Head-up display system and vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a head-up display system and a vehicle, and belongs to the technical field of optics. The head-up display system comprises an image source, a first plane lens, a second plane lens and a free-form mirror. The image source includes a first display area and a second display area. The first plane lens is located on an emergent light path of the first display area, and the second plane lens is located on an emergent light path of the second display area. The optical path of light emitted by the first display area on the first plane lens is different from the optical path of light emitted by the second display area on the second plane lens. The free-form mirror is located on transmission light paths of the first plane lens and the second plane lens. Because the optical path of the light in the first plane lens is different from the optical path of the light in the second plane lens, the equivalent object distances of the first display area and the second display area are different, and the virtual image distances of two focal planes corresponding to the first display area and the second display area are different. Therefore, the head-up display system can generate two focal planes with different virtual image distances.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of optical technology, and in particular to head-up display systems and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] A head-up display (HUD) system projects vehicle instrument and navigation information into the driver's field of vision, eliminating the need for the driver to look down at the instrument panel or central control display below the steering wheel, thus improving driver safety.

[0003] A dual-focal-plane HUD system has two focal planes at different distances from the driver. Generally, the closer focal plane displays information such as vehicle speed and mileage, while the farther focal plane displays vehicle navigation information.

[0004] However, in the process of imaging the image displayed by the image source into a virtual image in front of the driver, two different object distances are required to obtain two focal planes. This means that two image sources need to be placed in two different positions, which increases the size, cost, and reliability of the dual-focal-plane HUD system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a head-up display system and a vehicle. The image source of the head-up display system has a first display area and a second display area. A first planar lens is inserted in the optical path from the first display area to a freeform mirror, and a second planar lens is inserted in the optical path from the second display area to the freeform mirror. The optical path lengths of light through the first and second planar lenses are different. This allows the virtual image distances of the two focal planes corresponding to the first and second display areas to be different. The technical solutions for the head-up display system and the vehicle are described below.

[0006] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a head-up display (HUD) system. The HUD system includes an image source, a first planar lens, a second planar lens, and a freeform mirror. The image source includes a first display area and a second display area. The first planar lens is located in the outgoing light path of the first display area, and the second planar lens is located in the outgoing light path of the second display area. The optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area through the first planar lens is different from the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area through the second planar lens. The freeform mirror is located in the transmission light path of the first and second planar lenses, and is used to reflect the light beams transmitted by the first and second planar lenses.

[0007] The image source includes a first display area and a second display area. One of the first and second display areas is used to display vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information, while the other is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information. The first and second planar lenses can be two independent lenses, two areas of a single lens, or two lens groups. A planar lens is a lens whose incident and exit surfaces are both flat, including lenses with parallel incident and exit surfaces, as well as lenses with incident and exit surfaces at a certain angle, such as wedge lenses. Freeform mirrors are also used to correct aberrations in the optical path of the head-up display system.

[0008] The technical solution provided in this disclosure, by inserting a first planar lens and a second planar lens into the optical path from the first display area to the freeform mirror and into the optical path from the second display area to the freeform mirror respectively, and the optical paths of the light in the first planar lens and the second planar lens are different, can change the equivalent object distance between the first display area and the second display area, thereby making the virtual image distances of the two focal planes corresponding to the first display area and the second display area different, so that the head-up display system can generate two focal planes with different virtual image distances.

[0009] Furthermore, since a plane lens is inserted into the original optical path, it does not cause significant deflection of the optical path. This minimizes the impact on the size of the head-up display system, resulting in lower cost and higher reliability. It should be noted that if a mirror assembly were inserted into the optical path, the optical path would fold, making the head-up display system excessively large.

[0010] Furthermore, by setting the first and second planar lenses as plane mirrors, compared to convex lenses, when arranging the first and second planar lenses in the optical path, it is not necessary to align the optical path with the central axis of the convex lens. Therefore, the installation accuracy requirements for the first and second planar lenses are lower, improving the reliability of the head-up display system. Moreover, while convex lenses have optical power and an optical axis, plane mirrors do not. Therefore, dynamically moving the plane mirror in the optical path does not affect the imaging distance, size, and position of the HUD system. Thus, the head-up display system provided in this disclosure has advantages such as high reliability and ease of assembly.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the first and second planar lenses have at least one difference in thickness and refractive index, such that the optical path length of light emitted from the first display area through the first planar lens is different from the optical path length of light emitted from the second display area through the second planar lens. Specifically, with a constant refractive index, a greater thickness of the planar lens results in a longer optical path length. Similarly, with a constant thickness, a greater refractive index of the planar lens results in a longer optical path length.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first display area is used to display vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information, and the second display area is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information. The optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area through the first planar lens is greater than the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area through the second planar lens.

[0013] The technical solution provided in this disclosure, through the above-described settings, enables the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the first display area to be smaller than the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the second display area. That is, it enables the display of vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information on the near-distance focal plane, and the display of vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information on the far-distance focal plane, which is more consistent with actual driving conditions.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the first planar lens is greater than the thickness of the second planar lens, and the refractive index of the first planar lens is greater than or equal to the refractive index of the second planar lens. This facilitates ensuring that the optical path length of light in the first planar lens is greater than that in the second planar lens.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the difference between the optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area and the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area in the second plane lens is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm. This ensures that the difference in virtual image distance between the two focal planes corresponding to the first and second display areas is between 0 m and 100 m, which conforms to actual driving conditions.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the difference between the optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area and the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area in the second plane lens is greater than 0 mm and less than 60 mm.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the difference between the thickness of the first planar lens and the thickness of the second planar lens is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the difference between the thickness of the first planar lens and the thickness of the second planar lens is greater than 0 mm and less than 60 mm.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the first plane lens and the second plane lens are two independent lenses or lens groups. Alternatively, the first plane lens and the second plane lens are two regions of the same lens or the same lens group. Alternatively, one of the first plane lens and the second plane lens is a solid lens, and the other is air.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the optical path of the light emitted from the first display area is adjustable via the first planar lens. This makes the equivalent object distance of the first display area adjustable, thereby making the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the first display area adjustable.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the optical path of the light emitted from the second display area is adjustable via the second planar lens. This allows for adjustment of the equivalent object distance of the second display area, and consequently, the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the second display area.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the second display area is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information, and the optical path of the light emitted from the second display area is adjustable through the second planar lens. This allows the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the second display area to be adjusted, enabling the displayed vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information to better match the actual driving environment and reducing visual fatigue after prolonged use.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the refractive index of at least one of the first and second plane lenses is adjustable. When the refractive index of the plane lens changes, the optical path length of the light through the plane lens also changes.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the thickness of at least one of the first and second planar lenses is adjustable. The adjustable thickness of the planar lens means that the thickness of the region of the planar lens located in the optical path is adjustable. When the thickness of the planar lens changes, the optical path length of the light within the planar lens changes.

[0025] In one possible implementation, at least one of the first and second planar lenses is a liquid crystal lens. The refractive index of the planar lens changes when the state of the liquid crystal changes.

[0026] In one possible implementation, at least one of the first and second planar lenses is an Alvarez lens.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the Alvarez lens includes a first sub-lens and a second sub-lens, which are positioned opposite each other. At least one of the first and second sub-lens is capable of changing the thickness of the region of the Alvarez lens located in the optical path by sliding.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the first planar lens is wedge-shaped, and its thickness gradually decreases from top to bottom. The focal plane corresponding to the first display area is called the first focal plane.

[0029] The technical solution provided in this disclosure, through the above-described configuration, allows the first focal plane to be tilted, and the distance between the first focal plane and the vehicle gradually decreases from top to bottom. This makes the virtual image displayed on the first focal plane easier for the driver to view.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the second planar lens is wedge-shaped, and its thickness gradually decreases from top to bottom. The focal plane corresponding to the second display area is called the second focal plane.

[0031] The technical solution provided in this disclosure, through the above-described configuration, allows the second focal plane to be tilted, and the distance between the second focal plane and the vehicle gradually decreases from top to bottom. This makes the virtual image displayed on the second focal plane easier for the driver to view.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the image source further includes a third display area, and the head-up display system also includes a third planar lens located in the outgoing light path of the third display area. The optical path lengths of the light emitted from the first display area, the second display area, and the third display area in the third planar lens are all different. A freeform mirror is also located in the transmission light path of the third planar lens, and the freeform mirror is also used to reflect the transmitted light beam from the third planar lens. This allows the head-up display system to generate three virtual image focal planes with different distances.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the head-up display system further includes a fourth planar lens, a portion of which faces the first planar lens and a portion of which faces the second planar lens. The fourth planar lens is movable to adjust the position and area of ​​the portion of the fourth planar lens facing the first planar lens, as well as the position and area of ​​the portion of the fourth planar lens facing the second planar lens.

[0034] In this configuration, the portion of the first plane lens not opposite to the fourth plane lens corresponds to a focal plane, the portion of the first plane lens opposite to the fourth plane lens corresponds to a focal plane, the portion of the second plane lens not opposite to the fourth plane lens corresponds to a focal plane, and the portion of the second plane lens opposite to the fourth plane lens corresponds to a focal plane. When the fourth plane lens moves, the position and size of these four focal planes can be adjusted.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the second display area includes a first sub-display area and a second sub-display area. The second planar lens includes a third sub-planar lens and a fourth sub-planar lens, which are arranged horizontally. The third sub-planar lens is located in the light path exiting the first sub-display area, and the fourth sub-planar lens is located in the light path exiting the second sub-display area. The optical path of the light exiting the first sub-display area via the third sub-planar lens is adjustable, and the optical path of the light exiting the second sub-display area via the fourth sub-planar lens is also adjustable. The first and second sub-display areas are arranged horizontally.

[0036] The technical solution provided in this disclosure addresses the issue that the required display distance for information displayed on either side of a vehicle may differ during driving. For example, during a turn, information may need to be displayed at a close distance on one side of the vehicle, while information may need to be displayed at a distant distance on the other side. This disclosure, by setting a second planar lens including a third and fourth sub-planar lens arranged horizontally, enables the creation of a fifth and sixth sub-focal plane arranged horizontally.

[0037] Furthermore, since the optical path of the light emitted from the first sub-display area through the third sub-plane lens is adjustable, and the optical path of the light emitted from the second sub-display area through the fourth sub-plane lens is adjustable, the virtual image distances of the fifth and sixth sub-focal planes are also adjustable. Therefore, the virtual image distances of the fifth and sixth sub-focal planes can be adjusted according to actual driving conditions to regulate the distance of information displayed on both sides of the vehicle.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the thicknesses of the third and fourth sub-plane lenses are adjustable.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the second display area includes a first sub-display area and a second sub-display area, with a second planar lens located on the outgoing light path of the first and second sub-display areas. The head-up display system also includes a fifth planar lens, which is opposite to the second planar lens, and the fifth planar lens can switch between the outgoing light path of the first and second sub-display areas by moving in the horizontal direction.

[0040] The technical solution provided in this disclosure addresses the issue that the required display distance for information displayed on either side of a vehicle may differ during driving. For example, during a turn, information may need to be displayed at a close distance on one side of the vehicle, while information needs to be displayed at a distant distance on the other side. This disclosure addresses this by incorporating a fifth planar lens that can move horizontally, allowing the fifth planar lens to switch between the light path emitted from the first sub-display area and the light path emitted from the second sub-display area, thereby altering the optical path length of the light emitted from the first and second sub-display areas.

[0041] In this way, the head-up display system can realize a fifth and sixth sub-focal plane arranged horizontally, and the virtual image distance of the fifth and sixth sub-focal planes is adjustable. Therefore, the virtual image distance of the fifth and sixth sub-focal planes can be adjusted according to the actual driving conditions to adjust the distance of the information displayed on both sides of the vehicle.

[0042] Secondly, this disclosure provides a head-up display system. The head-up display system includes an image source, a first planar lens, and a freeform mirror. The image source includes a first display area and a second display area. The first planar lens is located in the outgoing light path of the first display area. The freeform mirror is located in the transmission light path of the first planar lens and in the outgoing light path of the second display area. The freeform mirror is used to reflect the light beam transmitted by the first planar lens and the light beam emitted from the second display area.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the second display area is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the light emitted from the first display area has an optical path greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm through the first planar lens.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the first planar lens is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

[0046] Thirdly, this disclosure provides a vehicle. The vehicle includes a head-up display system as described in either the first or second aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is a side view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0048] Figure 2 This is a side view of a head-up display system without a first planar lens and a second planar lens provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0049] Figure 3 This is an equivalent optical path diagram of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 4 This is an equivalent optical path diagram of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 5 This is a side view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0052] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an Alvarez lens provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0053] Figure 7 This is a side view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0054] Figure 8 This is a side view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0055] Figure 9 This is a side view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0056] Figure 10 This is a side view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0057] Figure 11 This is a top view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0058] Figure 12 This is a top view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0059] Figure 13 This is a side view of a head-up display system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0060] Legend

[0061] 1. Image source; 10. Virtual display area; 11. First display area; 110. First focal plane; 1101. First sub-focal plane; 1102. Second sub-focal plane; 111. Initial focal plane; 12. Second display area; 120. Second focal plane; 1201. Third sub-focal plane; 1202. Fourth sub-focal plane; 1203. Fifth sub-focal plane; 1204. Sixth sub-focal plane; 121. First sub-display area; 122. Second sub-display area; 13. Third display area; 130. Third focal plane;

[0062] 2. First plane lens;

[0063] 3. Second plane lens; 31. First sub-lens; 32. Second sub-lens; 33. Third sub-plane lens; 34. Fourth sub-plane lens;

[0064] 4. Freeform mirror;

[0065] 5. Windshield;

[0066] 6. Equivalent lens;

[0067] 7. Third plane lens;

[0068] 8. Fourth plane lens;

[0069] 9. Fifth plane lens. Detailed Implementation

[0070] A head-up display (HUD) system projects vehicle instrument and navigation information into the driver's field of vision, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road at all times, avoiding the dangers of looking down and significantly improving driving safety.

[0071] HUD systems are divided into single-focal-plane HUD systems and dual-focal-plane HUD systems. A single-focal-plane HUD system generates a single focal plane (or focal dimension). A dual-focal-plane HUD system generates two focal planes, for example, one 2.5m away from the driver and another 10m away. Generally, information such as vehicle speed and mileage is displayed on the closer focal plane, while navigation information is displayed on the farther focal plane. Dual-focal-plane HUD systems are often closely associated with the concept of augmented reality (AR) in applications because the farther focal plane is deeply matched to the real world, allowing the dual-focal-plane HUD system to carry richer interactive information, such as displaying road information, navigation information, and collision information on the farther focal plane.

[0072] However, dual-focal-plane HUD systems have the following two technical problems.

[0073] (1) Based on the basic Gaussian formula, in order to obtain two focal planes, two different object distances are required to image the image displayed by the image source as a virtual image in front of the driver. This means that two image sources need to be placed at two different positions, which increases the size, cost and reliability of the dual-focal-plane HUD system.

[0074] Alternatively, although a dual-focal-plane HUD system contains only one image source, part of the display area of ​​that image source needs to be imaged to a position different from its physical location by passing through a set of mirrors. The two display areas, one passing through the mirror set and the other not, correspond to two object distances. However, the arrangement of the mirror set requires changing the original optical path, causing the original optical path to fold. This will increase the size of the dual-focal-plane HUD system, increase its cost, and reduce its reliability.

[0075] (2) The actual driving environment is complex, and two focal planes cannot ensure that the displayed virtual image always matches the real road scene, which can cause driver visual fatigue and depth misjudgment, affecting driving safety. Therefore, HUD systems need more focal planes, or focal planes with continuously adjustable positions.

[0076] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a HUD system. This HUD system can generate two or more focal planes without requiring two image sources or additional mirror assemblies, resulting in a smaller size, lower cost, and higher reliability. The HUD system provided in this disclosure will now be described by way of example.

[0077] like Figure 1 As shown, the HUD system includes an image source 1, a first planar lens 2, a second planar lens 3, and a freeform mirror 4. The image source 1 includes a first display area 11 and a second display area 12. The first planar lens 2 is located in the outgoing light path of the first display area 11, and the second planar lens 3 is located in the outgoing light path of the second display area 12. The optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area 11 through the first planar lens 2 is different from the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area 12 through the second planar lens 3. The freeform mirror 4 is located in the transmission light path of the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3, and is used to reflect the light beams transmitted by the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3. The freeform mirror 4 reflects the light beams to the windshield 5, and the windshield 5 reflects the light beams to the human eye.

[0078] Image source 1 includes a first display area 11 and a second display area 12. One of the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 is used to display vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information, and the other is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information and / or collision information.

[0079] A plane lens is a lens whose incident and exit surfaces are both flat. This includes lenses whose incident and exit surfaces are parallel, as well as lenses whose incident and exit surfaces form a certain angle, such as wedge lenses.

[0080] The first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 can be two independent lenses or lens groups, or they can be two regions of a single lens or lens group (e.g., ...). Figure 8 (as shown), or, one of the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 is a solid lens, and the other is air (as shown). Figure 13 (As shown). The freeform mirror 4 is also used to correct aberrations in the optical path.

[0081] The technical solution provided in this disclosure, by inserting a first planar lens 2 and a second planar lens 3 into the optical path from the first display area 11 to the freeform mirror 4, and into the optical path from the second display area 12 to the freeform mirror 4, respectively, and with different optical path lengths of the light from the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3, can change the equivalent object distance of the first display area 11 and the second display area 12, thereby making the virtual image distances of the two focal planes corresponding to the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 different, enabling the HUD system provided in this disclosure to generate two focal planes. Wherein, as... Figure 1 As shown, the focal plane corresponding to the first display area 11 and the first planar lens 2 is the first focal plane 110, and the focal plane corresponding to the second display area 12 and the second planar lens 3 is the second focal plane 120.

[0082] Furthermore, since the lenses are inserted into the original optical path, there is no significant deflection of the optical path. Thus, the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 have minimal impact on the size of the HUD system, resulting in lower cost and higher reliability. Understandably, if a mirror assembly were inserted into the optical path, the optical path would fold, making the HUD system larger.

[0083] Furthermore, the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 are plane mirrors. Thus, compared to convex lenses, when mounting the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 in the optical path, it is not necessary to align the optical path with the central axis of the convex lens. Therefore, the installation accuracy requirements for the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 are lower, improving the reliability of the HUD system. In addition, while convex lenses have optical power and an optical axis, plane lenses do not. Therefore, dynamically moving the plane lenses in the optical path does not affect the distance, size, and position of the virtual image in the HUD system. Thus, setting the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 as plane mirrors also has advantages such as high reliability and ease of assembly.

[0084] It should be noted that, as Figure 2 As shown, if the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 are not set in the HUD system, the object distances of the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 are the same, and the HUD system will generate two focal planes with the same virtual image distance, that is, the virtual image distances of the first focal plane 110 and the second focal plane 120 are the same. Alternatively, it can be considered that only one focal plane is generated.

[0085] The principle of how the first planar lens 2 changes the equivalent object distance of the first display area 11 and the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the first display area 11 will be explained below.

[0086] like Figure 3As shown, when the first planar lens 2 is absent, the light emitted from the first display area 11 enters the equivalent lens 6 along the optical path indicated by the solid line and is focused on the initial focal plane 111. That is, if the first planar lens 2 is absent, an image will be formed on the initial focal plane 111. Here, the equivalent lens 6 represents the freeform mirror 4 and the windshield 5, and is the lens equivalent to the freeform mirror 4 and the windshield 5. When the first planar lens 2 is present, the light emitted from the first display area 11, after entering the first planar lens 2, enters the equivalent lens 6 along the optical path indicated by the dashed line and is focused on the first focal plane 110. That is, if the first planar lens 2 is present, an image will be formed on the first focal plane 110. Figure 3 In the middle, F represents the focal point of the equivalent lens 6.

[0087] like Figure 3 As shown, since the light emitted from the first display area 11 passes through the first planar lens 2, the height at which the light enters the equivalent lens 6 is changed, thereby transforming the initial focal plane 111 into the first focal plane 110. That is, inserting the first planar lens 2 into the optical path from the first display area 11 to the freeform mirror 4 changes the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the first display area 11 compared to not inserting the first planar lens 2.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, based on the principle of optical path reversibility, this is equivalent to changing the position of the first display area 11 to an equivalent display area 10. That is, it is equivalent to the image displayed in the equivalent display area 10 being imaged onto the first focal plane 110 after passing through the equivalent lens 6. Therefore, by inserting the first planar lens 2 into the optical path, the equivalent object distance of the first display area 11 is changed, thereby changing the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the first display area 11.

[0089] Assuming the refractive index of the first planar lens 2 is n and its thickness is t, then the change in object distance after the light emitted from the first display area 11 passes through the first planar lens 2 is... In HUD system Where s is the object distance, v is the virtual image distance, and f is the focal length. Therefore, when the light emitted from the first display area 11 passes through the first planar lens 2, it changes the equivalent object distance s of the first display area 11, thereby changing the virtual image distance v of the focal plane corresponding to the first display area 11. Specifically, for virtual image display systems like HUD systems, after inserting the first planar lens 2, the equivalent object distance s becomes shorter, and the virtual image distance v also becomes shorter.

[0090] It should be noted that the principle by which the second planar lens 3 changes the equivalent object distance of the second display area 12 and the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the second display area 12 is the same as the principle by which the first planar lens 2 changes the equivalent object distance of the first display area 11 and the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the first display area 11, and will not be repeated here.

[0091] The embodiments disclosed herein do not limit the implementation of different optical paths of light in the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3. In some examples, at least one of the thickness and refractive index of the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 is different, so that the optical path of light in the first plane lens 2 is different from that in the second plane lens 3.

[0092] In some examples, the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 have the same thickness but different refractive indices, which makes the optical path of light different in the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3.

[0093] In other examples, the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 have the same refractive index but different thicknesses, which makes the optical path of light different in the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3.

[0094] In other examples, the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 have different refractive indices and thicknesses, resulting in different optical path lengths for light in the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3.

[0095] The following is an exemplary description of the relationship between the optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area 11 and the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area 12 and the second plane lens 3.

[0096] In some examples, the first display area 11 is used to display vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information, and the second display area 12 is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area 11 through the first planar lens 2 is greater than the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area 12 through the second planar lens 3.

[0097] Thus, as Figure 1 As shown, the virtual image distance of the first focal plane 110 corresponding to the first display area 11 is smaller than the virtual image distance of the second focal plane 120 corresponding to the second display area 12. That is, it is possible to display vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information on the near-distance focal plane, and vehicle navigation information, road information and / or collision information on the far-distance focal plane, which is more consistent with actual driving conditions.

[0098] To achieve an optical path length greater than that of the light in the first plane lens 2, in some examples, such as Figure 1As shown, the thickness of the first plane lens 2 is greater than the thickness of the second plane lens 3, and the refractive index of the first plane lens 2 is greater than or equal to the refractive index of the second plane lens 3.

[0099] Where the refractive index remains constant, the greater the thickness of the plane lens, the greater the optical path length of light within the plane lens. Similarly, where the thickness remains constant, the greater the refractive index of the plane lens, the greater the optical path length of light within the plane lens. Therefore, by setting the thickness of the first plane lens 2 to be greater than the thickness of the second plane lens 3, and ensuring that the refractive index of the first plane lens 2 is greater than the refractive index of the second plane lens 3, it is convenient to ensure that the optical path length of light in the first plane lens 2 is greater than that in the second plane lens 3.

[0100] In some examples, the difference between the optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area 11 and the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area 12 and the second plane lens 3 is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm. This ensures that the difference between the virtual image distance of the second focal plane 120 and the virtual image distance of the first focal plane 110 is between 0 m and 100 m, which conforms to actual driving conditions.

[0101] In some examples, the difference between the thickness of the first planar lens 2 and the thickness of the second planar lens 3 is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

[0102] In some examples, the difference between the optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area 11 and the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area 12 and the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area 12 and the second plane lens 3 is greater than 0 mm and less than 60 mm.

[0103] In some examples, the difference between the thickness of the first planar lens 2 and the thickness of the second planar lens 3 is greater than 0 mm and less than 60 mm.

[0104] In some examples, the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 are made of glass or optical plastic. For example, the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 are made of flat glass or flat optical plastic.

[0105] As discussed above, the actual driving environment is complex, and a dual-focal-surface HUD system cannot guarantee that the displayed virtual image always matches the real road scene. Therefore, the HUD needs to generate more focal planes, or focal planes with continuously adjustable positions. In some examples, embodiments of this disclosure set the optical path length in the first planar lens 2 to be adjustable, so that the virtual image distance of the first focal plane 110 corresponding to the first display area 11 is adjustable. Alternatively, the optical path length in the second planar lens 3 is adjustable, so that the virtual image distance of the second focal plane 120 corresponding to the second display area 12 is adjustable (e.g., ...). Figure 5 (As shown).

[0106] In some examples, such as Figure 5As shown, the second display area 12 is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information, and the optical path of the light emitted from the second display area 12 is adjustable in the second planar lens 3. This allows the virtual image distance of the second focal plane 120 corresponding to the second display area 12 to be adjustable, enabling the displayed vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information to better match the actual driving environment and reducing visual fatigue after prolonged use.

[0107] In some examples, the difference between the optical path adjustment range of the light emitted from the second display area 12 and the optical path of the light emitted from the first display area 11 from the first plane lens 2 is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

[0108] This disclosure does not limit the implementation method of making the optical path of light in the plane lens adjustable. In some examples, the refractive index of at least one of the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 is adjustable. In this way, by adjusting the refractive index of the plane lens, the optical path of light in the plane lens can be adjusted, thereby changing the virtual image distance of the focal plane corresponding to the plane lens.

[0109] In some examples, at least one of the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 is a liquid crystal lens. Therefore, by adjusting the state of the liquid crystal in the planar lens, the refractive index of the planar lens can be changed.

[0110] In other examples, the thickness of at least one of the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 is adjustable. Here, the thickness of the planar lens refers to the thickness of the region of the planar lens in the optical path. Thus, by adjusting the thickness of the planar lens, the optical path length of light through the planar lens can be adjusted, thereby changing the virtual image distance of the corresponding focal plane of the planar lens.

[0111] This disclosure does not limit the implementation method of adjustable thickness of the planar lens. In some examples, such as... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the second planar lens 3 includes a first sub-lens 31 and a second sub-lens 32, which are located in the outgoing light path of the second display area 12. The thickness of the portion of the first sub-lens 31 and the second sub-lens 32 located in the light path can be adjusted by relative sliding, thereby realizing the adjustment of the thickness of the second planar lens 3.

[0112] In some examples, such as Figure 6 As shown, at least one of the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 is an Alvarez lens.

[0113] In other examples, if at least one of the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 is a wedge lens, then by driving the second planar lens 3 to move, the thickness of the portion of the planar lens in the optical path can be adjusted.

[0114] In other examples, at least one of the first planar lens 2 and the second planar lens 3 is an element with an nth-power exponent surface shape. Therefore, by controlling the rotation of the planar lens, the thickness of the portion of the planar lens in the optical path can be adjusted.

[0115] In some examples, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first planar lens 2 is wedge-shaped, and its thickness gradually decreases from top to bottom. This causes the first focal plane 110 to be tilted, and its distance from the vehicle gradually decreases from top to bottom. Consequently, the virtual image displayed on the first focal plane 110 is easier for the driver to view.

[0116] In some examples, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the second planar lens 3 is wedge-shaped, and its thickness gradually decreases from top to bottom. This causes the second focal plane 120 to be tilted, and its distance from the vehicle gradually decreases from top to bottom. Consequently, the virtual image displayed on the second focal plane 120 is easier for the driver to view.

[0117] It should be noted that the top-to-bottom direction referred to in the embodiments of this disclosure is based on the premise that the head-up display system is installed in the vehicle.

[0118] In some examples, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 are two independent plane lenses. In other examples, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3 are two regions of the same plane lens.

[0119] In some examples, such as Figure 9As shown, image source 1 also includes a third display area 13. The head-up display system also includes a third planar lens 7, which is located in the outgoing light path of the third display area 13. The optical paths of the light emitted from the first display area 11 in the first planar lens 2, the light emitted from the second display area 12 in the second planar lens 3, and the light emitted from the third display area 13 in the third planar lens 7 are all different. A freeform mirror 4 is also located in the transmission light path of the third planar lens 7, and the freeform mirror 4 is also used to reflect the light beam transmitted by the third planar lens 7. The focal plane corresponding to the third display area 13 is the third focal plane 130. Thus, the HUD system can generate a first focal plane 110, a second focal plane 120, and a third focal plane 130. Of course, the HUD system can also include more planar lenses to achieve more focal planes.

[0120] In some examples, the first plane lens 2, the second plane lens 3, and the third plane lens 7 can be three independent lenses or lens groups, or they can be three regions of a single lens or lens group.

[0121] In some examples, such as Figure 10 As shown, the HUD system also includes a fourth planar lens 8, a portion of which faces the first planar lens 2 and a portion of which faces the second planar lens 3. The fourth planar lens 8 is movable to adjust the position and area of ​​the portion of the fourth planar lens 8 facing the first planar lens 2, and the position and area of ​​the portion of the fourth planar lens 8 facing the second planar lens 3.

[0122] In this configuration, the portion of the first plane lens 2 not opposite to the fourth plane lens 8 corresponds to the first sub-focal surface 1101, and the portion of the first plane lens 2 opposite to the fourth plane lens 8 corresponds to the second sub-focal surface 1102. The portion of the second plane lens 3 not opposite to the fourth plane lens 8 corresponds to the third sub-focal surface 1201, and the portion of the second plane lens 3 opposite to the fourth plane lens 8 corresponds to the fourth sub-focal surface 1202. The first focal surface 110 includes the aforementioned first sub-focal surface 1101 and second sub-focal surface 1102. The second focal surface 120 includes the third sub-focal surface 1201 and fourth focal surface 1202. When the fourth plane lens 8 moves, the position and size of the four focal surfaces can be adjusted.

[0123] During vehicle operation, the required display distance for information displayed on either side of the vehicle may differ. For example, when the vehicle is turning, information may need to be displayed at close range on one side and at a greater distance on the other. This necessitates that the HUD system generate two focal planes arranged horizontally, with adjustable virtual image distance between the two focal planes. To achieve this functionality, in some examples, such as... Figure 11As shown, the second display area 12 includes a first sub-display area 121 and a second sub-display area 122. The second planar lens 3 includes a third sub-planar lens 33 and a fourth sub-planar lens 34, which are arranged horizontally. The third sub-planar lens 33 is located in the light path of the first sub-display area 121, and the fourth sub-planar lens 34 is located in the light path of the second sub-display area 122.

[0124] In this design, the optical path of the light emitted from the first sub-display area 121 through the third sub-plane lens 33 is adjustable, and the optical path of the light emitted from the second sub-display area 122 through the fourth sub-plane lens 34 is adjustable. For example, the thicknesses of the third sub-plane lens 33 and the fourth sub-plane lens 34 are adjustable. The focal plane corresponding to the first sub-display area 121 is the fifth sub-focal plane 1203, and the focal plane corresponding to the second sub-display area 122 is the sixth sub-focal plane 1204.

[0125] The technical solution provided in this disclosure allows for the adjustment of the virtual image distance between the fifth sub-focal plane 1203 and the sixth sub-focal plane 1204, since the optical path of the light emitted from the first sub-display area 121 is adjustable via the third sub-plane lens 33, and the optical path of the light emitted from the second sub-display area 122 is adjustable via the fourth sub-plane lens 34. Therefore, the virtual image distance between the fifth sub-focal plane 1203 and the sixth sub-focal plane 1204 can be adjusted according to actual driving conditions to regulate the distance of information displayed on both sides of the vehicle.

[0126] In other examples, such as Figure 12 As shown, the second display area 12 includes a first sub-display area 121 and a second sub-display area 122, and the second planar lens 3 is located on the light path of the first sub-display area 121 and the second sub-display area 122. The HUD system also includes a fifth planar lens 9, which is opposite to the second planar lens 3, and the fifth planar lens 9 can switch between the light path of the first sub-display area 121 and the light path of the second sub-display area 122 by moving in the horizontal direction.

[0127] In this way, by controlling the movement of the fifth plane lens 9, the virtual image distance between the fifth sub-focal plane 1203 and the sixth sub-focal plane 1204 can be adjusted to adjust the distance of the information displayed on both sides of the vehicle.

[0128] It should be noted that the aforementioned first planar lens 2 and second planar lens 3 are not limited to flat glass, but actually refer to optical elements with a certain refractive index and a certain thickness. They should include transparent optical materials with uneven thickness and air with a refractive index of 1.

[0129] For example, such as Figure 13As shown, one of the plane lenses, the first plane lens 2 and the second plane lens 3, is replaced by air. Alternatively, it can be described as follows: Figure 13 As shown, the HUD system includes an image source 1, a first planar lens 2, and a freeform mirror 4. The image source 1 includes a first display area 11 and a second display area 12. The first planar lens 2 is located in the outgoing light path of the first display area 11. The freeform mirror 4 is located in the transmitted light path of the first planar lens 2 and the outgoing light path of the second display area 12. The freeform mirror 4 is used to reflect the light beam transmitted by the first planar lens 2 and the light beam emitted from the second display area 12.

[0130] In some examples, the second display area 12 is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information, and / or collision information.

[0131] In some examples, the light emitted from the first display area 11 has an optical path greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm from the first planar lens 2. This allows the difference between the virtual image distance of the second focal plane 120 corresponding to the second display area 12 and the virtual image distance of the first focal plane 110 corresponding to the first display area 11 to be between 0 m and 100 m.

[0132] In some examples, the light emitted from the first display area 11 has an optical path greater than 0 mm and less than 60 mm from the first planar lens 2.

[0133] In some examples, the thickness of the first planar lens 2 is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

[0134] In some examples, the thickness of the first planar lens 2 is greater than 0 mm and less than 60 mm.

[0135] It should also be noted that the technical solutions provided in this disclosure are not limited to HUD systems, but can also be applied to head-mounted displays. That is, the above-mentioned HUD system can also be replaced by a head-mounted display.

[0136] This disclosure also provides a vehicle. The vehicle includes the HUD system described above.

[0137] In some examples, the HUD system is installed in the vehicle's center console.

[0138] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure should be understood in their ordinary sense by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this specification and claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Similarly, "a" or "an," and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "comprising," "including," and similar terms mean that the elements or objects preceding "comprising" or "including" encompass the elements or objects listed following "comprising" or "including" and their equivalents, but do not exclude other elements or objects. "Upper," "lower," "left," "right," etc., are used only to indicate relative positional relationships; when the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly. "A plurality" refers to two or more, unless otherwise expressly defined.

[0139] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the principles of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A head-up display system, characterized in that, The head-up display system includes an image source (1), a first planar lens (2), a second planar lens (3), and a freeform mirror (4); The image source (1) includes a first display area (11) and a second display area (12); The first planar lens (2) is located on the outgoing light path of the first display area (11), and the second planar lens (3) is located on the outgoing light path of the second display area (12). The optical path of the light emitted from the first display area (11) in the first planar lens (2) is different from the optical path of the light emitted from the second display area (12) in the second planar lens (3). The freeform mirror (4) is located on the transmission light path of the first plane lens (2) and the second plane lens (3), and the freeform mirror (4) is used to reflect the light beam transmitted by the first plane lens (2) and the second plane lens (3).

2. The head-up display system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness and refractive index of the first planar lens (2) and the second planar lens (3) are different, such that the optical path of the light emitted from the first display area (11) in the first planar lens (2) is different from the optical path of the light emitted from the second display area (12) in the second planar lens (3).

3. The head-up display system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first display area (11) is used to display vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information, and the second display area (12) is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information and / or collision information; The optical path of the light emitted from the first display area (11) through the first planar lens (2) is greater than the optical path of the light emitted from the second display area (12) through the second planar lens (3).

4. The head-up display system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The thickness of the first planar lens (2) is greater than the thickness of the second planar lens (3), and the refractive index of the first planar lens (2) is greater than or equal to the refractive index of the second planar lens (3).

5. The head-up display system according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The difference between the optical path length of the light emitted from the first display area (11) in the first planar lens (2) and the optical path length of the light emitted from the second display area (12) in the second planar lens (3) is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

6. The head-up display system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The difference between the thickness of the first planar lens (2) and the thickness of the second planar lens (3) is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

7. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first planar lens (2) and the second planar lens (3) are two independent lenses or lens groups; or, The first plane lens (2) and the second plane lens (3) are two regions of the same lens or the same lens group; or, One of the first planar lens (2) and the second planar lens (3) is a solid lens, and the other is air.

8. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The optical path of the light emitted from the first display area (11) through the first planar lens (2) is adjustable; and / or, The optical path of the light emitted from the second display area (12) is adjustable in the second planar lens (3).

9. The head-up display system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second display area (12) is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information and / or collision information, and the light emitted from the second display area (12) has an adjustable optical path in the second planar lens (3).

10. The head-up display system according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The refractive index of at least one of the first planar lens (2) and the second planar lens (3) is adjustable; or the thickness of at least one of the first planar lens (2) and the second planar lens (3) is adjustable.

11. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 8-10, characterized in that, At least one of the first planar lens (2) and the second planar lens (3) is a liquid crystal lens; or, at least one of the first planar lens (2) and the second planar lens (3) is an Alvarez lens.

12. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The first planar lens (2) is wedge-shaped, and its thickness gradually decreases from top to bottom; and / or, The second planar lens (3) is wedge-shaped, and its thickness gradually decreases from top to bottom.

13. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The image source (1) also includes a third display area (13); The head-up display system further includes a third planar lens (7), which is located in the outgoing light path of the third display area (13). The optical path of the light emitted from the first display area (11) in the first planar lens (2), the optical path of the light emitted from the second display area (12) in the second planar lens (3), and the optical path of the light emitted from the third display area (13) in the third planar lens (7) are different from each other. The freeform mirror (4) is also located on the transmission light path of the third plane lens (7), and the freeform mirror (4) is also used to reflect the light beam transmitted by the third plane lens (7) to the outside.

14. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 1-13, characterized in that, The head-up display system also includes a fourth planar lens (8), a portion of which is opposite to the first planar lens (2) and a portion of which is opposite to the second planar lens (3); The fourth planar lens (8) is movable to adjust the position and area of ​​the portion of the fourth planar lens (8) opposite to the first planar lens (2), and the position and area of ​​the portion of the fourth planar lens (8) opposite to the second planar lens (3).

15. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 1-14, characterized in that, The second display area (12) includes a first sub-display area (121) and a second sub-display area (122); The second planar lens (3) includes a third sub-planar lens (33) and a fourth sub-planar lens (34). The third sub-planar lens (33) and the fourth sub-planar lens (34) are arranged in a horizontal direction. The third sub-planar lens (33) is located in the light path of the first sub-display area (121), and the fourth sub-planar lens (34) is located in the light path of the second sub-display area (122). The light emitted from the first sub-display area (121) has an adjustable optical path in the third sub-plane lens (33), and the light emitted from the second sub-display area (122) has an adjustable optical path in the fourth sub-plane lens (34).

16. The head-up display system according to any one of claims 1-14, characterized in that, The second display area (12) includes a first sub-display area (121) and a second sub-display area (122), and the second planar lens (3) is located on the outgoing light path of the first sub-display area (121) and the second sub-display area (122); The head-up display system also includes a fifth planar lens (9), which is opposite to the second planar lens (3), and the fifth planar lens (9) can switch between the outgoing light path of the first sub-display area (121) and the outgoing light path of the second sub-display area (122) by moving in the horizontal direction.

17. A head-up display system, characterized in that, The head-up display system includes an image source (1), a first planar lens (2), and a freeform mirror (4); The image source (1) includes a first display area (11) and a second display area (12); The first planar lens (2) is located on the outgoing light path of the first display area (11); The freeform mirror (4) is located on the transmission light path of the first planar lens (2) and the emission light path of the second display area (12). The freeform mirror (4) is used to reflect the light beam transmitted by the first planar lens (2) and the light beam emitted from the second display area (12).

18. The head-up display system according to claim 17, characterized in that, The first display area (11) is used to display vehicle speed information and / or vehicle mileage information, and the second display area (12) is used to display vehicle navigation information, road information and / or collision information.

19. The head-up display system according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The light emitted from the first display area (11) has an optical path of greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm in the first planar lens (2).

20. The head-up display system according to claim 19, characterized in that, The thickness of the first planar lens (2) is greater than 0 mm and less than 80 mm.

21. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a head-up display system as described in any one of claims 1-16 or as described in any one of claims 17-20.

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