Image projection device

Abstract

The present application aims to provide an image projection device which ensures visibility of both sides of an image and is easy to assemble and adjust an optical axis. The image projection device of the present application is provided with an illumination substrate (25), a lens portion (23) which adjusts an optical axis of outgoing light from a light emitting element (25a), and an image display portion (22) which displays an image on a display surface and transmits the outgoing light, the display surface of the image display portion (22) having a central region (22a) and side regions (22b) on both sides, the lens portion (23) integrally formed with a first lens region (23b) corresponding to the central region (22a) and a second lens region (23c) corresponding to the side regions (22b), and the direction of irradiation of light which has passed through the second lens region (23c) is inclined to the outside of the side regions compared to the direction of irradiation of light which has passed through the first lens region (23b).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an image projection device, and particularly relates to an image projection device that displays an image to a driver or the like in a vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, development of a driving assistance technology in which a computer assumes a part or all of a driving operation of a vehicle such as steering, acceleration, and deceleration, or an automatic driving technology is progressing. In addition, a travel assistance technology in which even in manual driving in which a person performs a driving operation of a vehicle, a plurality of various sensors, communication devices are mounted on the vehicle to acquire information on a state of the vehicle and a surrounding situation, and safety and comfort during travel are improved is also being developed.

[0003] In such a driving assistance technology, an automatic driving technology, or a travel assistance technology, various information obtained by the vehicle, such as a state of the vehicle, a surrounding situation, and a driving operation situation of the computer, is presented to an occupant using an image or the like. Since the past, in order to present various information, an image display device is generally mounted in the vehicle, and characters, images are displayed on the image display device.

[0004] However, when information is presented using the image display device provided in the vehicle, the occupant or the driver needs to move the line of sight from the front of the travel direction to view the image display device, and thus it is not preferable. Therefore, in order to present image information while reducing movement of the line of sight from the front of the vehicle, a HUD (Head Up Display) device that projects an image to a windshield of the vehicle so that the reflected light is visually recognized (for example, refer to Patent Literature 1) has been proposed.

[0005] The HUD device of the related art described in Patent Literature 1 has a PGU (Picture Generation Unit), a flat mirror, and a concave mirror mounted in a housing. In the HUD device, an image is displayed in a liquid crystal or the like in the PGU, and after the image is irradiated with light irradiated from a light source portion and is reflected by the flat mirror and the magnifying mirror multiple times, the occupant visually recognizes the image by reflection of the windshield of the vehicle. In such a HUD device, the light path length is ensured by repeatedly reflecting the image irradiated from the PGU by the flat mirror and the magnifying mirror, and the size of the projected image can be increased.

[0006] Prior Art Documents

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-119262 SUMMARY

[0009] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] However, in the related-art HUD device, since the image irradiated from the PGU is reflected by the magnifying mirror, there is a problem that visibility of the entire image is lowered due to a difference in the traveling direction of light in the central region and both side regions of the image. In order to ensure the visibility of the entire image, it is effective to separately provide a display portion from the liquid crystal panel in the PGU, and separately configure a light source and a lens optical system portion, but there is a problem that the number of components increases and the efficiency of assembly work is lowered. Further, since the light source and the lens optical system portion are separately provided in the plurality of display portions, there is a problem that positioning and optical axis alignment of each portion become difficult.

[0011] Therefore, the present application has been achieved in view of the above-described problems of the related art, and has an object to provide an image projection device in which visibility of both side regions of an image is ensured, and assembly work and optical axis adjustment are easy.

[0012] Technical Solution for Solving the Problem

[0013] In order to solve the above-described problems, the image projection device of the present application is characterized by comprising: an illumination substrate on which a plurality of light emitting elements are mounted; a lens portion that adjusts an optical axis of emergent light from the light emitting elements; and an image display portion that displays an image on a display surface based on an image signal, the emergent light transmitting the display surface as transmitted light, the display surface having a central region in the center in the width direction and side regions on both sides of the central region, the lens portion being integrally formed with a first lens region and a second lens region, the first lens region being formed at a position corresponding to the central region, the second lens region being formed at a position corresponding to the side regions, an irradiation direction of light that has passed through the second lens region being inclined outward in the side direction compared to an irradiation direction of light that has passed through the first lens region.

[0014] In the image projection device of the present application, the lens portion is integrally formed with the first lens region and the second lens region, and the irradiation direction of light that has passed through the second lens region is inclined outward in the side direction compared to the irradiation direction of light that has passed through the first lens region, so that the incident angle of light reaching the magnifying mirror portion can be made different in the central region and the side regions, and assembly work and optical axis adjustment become easy while ensuring visibility of both side regions of the image.

[0015] Further, in one technical solution of the present application, in the image display portion, the central region is constituted by a transmissive liquid crystal panel, and the side regions are fixed display panels on which specific images are fixed.

[0016] In addition, in one aspect of the present application, a diffuser sheet covering a surface of the transmission-type liquid crystal panel is provided, and the fixed display panel is a display panel on which the specific image is fixed in a region extending the diffuser sheet.

[0017] In addition, in one aspect of the present application, a spacer portion having an opening portion formed at a position corresponding to the light emitting element is provided between the illuminating substrate and the lens portion, and a first light shielding wall extending toward the illuminating substrate is provided between the first lens region and the second lens region on a surface of the spacer portion opposite to the illuminating substrate.

[0018] In addition, in one aspect of the present application, a second light shielding wall extending toward the illuminating substrate is provided between the plurality of light emitting elements in the first lens region on a surface of the spacer portion opposite to the illuminating substrate.

[0019] In addition, in one aspect of the present application, a first rib having a front end abutting against the lens portion is formed on a surface of the spacer portion, and a second rib having a front end abutting against the illuminating substrate is formed on a back surface, and the first rib and the second rib are formed at the same position when viewed from above.

[0020] In addition, in one aspect of the present application, the second rib abuts against a region on the illuminating substrate avoiding a wiring pattern.

[0021] In addition, in one aspect of the present application, the lens portion has a flat plate portion formed integrally with the first lens region and the second lens region, a plurality of support columns are provided standing from the flat plate portion toward the image display portion, and front end surfaces of the support columns form the same inclined surface abutting against a back surface of the image display portion.

[0022] In addition, in one aspect of the present application, front ends of the support columns abut against boundaries between the central region and the side regions.

[0023] Effects of the Invention

[0024] The present application can provide an image projection device in which visibility of both sides of an image is ensured, and assembly work and optical axis adjustment are easy. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an outline of an image projection device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present application.

[0026] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an outline of a PGU 20 of the image projection device 100.

[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an assembled state of the PGU 20.

[0028] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of the image forming portion, showing a state in which the image display portion 22 is separated.

[0029] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a positional relationship and an optical axis of the image forming portion.

[0030] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of the image forming portion involved in the second embodiment, showing a state in which the image display portion 22 is supported by the support columns 23d, 23e.

[0031] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which the image display portion 22 is supported by the support columns 23d, 23e.

[0032] Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of the spacer portion 24 on the surface side opposite to the lens portion 23 involved in the third embodiment.

[0033] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of the spacer portion 24 on the back surface side opposite to the illumination substrate 25.

[0034] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view showing the image forming portion after the illumination substrate 25 is removed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] (First Embodiment)

[0036] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Identical or equivalent constituent elements, members, processes shown in each drawing are given the same reference numerals, and repeated description is appropriately omitted. Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an outline of an image projection apparatus 100 involved in the present embodiment. As shown in Figure 1 , the image projection apparatus 100 is provided with a frame 10, a PGU 20, a flat mirror portion 30, a magnifying mirror portion 40, a ceiling portion 50, and a light-transmissive cover 60.

[0037] The frame 10 is a member constituting an outer shape of the image projection apparatus 100, and is in a container shape with an upper surface open. On the back surface side of the frame 10 (the side opposite to the side on which the PGU 20 is mounted), a plurality of support columns 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e, 13f, 13g, 13h are provided. Figure 1The PGU 20 is installed outside the frame 10 in the right direction in FIG. 1. The flat mirror portion 30 and the magnifying mirror portion 40 are housed and held inside the frame 10. The top plate portion 50 is installed to the open upper portion of the frame 10, and covers the inside of the frame 10 with the top plate portion 50. The material constituting the frame 10 is not limited, and can be constituted by a metal or resin generally used in the interior of a vehicle.

[0038] The PGU 20 is a unit that irradiates light containing an image inside the frame 10 based on electric power and a control signal supplied from the outside. An opening portion not shown is formed in correspondence with the installation position of the PGU 20 of the frame 10, and the light irradiated by the PGU 20 is irradiated into the inside of the frame 10 from the opening portion. The configuration of the PGU 20 will be described later.

[0039] The flat mirror portion 30 is a flat plate-shaped member in which a mirror is formed on one face, and is held inside the frame 10 in the front direction (left direction in FIG. 1) of the frame 10. The installation position of the flat mirror portion 30 is on the optical path of the light irradiated by the PGU 20, and is disposed at a predetermined angle with respect to the optical axis of the light from the PGU 20. Therefore, the light irradiated by the PGU 20 is reflected after being incident on the flat mirror portion 30, and travels in the back direction of the frame 10. Figure 1 The magnifying mirror portion 40 is a member having a curved surface shape in which a mirror is formed on one face, and is held inside the frame 10 in the back direction of the frame 10. The installation position of the magnifying mirror portion 40 is on the optical path of the light reflected by the flat mirror portion 30, and is disposed at a predetermined angle with respect to the optical axis of the light from the flat mirror portion 30. Therefore, the light reflected by the flat mirror portion 30 is reflected again after being incident on the magnifying mirror portion 40, and travels in the direction of the light-transmissive cover 60. In

[0040] A concave mirror curved in the left-right direction is shown in FIG. 1 as the curved surface shape of the magnifying mirror portion 40, but can be any shape as long as it is suitable for optical design for projecting an image. Figure 1 The top plate portion 50 is a cover-shaped member disposed to cover the opening portion of the upper portion of the frame 10 which is open, and has an opening portion formed in a part thereof. The configuration, shape, and material of the top plate portion 50 are not limited, but preferably have airtightness to the extent that dust and the like do not intrude into the inside of the frame 10. In addition, the light-transmissive cover 60 is installed in the opening portion.

[0041]

[0042] ​The light-transmitting cover 60 is a plate-shaped component made of a material that transmits visible light, configured to block the opening formed in the top plate portion 50. The light-transmitting cover 60 is mounted in the light path reflected by the magnifying mirror portion 40, transmitting light from the magnifying mirror portion 40 and projecting it onto the outside of the image projection device 100. Furthermore, the light-transmitting cover 60 is located directly below the vehicle's windshield, and light transmitted through the light-transmitting cover 60 is incident on the windshield and reflected.

[0043] The image projection device 100 of this embodiment is disposed on the interior side of a vehicle, directly below the windshield (not shown), and projects an image onto the windshield. In the image projection device 100, the PGU20 illuminates light to project an image. Within the housing 10, the light of the image is reflected by the flat reflector 30 and the magnifying reflector 40. The light of the image reflected by the magnifying reflector 40 illuminates the windshield (not shown) of the vehicle via the light-transmitting cover 60 and is reflected, projecting the image towards the vehicle's occupants. The occupants visually recognize the image by the light incident on their viewpoint. In this embodiment, the structure is configured such that the flat reflector 30 reflects the light from the PGU20 and directs it to the magnifying reflector 40; however, it is also possible to configure the structure so that the light from the PGU20 directly reaches the magnifying reflector 40 without the flat reflector 30.

[0044] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the outline of the PGU20 of the image projection device 100. (Example) Figure 2 As shown, the PGU20 includes a front housing 21, an image display unit 22, a lens unit 23, a spacer unit 24, an illumination board 25, a control board 26, and a rear housing 27.

[0045] The front housing 21 is a component that forms part of the overall shape of the PGU20 and is positioned in the image illumination direction of the PGU20. An opening is partially provided in the front housing 21, which is formed at a position corresponding to the opening provided on the rear side of the frame 10. Light irradiated from the image forming unit (described later) enters the frame 10 through the opening formed in the front housing 21 and the opening in the frame 10.

[0046] The image display unit 22 forms an image based on power and image signals supplied from the control board 26. As the image display unit 22, a liquid crystal display element can be used, and the transmission and non-transmission of light irradiated from the back side can be controlled by controlling the orientation of liquid crystal molecules on a per-pixel basis. The image display unit 22 is positioned and fixed to the back side of the front housing 21, and light transmitted through the image display unit 22 irradiates forward through the opening in the front housing 21.

[0047] The lens section 23 is an optical component made of a light-transmitting material, and it is a component that adjusts the spread angle of the light irradiated by the illumination substrate 25. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown, the lens section 23 has multiple convex lenses formed on the flat plate component, and multiple support pillars are also formed. The lens section 23 is disposed on the back side of the image display section 22, and the multiple support pillars abut against the back side of the image display section 22 to ensure the distance between the convex lenses and the image display section 22.

[0048] The spacer 24 is disposed between the lens portion 23 and the illumination substrate 25, and is a component used to determine the relative position of the two and ensure the spacing. Figure 1 In the example shown, the spacer 24 has a generally plate-like shape and has a plurality of openings formed at positions corresponding to the convex lens of the lens section 23. The material constituting the spacer 24 is not limited, but in order to limit the area where light irradiated from the illumination substrate 25 enters the lens section 23 to the openings, a light-shielding resin material is preferably used.

[0049] The lighting substrate 25 is a component with multiple LEDs mounted on a substrate on which wiring has been formed. Based on power and control signals supplied from the control substrate 26, the LEDs are lit to illuminate the light forward. Figure 1 In the example shown, the arrangement of the LEDs mounted on the lighting substrate 25 corresponds to the convex lens of the lens section 23 and the opening of the spacer section 24.

[0050] The image forming unit of the present invention comprises an image display unit 22, a lens unit 23, a spacer unit 24, and an illumination substrate 25. In the image forming unit, the LEDs of the illumination substrate 25 emit light based on power and control signals from the control substrate 26, and the light from the LEDs enters the convex lens of the lens unit 23 through the opening of the spacer unit 24. Furthermore, the image display unit 22 displays an image based on power and image signals from the control substrate 26. The light incident on the lens unit 23 is transmitted through the image display unit 22 after the expansion angle is adjusted, and the displayed image is projected forward from the opening of the front housing 21.

[0051] The control board 26 is a component on a substrate on which wiring patterns are formed and multiple electronic components are mounted to form a control circuit (control unit). The control board 26 is supplied with power and signals from outside the image projection device 100. The control circuit configured on the board performs predetermined information processing, transmits power and image signals and control signals to the image display unit 22, which is an image forming unit, and the illumination board 25, and drives and controls the image forming unit.

[0052] The rear housing 27 is a component that forms part of the overall shape of the PGU 20 and is disposed on the rear side (rearward side) of the control board 26. The rear housing 27 fits into the front housing 21 to form a container, and the front housing 21 and the rear housing 27 correspond to the PGU housing in this invention. The image forming unit and the control board 26 described above are housed inside the PGU housing, which includes the front housing 21 and the rear housing 27.

[0053] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of PGU20. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, an opening 21a is formed on the front surface of the front housing 21, and the image display unit 22 is disposed adjacent to it at a position corresponding to the opening 21a. A lens unit 23 is disposed on the rearward side of the image display unit 22, and a support post protruding forward from the flat plate member of the lens unit 23 abuts against the back surface of the image display unit 22. As shown, the height of the support post varies vertically, and its front end face is also inclined relative to the flat plate member. Therefore, the flat plate member is disposed at an inclination relative to the back surface of the image display unit 22. A spacer 24 is disposed on the rearward side of the lens unit 23, and the lens unit 23 and the illumination substrate 25 abut against the surface and back surface of the spacer 24, thereby ensuring the spacing between the lens unit 23 and the illumination substrate 25. A positioning pin 21b is formed protruding rearward from the front housing 21, and the front end of the positioning pin 21b abuts against the front surface of the control substrate 26, determining the position of the control substrate 26 within the PGU housing.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of the image forming unit, illustrating the state where the image display unit 22 is separated. For example... Figure 4 As shown, a spacer 24 is disposed on the surface of the illumination substrate 25, and a lens portion 23 is disposed on the surface side of the spacer 24. The spacing between the illumination substrate 25 and the lens portion 23 is ensured by the spacer 24. An image display portion 22 is disposed on the light emitting surface side of the lens portion 23.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, the display surface of the image display unit 22 is divided into a central region 22a and a side region 22b. The central region 22a and the side region 22b together form a generally rectangular flat plate. In addition, the lens unit 23 includes a flat plate portion 23a, a first lens region 23b, a second lens region 23c, support pillars 23d and 23e, and a through hole 23f.

[0056] The central region 22a is located in the horizontal width direction of the image display unit 22. Figure 3 The central area (in the direction perpendicular to the paper) is the area displaying the main content of the image projected by the image projection device 100. The central area 22a is configured to allow the displayed content to change over time; for example, a transmissive liquid crystal panel is preferably used.

[0057] The side area 22b is located on both sides of the central area 22a, and is an area in which auxiliary information in the image projected by the image projection device 100 is displayed. The display content in the side area 22b can also be changed in a chronological manner, but a predetermined fixed image 22c can also be continuously displayed.

[0058] The fixed image 22c is an image fixed in the display area of the side area 22b, and an icon shape for attracting attention or the like can be used, for example. In the case where the fixed image 22c is displayed in the side area 22b, the image display element does not need to be used as the side area 22b, and a configuration in which a light-transmitting plate-like member forms a light-shielding film and an image pattern can also be used. In particular, in the case where a transmissive liquid crystal panel is used as the central area 22a, a configuration in which a diffusing sheet that diffuses light is attached to the surface of the transmissive liquid crystal panel, and the diffusing sheet is extended to the side area 22b can also be used. By forming a light-shielding film obtained by cutting out an image pattern in the side area 22b of the diffusing sheet, the central area 22a and the side area 22b can be made to be the same plane as a whole.

[0059] The flat plate portion 23a is a substantially flat plate-shaped portion formed integrally with the first lens area 23b, the second lens area 23c, and the support columns 23d and 23e. On the surface side (the upper side in FIG. 6) of the flat plate portion 23a, the first lens area 23b is formed in the center in the lateral width direction, and the second lens area 23c is formed on both sides of the first lens area 23b. In addition, on the surface side of the flat plate portion 23a, a plurality of support columns 23d and 23e are provided standing up near the boundaries of the first lens area 23b and the second lens area 23c. Figure 4

[0060] The first lens area 23b is a plurality of lens shapes formed in positions corresponding to the central area 22a of the image display portion 22. The lens shapes of the first lens area 23b are formed in positions corresponding to the plurality of light emitting elements described later, and refract light from each corresponding light emitting element to adjust the optical axis. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the front end portions of the cannonball-type lenses are arranged in two rows and four columns to form the first lens area 23b, but the lens shapes and the number are not limited. Light emitted from the light emitting elements is refracted by the first lens area 23b and is incident on the central area 22a as the first optical axis in the direction perpendicular to the illumination substrate 25. Figure 4

[0061] The second lens area 23c is a plurality of lens shapes formed in positions corresponding to the side area 22b of the image display portion 22. The lens shapes of the second lens area 23c are formed in positions corresponding to the plurality of light emitting elements, and refract light from each corresponding light emitting element to adjust the optical axis. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the front end portions of the cannonball-type lenses are arranged in two rows and four columns to form the second lens area 23c, but the lens shapes and the number are not limited. Figure 4 ​​Examples of each of the front end portions each of which is formed with one cannonball-shaped lens are shown, but the lens shape and the number are not limited. Light emitted from the light emitting element is transmitted through the second lens region 23c and is refracted, and a direction in which the direction is tilted to the lateral outer side from the first optical axis of the first lens region 23b is set as the second optical axis to be incident to the lateral region 22b.

[0062] The support columns 23d, 23e are columnar portions provided upright from the surface of the flat plate portion 23a toward the image display portion 22, and the front end surfaces thereof abut against the back surface side of the image display portion 22. By the support columns 23d, 23e abutting against the back surface side of the image display portion 22, the distance of the display surface of the image display portion 22 from the flat plate portion 23a is secured to be constant, and the incident angle of light incident to the central region 22a with the first optical axis and the incident angle of light incident to the lateral region 22b with the second optical axis are determined. Details of the configuration of the support columns 23d, 23e and details of the support of the image display portion 22 will be described later.

[0063] The through hole 23f is a hole provided at a position of the flat plate portion 23a which is outside the second lens region 23c, and penetrates the surface to the back surface. The through hole 23f is preferably formed at a position corresponding to the through hole provided to the spacer portion 24 and the illumination substrate 25, and by inserting a positioning pin or a fastening link member into the through hole provided to the plurality of members, the plurality of members can be positioned and fixed together.

[0064] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship of the image forming portion and the optical axes. As shown in Figure 5 the spacer portion 24 has an opening portion 24a, a first light shielding wall 24b, and a second light shielding wall 24c. In addition, a plurality of light emitting elements 25a are mounted on the surface of the illumination substrate 25.

[0065] The opening portion 24a is an opening formed in the spacer portion 24 at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of light emitting elements 25a. Light emitted from the light emitting element 25a is incident to the lens portion 23 via the opening portion 24a at the corresponding position, and reaches the image display portion 22. At this time, the first optical axis as the traveling direction of light incident to the first lens region 23b corresponding to the central region 22a is set to be a vertical direction with respect to the surface of the illumination substrate 25. In addition, the second optical axis as the traveling direction of light incident to the second lens region 23c corresponding to the lateral region 22b is set to be a direction in which the direction is tilted by an angle θ to the outside in the lateral width direction from the direction vertical to the illumination substrate 25 (solid line in the drawing).

[0066] At this time, in the central region 22a, the lens shape center of the first lens region 23b, the center of the opening portion 24a, and the position of the light emitting element 25a overlap on the first optical axis in plan view. On the other hand, in the side region 22b, the lens shape of the second lens region 23b is set to a shape in which a pillbox lens is tilted in the direction of the second optical axis, and the center of the opening portion 24a and the position of the light emitting element 25a become on the second optical axis.

[0067] In addition, the shapes of the two second lens regions 23c provided on the left and right and the opening portion 24a are set to be asymmetric on the left and right. This is because the inclination of the surface of the windshield is different at the position where light that has passed through the opening portions 24a and the second lens regions 23c on the left and right is incident on the windshield. Thus, the second lens regions 23c on the left and right and the opening portion 24a are set to asymmetric shapes that are optically designed taking into account the reflection caused by the windshield.

[0068] The first light shielding wall 24b is a wall-shaped portion formed at the boundary position between the first lens region 23b and the second lens region 23c on the surface opposite the illumination substrate 25. By providing the first light shielding wall 24b, light irradiated toward the central region 22a and light irradiated toward the side region 22b are separated, and stray light can be prevented.

[0069] In particular, in a case where white light is irradiated in order to display an image displayed by the central region 22a in full color, and a specific color of light such as amber is irradiated toward the side region, the light emitting colors of the light emitting elements 25a mounted on the first lens region 23b and the second lens region 23c are different from each other. In such a case, by providing the first light shielding wall 24b in advance, light traveling in the inclined direction from the light emitting element 25a is shielded, and color mixing of the central region 22a and the side region 22b can be prevented, and the visibility of the projected image can be improved.

[0070] The second light shielding wall 24c is a wall-shaped portion formed between a plurality of light emitting elements 25a within the first lens region 23b on the surface opposite the illumination substrate 25. By providing the second light shielding wall 24c, light obliquely irradiated from adjacent light emitting elements 25a is shielded, and stray light in which light travels in a direction different from the first optical axis can be prevented.

[0071] The heights of the first light shielding wall 24b and the second light shielding wall 24c are set to a degree that does not reach the surface of the illumination substrate 25, and thus it is possible to prevent a case where contact with a wiring pattern formed on the surface of the illumination substrate 25 causes the wiring pattern to be damaged by mechanical damage. In addition, in order to effectively prevent stray light, the first light shielding wall 24b and the second light shielding wall 24c need to be formed to a height at which light obliquely emitted from the light emitting element 25a disposed directly below the opening portion 24a does not pass through an adjacent opening portion 24a.

[0072] As described above, in this embodiment, the central region 22a and the side regions 22b are formed on the display surface. Relative to the illumination substrate, the first optical axis of the first lens region 23b is vertical, and the second optical axis of the second lens region 23c is tilted outwards. Therefore, by simply aligning the positions of the components, the illumination directions of the image displayed in the central region 22a and the image displayed in the side regions 22b can be different, thereby improving the visibility of the image reflected by the magnifying mirror. Furthermore, by forming the first lens region 23b and the second lens region 23c as a single unit, and the central region 22a and the side regions 22b as a single unit, the number of components is reduced, making assembly and optical axis adjustment easier.

[0073] Furthermore, on the back side of the spacer 24, a first light-shielding wall 24b and a second light-shielding wall 24c are provided between adjacent openings 24a. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where light from the adjacent light-emitting element 25a travels in the opening 24a along the inclined direction and becomes stray light, thereby improving the visibility of the projected image.

[0074] (Second Implementation)

[0075] Next, use Figure 6 , Figure 7 The second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Descriptions that are repeated in the first embodiment will be omitted. Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of the image forming unit according to the second embodiment, showing the state in which the image display unit 22 is supported by support columns 23d and 23e. Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the image display unit 22 supported by support columns 23d and 23e. In the spacer 24, a second rib 24d is formed on the back side, and a first rib 24e is formed on the surface side. Detailed construction of the spacer 24 will be described later.

[0076] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the support pillars 23d and 23e formed on the lens portion 23 have different heights, and their respective front end faces form the same inclined surface to abut against the back of the image display portion 22. Furthermore, the front ends of the support pillars 23d and 23e abut against the boundaries of the central region 22a and the side region 22b of the image display portion 22, respectively. Thus, the image display portion 22 is configured to be inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the illumination substrate 25 and the flat plate portion 23a. The inclination angle of the front end faces of the support pillars 23d and 23e is not limited, but is preferably in the range of 10 to 15 degrees.

[0077] In this embodiment, such as Figure 3As shown, in a case where the image display portion 22 is arranged along the up-and-down direction in the drawing, the lens portion 23, the spacer portion 24, and the illumination substrate 25 are arranged obliquely. That is, light irradiated on the first optical axis which is the vertical direction with respect to the illumination substrate 25 is incident at an angle oblique with respect to the central region 22a. Light which has transmitted the image display portion 22 is reflected by the flat mirror portion 30 and the magnifying mirror portion 40 after exiting from the PGU 20, transmits the light-transmissive cover 60, and is reflected by the front windshield of the vehicle, and is visually recognized as a virtual image by the occupant. The front windshield is arranged obliquely with respect to the front-and-rear direction of the vehicle, and thus, by the light advancing at an oblique angle in the image display portion 22, the visibility of the image displayed by the image display portion 22 and projected as a virtual image can be improved.

[0078] As described above, in the present embodiment, the lens portion 23 is formed integrally with the support columns 23d, 23e, the front end surfaces thereof are made the same oblique surface, and the rear surface of the image display portion 22 is brought into abutment, the distance between the image display portion 22 and the lens portion 23 is ensured, and the oblique angle with respect to the flat portion 23a is kept constant. Thus, the number of components can be reduced, the assembly work and the optical axis adjustment can be facilitated, and the visibility of the projected image can be improved.

[0079] (Third Embodiment)

[0080] Next, the third embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 8-10 The third embodiment of the present application will be described. The description of the contents repeated in the first embodiment will be omitted. Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the spacer portion 24 on the surface side opposite to the lens portion 23 involved in the third embodiment. Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the spacer portion 24 on the back surface side opposite to the illumination substrate 25. Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view showing the image forming portion after the removal of the illumination substrate 25.

[0081] As shown in Figure 8 , Figure 9 , the opening portion 24a, the first light-blocking wall 24b, the second light-blocking wall 24c, the first rib 24e, the second rib 24d, and the through-hole 24f are provided in the flat spacer portion 24. As shown in Figure 10 , the opening portion 24a is formed at a position corresponding to the plurality of light emitting elements 25a mounted on the illumination substrate 25.

[0082] The second rib 24d is a protruding portion formed on the back surface side of the spacer portion 24. The first rib 24e is a protruding portion formed on the surface side of the spacer portion 24. The front ends of the second rib 24d and the first rib 24e are made flat surfaces. In Figure 8 , Figure 9In the illustrated example, the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are provided four in number at positions outside the first light-blocking wall 24b in the lateral width direction and are formed so as to overlap when viewed from above.

[0083] The height of the second ribs 24d is higher than that of the first light-blocking wall 24b and the second light-blocking wall 24c, and the front end surface abuts against the surface of the illumination substrate 25 when the image forming portion is assembled. The heights of the plurality of second ribs 24d are set to be the same, and the second ribs 24d abut against the surface of the illumination substrate 25, whereby the interval between the surface of the illumination substrate 25 and the spacer portion 24 is maintained constant. Further, the second ribs 24d are preferably formed so as to abut against the abutment region at positions where wiring patterns formed on the illumination substrate 25 are avoided. Thus, it is possible to prevent the second ribs 24d from coming into contact with the wiring patterns formed on the surface of the illumination substrate 25, which can cause the wiring patterns to be damaged by mechanical damage.

[0084] The heights of the plurality of first ribs 24e are set to be the same, and the first ribs 24e abut against the surface of the lens portion 23, whereby the interval between the surface of the spacer portion 24 and the lens portion 23 is maintained constant. Thus, by providing the spacer portion 24 between the illumination substrate 25 and the lens portion 23, it is possible to maintain the interval between the illumination substrate 25 and the lens portion 23 constant. Here, the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are formed at the same positions when viewed from above, and thus, even if an external force is applied between the lens portion 23 and the illumination substrate 25, it is possible to suppress deformation of the spacer portion 24.

[0085] Further, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are preferably formed at positions that are the same as the support columns 23d and 23e when viewed from above. In this way, from the illumination substrate 25 to the image display portion 22, the support columns 23d and 23e and the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are arranged in a straight line, and thus, even if an external force is applied to the image forming portion, it is possible to suppress deformation of the spacer portion 24 and the lens portion 23. Figure 6 Figure 7 Further, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are preferably formed at positions that are the same as the support columns 23d and 23e when viewed from above. In this way, from the illumination substrate 25 to the image display portion 22, the support columns 23d and 23e and the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are arranged in a straight line, and thus, even if an external force is applied to the image forming portion, it is possible to suppress deformation of the spacer portion 24 and the lens portion 23.

[0086] When the spacer portion 24 or the lens portion 23 is deformed by an external force, the interval and the position between the illumination substrate 25 and the lens portion 23 change, and the optical axis of the light emitting element 25a and the lens portion 23 deviates. Thus, by arranging the support columns 23d and 23e and the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e in a straight line, it is possible to suppress deformation of the spacer portion 24 and deviation of the optical axis.

[0087] Further, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are preferably formed at positions that are the same as the support columns 23d and 23e when viewed from above. In this way, from the illumination substrate 25 to the image display portion 22, the support columns 23d and 23e and the second ribs 24d and the first ribs 24e are arranged in a straight line, and thus, even if an external force is applied to the image forming portion, it is possible to suppress deformation of the spacer portion 24 and the lens portion 23. Figure 10 ​As shown, the front ends of the support columns 23d, 23e abut against the boundaries of the central region 22a and the lateral regions 22b of the image display portion 22. There is a bezel portion or the like of the transmissive liquid crystal panel at the boundaries of the central region 22a and the lateral regions 22b, and there is a region in which display of an image does not function. By making the front ends of the support columns 23d, 23e abut against the region in which display of an image does not function, even if the image display portion 22 is held by the support columns 23d, 23e, it is possible to reduce the influence on display and projection of an image.

[0088] In addition, since the support columns 23d, 23e are formed integrally as part of the lens portion 23, in the case where the lens portion 23 is formed of a light-transmissive material, it is preferable that a light-shielding film be formed on the side surface and the front end surface. Thereby, it is possible to suppress light that has passed through the opening portion 24a from being incident on the side surface of the support columns 23d, 23e as stray light, and it is possible to prevent deterioration of visibility of the projected image. In addition, it is also possible to use a light-shielding resin material for part of the support columns 23d, 23e and to use a light-transmissive resin material for the other part of the lens portion 23, and to form by two-color molding.

[0089] The through hole 24f is provided at both ends in the lateral width direction of the spacer portion 24, and is a hole that penetrates from the surface to the back surface. The through hole 24f is preferably formed at a position corresponding to the through hole 23f provided to the lens portion 23, and by inserting a positioning pin or a fastening link member into the through holes 23f, 24f provided to the plurality of members, it is possible to position and fix the plurality of members together.

[0090] As described above, in the present embodiment, the first rib 24e and the second rib 24d are formed at the same position in plan view, the front end of the second rib 24d abuts against the illumination substrate 25, and the first rib 24e abuts against the lens portion 23. In addition, the support columns 23d, 23e are also formed at the same position as the first rib 24e and the second rib 24d in plan view. Thereby, even in the case where an external force is applied to the image forming portion, it is possible to suppress deformation of the lens portion 23 and the spacer portion 24 and deviation of the optical axis.

[0091] (4th Embodiment)

[0092] Next, the 4th embodiment of the present application will be described. The description of the contents repeated in the 1st embodiment will be omitted. In the 1st embodiment, an example in which the lateral region 22b is constituted by a light-transmissive plate-like member and a fixed image is displayed is shown, but the lateral region 22b can be constituted by an image display element.

[0093] By constituting the lateral region 22b by an image display element such as a transmissive liquid crystal panel, it is possible to make the image displayed in the lateral region 22b also change chronologically, and it is possible to increase the information amount of the projected image.

[0094] In addition, the side region 22b can be configured by a separate image display element from the central region 22a, or can be configured by the same image display element as the central region 22a. As the same image display element, a transmissive liquid crystal panel having a long lateral width, or the like can be given. By configuring the side region 22b and the central region 22a by the same image display element, it is possible to reduce the number of components by sharing wiring, a power supply, a control device, and the like, and to achieve weight reduction and power saving.

[0095] The present application is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in the respective embodiments for different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present application.

[0096] This international application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-151138 filed on September 9, 2020, and the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-151138 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0097] The above description of specific embodiments of the present application is given for the purpose of illustration. Those embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive, and are not meant to limit the present application to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings, which are intended to be encompassed by the present application.

[0098] Label Explanation

[0099] 100 image projection device; 10 frame body; 20 PGU; 30 flat mirror portion; 40 magnifying mirror portion; 50 ceiling portion; 60 light-transmissive cover; 21 front housing; 21a opening portion; 21b positioning pin; 22 image display portion; 22a central region; 22b side region; 22c fixed image; 23 lens portion; 23a flat portion; 23b first lens region; 23c second lens region; 23d, 23e support column; 23f through hole; 24 spacing portion; 24a opening portion; 24b first light-blocking wall; 24c second light-blocking wall; 24d second rib; 24e first rib; 24f through hole; 25 illumination substrate; 25a light-emitting element; 26 control substrate; 27 rear housing.

Claims

1. An image projection device (100), characterized in that, have: An illumination substrate (25) is provided with a plurality of light-emitting elements (25a); The lens section (23) adjusts the optical axis of the emitted light from the light-emitting element (25a); as well as The image display unit (22) displays an image on a display surface based on an image signal, and the emitted light is transmitted through the display surface as transmitted light. The display surface has a central region (22a) located in the center of the width direction and side regions (22b) located on both sides of the central region. The lens portion (23) integrally forms a first lens region (23b) and a second lens region (23c), the first lens region (23b) being formed at a position corresponding to the central region (22a), and the second lens region (23c) being formed at a position corresponding to the side region (22b). The direction of light after passing through the second lens region (23c) is tilted to the side and outward compared to the direction of light after passing through the first lens region (23b). In the image display unit (22), the central region (22a) is composed of a transmissive liquid crystal panel, and the side region (22b) is a fixed display panel with a specific image fixed thereon.

2. The image projection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a diffuser sheet covering the surface of the transmissive liquid crystal panel. The fixed display panel is a display panel in which the specific image is fixed in an area formed by extending the diffuser.

3. The image projection device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A spacer (24) with an opening formed at a position corresponding to the light-emitting element (25a) is provided between the lighting substrate (25) and the lens portion (23). On the surface of the spacer (24) opposite to the lighting substrate (25), a first light-shielding wall (24b) extending toward the lighting substrate (25) is provided between the first lens region (23b) and the second lens region (23c).

4. The image projection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, On the surface of the spacer (24) opposite to the lighting substrate (25), a second light-shielding wall (24c) extending toward the lighting substrate (25) is provided between the plurality of light-emitting elements (25a) in the first lens region (23b).

5. The image projection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, A first rib (24e) is formed on the surface of the spacer portion (24) to abut against the lens portion (23) at its front end, and a second rib (24d) is formed on the back side to abut against the lighting substrate at its front end. When viewed from above, the first rib (24e) and the second rib (24d) are formed in the same position.

6. The image projection device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second rib (24d) abuts against the area on the lighting substrate (25) that avoids the wiring pattern.

7. The image projection device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lens portion (23) has a flat plate portion (23a) integrally formed with the first lens region (23b) and the second lens region (23c). Multiple support columns are erected from the flat plate portion (23a) toward the image display portion (22). The front end face of the support column forms the same inclined surface and abuts against the back of the image display unit (22).

8. The image projection device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The front end of the support column abuts against the boundary of the central region (22a) and the side region (22b).

Images