Hybrid projector system for head-up display in vehicle

Abstract

A hybrid projector system for a head-up display in a vehicle includes a digital light projector adapted to project a first graphic image onto an interior surface of a windshield of the vehicle, and a vector graphic projector adapted to project a second graphic image onto the interior surface of the windshield of the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for displaying graphics in a vehicle, and more particularly to a graphics projector for use in a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] To improve occupant awareness and convenience, a vehicle may be equipped with a display system that is configured to provide occupants with information about the vehicle's surroundings. The display system may use a human-machine interface device (e.g., a touch screen) to provide information to the occupants. The display system may also use a head-up display (HUD) to provide information to the occupants. In order to control and / or illuminate the HUD, a graphic projector may be used to project graphics onto the surface of the vehicle (e.g., a windshield). However, current graphic projectors may use high-intensity, concentrated light sources, such as lasers. High-intensity, concentrated light sources may cause occupant discomfort when reflected on the surface of the vehicle. In addition, high-intensity, concentrated light sources may increase the weight and resource usage of the vehicle.

[0003] Therefore, while current graphic projectors achieve their intended purpose, a new and improved system for graphic projection in vehicles is needed. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to several aspects of the present disclosure, a hybrid projector system for a head-up display in a vehicle includes a digital light projector, adapted to project a first graphic image onto an inner surface of a windshield of the vehicle; and a vector graphics projector, adapted to project a second graphic image into the first graphic image on the inner surface of the windshield of the vehicle, the second graphic image having a greater brightness than the first graphic image and adapted to highlight features within the first graphic image.

[0005] According to another aspect, the digital light projector includes a light source suitable for projecting excitation light; a condensing lens suitable for focusing the excitation light from the light source; a color filter suitable for separating the focused excitation light into red light, green light and blue light; a shaping lens suitable for focusing the excitation light passing through the color filter; a digital micro-mirror device (DMD) suitable for redirecting the excitation light; and a projection lens suitable for receiving the excitation light from the digital micro-mirror device and projecting the excitation light onto the inner surface of the windshield.

[0006] According to another aspect, a vector graphics projector includes a light source module, which includes: a light emitting diode (LED) array, which is configured to generate source light; a filter in optical communication with the LED array, wherein the filter is configured to receive the source light and transmit the filtered light; and a focusing lens in optical communication with the filter, wherein the focusing lens is used to receive the filtered light and transmit a narrow-beam light; an optical collimator in optical communication with the light source module, wherein the optical collimator is used to receive the narrow-beam light and transmit the collimated light; and a photoelectric mirror in optical communication with the optical collimator, wherein the photoelectric mirror is configured to direct the collimated light to form a graphic.

[0007] According to another aspect, the optical filter is a bandpass filter configured to filter source light and transmit the filtered light, wherein the filtered light includes only light having a wavelength within a passband of the optical bandpass filter.

[0008] According to another aspect, the system further includes a plurality of light source modules in optical communication with the optical collimator.

[0009] According to another aspect, the system further includes an optical waveguide in optical communication with the plurality of light source modules and the optical collimator, wherein the optical waveguide is configured to transmit a narrow beam of light from each of the plurality of light source modules to the optical collimator.

[0010] According to another aspect, the optical waveguide is a fiber optic cable in optical communication with a focusing lens of each of the plurality of light source modules using a fiber optic coupler.

[0011] According to another aspect, the system further includes a plurality of dichroic mirrors, wherein each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is in optical communication with one of the plurality of light source modules, and wherein each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is configured to transmit a narrow beam of light from one of the plurality of light source modules to the optical collimator.

[0012] According to another aspect, each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is configured to reflect a narrow beam of light of a predetermined wavelength and to transmit narrow beams of light of all other wavelengths.

[0013] According to another aspect, a first of the plurality of light source modules is configured to generate a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 380 nanometers, wherein a second of the plurality of light source modules is configured to generate a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 405 nanometers, and wherein a third of the plurality of light source modules is configured to generate a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 460 nanometers.

[0014] According to another aspect, the optoelectronic mirror is a digital micromirror device (DMD).

[0015] According to another aspect, the optoelectronic mirror is at least one of: a micro-electromechanical scanning mirror and a galvanometer mirror.

[0016] According to several aspects of the present disclosure, a method for displaying graphics using a hybrid projector system for a head-up display in a vehicle includes projecting a first graphic image onto an inner surface of a windshield of the vehicle using a digital light projector, and projecting a second graphic image into the first graphic image on the inner surface of the windshield of the vehicle using a vector graphics projector, the second graphic image having a greater brightness than the first graphic image and being suitable for highlighting a feature image within the first graphic image.

[0017] According to another aspect, projecting a first graphic image onto the inner surface of a windshield of a vehicle using a digital light projector also includes projecting excitation light using a light source, focusing the excitation light from the source light using a condenser lens, separating the focused excitation light into red light, green light, and blue light using a color filter, focusing the excitation light passing through the color filter using a shaping lens, redirecting the excitation light using a digital micromirror device (DMD), receiving the excitation light from the digital micromirror device using a projection lens, and projecting the excitation light onto the inner surface of the windshield using the projection lens.

[0018] According to another aspect, projecting a second graphic image onto an inner surface of a vehicle windshield using a vector graphics projector also includes generating source light using a light emitting diode (LED) array of a light source module, receiving the source light using a bandpass filter of the light source module in optical communication with the LED array, filtering the source light using the bandpass filter, and transmitting the filtered light through the bandpass filter, filtering light having a wavelength within a passband of the bandpass filter, receiving the filtered light using a focusing lens of the light source module in optical communication with the filter, transmitting a narrow beam of light using the focusing lens, receiving the narrow beam of light using an optical collimator in optical communication with the light source module, transmitting the collimated light using the optical collimator, and directing the collimated light using a photoelectric mirror in optical communication with the optical collimator to form a graphic.

[0019] According to another aspect, projecting the second graphic image onto the interior surface of the vehicle windshield using the vector graphics projector further comprises projecting the second graphic image onto the interior surface of the vehicle windshield using a plurality of light source modules in optical communication with an optical collimator of the vector graphics projector.

[0020] According to another aspect, transmitting the narrow beam of light using the focusing lens further comprises transmitting the narrow beam of light from each of the plurality of light source modules to the optical collimator using a fiber optic cable waveguide in optical communication with the plurality of light source modules and the optical collimator.

[0021] According to another aspect, transmitting the narrow beam of light through the focusing lens also includes transmitting using a plurality of dichroic mirrors, wherein each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is in optical communication with one of a plurality of light source modules, and the narrow beam of light is transmitted from each of the plurality of light source modules to an optical collimator, wherein each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is configured to reflect a narrow beam of light of a predetermined wavelength and transmit narrow beams of light of all other wavelengths.

[0022] According to another aspect, using the focusing lens to transmit a narrow beam of light also includes using the focusing lens of a first one of a plurality of light source modules to transmit a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 380 nanometers, using the focusing lens of a second one of a plurality of light source modules to transmit a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 405 nanometers, and using the focusing lens of a third one of a plurality of light source modules to transmit a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 460 nanometers.

[0023] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle having a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment wherein a second graphic image from a vector graphics projector is displayed adjacent to a first graphic image from a digital light projector;

[0027] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a schematic side view of the vehicle shown;

[0028] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a substrate for a vehicle windshield according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0029] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The enlarged part, such as Figure 4 As shown in the circle marked with "5";

[0030] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a vector graphics projector including a waveguide including a fiber optic cable;

[0031] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a vector graphics projector including a dichroic mirror;

[0032] Figure 8is a schematic diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment wherein a second graphic image from a vector graphics projector is displayed over a first graphic image from a digital light projector; and

[0033] Fig. 9 is a flowchart of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized, such as to show details of a particular component. In some cases, well-known components, systems, materials, or methods are not described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt the present disclosure in different ways. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application or use. In addition, it is not intended to be constrained by any express or implied theory presented in the aforementioned technical field, background technology, content of the invention or the following specific embodiments. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, the corresponding reference numerals represent similar or corresponding components and features. As used herein, the term module refers to any hardware, software, firmware, electronic control component, processing logic and / or processor device, individually or in any combination, including but not limited to: application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuits, processors (shared, dedicated or grouped) and memories that execute one or more software or firmware programs, combinational logic circuits and / or other suitable components that provide the described functions. Although the drawings shown herein depict examples with certain element arrangements, additional intermediate elements, devices, features or components may be present in actual embodiments. It should also be understood that the drawings are merely illustrative and may not be drawn to scale.

[0036] As used herein, the term "vehicle" is not limited to automobiles. Although this article mainly describes the present technology in conjunction with automobiles, the present technology is not limited to automobiles. These concepts can be used in a variety of applications, such as aircraft, ships, other vehicles, and consumer electronic components.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1A vehicle 10 is shown according to various embodiments, having an associated hybrid projector system for a head-up display 11 within the vehicle 10. Generally speaking, the hybrid projector system 11 works in conjunction with other systems within the vehicle 10 to display various information and infotainment content to passengers. The vehicle 10 generally includes a chassis 12, a body 14, front wheels 16, and rear wheels 18. The body 14 is disposed on the chassis 12 and generally surrounds the components of the vehicle 10. The body 14 and the chassis 12 can together form a frame. The front wheels 16 and the rear wheels 18 are each rotatably connected to the chassis 12 near the respective corners of the body 14.

[0038] In various embodiments, the vehicle 10 is an autonomous vehicle and the system 11 is incorporated into the autonomous vehicle 10. The autonomous vehicle 10 is, for example, a vehicle 10 that is automatically controlled to transport passengers from one location to another. The vehicle 10 is depicted as a passenger car in the illustrated embodiment, but it should be understood that any other vehicle may also be used, including motorcycles, trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), recreational vehicles (RVs), etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle 10 is equipped with a so-called level 4 or level 5 automation system. The level 4 system represents "high automation" and refers to the driving mode-specific performance of the autonomous driving system in all aspects of dynamic driving tasks, even if the human driver does not respond appropriately to the intervention request. The level 5 system represents "full automation" and refers to the full-time performance of the autonomous driving system in all aspects of dynamic driving tasks under all road and environmental conditions that the human driver can manage.

[0039] As shown, the vehicle 10 generally includes a propulsion system 20, a transmission system 22, a steering system 24, a braking system 26, a sensor system 28, an actuator system 30, at least one data storage device 32, a vehicle controller 34, and a communication system 36. In an embodiment where the vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle, there may be no transmission system 22. In various embodiments, the propulsion system 20 may include an internal combustion engine, an electric motor such as a traction motor, and / or a fuel cell propulsion system. The transmission system 22 is configured to transmit power from the propulsion system 20 to the front wheels 16 and rear wheels 18 of the vehicle according to a selectable speed ratio. According to various embodiments, the transmission system 22 may include a stepped automatic transmission, a continuously variable transmission, or other suitable transmissions. The braking system 26 is configured to provide braking torque to the front wheels 16 and rear wheels 18 of the vehicle. In various embodiments, the braking system 26 may include friction brakes, wire control brakes, regenerative braking systems (e.g., motors), and / or other suitable braking systems. The steering system 24 affects the position of the front wheels 16 and rear wheels 18. Although depicted as including a steering wheel for illustrative purposes, in some embodiments contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure, the steering system 24 may not include a steering wheel.

[0040] The sensor system 28 includes one or more sensing devices 40a-40n that sense observable conditions of the external environment and / or internal environment of the autonomous vehicle 10. The sensing devices 40a-40n may include, but are not limited to, radar, lidar, global positioning system, optical camera, thermal camera, ultrasonic sensor, and / or other sensors. The camera may include two or more digital cameras spaced at a selected distance from each other, wherein the two or more digital cameras are used to obtain stereo images of the surrounding environment so as to obtain a three-dimensional image. Multiple sensing devices 40a-40n are used to determine information about the environment around the vehicle 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple sensing devices 40a-40n include a motor speed sensor, a motor torque sensor, an electric drive motor voltage and / or current sensor, an accelerator pedal position sensor, a coolant temperature sensor, a cooling fan speed sensor, and a transmission oil temperature sensor. In another exemplary embodiment, the multiple sensing devices 40a-40n also include sensors for determining information about the environment around the vehicle 10, such as an ambient air temperature sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, and / or a photo and / or video camera positioned to observe the environment in front of the vehicle 10. In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of the plurality of sensing devices 40a-40n is capable of measuring distances in the environment surrounding the vehicle 10. In a non-limiting example in which the plurality of sensing devices 40a-40n include cameras, the plurality of sensing devices 40a-40n measure distances using an image processing algorithm configured to process images from the cameras and determine distances between objects. In another non-limiting example, the plurality of vehicle sensors 40a-40n include a stereo camera with distance measurement capabilities. In one example, at least one of the plurality of sensing devices 40a-40n is fixed to the interior of the vehicle 10, for example, fixed in the top lining of the vehicle 10, with a field of view through the windshield 56 of the vehicle 10. In another example, at least one of the plurality of sensing devices 40a-40n is fixed to the exterior of the vehicle 10, for example, fixed on the top of the vehicle 10, with a field of view of the environment surrounding the vehicle 10. It should be understood that various additional types of sensing devices, such as lidar sensors, ultrasonic ranging sensors, radar sensors, and / or time-of-flight sensors are within the scope of the present disclosure. The actuator system 30 includes one or more actuator devices 42 a - 42 n that control one or more features of the vehicle 10 , such as, but not limited to, the propulsion system 20 , the transmission system 22 , the steering system 24 , and the braking system 26 .

[0041] The vehicle controller 34 includes at least one processor 44 and a computer readable storage device or medium 46. The at least one data processor 44 can be any custom or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an auxiliary processor of multiple processors associated with the vehicle controller 34, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), a macroprocessor, any combination thereof, or any device generally used to execute instructions. The computer readable storage device or medium 46 can include volatile and non-volatile storage devices such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and keep-alive memory (KAM). KAM is a persistent or non-volatile memory that can be used to store various operating variables when the at least one data processor 44 is powered off. The computer readable storage device or medium 46 can be implemented using any of a variety of known storage devices, such as PROM (programmable read-only memory), EPROM (electrically programmable read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), flash memory, or any other electrical, magnetic, optical, or combination storage device capable of storing data used by the controller 34 in controlling the vehicle 10, some of which represents executable instructions.

[0042] The instructions may include one or more separate programs, each of which includes an ordered list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions. When executed by at least one processor 44, the instructions receive and process signals from the sensor system 28, perform logic, calculations, methods and / or algorithms for automatically controlling components of the vehicle 10, and generate control signals to the actuator system 30 to automatically control components of the vehicle 10 based on the logic, calculations, methods and / or algorithms. Although Figure 1 Only one controller 34 is shown, and embodiments of the vehicle 10 may include any number of controllers 34 that communicate via any suitable communication medium or combination of communication media and collaborate to process sensor signals, execute logic, calculations, methods and / or algorithms, and generate control signals for automatically controlling the functions of the autonomous driving vehicle 10.

[0043] In various embodiments, one or more instructions of the vehicle controller 34 are embodied in a trajectory planning system and, when executed by at least one data processor 44, generate trajectory outputs that address kinematic and dynamic constraints of the environment. For example, the instructions receive process sensor and map data as input. The instructions implement a graph-based approach and customized cost functions to handle different road scenarios for cities and highways.

[0044] The communication system 36 is configured to wirelessly communicate information with other remote entities 48, such as, but not limited to, other vehicles ("V2V" communication), infrastructure ("V2I" communication), remote systems, remote servers, cloud computers, and / or personal devices. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication system 36 is a wireless communication system configured to communicate via a wireless local area network (WLAN) using the IEEE 802.11 standard or by using cellular data communications. However, additional or alternative communication methods such as dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) channels are also considered within the scope of the present disclosure. A DSRC channel refers to a one-way or two-way short-range to medium-range wireless communication channel designed specifically for automotive use, as well as a set of corresponding protocols and standards.

[0045] The vehicle controller 34 is a non-universal electronic control device having a pre-programmed digital computer or processor, a memory or non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing data such as control logic, software applications, instructions, computer code, data, look-up tables, and the like, and a transceiver. Computer-readable media include any type of media that can be accessed by a computer, such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard drive, a compact disk (CD), a digital video disk (DVD), or any other type of memory. "Non-transitory" computer-readable media excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transmit temporary electrical or other signals. Non-transitory computer-readable media include media that can permanently store data and media that can store and subsequently rewrite data, such as rewritable optical disks or erasable storage devices. Computer code includes any type of program code, including source code, object code, and executable code.

[0046] refer to Figure 2 The hybrid projector system 11 includes a digital light projector (DLP) 50 suitable for projecting a first graphic image 52 onto an inner surface 54 of a windshield 56 of the vehicle 10, and a vector graphics projector (VGP) 58 suitable for projecting a second graphic image 60 onto an inner surface 54 of a windshield 56 of the vehicle 10.

[0047] The DLP 50 projects a first graphic image 52 that includes various information / infotainment applications. The DLP 50 is capable of projecting two-dimensional and three-dimensional images depicting objects in the environment surrounding the vehicle 10, such as pedestrians, buildings, and other vehicles. In an exemplary embodiment, the DLP 50 includes a light source 62 adapted to project an excitation light 64, a focusing lens 66 adapted to focus the excitation light 64 from the light source 62, a color filter 68 (color wheel) adapted to separate the focused excitation light 64 into red, green, and blue light, a shaping lens 70 adapted to focus the excitation light 64 passing through the color filter 68, a digital micromirror device (DMD) 72 adapted to redirect the excitation light 64, and a projection lens 74 adapted to receive the excitation light 64 from the digital micromirror device (DMD) 72 and project the excitation light 64 onto the inner surface 54 of the windshield 56.

[0048] refer to Figure 3 , the vehicle controller 34 includes a DLP engine 76. The DLP engine 76 includes a programmable processor that includes programming for monitoring various inputs and determining what information is suitable for display. The DLP engine 76 can communicate directly with various systems and components, or the DLP engine 76 can communicate via a LAN / CAN system instead or in addition. The DLP engine 76 uses information about the operating environment of the vehicle 10 derived from multiple inputs. Various sensing devices 40a-40n collect and provide information. The sensing devices 40a-40n include cameras or image capture devices that capture periodic or sequential images representing the view of the vehicle 10. The windshield 56 has the feature of being able to display images projected thereon while remaining transparent or substantially transparent, so that the occupants of the vehicle 10 can clearly observe the exterior of the vehicle 10 through the windshield 56. It should be understood that, as shown in the figure, the windshield 56 is located at the front of the vehicle 10, and other surfaces within the vehicle 10 can also be used for projection, including side windows and rear windows. Additionally, the view from the front windshield 56 may continue as a continuous image onto the front vehicle "A-pillars" and onto the side windows.

[0049] The DLP engine 76 includes display software or programming for converting requests to display information from the DLP engine 76 in a graphic representation describing the information. The DLP engine 76 includes programming for compensating for the curved and angled surface of the windshield 56 and any other surface onto which the first graphic image 52 is to be projected. The DLP engine 76 controls the light source 62, which includes a laser or projector device that produces the excitation light 64 to project the first graphic image 52.

[0050] The occupant monitoring system 78 includes sensors known in the art to estimate the position of the occupant's head and further estimate the orientation or gaze position of the occupant's eyes. Based on the output of the occupant monitoring system 78 and the input data of the tracking position information about the environment surrounding the vehicle 10, the DLP engine 76 can accurately position the first graphic image 52 so that the occupant sees the first graphic image 52 overlaid with the visual image through the windshield 56.

[0051] The above-described system 11 includes eye sensing and head sensing devices that allow for estimation of eye position, allowing for registration of an image on the windshield 56 so that the image corresponds to the operator's field of view. However, it should be understood that estimation of head and eye position can be achieved by a variety of methods. For example, in a process similar to adjusting a rearview mirror, the operator can use a calibration routine upon entering the vehicle to align the graphics with the detected object. In another embodiment, the longitudinal seat position in the vehicle 10 can be used to estimate the position of the driver's head. In another embodiment, manual adjustment of one or more rearview mirrors can be used to estimate the position of the operator's eyes. It should be understood that a combination of methods such as seat position and mirror adjustment angles can be used to estimate the operator's head position with improved accuracy. Many methods for achieving precise registration of the graphics on the windshield 56 are contemplated, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments described herein.

[0052] The windshield 56 serves as a medium through which the relevant features can be observed, and also serves as a display device on which the first graphic image 52 can be displayed. The windshield 56 is transparent and is capable of displaying the image projected by the excitation light 64. Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the occupant 80 is able to see any object (e.g., cube 82) through the substrate 84 located on the windshield 56. The substrate 84 can be transparent or substantially transparent. When the occupant 80 sees the arbitrary object 82 through the substrate 84, the occupant 80 can also see the image created at the substrate 84 (e.g., circle 86 and triangle 88). The substrate 84 can be a portion of the windshield 56, a glass substrate, a plastic substrate, a polymer substrate, or other transparent (or substantially transparent) medium understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. Other substrates can supplement the substrate 84 to provide coloring, substrate protection, light filtering (e.g., filtering external ultraviolet light), and other functions.

[0053] Figure 5A schematic diagram of a transparent display illuminated with excitation light 64 (e.g., ultraviolet light or infrared light) from a light source 62 is depicted. A substrate 84 receives the excitation light 64 from the light source 62. The received excitation light 64 may be absorbed by a luminescent material 90 at the substrate 84. When the luminescent material receives the excitation light 64, the luminescent material 90 emits visible light. Thus, an image (e.g., a circle 86 and a triangle 88) may be generated at the substrate 84 by selectively irradiating the substrate 84 with the excitation light 64.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the luminescent material 90 includes a transparent phosphor embedded in the substrate 84. The transparent phosphor is a luminescent particle that emits fluorescence in response to being excited by the excitation light 64. In an exemplary embodiment, the transparent phosphor is a red, green and blue (RGB) phosphor that allows full color. The use of monochrome and / or dual-color phosphors is also within the scope of the present disclosure. When the excitation light 64 is absorbed by the transparent phosphor, the transparent phosphor emits visible light. The excitation light 64 is provided by the light source 62. Further details of displaying graphics using the substrate 84 and the luminescent material 90 are discussed with reference to U.S. application No. 17 / 749,464, filed on May 20, 2022, entitled “HYBRID AUGMENTED REALITY HEAD-UP DISPLAY FOR CREATING AN EDGE-TO-EDGE AUGMENTED REALITY VIEW,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the excitation light 64 may be ultraviolet light. If the excitation light 64 is ultraviolet light, when the luminescent material 90 emits visible light in response to the ultraviolet light, a down-conversion physical phenomenon occurs. Specifically, ultraviolet light has a shorter wavelength and higher energy than visible light. Accordingly, when the luminescent material 90 absorbs ultraviolet light and emits lower energy visible light, the ultraviolet light is down-converted into visible light because its energy level decreases when the ultraviolet light is converted into visible light.

[0056] It will be appreciated that the excitation wavelengths described herein are specific for a given phosphor sheet.Other technologies may also be used, such as holographic grating (Bragg grating) based technologies using visible light projectors, where RGB LEDs are used to make vector graphics projectors and RGB-DLP projectors.

[0057] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the excitation light 64 is output by the light source 62 of the DLP 50. In an exemplary embodiment, the light source 62 is a micro-mirror array (MMA) projector (e.g., a digital light processing (DLP) projector 50). In the DLP 50, the first graphic image 52 is created by microscopic small mirrors arranged in a matrix form on a semiconductor chip in the DMD 72. The MMA projector that outputs ultraviolet light can be similar to the MMA projector that outputs visible light, except that the color filter 68 has a filter customized for the ultraviolet spectrum. In other embodiments, the DLP 50 is a liquid crystal display (LCD) projector. In an embodiment, the DLP 50 can be a liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) projector. In an embodiment, the DLP 50 can be an analog projector (e.g., a slide projector or a movie film projector). Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other types of projectors that can be used to project ultraviolet light onto the substrate 84.

[0058] refer to Figure 6 , which is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a VGP 58. The VGP 58 generally includes a first light source module 92a, a second light source module 92b, a third light source module 92c, a fiber coupler 94, and an output module 96.

[0059] The components of VGP 58 (i.e., the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, the third light source module 92c, the fiber coupler 94 and the output module 96) are in optical communication with each other. Within the scope of the present disclosure, optical communication means that light can propagate through the space between the components and interact with the optical characteristics of each component. Optical communication can be promoted by positioning the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, the third light source module 92c, the fiber coupler 94 and the output module 96 so that light is transmitted between the components due to the inherent reflection and / or refraction characteristics of the components and / or the characteristics of the medium (e.g., air) between the components. Optical communication can also be promoted by optical waveguides. Within the scope of the present disclosure, optical waveguides are physical structures designed to limit and guide light along a specified path (i.e., between the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, the third light source module 92c, the fiber coupler 94 and the output module 96). In a non-limiting example, optical communication is established using a plurality of optical fiber cables 98a, 98b, 98c, 98d. In an exemplary embodiment, the optical fiber cables 98a, 98b, 98c, 98d are optoelectronic cables for transmitting light and are used as optical waveguides. In a non-limiting example, the optical fiber cables 98a, 98b, 98c, 98d contain multiple strands of glass or plastic fibers. The fibers are bundled together and surrounded by a protective coating. The first optical fiber cable 98a is used to establish optical communication between the first light source module 92a and the optical fiber coupler 94. The second optical fiber cable 98b is used to establish optical communication between the second light source module 92b and the optical fiber coupler 94. The third optical fiber cable 98c is used to establish optical communication between the third light source module 92c and the optical fiber coupler 94. The fourth optical fiber cable 98d is used to establish optical communication between the optical fiber coupler 94 and the output module 96. It should also be understood that various additional methods for establishing optical communication between optical components, including, for example, planar waveguides, rib waveguides, channel waveguides, hollow waveguides, etc., are all within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0060] The first light source module 92a includes a light emitting diode (LED) array 100, a filter 102, and a focusing lens 104. The LED array 100 is used to provide a light source for the first light source module 92a. In an exemplary embodiment, the LED array 100 includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) (not shown) electrically connected in a series or parallel configuration. The LED array 100 also includes at least two electrical terminals (not shown) electrically connected to the plurality of LEDs. The plurality of LEDs are arranged in a relatively small area to achieve a high density of LEDs. In a non-limiting example, the plurality of LEDs are arranged in a grid pattern. In another non-limiting example, the plurality of LEDs are arranged in a radial pattern. The plurality of LEDs are mechanically fixed to a substrate to provide structural stability for the arrangement of the plurality of LEDs. In a non-limiting example, the substrate is a printed circuit board (PCB). In another non-limiting example, the substrate is a metal core printed circuit board (MCPCB) including a metal layer, which contributes to the thermal management of the plurality of LEDs by heat dissipation.

[0061] When an electric current is passed through the plurality of LEDs using the electrical terminals, the plurality of LEDs emit light. The light emitted by the plurality of LEDs of the LED array 100 is referred to as source light 106. In an exemplary embodiment, the source light 106 is polychromatic, meaning that the source light 106 contains light of multiple wavelengths (e.g., light having a wavelength between 380 nanometers and 460 nanometers). In another exemplary embodiment, the source light 106 is monochromatic, meaning that the source light 106 contains only light of a single wavelength (e.g., 380 nanometers, 405 nanometers, or 460 nanometers). It should be understood that the aforementioned wavelengths and wavelength ranges are merely exemplary in nature. The LED array 100 is configured such that the source light 106 is incident on the filter 102.

[0062] The filter 102 is used to filter the source light 106. In an exemplary embodiment, the filter 102 is configured to receive the source light 106 and transmit the filtered light 108. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the filtered light 108 is light having only wavelengths within the passband of the filter 102. In a non-limiting example, the filter 102 includes a substrate material (e.g., glass or quartz) on which one or more thin films are deposited. The thin film layers are designed to absorb or refract light of specific wavelengths. In a first exemplary embodiment, the filter 102 is an interference bandpass filter. In a non-limiting example, the interference bandpass filter includes alternating dielectric layers of materials having different refractive indices. The alternating layers are configured to create an interference pattern that enhances the transmission of wavelengths within the passband and suppresses other wavelengths (similar to a Fabry-Perot interferometer).

[0063] In another exemplary embodiment, the filter 102 is an absorption bandpass filter. In a non-limiting example, the absorption bandpass filter includes one or more layers of absorptive dielectric material deposited on a substrate. The absorption layer dissipates unwanted wavelengths by absorption while transmitting wavelengths within the passband. In another exemplary embodiment, the passband of the filter 102 only includes monochromatic light having a single wavelength (e.g., 380 nanometers, 405 nanometers, 460 nanometers). Therefore, the filter 108 only includes light having a single wavelength. It should be understood that the aforementioned wavelengths are merely exemplary in nature, and the passband of the filter 102 can include other wavelengths without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The filter 102 is configured so that the filtered light 108 is incident on the focusing lens 104.

[0064] The focusing lens 104 is used to converge the filtered light 108 to produce a narrow beam of light 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the focusing lens 104 includes a curved transparent substrate (e.g., glass or other transparent material). When the filtered light 108 passes through the focusing lens 104, the curvature of the focusing lens 104 causes the filtered light 108 to be refracted toward a focal point 112. The position of the focal point 112 is determined by the curvature and refractive index of the focusing lens 104. The focal point 112 of the focusing lens 104 is the endpoint of the first optical fiber cable 98a, so that the narrow beam of light 110 is transmitted from the focusing lens 104 to the optical fiber coupler 94 via the first optical fiber cable 98a.

[0065] It should be understood that the second light source module 92b and the third light source module 92c each include the same components as the first light source module 92a (i.e., the LED array 100, the filter 102, and the focusing lens 104). Therefore, the description provided above for the first light source module 92a also applies to the second light source module 92b and the third light source module 92c. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the VGP 58 may include any suitable number of light source modules. Although Figure 2 A first light source module 92a and a second light source module 92b are shown. Figure 6 and Figure 7 A first light source module 92a, a second light source module 92b, and a third light source module 92c are shown, but other numbers of light source modules may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, and the third light source module 92c is configured to generate a narrow beam of light 110 having a different wavelength. In a non-limiting example, the first light source module 92a generates a narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 380 nanometers. The second light source module 92b generates a narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 405 nanometers. The third light source module 92c generates a narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 460 nanometers. It should be understood that the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, and the third light source module 92c can be configured to generate narrow beams of light 110 having different wavelengths without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] The fiber coupler 94 is used to combine the narrow beam light 110 from each of the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, and the third light source module 92c. In an exemplary embodiment, the fiber coupler 94 includes a first input port 114a that optically communicates with the first light source module 92a via a first optical fiber cable 98a, a second input port 114b that optically communicates with the second light source module 92b via a second optical fiber cable 98b, and a third input port 114c that optically communicates with the third light source module 92c via a third optical fiber cable 98c. The fiber coupler 94 also includes an output port 116. Each of the input ports 114a, 114b, 114c and the output port 116 includes an optical fiber (not shown) that is aligned and fused with the optical fibers of the other ports. When light is introduced into one of the input ports 114a, 114b, 114c, the light propagates along the optical fiber and is transmitted to the output port 116. Thus, the intensity of narrow beam light 110 from each of first, second, and third light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c is added at output port 116 of fiber coupler 94. Output port 116 is in optical communication with output module 96 via fourth fiber optic cable 98d.

[0068] The output module 96 is used to direct the narrow beam of light 110 from the output port 116 of the fiber coupler 94 so as to project the second graphical image 60. The output module 96 includes an optical collimator 118 and an optoelectronic mirror 120.

[0069] The optical collimator 118 is used to generate collimated light 122 from the narrow beam of light 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the optical collimator 118 includes a collimating lens, which is used to focus the narrow beam of light 110 into a parallel (i.e., collimated) beam of light. In a non-limiting example, the collimating lens is a plano-convex lens or a bi-convex lens, which is configured to produce a desired beam divergence and collimation distance. The optical collimator 118 refracts the narrow beam of light 110 from the fiber coupler 94 by using the collimating lens to generate the collimated light 122. The optical collimator 118 is in optical communication with the optoelectronic mirror 120.

[0070] The photoelectric mirror 120 is used to direct the collimated light 122 based on the electrical signal. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the photoelectric mirror 120 is an electromechanical device (e.g., a micro-electromechanical system) that is configured to direct light with high precision, accuracy, and speed in response to the electrical signal. In an exemplary embodiment, the photoelectric mirror 120 includes a digital micromirror device (DMD). A DMD is an optical micro-electromechanical system that contains a series of mirrors that can be individually tilted to reflect light in a desired direction. In a non-limiting example, the DMD is used to create a high-resolution image by reflecting the collimated light 122 onto a projection surface. The tilted mirrors on the DMD are controlled by an electronic driver that quickly adjusts the mirrors to project the second graphic image 60 onto the windshield 56.

[0071] In another exemplary embodiment, the electro-optical mirror 120 is a micro-electro-mechanical scanning mirror. In an exemplary embodiment, the micro-electro-mechanical scanning mirror is an electro-optical device that uses at least one mirror to create a high-resolution image. The at least one mirror can be tilted to reflect the collimated light 122 in a desired direction. The tilting action of the at least one mirror is controlled by an electronic driver, which quickly adjusts the mirror to project the second graphic image 60 onto the windshield 56.

[0072] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the optoelectronic mirror 120 is a galvanometer mirror. In an exemplary embodiment, the galvanometer mirror is an optoelectronic device that uses at least one mirror that rotates about an axis to change the direction of the collimated light 122. At least one of the mirrors in the galvanometer mirror is controlled by a galvanometer, which is a motor that converts an electrical current signal into mechanical motion. The galvanometer causes the at least one mirror to rotate rapidly on an axis, allowing the collimated light 122 to be redirected to scan the collimated light 122 across the windshield 56 and display the second graphic image 60. The light transmitted to the windshield 56 by the optoelectronic mirror 120 is referred to as projected light 124.

[0073] It should be understood that in order to adjust the overall light intensity of the projected light 124 , the VGP 58 may include more or less than three light source modules without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0074] refer to Figure 7 Another exemplary embodiment of the VGP 58 includes a first light source module 92a, a second light source module 92b, a third light source module 92c, a first dichroic mirror 126a, a second dichroic mirror 126b, a third dichroic mirror 126c, and an output module 96. Figure 6 The description of the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, the third light source module 92c and the output module 96 is also applicable to Figure 7 Different from the optical fiber cables 98a, 98b, 98c, 98d and the optical fiber coupler 94, Figure 7The VGP 58 of the illustrated embodiment combines the narrow beams of light 110 from each of the first light source module 92a, the second light source module 92b, and the third light source module 92c using a first dichroic mirror 126a, a second dichroic mirror 126b, and a third dichroic mirror 126c.

[0075] Within the scope of the present disclosure, a dichroic mirror is a mirror that reflects light of a predetermined wavelength and transmits light of other wavelengths. In an exemplary embodiment, the first dichroic mirror 126a, the second dichroic mirror 126b, and the third dichroic mirror 126c include a substrate material (e.g., glass, quartz) coated with a plurality of dielectric layers. Each of the plurality of dielectric layers is selected to have a specific refractive index and thickness so that the first dichroic mirror 126a, the second dichroic mirror 126b, and the third dichroic mirror 126c reflect light of a specific wavelength and transmit light of other wavelengths.

[0076] In a non-limiting example, the first light source module 92a generates a narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 380 nanometers. The second light source module 92b generates a narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 405 nanometers. The third light source module 92c generates a narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 460 nanometers. Therefore, the first dichroic mirror 126a is configured to reflect the narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 380 nanometers and transmit light of all other wavelengths. The second dichroic mirror 126b is configured to reflect the narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 405 nanometers and transmit light of all other wavelengths. The third dichroic mirror 126c is configured to reflect the narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 460 nanometers and transmit light of all other wavelengths. It should be understood that the aforementioned wavelengths are merely exemplary in nature.

[0077] The first dichroic mirror 126a is positioned so that the narrow beam of light 110 from the first light source module 92a and reflected by the first dichroic mirror 126a is incident on the second dichroic mirror 126b. The second dichroic mirror 126b is positioned so that the narrow beam of light 110 from the second light source module 92b and reflected by the second dichroic mirror 126b is incident on the third dichroic mirror 126c. The third dichroic mirror 126c is positioned so that the narrow beam of light 110 from the third light source module 92c and reflected by the third dichroic mirror 126c is incident on the output module 96. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first dichroic mirror 126a, the second dichroic mirror 126b, and the third dichroic mirror 126c is positioned to form a 45 degree angle with the incident angle of the narrow beam of light 110 and is aligned along the central axis, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 shown.

[0078] Therefore, the narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 380 nanometers from the first light source module 92a is reflected by the first dichroic mirror 126a and incident on the second dichroic mirror 126b, as shown in the first line 128a. The narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 380 nanometers from the first light source module 92a is transmitted through the second dichroic mirror 126b and incident on the third dichroic mirror 126c, as shown in the second line 128b. The narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 405 nanometers from the second light source module 92b is reflected by the second dichroic mirror 126b and incident on the third dichroic mirror 126c, as shown in the second line 128b. Therefore, the narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 380 nanometers from the first light source module 92a and the narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 405 nanometers from the second light source module 92b are both incident on the third dichroic mirror 126c, as shown in the second line 128b. The narrow beam light 110 with a wavelength of 380 nanometers from the first light source module 92a and the narrow beam light 110 with a wavelength of 405 nanometers from the second light source module 92b are transmitted by the third dichroic mirror 126c and incident on the output module 96, as shown by the third line 128c. The narrow beam light 110 with a wavelength of 460 nanometers from the third light source module 92c is reflected by the third dichroic mirror 126c and incident on the output module 96, as shown by the third line 128c. Therefore, the narrow beam light 110 with a wavelength of 380 nanometers from the first light source module 92a, the narrow beam light 110 with a wavelength of 405 nanometers from the second light source module 92b, and the narrow beam light 110 with a wavelength of 460 nanometers from the third light source module 92c are incident on the output module 96, as shown by the third line 128c.

[0079] The total narrow beam of light (i.e., the narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 380 nanometers from the first light source module 92a, the narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 405 nanometers from the second light source module 92b, and the narrow beam of light 110 with a wavelength of 460 nanometers from the third light source module 92c) is incident on the output module 96, collimated by the optical collimator 118 and directed by the photoelectric mirror 120, as described above.

[0080] Reference again Figure 3, the vehicle controller 34 includes a VGP engine 130. The VGP engine 130 includes a programmable processor that includes programming for monitoring various inputs and determining what information is suitable for display. The VGP engine 130 can communicate directly with various systems and components, or the VGP engine 130 can communicate alternatively or additionally through a LAN / CAN system. The VGP engine 130 uses information about the operating environment of the vehicle 10 derived from multiple inputs. Various sensing devices 40a-40n collect and provide information. The sensing devices 40a-40n include cameras or image capture devices that capture periodic or sequential images representing the view of the vehicle 10. The windshield 56 is equipped with features that can display images projected thereon while remaining transparent or substantially transparent, so that the occupants of the vehicle 10 can clearly observe the exterior of the vehicle 10 through the windshield 56.

[0081] The processor of the VGP engine 130 includes a non-temporary computer-readable storage device or medium. The processor can be a customized or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an auxiliary processor in a plurality of processors associated with the VGP engine 130, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), a macroprocessor, a combination thereof, or a device generally used to execute instructions. The computer-readable storage device or medium may include, for example, volatile and non-volatile storage in a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and a keep-alive memory (KAM). KAM is a persistent or non-volatile memory that can be used to store various operating variables when the processor is powered off. The computer-readable storage device or medium can be implemented using a variety of storage devices, such as PROM (programmable read-only memory), EPROM (electrically programmable read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), flash memory or other electrical, magnetic, optical or combined storage devices capable of storing data (some of which represent executable instructions, used by the VGP engine 130 to control various systems of the vehicle 10). The VGP engine 130 can also be composed of a plurality of controllers that communicate electrically with each other. The VGP engine 130 may be interconnected with additional systems and / or controllers of the vehicle 10 to allow the VGP engine 130 to access data, such as the speed, acceleration, braking, and steering angle of the vehicle 10 .

[0082] The VGP engine 130 is in electrical communication with the plurality of sensing devices 40a-40n via the vehicle controller 34. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical communication is established using, for example, a CAN network, a FLEXRAY network, a local area network (e.g., WiFi, Ethernet, etc.), a serial peripheral interface (SPI) network, etc. It should be understood that various additional wired and wireless technologies and communication protocols for communicating with the VGP engine 130 are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0083] Similar to the DLP 50, the VGP 58 projects light in a predetermined pattern to excite the light-emitting material 90 (transparent phosphor) within the substrate 84 on the windshield 56 to produce the second graphic image 60 on the windshield 56. In an exemplary embodiment, both the DLP 50 and the VGP 58 are disposed proximate to the top lining of the vehicle 10. In a non-limiting example, the 380 nanometer light of the projected light 124 excites the red transparent phosphor. The 405 nanometer light of the projected light 124 excites the blue transparent phosphor. The 460 nanometer light of the projected light 124 excites the green transparent phosphor. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the transparent phosphors can be excited by excitation light of other wavelengths. The DLP 50 or the VGP 58 can be configured to generate excitation light of any wavelength required to excite the transparent phosphor.

[0084] In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle controller 34 uses the system 11 to display graphics that indicate the condition of the vehicle 10 and / or the environment surrounding the vehicle 10 as detected by the plurality of sensing devices 40a-40n. In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle controller 34 uses the DLP 50 to display a first graphical image 52, which may include two-dimensional and three-dimensional depictions of the environment surrounding the vehicle 10, or images with vehicle information or infotainment content that are overlaid "on top" of the occupant's view of the external environment of the vehicle 10. The DLP is capable of providing a first graphical image that spans across the entire windshield 56. In addition, the vehicle controller 34 uses the VGP 58 to display a second graphical image 60, which may include quick response alerts to critical safety conditions detected by the sensor system 28 of the vehicle 10. The VGP 58 is not capable of displaying three-dimensional graphical images, however, the VGP 58 is capable of providing enhanced graphics to provide immediate and brighter alerts, such as highlighting pedestrians or points of interest. Reference Figure 1 , a second graphic image 60 may be displayed adjacent to the first graphic image 52, such as an arrow intended to draw the occupant's attention to the left. Figure 8 , the second graphic image 60 may be overlaid on the first graphic image 52, for example Figure 8 The highlighted box around the cyclist.

[0085] Based on the output of the occupant monitoring system 78 and the input data of the tracked position information about the environment surrounding the vehicle 10, the DLP engine 76 can accurately position the first graphic image 52 so that the occupant sees the first graphic image 52 overlaid with the visual image through the windshield 56. In addition, the VGP engine 130 can accurately position the second graphic image 60 relative to the first graphic image 52 so that the occupant sees the second graphic image 60 at an appropriate location proximate to or overlaid on the first graphic image 52.

[0086] refer to Fig. 9 , a method 200 for displaying graphics using a hybrid projector system 11 for a head-up display in a vehicle includes: starting from box 202, using a digital light projector 50 to project a first graphic image 52 onto the inner surface 54 of a windshield 56 of the vehicle 10; and moving to box 204, using a vector graphics projector 58 to project a second graphic image 60 onto the inner surface 54 of the windshield 56 of the vehicle 10.

[0087] In an exemplary embodiment, projecting the first graphic image 52 onto the inner surface 54 of the windshield 56 of the vehicle 10 using the digital light projector 50 at frame 202 also includes: moving to frame 206, using the light source 62 to project the excitation light 64; moving to frame 208, using the condenser lens 66 to focus the excitation light 64 from the light source 62; moving to frame 210, using the color filter 68 to separate the focused excitation light 64 into red light, green light and blue light; moving to frame 212, using the shaping lens 70 to focus the excitation light 64 passing through the color filter 68; moving to frame 214, using the digital micromirror device (DMD) 72 to redirect the excitation light 64; moving to frame 216, using the projection lens 74 to receive the excitation light 64 from the digital micromirror device 72; and moving to frame 218, using the projection lens 74 to project the excitation light 64 onto the inner surface 54 of the windshield 56.

[0088] In an exemplary embodiment, projecting the second graphic image 60 onto the interior surface 54 of the windshield 56 of the vehicle 10 using the vector graphics projector 58 at box 204 also includes: moving to box 220, using the light emitting diode (LED) array 100 of the light source module 92a to generate the source light 106; moving to box 222, using the bandpass filter 102 of the light source module 92a in optical communication with the LED array 100 to receive the source light 106; moving to box 224, using the bandpass filter 102 to filter the source light 106; moving to box 226, using the bandpass filter 102 to transmit the source light 106 having the bandpass filtered light The optical filter 108 is filtered by the optical lens 104 of the optical source module 92a in optical communication with the filter 102; the optical filter 108 is moved to the frame 228, and the filtered light 108 is received using the focusing lens 104 of the light source module 92a in optical communication with the filter 102; the optical filter 108 is moved to the frame 230, and the narrow beam of light 110 is transmitted using the focusing lens 104; the optical filter 108 is moved to the frame 232, and the narrow beam of light 110 is received using the optical collimator 118 in optical communication with the light source module 92a; the optical collimator 118 is moved to the frame 234, and the collimated light 122 is transmitted using the optical collimator 118; and the optical filter 122 is moved to the frame 236, and the collimated light 122 is directed to form a pattern using the photoelectric mirror 120 in optical communication with the optical collimator 118.

[0089] In another exemplary embodiment, at box 204, the second graphic image 60 is projected onto the inner surface 54 of the windshield 56 of the vehicle 10 using the vector graphics projector 58, and the second graphic image 60 is projected onto the inner surface 54 of the windshield 56 of the vehicle 10 using multiple light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c that are in optical communication with the optical collimator 118 of the vector graphics projector 58.

[0090] In another exemplary embodiment, transmitting the narrow beam of light using a focusing lens at box 230 also includes transmitting the narrow beam of light 110 from each of the multiple light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c to the optical collimator 118 using a fiber optic cable waveguide 98a, 98b, 98c, 98d in optical communication with the multiple light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c and the optical collimator 118.

[0091] In another exemplary embodiment, transmitting the narrow beam of light 110 using the focusing lens 104 at frame 230 also includes transmitting using a plurality of dichroic mirrors 126a, 126b, 126c (each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors 126a, 126b, 126c is in optical communication with one of the plurality of light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c) to transmit the narrow beam of light 110 from each of the plurality of light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c to the optical collimator 118, wherein each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors 126a, 126b, 126c is configured to reflect a predetermined wavelength of the narrow beam of light 110 and transmit all other wavelengths of the narrow beam of light 110.

[0092] In another exemplary embodiment, transmitting the narrow beam of light 110 using the focusing lens 104 at frame 230 also includes transmitting the narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 380 nanometers through the focusing lens 104 of the first one 92a of the plurality of light source modules, transmitting the narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 405 nanometers through the focusing lens 104 of the second one 92b of the plurality of light source modules, and transmitting the narrow beam of light 110 having a wavelength of 460 nanometers through the focusing lens 104 of the third one 92c of the plurality of light source modules.

[0093] The system 11 of the present disclosure has several advantages. By providing a VGP 58 having a plurality of light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c, each of the plurality of light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c can be individually configured to achieve desired output characteristics (e.g., intensity, wavelength, etc.). In addition, each of the plurality of light source modules 92a, 92b, 92c can be adjusted by the VGP engine 130 to adjust the intensity and wavelength composition of the projection light 124 during projection, thereby enabling precise control of the excitation of the transparent phosphor. In addition, the excitation of the transparent phosphor is achieved using a diffuse light source (i.e., an LED array), reducing cost and complexity and avoiding the possible disadvantages of a high-power, concentrated light source (e.g., the light source 62 of the DLP 50). By using the DLP 50 and the VGP 58 in combination, the system 11 provides the ability to display high-intensity two-dimensional and three-dimensional graphic images using the DLP 50, as well as the ability to display transient safety-critical enhanced graphics using the VGP 58.

[0094] The description of the present disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and variations that do not depart from the gist of the present disclosure are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. These variations should not be regarded as departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A hybrid projector system for a head-up display in a vehicle, comprising: a digital light projector adapted to project a first graphic image onto an interior surface of a windshield of the vehicle; as well as A vector graphics projector is adapted to project a second graphic image into the first graphic image on the inner surface of the windshield of the vehicle, the second graphic image having a greater brightness than the first graphic image and adapted to highlight features within the first graphic image.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The digital light projector comprises: A light source, suitable for projecting excitation light; a condenser lens, adapted to focus the excitation light from the light source; a color filter adapted to separate the focused excitation light into red light, green light and blue light; a shaping lens adapted to focus the excitation light passing through the color filter; a digital micromirror device (DMD) adapted to redirect the excitation light; and A projection lens is adapted to receive the excitation light from the digital micromirror device and project the excitation light onto an inner surface of the windshield.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The vector graphics projector comprises: Light source module, including: an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to generate source light; an optical filter in optical communication with the LED array, wherein the optical filter is configured to receive the source light and transmit filtered light; and a focusing lens in optical communication with the optical filter, wherein the focusing lens is configured to receive the filtered light and transmit a narrow beam of light; an optical collimator in optical communication with the light source module, wherein the optical collimator is configured to receive the narrow beam of light and transmit collimated light; and An optoelectronic mirror is in optical communication with the optical collimator, wherein the optoelectronic mirror is configured to direct the collimated light to form a pattern.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The optical filter is a bandpass filter configured to filter the source light and transmit the filtered light, wherein the filtered light includes only light having a wavelength within a passband of the bandpass filter.

5. The system of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of light source modules in optical communication with the optical collimator.

6. The system of claim 5, further comprising an optical waveguide in optical communication with a plurality of the light source modules and the optical collimator, wherein: The optical waveguide is configured to transmit a narrow beam of light from each of the plurality of light source modules to the optical collimator.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The optical waveguide is an optical fiber cable that optically communicates with a focusing lens of each of the plurality of light source modules using a fiber coupler.

8. The system of claim 5, further comprising a plurality of dichroic mirrors, wherein each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is in optical communication with one of the plurality of light source modules, and wherein each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is configured to transmit a narrow beam of light from one of the plurality of light source modules to the optical collimator.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein: Each of the plurality of dichroic mirrors is configured to reflect a narrow beam of light of a predetermined wavelength and transmit narrow beams of light of all other wavelengths.

10. The system of claim 5, wherein a first one of the plurality of light source modules is configured to generate a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 380 nanometers, wherein a second one of the plurality of light source modules is configured to generate a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 405 nanometers, and wherein a third one of the plurality of light source modules is configured to generate a narrow beam of light having a wavelength of 460 nanometers.

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