, is lower at the end of the brightness range Bl. Therefore, by setting the end of the brightness range Bl under the control modes Q1 to Qn as the non-use range J, the accuracy of achieving the desired color, such as white illumination light C or display light L is improved.

[0160] Next, the method for setting the non-use range J will be described. The non-use range J may be automatically set by a program executed by the second control unit 200 or may be set by a person operating a computer or the like.Figure 21 , the unused range J1 at the lower end of the brightness range B1A under the control mode Q1 and the unused range J2 at the lower end of the brightness range B1B under the control mode Q2 are described, but the unused ranges J under other control modes Q3 to Qn are also set in the same way.

[0161] like Figure 21 As shown, an overlapping region E1 is determined where the brightness range B1A under control mode Q1 overlaps with the brightness range B1B under control mode Q2. Furthermore, a mode switching value E2 is set at a non-end portion of the overlapping region E1. For example, the mode switching value E2 is set to the center of the overlapping region E1. The non-use range J1 is set to a range within the brightness range B1A under control mode Q1 that is below the mode switching value E2. The non-use range J2 is set to a range within the brightness range B1B under control mode Q2 that is above the mode switching value E2.

[0162] When the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b are controlled in control mode Q1, if the required brightness decreases and reaches the mode switching value E2, the second control unit 200 switches from control mode Q1 to control mode Q2. Furthermore, when the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b are controlled in control mode Q2, if the required brightness increases and reaches the mode switching value E2, the second control unit 200 switches from control mode Q2 to control mode Q1.

[0163] The second control unit 200 turns on each micromirror 30a of the DMD display element 30 during the display period Ton and turns off during the non-display period Tof. The second control unit 200 can adjust the brightness of the display light L according to the DMD duty cycle of the DMD display element 30. The DMD duty cycle is calculated as the ratio of the total time of the display period Ton to one cycle.

[0164] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the high brightness mode, i.e., control modes Q1 to Qx, the display period Ton is set to the first half of one cycle, and the non-display period Tof is set to the second half of one cycle. In the low brightness mode, i.e., control modes Qy to Qn, the non-display period Tof is set to the first and last half of one cycle, and the display period Ton is set to the display period Ton sandwiched between the first and last half.

[0165] like Figure 22As shown, the second control section 200 sets the DMD duty ratio to 85% in the control mode Ql, sets the DMD duty ratio to 75% in the control mode Q2, and sets the DMD duty ratio to 50% in the control modes Q3 to Qn. In this way, the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q2 is set to a value between the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Ql and the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q3, and is set to a central value between the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Ql and the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q3, for example. Thus, when the mode is switched between the control modes Ql, Q2, and Q3, the DMD duty ratio can be suppressed from changing sharply, and thus, when the mode is switched between the control modes Ql to Qn, the luminance of the display light L can be suppressed from changing sharply, and flicker of the virtual image V can be suppressed.

[0166] As shown in the timing t2 of FIG. 6, when the mode is switched from the control mode Qy belonging to the low-luminance mode to the control mode Qx belonging to the high-luminance mode, the display period Ton is set to the first half of one period in the control mode Qx. Thus, the luminance of the display light L can be suppressed from decreasing instantaneously when the control mode is switched from the control mode Qy to the control mode Qx. Figure 23 Further, as shown in the timing t2 of FIG. 6, when the mode is switched from the control mode Qy belonging to the low-luminance mode to the control mode Qx belonging to the high-luminance mode, the display period Ton is set to the first half of one period in the control mode Qx. Thus, the luminance of the display light L can be suppressed from decreasing instantaneously when the control mode is switched from the control mode Qy to the control mode Qx.

[0167] Figure 23 Further, as shown in the timing t2 of FIG. 6, when the mode is switched from the control mode Qy belonging to the low-luminance mode to the control mode Qx belonging to the high-luminance mode, the display period Ton is set to the first half of one period in the control mode Qx. Thus, the luminance of the display light L can be suppressed from decreasing instantaneously when the control mode is switched from the control mode Qy to the control mode Qx.

[0168] Further, as shown in the timing t2 of FIG. 6, when the mode is switched from the control mode Qy belonging to the low-luminance mode to the control mode Qx belonging to the high-luminance mode, the display period Ton is set to the first half of one period in the control mode Qx. Thus, the luminance of the display light L can be suppressed from decreasing instantaneously when the control mode is switched from the control mode Qy to the control mode Qx.

[0169] Further, in the display period Ton, the second control section 200 supplies the light sources 11r, 11g, and 11b with rectangular waves of the currents Ir, Ig, and Ib, respectively, having different widths (periods Ti). Figure 18 At this time, the second control section 200 can arrange the rectangular wave having a long width in each of the rectangular waves of the currents Ir, Ig, and Ib to the rear end portion of the display period Ton, regardless of whether the high-luminance mode or the low-luminance mode.

[0170] ​In addition, the first control section 100 can execute part of the control contents of the second control section 200, and vice versa. Further, the first control section 100 and the second control section 200 can be configured as one control section.

[0171] (EFFECTS)

[0172] According to the above-described embodiment, the following effects are obtained.

[0173] (1-1) A lighting control data generation method that generates lighting control data Dm for controlling a plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b in a HUD device 1, the lighting control data generation method including: a measurement point determination step S25a that determines a plurality of measurement points Pl to Pn, Pm by the luminance of light emitted by the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b at each of a plurality of output levels set to mutually different values in a light source control section 201 that controls the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b with reference to temporary lighting control data Dm; and an output characteristic acquisition step S25b that acquires RGB output characteristics by interpolating between the determined plurality of measurement points Pl to Pn, Pm, thereby generating the lighting control data Dm. In the measurement point determination step S25a, the measurement points Pl to Pn of a first determined number n are determined in a high luminance mode in which the required luminance exceeds a threshold value, and the measurement points Pl to Pm of a second determined number m that is greater than the first determined number n are determined in a low luminance mode in which the required luminance is below the threshold value.

[0174] According to this configuration, the number of measurement points Pl to Pn in the high luminance mode is set to be less than the number of measurement points Pl to Pm in the low luminance mode. Thus, the process of determining the measurement points Pl to Pn, Pm in the measurement point determination step S25a can be completed in a short time. Therefore, the time required to generate the lighting control data Dm can be shortened.

[0175] In the high luminance mode, the relationship between the output level of the light source control section 201 and the luminance changes linearly, and thus even if the number of measurement points Pl to Pn in the high luminance mode is reduced, the impact on the broken lines Lr, Lg, Lb representing the RGB output characteristics is small, and the reliability of the lighting control data Dm can be ensured. On the other hand, in the low luminance mode, the relationship between the output level of the light source control section 201 and the luminance changes nonlinearly, and thus from the viewpoint of ensuring the reliability of the lighting control data Dm, it is preferable that the number of measurement points Pl to Pm in the low luminance mode be large.

[0176] (1-2) In the output characteristic acquisition step S25b, in the high luminance mode where the required luminance exceeds the threshold value, linear interpolation is performed between the measurement points Pl to Pn of the first determined number n, and in the low luminance mode where the required luminance is below the threshold value, curved interpolation is performed between the measurement points Pl to Pm of the second determined number m.

[0177] According to this structure, in the high luminance mode, the relationship between the output level of the light source control section 201 and the luminance changes linearly, and therefore, by performing linear interpolation between the measurement points Pl to Pn, the reliability of the illumination control data Dm is improved.

[0178] On the other hand, in the low luminance mode, the relationship between the output level of the light source control section 201 and the luminance changes curvilinearly, and therefore, by performing curved interpolation between the measurement points Pl to Pm, the reliability of the illumination control data Dm is improved.

[0179] (1-3) In the measurement point determination step S25a, in the high luminance mode where the required luminance exceeds the threshold value, the luminance of the light emitted from any one of the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b is measured at the set output level of the light source control section 201 for the first measurement number Nl, and the luminance measured for the first measurement number Nl is averaged to determine the measurement points Pl to Pn, and in the low luminance mode where the required luminance is below the threshold value, the luminance of the light emitted from any one of the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b is measured at the set output level of the light source control section 201 for the second measurement number N2 which is larger than the first measurement number Nl, and the luminance measured for the second measurement number N2 is averaged to determine the measurement points Pl to Pm.

[0180] In the low luminance mode, the influence of a slight change in luminance on the visual recognition of the virtual image V is greater than in the high luminance mode. Therefore, by making the measurement number in the low luminance mode larger than in the high luminance mode, the accuracy of the measurement points Pl to Pn in the low luminance mode can be improved, and the visual recognition of the virtual image V can be improved.

[0181] (1-4) The illumination control data Dm includes a plurality of control patterns Q1 to Qn corresponding to a required brightness. In the output characteristic acquisition step S25b, the RGB output characteristics are acquired for each of the plurality of control patterns Q1 to Qn. In the measurement point determination step S25a, the brightness of the illumination light C or the display light L based on the light emitted from any of the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b is made to be in a range measurable by the illuminometer 803 by attenuating the light with any of the plurality of light filters F0 to F4 having different light attenuation rates as the selection filter Fs, and the plurality of light filters F0 to F4 are switched in order of the light filters F0 → the light filter F1 → the light filter F2 → the light filter F3 → the light filter F4 in order of the light attenuation rates from high to low, when the RGB output characteristics are acquired sequentially from the control patterns Q1 to Qn having higher required brightness.

[0182] According to this structure, when the RGB output characteristics are acquired, the order of switching the light filters F0 to F4 to the selection filter Fs can be simplified. Therefore, the time required for switching the selection filter Fs can be shortened, and the brightness can be measured rapidly by the illuminometer 803. Therefore, the time required for generating the illumination control data Dm can be shortened.

[0183] (1-5) In the measurement point determination step S25a, when the measurement points P1 to Pn, Pm related to the brightness of the to-be-determined light (for example, red light) emitted from the to-be-determined light source (for example, the light source 11r) among the plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b are determined, the plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b are sequentially lit, and the to-be-determined light from the to-be-determined light source is reflected toward the transmissive screen 50 by the DMD display element 30, and the light (for example, green light and blue light) from the light sources other than the to-be-determined light source among the plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b (for example, the light sources 11g, 11b) is reflected toward a direction different from the transmissive screen 50.

[0184] According to this structure, by causing the light sources other than the to-be-determined light source to emit light, the brightness of the to-be-determined light can be measured in a state close to the actual use of the HUD device 1. Therefore, the measurement points P1 to Pn, Pm can be determined with higher accuracy.

[0185] For example, it is assumed that in order to determine the measurement points P1 to Pn, Pm, the chromaticity of the to-be-determined light (for example, red light) also changes due to the influence of the light of colors other than the to-be-determined light (for example, green light and blue light) when measuring the brightness of the to-be-determined light. According to the above structure, the measurement points P1 to Pn, Pm can also be determined taking into account the influence of the light of colors other than the to-be-determined light.

[0186] (1-6)The illumination control data generating device 800 generates illumination control data Dm for controlling the plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b in the HUD device 1. The illumination control data generating device 800 includes: a measurement point determination section 205c that determines a plurality of measurement points Pl to Pn, Pm by the brightness of light emitted by the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b at each of a plurality of output levels set to mutually different values in a light source control section 201 that controls the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b with reference to the illumination control data Dm; and an output characteristic acquisition section 205d that acquires RGB output characteristics by interpolating between the plurality of measurement points Pl to Pn, Pm determined, thereby generating the illumination control data Dm. The measurement point determination section 205c determines the measurement points Pl to Pn of a first determined point number n in a high brightness mode in which the required brightness exceeds a threshold value, and determines the measurement points Pl to Pm of a second determined point number m that is greater than the first determined point number n in a low brightness mode in which the required brightness is below the threshold value.

[0187] According to this structure, as described above, the time required to generate the illumination control data Dm can be shortened.

[0188] (2-1)The HUD device 1 includes: a plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b; a light source driver 300 that drives the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b; a second control section 200 that is an example of a control section that causes the plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b to emit light based on illumination control data Dm via the light source driver 300; and a DMD display element 30 that generates a display light L based on the illumination light C emitted by the plurality of light sources 11r, 11g, 11b. The illumination control data Dm includes an example of a first control mode, which is a control mode Ql, and an example of a second control mode, which is a control mode Q2, for generating the illumination light C with a brightness corresponding to a required brightness. The control modes Ql, Q2 have brightness ranges BlA, BlB that are different from each other in part. The second control section 200 switches the mode between the control modes Ql, Q2 when the required brightness reaches a mode switching value E2 at a non-end portion of an overlap region El where the brightness range BlA under the control mode Ql and the brightness range BlB under the control mode Q2 overlap.

[0189] The end portion of the brightness range Bl under each of the control modes Ql to Qn is a region in which the precision of the illumination light C of a desired color, such as white, is low. According to the above-described structure, by setting the mode switching value E2 at a non-end portion of the overlap region El, the end portions of the brightness ranges BlA, BlB under the control modes Ql, Q2 are set as a range J that is not used. Thus, the illumination light C of a desired color, such as white, can be achieved, and the brightness of the illumination light C can be changed according to the required brightness. Thus, the visual recognition of the virtual image V is improved.

[0190] (2-2) The mode switching value E2 is set to the center value of the overlapping region E1.

[0191] According to this structure, for example, the unused ranges J1, J2 in the two control modes Q1, Q2 can be set to the same length.

[0192] (2-3) The HUD device 1 is provided with a transmissive screen 50 that receives display light L from the DMD display element 30 to display an image M. The DMD display element 30 is provided with a plurality of micromirrors 30a provided in correspondence with pixels of the image M. Each micromirror 30a is switched between an open state in which light from the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b is reflected toward the transmissive screen 50 and a closed state in which light from the light sources 11r, 11g, 11b is reflected toward a direction different from the transmissive screen 50 under the control of the second control section 200. The center value of the brightness range BlA in the control mode Q1 is set to be larger than the center value of the brightness range BlB in the control mode Q2 and the center value of the brightness range Bl in the control mode Q3, which is an example of the third control mode. The center value of the brightness range BlB in the control mode Q2 is set to be smaller than the center value of the brightness range BlA in the control mode Q1 and to be larger than the center value of the brightness range Bl in the control mode Q3. The second control section 200 adjusts the brightness of the display light L by changing the proportion of the period in which the micromirror 30a is in the open state, that is, the DMD duty ratio. The DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q1 is set to be larger than the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q2 and the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q3. The DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q2 is set to be larger than the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q3 and to be smaller than the DMD duty ratio in the control mode Q1.

[0193] According to this structure, when the mode is switched between the control modes Q1, Q2, Q3, the DMD duty ratio can be suppressed from changing sharply. Thus, the brightness of the display light L can be suppressed from changing sharply due to a change in the required brightness. Thus, the visual recognition of the virtual image V is improved.

[0194] In addition, the present application is not limited to the above-described embodiments and drawings. It can be appropriately changed (including deletion of constituent elements) within a range not changing the gist of the present application. Hereinafter, an example of a modification will be described.

[0195] (Modified Example)

[0196] In the above-described embodiments, the correction value based on the comparison between the optimum master data Mx at normal temperature and the comparison data Mc is also applied to the correction of the optimum master data Mx other than normal temperature. However, it is not limited thereto, and correction values for each temperature can be acquired and applied to the master data Mx for each temperature.

[0197] In the above embodiment, the output characteristic acquisition section 205d acquires the RGB output characteristic at normal temperature in the shipped product projector device 18k, taking into account the acquired gain offset information, but can acquire the RGB output characteristic without taking into account the gain offset information.

[0198] In the above embodiment, the HUD device 1 is used for vehicles, but is not limited to use for vehicles, and can be mounted on aircraft, ships, and other vehicles. In addition, the display light L from the HUD device 1 is projected to the windshield 3, but can be projected to a dedicated combiner.

[0199] In the above embodiment, the second control section 200 switches to either the high brightness mode or the low brightness mode based on the required brightness signal SL indicating the light intensity of the external light, but is not limited to this, and can be such that the visual recognizer 4 operates an unillustrated operation section provided to the HUD device 1, the vehicle 2, and changes the required brightness to switch between the above modes.

[0200] The variable ND filter device 804, 814 in the above embodiment can be omitted.

[0201] In the above embodiment, the number of measurement points is set to be the same by the main data generation section 802 in both the low brightness mode and the high brightness mode, but is not limited to this, and can be such that the number of measurement points in the low brightness mode is set to be more than the number of measurement points in the high brightness mode, as with the product data generation section 205.

[0202] In the above embodiment, the mode switching value E2 is set to the center value of the overlapping region E1, but can be set to a value other than the center value of the overlapping region E1 as long as it is within the overlapping region E1.

[0203] In the above embodiment, the number of measurements in the low brightness mode (the second measurement number N2) is set to be more than the number of measurements in the high brightness mode (the first measurement number N1), but is not limited to this, and the number of measurements can be set to be the same between the low brightness mode and the high brightness mode. In addition, the number of measurements is not limited to be plural, and can be single. In the case where the number of measurements is single, the brightness is not averaged.

[0204] The number and arrangement of the five filters F0 to F4 of the variable ND filter device 804 in the above embodiment can be appropriately changed. In addition, the rotation direction Cw of the rotating plate 804a is not limited to the counterclockwise direction, and can be the clockwise direction.

[0205] The determination point determination section 205c, 802a in the above-described embodiments can turn off the light sources other than the light source to be determined during the period when the light sources other than the light source to be determined are lit, but can also turn off the light sources other than the light source to be determined.

[0206] In the above-described embodiments, the DMD duty ratio is changed in three stages between the control mode Q1, the control mode Q2, and the control modes Q3 to Qn, but is not limited thereto. The DMD duty ratio can be changed in four or more stages between the control modes Q1 to Qn, or can be changed in two stages. Further, the DMD duty ratio can be kept constant without being changed between the control modes Q1 to Qn.

[0207] In the above-described embodiments, two kinds of determination points, the first determination point number n in the high brightness mode and the second determination point number m in the low brightness mode, are set, but three or more determination points can be set. In this case, the determination point number can be set so as to increase as the required brightness decreases.

[0208] In the above-described embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the configuration of the proportion of the display period Ton and the non-display period Tof in one cycle is different between the control modes Q1 to Qx in the high brightness mode and the control modes Qy to Qn in the low brightness mode, but can be the same. Figure 23

[0209] Reference Signs

[0210] 1: HUD device

[0211] 2: Vehicle

[0212] 3: Windshield

[0213] 4: Visual recognizer

[0214] 5: Light source driving device

[0215] 7: Illuminance sensor

[0216] 10: Illumination device

[0217] 11: Light source group

[0218] 11b, 11g, 11r: Light source

[0219] 13: Light synthesizing section

[0220] 13a: Mirror

[0221] 13b, 13c: Dichroic mirror

[0222] 15: Prism ​

[0223] 15a: inclined surface;

[0224] 15b, 15c: right-angled surface;

[0225] 18: projector device;

[0226] 18a to 18j: sample projector device;

[0227] 18k: shipment product projector device;

[0228] 19: display unit;

[0229] 30: DMD display element;

[0230] 30a: micromirror;

[0231] 40: projection optical system;

[0232] 43: light source drive section;

[0233] 49: voltage detection section;

[0234] 50: transmission type screen;

[0235] 54, 55, 61: plane mirror;

[0236] 62: concave mirror;

[0237] 65: concave mirror drive section;

[0238] 70: housing;

[0239] 70a: opening portion;

[0240] 71: light transmission portion;

[0241] 100: first control section;

[0242] 200: second control section;

[0243] 201: light source control section;

[0244] 201a: gain setting section;

[0245] 202: display element control section;

[0246] 203, 807: storage section;

[0247] 205: product data generation section;

[0248] 205a: drive capability determination section;

[0249] 205b: main data selection section;

[0250] 205c: measurement point determination section;

[0251] 205d: output characteristic acquisition section;

[0252] 205e: data correction section;

[0253] 300: light source driver;

[0254] 500: light intensity detection section;

[0255] 600: light source temperature detection section;

[0256] 700: image signal input section;

[0257] 800: illumination control data generation device;

[0258] 801: sample product data acquisition device;

[0259] 802: main data generation section;

[0260] 802a: measurement point determination section;

[0261] 802b: output characteristic acquisition section;

[0262] 803: illuminometer;

[0263] 804: variable ND filter device;

[0264] F0 to F4: filters;

[0265] 804a: rotating plate;

[0266] 804b: irradiation range;

[0267] 804c: rotating drive section;

[0268] 805: thermostat glass;

[0269] 806: room temperature adjustment section;

[0270] 808: thermostat;

[0271] 809: inspection light emitting section;

[0272] 810: shipment product data acquisition device;

[0273] 813: illuminometer;

[0274] 814: variable ND filter device;

[0275] 818: chamber;

[0276] 819: inspection light emitting section;

[0277] R: red light;

[0278] B: blue light;

[0279] G: green light;

[0280] C: illumination light;

[0281] C1: capacitor;

[0282] G1 to G10: grades;

[0283] L: display light;

[0284] M: image;

[0285] L1: inductor;

[0286] M1 to M10: main data;

[0287] Mc: comparison data;

[0288] Mx: best main data;

[0289] P: pulse;

[0290] Q1 to Qn, Qa, Qb, Qc, Qd, Qx, Qy: control mode;

[0291] V: virtual image;

[0292] SE: image signal;

[0293] SL: required brightness signal;

[0294] SFB: light intensity detection signal;

[0295] Ib, Ig, Ir: current;

[0296] Df1, Df2: difference value;

[0297] ST: light source temperature signal;

[0298] Bl, Bl1, Bl2, BlA, BlB: brightness range;

[0299] Lb, Lg, Lr: broken line;

[0300] SV: voltage detection signal;

[0301] Dm: illumination control data;

[0302] Tr, Tg, Tb: lighting permission period;

[0303] Ax: rotation axis;

[0304] Ay: rotation axis;

[0305] P1 to Px, Pm, Pn: measurement points

[0306] Pk: peak value

[0307] Swa, Swb, Swc, Swg, Swr: switch section

[0308] Ton: display period

[0309] Tof: non-display period

[0310] J1, J2, J: unused range

[0311] E1: overlapping region

[0312] E2: mode switching value

Claims

1. A lighting control data generation method that generates lighting control data for controlling a plurality of light sources in a head-up display device, the lighting control data generation method comprising: a determination point determination step of determining a plurality of determination points by a determination point determination section by luminance of light emitted by the light sources at each of a plurality of output levels set to mutually different values in a light source control section that controls the light sources with reference to the lighting control data; and an output characteristic acquisition step of acquiring an output characteristic by an output characteristic acquisition section by interpolating between the plurality of determination points determined, in the determination point determination step, a first number of the determination points is determined when a required luminance exceeds a threshold value, and a second number of the determination points, which is greater than the first number, is determined when the required luminance is below the threshold value, the lighting control data generation method further comprising: a step of acquiring an output characteristic that represents a relationship between an output level of a light source control section and luminance of display light; and a step of generating the lighting control data in accordance with the output characteristic.

2. The lighting control data generation method according to claim 1, wherein, in the output characteristic acquisition step, linear interpolation is performed between the determination points of the first number when the required luminance exceeds the threshold value, and curved interpolation is performed between the determination points of the second number when the required luminance is below the threshold value.

3. The lighting control data generation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, in the determination point determination step, luminance of light emitted by the light sources is measured a first number of times at the set output level when the required luminance exceeds the threshold value, and the luminance measured the first number of times is averaged, thereby determining one of the determination points, and luminance of light emitted by the light sources is measured a second number of times, which is greater than the first number, at the set output level when the required luminance is below the threshold value, and the luminance measured the second number of times is averaged, thereby determining one of the determination points.

4. The lighting control data generation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, the lighting control data includes a plurality of control modes corresponding to the required luminance, the plurality of control modes respectively include the output characteristic, in the output characteristic acquisition step, the output characteristic is acquired for each of the plurality of control modes, in the determination point determination step, light emitted by the light sources is attenuated by using any one of a plurality of filters that differ in light attenuation rate as a selection filter so that luminance of the light emitted by the light sources becomes a range that is measurable by a luminance meter, and when the output characteristic is acquired from the control modes in order from the control mode of the higher required luminance, the plurality of filters are switched to the selection filter in order from high to low in light attenuation rate.

5. The lighting control data generation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, In the determination point determination step, when determining the determination points related to the brightness of the to-be-determined light emitted by the to-be-determined light source among the plurality of light sources, the plurality of light sources are sequentially lighted, and the to-be-determined light from the to-be-determined light source is reflected by a DMD display element toward a transmission-type screen, and the light from the light sources other than the to-be-determined light source among the plurality of light sources is reflected toward a direction different from the transmission-type screen.

6. An illumination control data generation apparatus that generates illumination control data for controlling a plurality of light sources in a head-up display device, the illumination control data generation apparatus comprising: a determination point determination section that determines a plurality of determination points by the brightness of light emitted by the light sources at each of a plurality of output levels set to mutually different values in a light source control section that controls the light sources with reference to the illumination control data; and an output characteristic acquisition section that acquires an output characteristic representing the relationship between the output level of the light source control section and the brightness of display light by interpolating between the determined plurality of determination points, the determination point determination section determines the determination points of a first determination point number when the required brightness exceeds a threshold value, and determines the determination points of a second determination point number greater than the first determination point number when the required brightness is below the threshold value, the illumination control data generation apparatus generates the illumination control data in accordance with the output characteristic.

Images