Display device, vehicle, display system, mobile body, and image display unit storage device

Abstract

A display device of the present disclosure includes a first display portion including a first image display portion that displays a first image and a first optical system that forms a first imaging image of the first image, and a second display portion including a second image display portion that displays a second image, the first display portion and the second display portion being arranged so that the respective optical paths intersect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an image display device that allows a user to view an image, as well as a vehicle, display system, and mobile body equipped with the display device. The invention specifically relates to an image display unit housing device. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices that form a real image of an image on a screen and allow a user to see the real image are known, as well as virtual image display devices that form a virtual image of an image and allow a user to see the virtual image (e.g., Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 7528348 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The display device disclosed herein includes: a first display unit comprising a first image display unit for displaying a first image and a first optical system for forming a first imaging image of the first image; and a second display unit comprising a second image display unit for displaying a second image, wherein the first display unit and the second display unit are arranged in a manner in which their respective optical paths intersect. The vehicle, display system, and mobile body of this disclosure include the display device. The image display unit housing device of the present invention is a device capable of housing a display unit.

[0007] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display section for a first mode of the display device.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display section for a second configuration of the display device.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a third-party display section used in the display device.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the display device mounted on a vehicle.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the display device mounted on a vehicle as an RSE.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the display device according to the second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the display device according to the third embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the display device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device that uses a fourth method of display, as an example.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device that uses a fourth method of display, as another example.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device that uses a fourth method of display, as yet another example.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device that uses a fifth-mode display section as an example.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device that uses a sixth method of display, as another example.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating, as an example, various display units using the fifth and sixth methods.

[0023] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device that uses the fifth and sixth modes of display, as another example. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Hereinafter, one or more embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. It should be noted that structures marked with the same reference numerals in the various figures represent the same structures, and their descriptions are appropriately omitted. In this specification, reference numerals without subscripts are used in general contexts, and reference numerals with subscripts are used when referring to individual structures.

[0025] Conventionally, there has been a desire to increase the design freedom of display devices with multiple display units. Therefore, the display device of this embodiment includes multiple (two) first display units and second display units. Each first display unit includes a first image display unit that displays a first image, and a first optical system that forms a first image of the first image. Each second display unit includes a second image display unit that displays a second image. Furthermore, the first and second display units are arranged with their respective optical paths intersecting. When multiple images are formed, the display device includes a separate display unit for each image. Such a display device can satisfy the above-mentioned requirements. Hereinafter, such a display device will be described in more detail in several embodiments.

[0026] (First Implementation)

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the display device in the embodiment. Figure 1 The upper part of the drawing is a sectional view. Figure 1 The lower part of the image is a 3D view of the exterior. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display section for a first mode of the display device. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display section for a second configuration of the display device. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a third-party display section used in the aforementioned display device. Figures 2 to 4 In the diagrams, the upper figures are sectional views. The lower figures are diagrams used to illustrate the optical path and polarization state of the optical system. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the display device mounted on a vehicle. Figure 5 The upper part of the image is an overall overview of the vehicle. Figure 5 The lower part of the diagram is a summary view of the front section of the vehicle's interior. Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the display device mounted on a vehicle as an RSE.

[0028] One embodiment of the display device disclosed herein can be a non-assembly type device for visual inspection. That is, the display device can be used without being mounted to a visual inspector, but fixed to the environment. The display device refers to, for example, a device fixed to a wall, pillar, or ceiling. Alternatively, the display device can be fixed to the interior of a vehicle. This device can also be mounted to a visual inspector. When mounted to a visual inspector, the display device may also have a mounting part (not shown) to fix the visual inspection window at the position of the visual inspector's eyes.

[0029] The display device 1000a in the first embodiment includes a plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b and a frame (housing) HSA housing these first display units 10a and second display units 10b. These first display units 10a and second display units 10b are arranged in a manner that their respective optical paths LPa and LPb intersect. It should be noted that in... Figure 1In the example shown, the intersection angle is 90°, but the intersection angle is not limited to 90° as long as the light paths LPa and LPb intersect. More specifically, the frame HSA can be a hollow, generally rectangular parallelepiped-shaped component. The first display unit 10a is disposed on the first inner surface (e.g., the bottom surface) WL1 within the frame and housed within the frame HSA. The second display unit 10b is disposed on the second inner surface (e.g., the left side when viewing the paper from the front) WL2 adjacent to the first inner surface WL1 and housed within the frame HSA. The frame HSA has six plate-shaped first to sixth members MB1 to MB6. The first member MB1 forms the first inner surface WL1. The second member MB1 forms the second inner surface WL2. The third member MB3 forms the third inner surface (e.g., the top surface) WL3 opposite to the first inner surface WL1. The fourth member MB4 forms the fourth inner surface (e.g., the right side when viewing the paper from the front) WL4 opposite to the second inner surface WL2. These first components MB1 to fourth components MB4 can each be a plate-like component with a generally rectangular shape, or they can be of the same shape. The first components MB1 to fourth components MB4 can be connected and fixed along their edges to form a cylindrical body with a right-angled quadrilateral cross-section. The fifth component MB5 can be a plate-like component with a generally square shape, fixed to the cylindrical body to close one opening. The sixth component MB6 can be a plate-like component with a generally square shape, fixed to the cylindrical body to close the other opening. A generally rectangular through-hole is formed in the third component MB3 as a first visual confirmation window WDa for visually confirming the image (first imaging image) formed by the first display unit 10a. The first window component WMa can be embedded and fixed to the first visual confirmation window WDa. A generally rectangular through-hole is formed in the fourth component MB4 as a second visual confirmation window WDb for visually confirming the image (second imaging image) formed by the second display unit 10b. The second window component WMb can be embedded and fixed to the second visual confirmation window WDb. These first and second window components WMa and WMb are formed of a material that transmits visible light. Such materials are, for example, polycarbonate resin and acrylic resin. It should be noted that at least one of the first and second window components WMa and WMb may be absent. That is, the visual confirmation window WD may have window components or may be an opening without window components. The visual confirmation window can function as a visual confirmation unit. As described above, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are arranged such that the light paths LPa of the first display unit 10a and LPb of the second display unit 10b are orthogonal at the intersection point PS1. Therefore, the display device 1000a can share the space formed by such a cuboid-shaped frame HSA by the two first display units 10a and the second display unit 10b, and can form two images from one.

[0030] In this application, "opposite" means that they are opposite each other. In the case of A and B being opposite each other, other components may or may not be sandwiched between components A and B. That is, the opposition of components A and B is interpreted as component A being located on one side of component B in this application.

[0031] The first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b have the same structure, so the display unit 10 of the first embodiment will be described uniformly below.

[0032] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the display unit 10 includes an image display unit 11 and an optical system 12.

[0033] The image display unit 11 has a display surface 111 and is an apparatus for displaying an image of visible light on the display surface 111. The image can be a static image or a dynamic image. The image display unit 11 can display an image of first linearly polarized light. For example, a polarizing plate can be disposed in front of the display surface 111. The first linearly polarized light can be S-polarized light or P-polarized light orthogonal to S-polarized light. In this embodiment, as an example, the first linearly polarized light is S-polarized light, and as an example, the second linearly polarized light is P-polarized light, but it is not limited to this. For example, the S-polarized light in the following description can be replaced with P-polarized light, and the P-polarized light can be replaced with S-polarized light. The image display unit 11 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). Alternatively, for example, the image display unit 11 can be an organic electroluminescent display (OELD).

[0034] The image display unit 11 may include an illuminator for surface illumination of the display surface 111. The illuminator is also referred to as a backlight. The illuminator may be an edge-illuminated backlight or a direct-lit backlight. The light source of the illuminator may be a cold cathode fluorescent lamp, a halogen lamp, or a xenon lamp, or it may be a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), or a laser diode (LD). The image display unit 11 is not limited to a liquid crystal display (LCD) device that includes a liquid crystal panel (transmissive display panel). For example, the image display unit 11 may also be a self-emissive image display unit 11 that includes self-emissive elements such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and laser diodes (LDs).

[0035] The optical system 12 forms an image (imaging image) of an image displayed on the image display unit 11. This image can be a real image or a virtual image. Figure 2 In the example shown, the optical system 12 includes a first phase retardation plate 13, a semi-transparent mirror 14, a second phase retardation plate 15, and a reflective polarizer 16. These optical elements 13-16 are arranged sequentially in a direction away from the display surface 111 of the image display unit 11.

[0036] The first phase difference plate 13 is an optical element that imparts a phase difference to the mutually orthogonal polarized light components in the incident visible light and emits them. The first phase difference plate 13 is arranged opposite to the display surface 111 of the image display unit 11. In this embodiment, the first phase difference plate 13 is a 1 / 4 wavelength plate that imparts a 90° phase difference, causing linearly polarized incident light to become circularly polarized light and emit it, and causing circularly polarized light to become linearly polarized light and emit it.

[0037] The semi-transparent mirror 14 is an optical element that reflects a portion of the incident visible light and allows the remainder to pass through. The transmittance of the semi-transparent mirror 14 can be approximately 50%, and the reflectance can be approximately 50%, but is not limited thereto. The semi-transparent mirror 14 is positioned opposite to the first retardation plate 13, separated from it by a predetermined interval (eleventh interval). The semi-transparent mirror 14 may have a collecting or converging function. Specifically, the semi-transparent mirror 14 may have the function of collecting or converging light incident on and reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 14. The semi-transparent mirror 14 may have a concave surface opposite to the second retardation plate 15. That is, the semi-transparent mirror 14 may have a convex surface opposite to the first retardation plate 13.

[0038] The second phase retardation plate 15, like the first phase retardation plate 13, is an optical element that imparts a phase difference to the mutually orthogonal polarized light components in the incident visible light and emits them. The second phase retardation plate 15 is positioned opposite the semi-transparent mirror 14 and is separated from the semi-transparent mirror 14 by a predetermined interval (the 12th interval). Like the first phase retardation plate 13, the second phase retardation plate 15 is a 1 / 4 wavelength plate in this embodiment, imparting a 90° phase difference.

[0039] A reflective polarizer 16 is an optical element that reflects a predetermined polarized light in incident visible light and allows other predetermined polarized light to pass through. The reflective polarizer 16 reflects a first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light in the example above) on a surface opposite to the second retardation plate 15, and allows a second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light in the example above) orthogonal to the first linearly polarized light to pass through. The reflective polarizer 16 is positioned opposite the second retardation plate 15 and is arranged at a predetermined interval (13th interval) from the second retardation plate 15. The reflective polarizer 16, for example, includes a plate-shaped substrate that allows visible light to pass through and a plurality of parallel metal wires formed on the substrate. These metal wires are referred to as wire grids. The substrate is formed, for example, of glass, acrylic resin, and polycarbonate resin. The metal wires are formed, for example, of metals (including alloys) such as aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), and titanium oxide (TiO2). Such a reflective polarizer 16 reflects polarized light components that are parallel to the grating (the extension direction of the metal wires) and allows polarized light components that are orthogonal to the grating to pass through.

[0040] When the display unit 10 forms a virtual image, the image display unit 11 is positioned between the focal position of the optical system 12 and the position of the first phase retardation plate 13. The virtual image is formed in the eye of a visual observer and is visually observed. When the display unit 10 forms a real image, the image display unit 11 is positioned further away from the focal position of the optical system 12 than the first phase retardation plate 13. The real image can be projected onto a predetermined screen and visually observed by a visual observer, or it can be imaged in the air as a levitating image and visually observed by a visual observer.

[0041] In a display section 10 with such a structure, such as Figure 2As shown in the lower part, the light (image light) of the image displayed on the image display unit 11 is incident on the first phase difference plate 13 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate as first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light in the above example). At the first phase difference plate 13, the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) becomes circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light traveling clockwise) and exits. The image light of the circularly polarized light emitted from the first phase difference plate 13 is incident on the semi-transparent lens 14, where a portion is reflected and the remainder is transmitted. The image light of the circularly polarized light transmitted through the semi-transparent lens 14 is incident on the second phase difference plate 15 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate, where it becomes first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) and exits. The image light of the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) emitted from the second phase difference plate 15 is incident on the reflective polarizer 16, reflected by the reflective polarizer 16, and its propagation direction is reversed. The image light of the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) reflected by the reflective polarizer 16 is incident on the second phase retardation plate 15 (a quarter-wavelength plate). At the second phase retardation plate 15, the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) becomes circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light rotating clockwise in the direction of travel) and exits. The image light of the circularly polarized light exiting from the second phase retardation plate 15 is incident on the semi-transparent mirror 14. A portion of the light is reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 14, causing its propagation direction to be reversed, while the remainder passes through. The image light of the circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light rotating counterclockwise in the direction of travel) reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 14 is incident on the second phase retardation plate 15 (a quarter-wavelength plate). At the second phase retardation plate 15, the circularly polarized light becomes second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) and exits. The image light of the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) exiting from the second phase retardation plate 15 is incident on the reflective polarizer 16 and passes through it. In this display unit 10, the image light is emitted from the optical system 12 at a light intensity of 25% relative to the light intensity of the image light displayed on the image display unit 11.

[0042] It should be noted that the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b can replace the first type of display unit 10 as the second type of display unit 20, or they can be the third type of display unit 30. In addition, it is not limited to this, and display units with optical systems having other structures can also be used.

[0043] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the display unit 20 includes an image display unit 21 and an optical system 22. The image display unit 21 in the second embodiment of the display unit 20 is the same as the image display unit 11 in the first embodiment of the display unit 10, so its description is omitted.

[0044] The optical system 22 forms an image of the image displayed on the image display unit 21. Figure 3In the example shown, the optical system 22 includes a first reflective polarizer 23, a first phase retardation plate 24, a semi-transparent lens 25, a second phase retardation plate 26, and a second reflective polarizer 27. These optical elements 23 to 27 are arranged in this order relative to the display surface 211 of the image display unit 21 in a direction away from the display surface 211.

[0045] The first reflective polarizer 23, like the reflective polarizer 16 in the display unit 10 of the first type, is an optical element that reflects a predetermined polarized light in the incident visible light and allows other predetermined polarized light to pass through. The first reflective polarizer 23 is arranged opposite to the display surface 211 of the image display unit 21. The first reflective polarizer 23 may have the function of collecting or converging light. Specifically, the first reflective polarizer 23 may have the function of collecting or converging light incident on and reflected by the first reflective polarizer 23. The first reflective polarizer 23 may have a concave surface (first concave surface) opposite to the first phase difference plate 24, in which first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light in the above example) can pass through and second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) orthogonal to the first linearly polarized light can be reflected. The first reflective polarizer 23 includes, for example, a plate-shaped substrate that allows visible light to pass through and has the concave surface formed thereon; and a plurality of fine metal lines formed on the substrate and parallel to each other on the concave surface.

[0046] The first phase difference plate 24 is the same as the first phase difference plate 13 in the display unit 10 of the first embodiment. It is an optical element that imparts a phase difference to the mutually orthogonal polarized light components in the incident visible light and emits them. The first phase difference plate 24 is opposite to the first reflective polarizer 23 and is arranged at a predetermined interval (21st interval) from the first reflective polarizer 23. In this embodiment, the first phase difference plate 24 is a 1 / 4 wavelength plate that imparts a 90° phase difference.

[0047] The semi-transparent mirror 25, like the semi-transparent mirror 14 in the display unit 10 of the first embodiment, is an optical element that reflects a portion of the incident visible light and allows the remaining portion to pass through. The transmittance of the semi-transparent mirror 25 may be approximately 50%, and the reflectance of the semi-transparent mirror 25 may be approximately 50%, but is not limited thereto. The semi-transparent mirror 25 is positioned opposite the first phase retardation plate 24 and is arranged at a predetermined interval (the 22nd interval) from the first phase retardation plate 24.

[0048] The second phase difference plate 26 is the same as the first phase difference plate 13 in the display unit 10 of the first embodiment. It is an optical element that imparts a phase difference to the mutually orthogonal polarized light components in the incident visible light and emits them. The second phase difference plate 26 is positioned opposite the semi-transparent mirror 25 and is arranged at a predetermined interval (the 23rd interval) from the semi-transparent mirror 25. Like the first phase difference plate 24, the second phase difference plate 26 is a 1 / 4 wavelength plate in this embodiment, imparting a phase difference of 90°.

[0049] The second reflective polarizer 27, like the reflective polarizer 16 in the display unit 10 of the first type, is an optical element that reflects a predetermined polarized light in the incident visible light and allows other predetermined polarized light to pass through. The second reflective polarizer 27 is positioned opposite the second phase retardation plate 26 and is arranged at a predetermined interval (24th interval) from the second phase retardation plate 26. The second reflective polarizer 27 reflects first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light in the above example) on the surface opposite the second phase retardation plate 26, allowing second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) orthogonal to the first linearly polarized light to pass through. The second reflective polarizer 27 may, for example, have a plate-shaped substrate that allows visible light to pass through and a plurality of parallel metal wires formed on the substrate. Alternatively, an absorptive polarizer 27 may be used instead. An absorptive polarizer is an optical element that absorbs a predetermined polarized light in the incident visible light and allows other predetermined polarized light to pass through. Absorption-type polarizing plates can be, for example, iodine-based polarizing plates formed by adsorbing and oriented iodine compounds onto a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, or dye-based polarizing plates formed by adsorbing and oriented dichroic organic dyes onto a PVA film.

[0050] When a virtual image is formed by the display unit 20, the image display unit 21 is positioned between the focal point of the optical system 22 and the placement position of the first reflective polarizing plate 23. The virtual image is formed in the eye of a visual observer and is visually observed. When a real image is formed by the display unit 20, the image display unit 21 is positioned further away from the focal point of the optical system 22 than the first reflective polarizing plate 23. The real image can be projected onto a predetermined screen and visually observed by a visual observer, or it can be imaged in the air as a suspended image and visually observed by a visual observer.

[0051] In a display section 20 with such a structure, such as Figure 3As shown in the lower part, the light (image light) of the image displayed on the image display unit 21 is incident on the first reflective polarizer 23 as first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light in the above example) and passes through the first reflective polarizer 23. The image light of the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) emitted from the first reflective polarizer 23 is incident on the first phase difference plate 24 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate, where it becomes circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light traveling clockwise) from the first phase difference plate 24 and is emitted. The image light of the circularly polarized light emitted from the first phase difference plate 24 is incident on the semi-transparent mirror 25, where a portion is reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 25 to reverse its propagation direction, and the remainder is transmitted. The image light of the circularly polarized light transmitted through the semi-transparent mirror 24 is incident on the second phase difference plate 26 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate, where it becomes first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) from the circularly polarized light and is emitted. The image light of the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) emitted from the second phase retardation plate 26 is incident on the second reflective polarizer 27 and reflected by it. Conversely, the image light of the circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light rotating counterclockwise in the direction of travel) reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 25 is incident on the first phase retardation plate 24 (a quarter-wavelength plate), and is converted from circularly polarized light to second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) by the first phase retardation plate 24 before exiting. The image light of the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) emitted from the first phase retardation plate 24 is incident on the first reflective polarizer 23, reflected by it, and its propagation direction is reversed again. The image light of the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) reflected by the first reflective polarizer 24 is incident on the first phase retardation plate 24 (a quarter-wavelength plate), and is converted from the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) to circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light rotating counterclockwise in the direction of travel) by the first phase retardation plate 24 before exiting. The circularly polarized image light emitted from the first phase retardation plate 24 is incident on the semi-transparent mirror 25, where a portion is reflected and the remainder is transmitted. The circularly polarized image light that has passed through the semi-transparent mirror 25 is incident on the second phase retardation plate 26 (a 1 / 4 wavelength plate), where it is converted from circularly polarized light to linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) and emitted. The image light of the linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) emitted from the second phase retardation plate 26 is incident on and passes through the second reflective polarizing plate 27. In the display unit 20, the image light is emitted from the optical system 22 at a light intensity of 25% relative to the light intensity of the image light displayed on the image display unit 21.

[0052] For example, Figure 4 As shown, the display unit 30 includes an image display unit 31 and an optical system 32. The image display unit 31 in the third embodiment of the display unit 30 is the same as the image display unit 11 in the first embodiment of the display unit 10, so its description is omitted.

[0053] The optical system 32 forms an image of the image displayed on the image display unit 31. Figure 4 In the example shown, the optical system 22 includes a first reflective polarizer 33, a first phase retardation plate 34, a semi-transparent lens 35, a second phase retardation plate 36, and a second reflective polarizer 37. These optical elements 33-37 are arranged in this order relative to the display surface 311 of the image display unit 31 in a direction away from the display surface 311. The first reflective polarizer 33, the first phase retardation plate 34, the semi-transparent lens 35, and the second phase retardation plate 36 are the same as the first reflective polarizer 23, the first phase retardation plate 24, the semi-transparent lens 25, and the second phase retardation plate 26 in the second-mode display unit 20, so their description is omitted.

[0054] The second reflective polarizer 37, like the reflective polarizer 16 in the display unit 10 of the first type, is an optical element that reflects a predetermined polarized light in the incident visible light and allows other predetermined polarized light to pass through. The second reflective polarizer 37 is arranged opposite to the second phase retardation plate 36. The second reflective polarizer 37 has a concave surface (second concave surface) opposite to the second phase retardation plate 36, which reflects first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light in the above example) and allows second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) orthogonal to the first linearly polarized light to pass through. The second reflective polarizer 37 includes, for example, a plate-shaped substrate that allows visible light to pass through and has the second concave surface formed thereon; and a plurality of fine metal lines formed on the substrate and parallel to each other on the second concave surface.

[0055] When a virtual image is formed by the display unit 30, the image display unit 31 is positioned between the focal point of the optical system 32 and the placement position of the first reflective polarizer 33. The virtual image is formed in the eye of a visual observer and is visually observed. When a real image is formed by the display unit 30, the image display unit 31 is positioned further away from the focal point of the optical system 32 than the first reflective polarizer 33. The real image can be projected onto a predetermined screen and visually observed by a visual observer, or it can be imaged in the air as a suspended image and visually observed by a visual observer.

[0056] In a display section 30 with such a structure, such as Figure 4 As shown in the lower part, since the second reflective polarizer 37 has a second concave surface opposite to the second phase difference plate 36, the light (image light) of the image displayed on the image display unit 31 is emitted from the second reflective polarizer 37 through two first and second optical paths.

[0057] In the first optical path, such as Figure 4As shown in the upper part of B, a first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light in the above example) is incident on and passes through the first reflective polarizer 33. The image light of the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) emitted from the first reflective polarizer 33 is incident on the first phase retardation plate 34 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate, where the first linearly polarized light becomes circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light traveling clockwise) and exits. The image light of the circularly polarized light emitted from the first phase retardation plate 34 is incident on the semi-transparent mirror 35, where a portion is reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 35 to reverse its propagation direction, and the remainder passes through. As described later, the image light of the circularly polarized light that has passed through the semi-transparent mirror 35 exits from the second reflective polarizer 37 in the second optical path. On the other hand, the image light of circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light rotating counterclockwise in the direction of travel) reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 35 is incident on the first phase retardation plate 34 of the quarter-wavelength plate, and is transformed from circularly polarized light into second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) by the first phase retardation plate 34 and exits. The image light of the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) exiting from the first phase retardation plate 34 is incident on the first reflective polarizing plate 33, and is reflected by the first reflective polarizing plate 33, causing its propagation direction to be reversed again. The image light of the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) reflected by the first reflective polarizing plate 33 is incident on the first phase retardation plate 34 of the quarter-wavelength plate, and is transformed from the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) into circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light rotating counterclockwise in the direction of travel) by the first phase retardation plate 34 and exits. The image light of the circularly polarized light exiting from the first phase retardation plate 34 is incident on the semi-transparent mirror 35, a portion of which is reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 35, and the remainder is transmitted. The image light of circularly polarized light that has passed through the semi-transparent lens 35 is incident on the second phase retardation plate 36 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate, where it is converted from circularly polarized light to second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) and emitted. The image light of the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) emitted from the second phase retardation plate 36 is incident on the second reflective polarizer 37 and passes through the second reflective polarizer 37.

[0058] In the second optical path, such as Figure 4As shown on the lower side of the lower part, the image light of the circularly polarized light passing through the semi-transparent lens 35 is incident on the second phase retardation plate 36 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate. At the second phase retardation plate 36, the circularly polarized light becomes first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) and exits. The image light of the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) exiting from the second phase retardation plate 36 is incident on the second reflective polarizing plate 37, reflected by the second reflective polarizing plate 37, and its propagation direction is reversed. The image light of the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) reflected by the second reflective polarizing plate 37 is incident on the second phase retardation plate 36 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate, and at the second phase retardation plate 36, the first linearly polarized light (S-polarized light) becomes circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light traveling clockwise) and exits. The image light of the circularly polarized light exiting from the second phase retardation plate 36 is incident on the semi-transparent lens 35, a portion of which is reflected by the semi-transparent lens 35 and its propagation direction is reversed again, while the remainder passes through. The image light of circularly polarized light (e.g., circularly polarized light rotating counterclockwise in the direction of travel) reflected by the semi-transparent mirror 35 is incident on the second phase retardation plate 36 of the 1 / 4 wavelength plate, and is converted from circularly polarized light to second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) by the second phase retardation plate 36 and then emitted. The image light of the second linearly polarized light (P-polarized light) emitted from the second phase retardation plate 36 is incident on the second reflective polarizer 37 and passes through the second reflective polarizer 37.

[0059] In this display unit 30, relative to the amount of light of the image light displayed on the image display unit 31, the image light is emitted from the optical system 32 at a light intensity of 25% in the first optical path and at a light intensity of 25% in the second optical path. Therefore, relative to the amount of light of the image light displayed on the image display unit 31, the image light is emitted from the optical system 32 at a light intensity of 50% (=25+25)%.

[0060] The first to third type of display units 10, 20, and 30 reflect the light path, so that when forming an image of the same size, the thickness of the optical system 12, 22, and 32 can be reduced compared to the case where the light path is not reflected.

[0061] It should be noted that, in the above description, the display device 1000a includes multiple display units in the same manner, but it may also include multiple display units in different manners. For example, the display device 1000 includes a first display unit 10a of a first manner and a display unit 20b of a second manner. Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000 includes a first display unit 20a of a second manner and a third display unit 30b.

[0062] In one example, such as Figure 5As shown, the display device 1000a with such a structure can be mounted on a moving body. The moving body can be a vehicle (VC), an airplane, or a ship, etc. The vehicle (VC) is not limited to passenger cars; it can be a large vehicle such as a truck, bus, or trolleybus, or an autonomous two-wheeled vehicle. The display device 1000a can be mounted on the vehicle (VC) as cluster 41 in the dashboard (instrument panel). Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000a can be mounted on the vehicle (VC) as a HUD (Head-Up Display) 42. Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000a can be mounted on the vehicle (VC) as a CID (Center Information Display) 43. Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000a can be mounted on the vehicle (VC) as a PID (Passenger Information Display) 44. Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000a can be mounted on the vehicle (VC) as an interior mirror 45. As an example of this disclosure, a display system equipped with the display device 1000a and a camera for capturing the scenery surrounding the moving body can be constructed. Here, the area surrounding the moving body can be at least one of the following: in front, behind, to the side, above, and below the moving body. The display device 1000a can communicate with the camera CAB and display images captured by the camera CAB on an image display unit. A camera CAB is provided in the vehicle VC to capture images from the rear of the vehicle VC, and the display device 1000a, acting as a rearview mirror 45, displays the images captured by the camera CAB. Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000a can be mounted in the vehicle VC as digital side mirrors 46R and 46L. The digital side mirror 46R is located on the right A-pillar of the vehicle VC, and the digital side mirror 46L is located on the left A-pillar of the vehicle VC. A camera CAR is provided in the vehicle VC to capture images from the right rear of the vehicle VC, and the display device 1000a, acting as a digital side mirror 46R, displays the images captured by the camera CAR. A camera CAL is installed in the vehicle VC to capture images of the left rear of the vehicle VC, and the display device 1000a, which serves as the digital side mirror 46L, displays the images captured by the camera CAL. Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000a can be mounted in the vehicle VC as a Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) 47. Figure 5The upper part of the diagram shows the RSE47 located at the rear of the headrest in the driver's seat FS, but the display device 1000a, which is the RSE47, can also be located at the rear of the headrest in the passenger seat. Alternatively, for example, the display device 1000a can be mounted on the vehicle VC as a door rearview mirror (not shown). The display device 1000a is used as two of these clusters 41, HUD 42, CID 43, PID 44, interior rearview mirror 45, digital side rearview mirror 46R, and the formed side rearview mirror 46L.

[0063] For example, when the display device 1000a is used as both the front component 41 and the HUD 42, the second display unit 10b (20b, 30b) is used as the front component 41, and the first display unit 10a (20a, 30a) is used as the HUD 42. In this case, the windshield (front glass) WS of the vehicle VC is used as a so-called HUD combiner. Alternatively, for example, a semi-transparent mirror 51 reflecting image light is provided on the windshield WS near the dashboard, and the semi-transparent mirror 51 functions as a HUD combiner. When the first display unit 10a is used as the HUD 42, the combiner is included in the optical system 12a. The display device 1000a is mounted on the vehicle VC such that the normals of the image planes of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b intersect at a single point. For example, as Figure 1 As shown in the upper part, the display device 1000 is mounted on the vehicle VC in such a way that the first normal NLa on the image plane IMa of the first display unit 10a and the second normal NLb on the image plane IMab of the second display unit 10b intersect at a point at the eye position PS2 of the visual confirmer CL who is visually confirming the respective image of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b. In this case, as Figure 1 As shown in the upper part, the second display unit 10b is configured such that the optical path of the second image display unit 11b intersects with the optical path of the first image display unit 10a within the first optical system 12a. That is, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are configured such that the intersection point PS1 is located within the first optical system 12a. Furthermore, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b can be configured such that their respective optical paths LPa and LPb intersect within the first optical system 12a and the second optical system 12b. And, as... Figure 1As shown in the upper part, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are configured such that a first distance from a visual observer CR, who visually confirms their respective imaging images, to the first imaging image IMa of the first display unit 10a is different from a second distance from the visual observer CR to the second imaging image IMa of the second display unit 10b. This improves the sense of depth. It should be noted that the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b can also be configured such that the first distance from a visual observer CR, who visually confirms their respective first and second imaging images, to the first imaging image of the first display unit 10a is equal to the second distance from the visual observer CR to the second imaging image of the second display unit 10b.

[0064] Alternatively, for example, in the case where the display device 1000a serves as the rear RSE for both the driver's seat and the front passenger seat, the first display portion 10a of the display device 1000a is disposed on the inner surface of the fifth member MB5, such as... Figure 6 As shown, a reflector 52 for reflecting image light is also included. A visual confirmation window is formed in the sixth member MB6, and a window member is embedded and fixed in the visual confirmation window. The reflector 52 is configured such that its reflective surface intersects the normal of the display surface 111 in the image display unit 11 of the first display unit 10a at a 45-degree angle. The propagation direction of the image light of the image display unit 11 is bent by 90 degrees by the reflector, making it parallel to the image light of the image display unit 11 in the second display unit 10b. The display device 1000a is disposed at the rear of the passenger seat and provides images to the first and second occupants CR1 and CR2, who are seated in the rear seats RS. The image image of the first display unit 10a is visually confirmed by the first occupant CR1, and the image image of the second display unit 10b is visually confirmed by the second occupant CR2. In this case, as Figure 6 As shown, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are respectively configured such that a first distance from the first visual confirmation CR1 of visually confirming the first imaging image IMa of the first display unit 10a to the first imaging image IMa of the first display unit 10a is equal to a second distance from the second visual confirmation CR2 of visually confirming the second imaging image IMa of the second display unit 10b to the second imaging image IMa of the second display unit 10b.

[0065] For example, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b may be configured such that a third distance from the image display unit 11a to the first imaging image IMa of the first display unit 10a is different from a fourth distance from the image display unit 11b to the second imaging image IMa of the second display unit 10b. Alternatively, for example, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b may be configured such that the third distance from the image display unit 11a to the first imaging image IMa of the first display unit 10a is equal to the fourth distance from the image display unit 11b to the second imaging image IMa of the second display unit 10b.

[0066] As explained above, in the display device 1000a of the first embodiment, the plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b are configured only with their respective optical paths PLA and PLb intersecting, thus increasing the design flexibility of the display device 1000a having a plurality of display units 10 (10a, 10b). The above-described display device 1000a uses any of the first, second, and third-type display units 10, 20, and 30, thus enabling miniaturization.

[0067] Next, another embodiment will be described.

[0068] (Second Implementation)

[0069] The display device 1000b in the second embodiment, like the display device 1000a in the first embodiment, includes first and second display units 10a (20a, 30a) and 10b (20b, 30b) arranged in a manner where their respective optical paths intersect. Furthermore, in the display device 1000b of the second embodiment, at least one of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b changes at least one of the distance DS from the visual observer CR of the visually confirmed image to the image and the magnification m.

[0070] When the focal length of the optical system (lens) is set to f, the distance from the object to the optical system is set to a, and the distance from the image (imaging image) formed by the optical system to the optical system is set to b, the following formula for the lens holds. The magnification m is given by the following formula according to its definition. Here, in the display units 10, 20, and 30 of the first to third forms, the optical system (lens) corresponds to optical systems 12 (12a, 12b), 22 (22a, 22b), and 32 (32a, 32b), and the object corresponds to image display units 11, 21, and 31.

[0071] Equation 1: 1 / f = 1 / a + 1 / b

[0072] Equation 2: m = |b / a|

[0073] Therefore, when designing optical systems 12, 22, and 32, the focal length f of optical systems 12, 22, and 32 is a fixed value. Therefore, if b is set to a fixed value, the magnification m can be changed by changing the distance a. The distance DS from the visual observer CR to the image can be changed directly, but if the magnification m is set to a fixed value, the distance b can be changed by changing the distance a, resulting in a change in the distance DS from the visual observer CR to the image. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the distance a is changed.

[0074] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the display device in the second embodiment. The display device 1000b in the second embodiment is, for example, as shown below... Figure 7 As shown, it includes multiple (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b, a first change unit 61, a control processing unit 62, a storage unit 63, a detection unit 64, and an investigation unit 65.

[0075] The display device 1000b in the second embodiment can have any one of the first to third type display units 10, 20, and 30 as display unit 10 (10a, 10b), or it can have display units with other structures. Here, for the sake of simplicity, the first type of display unit 10 is used, and the distance 'a' of the second display unit 10b is changed, as will be explained below. Therefore, in Figure 7 Only the second display unit 10b is shown in the illustration; the first display unit 10a is omitted. It should be noted that the distance 'a' of the first display unit 10a can be changed, and the distance 'a' of both the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b can also be changed simultaneously.

[0076] The first modification unit 61 is a device that modifies at least one of the plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b, specifically the second display unit 10b, which modifies at least one of the distance DS from the visual observer CR to the image IMb and the magnification m. Here, as described above, if distance a is changed and distance b is set to a fixed value, the magnification m changes. Conversely, if distance a is changed and the magnification m is set to a fixed value, both distance b and the distance DS from the visual observer CR to the image IMb change.

[0077] More specifically, the first modification unit 61 includes a first implementation unit 611 and a first input unit 612.

[0078] The first input unit 612 is connected to the control processing unit 62 and is an apparatus that receives an input of a first change in at least one of the distance DS and the multiplier m. In this embodiment, the change in distance a is input as the first change. The first input unit 612 outputs the received first change to the control processing unit 62. More specifically, the first input unit 612 includes, for example, a first sub-input unit for inputting an increase in the first change and a second sub-input unit for inputting a decrease in the first change. The first sub-input unit includes, for example, a slide switch to input the increase in the first change by a sliding amount. Alternatively, for example, the first sub-input unit includes a rotary switch to input the increase in the first change by a rotating amount. Similarly, the second sub-input unit includes, for example, a slide switch to input the decrease in the first change by a sliding amount. Alternatively, for example, the second sub-input unit includes a rotary switch to input the decrease in the first change by a rotating amount. The increase can be an increase relative to the current distance a or an increase relative to a preset default distance a. The decrease can be a decrease relative to the current distance a or a decrease relative to the default distance a.

[0079] Alternatively, for example, the first input unit 612 may include an input position detection unit (e.g., a touch sensor) having an operation surface and detecting the input position of the input operation on the operation surface, such as a resistive film method or an electrostatic capacitive method. Such a first input unit 612, combined with an image formed by the second display unit 10b, constitutes a so-called touch panel (touch panel display). In this case, each position of the operation surface corresponds to each position of the display surface 111 (each position of the image) in the image display unit 11. The image formed by the second display unit 10b includes a first sub-input button for inputting an increase in the first change amount and a second sub-input button for inputting a decrease in the first change amount. By inputting an operation on the position of the operation surface corresponding to the display position of the first sub-input button, an increase in the first change amount is input. By inputting an operation on the position of the operation surface corresponding to the display position of the second sub-input button, a decrease in the first change amount is input. It should be noted that, in the case of constituting the touch panel, the input position detection unit, which is the first input unit 612, may be disposed on the second visual confirmation window WDb or on the second window member WMb. In this case, the input position detection unit is configured to transmit visible light.

[0080] The first implementation unit 611 is a device for changing at least one of the distance and the magnification based on a first change amount received by the first input unit 612. In this embodiment, as described above, the first implementation unit 611 changes the distance a. More specifically, the first implementation unit 611 includes a first change mechanism 6111, a first change drive unit 6112, and a first drive control unit 6113 (624).

[0081] The first drive control unit 6113 (624) is functionally configured in the control processing unit 62 to control the first change drive unit 6112 in such a way as a first change amount input by the first input unit 612. The first change drive unit 6112 is a device that drives the first change mechanism 6111 in such a way as a first change amount input to the first input unit 612 under the control of the first drive control unit 6113 (624). The first change drive unit 6112 includes, for example, a stepper motor and a servo motor. The first change mechanism 6111 is driven by the first change drive unit 6112 to change the distance a in such a way as a first change amount input by the first input unit 612. The first change mechanism 6111 includes, for example, an X-stage that moves the worktable in one direction. The optical system 12 is fixedly mounted on the housing HSA. The X-stage is fixedly mounted on the housing HSA in such a way as if the one direction were along the direction of distance a. The image display unit 11 is fixedly mounted on the worktable in such a way that the display surface 111 is orthogonal to the one direction. The distance a is changed by moving the worktable. Alternatively, for example, the first changing mechanism 6111 includes a rack and pinion. The optical system 12 is fixedly mounted to the frame HSA. The rack of the rack and pinion is movably configured within the frame HSA such that its extension direction is along the direction of distance a. An image display unit 11 is fixedly mounted on the rack such that the display surface 111 is orthogonal to the extension direction. The pinion of the rack and pinion is mounted on a first changing drive unit 6112 fixedly mounted to the frame HSA. For example, the pinion is mounted on the output shaft of a stepper motor. The distance a is changed by rotating the pinion.

[0082] The detection unit 64 is connected to the control processing unit 62 and is a device for detecting the position of the eyes of the visual confirmer CR under the control of the control processing unit 62. The detection unit 64 outputs the detected position of the eyes of the visual confirmer CR to the control processing unit 62. The detection unit 64 may include, for example, an eye tracker that tracks the position of the eyes. The position of the eyes may be defined in advance appropriately, for example, as the position of the right eye, or as the position of the left eye, or as the central position of both eyes (the average position of the right eye and the left eye).

[0083] The investigation unit 65 is connected to the control processing unit 62 and, under the control of the control processing unit 62, investigates at least one of the position and posture in the seat. The investigation unit 65 outputs the investigated position and posture to the control processing unit 62. The investigation unit 65 may include, for example, a detection sensor that detects at least one of the position and posture. Alternatively, for example, the investigation unit 65 may include a second input unit that accepts an input of the adjustment amount of at least one of the position and posture. The position of the seat is represented by the position of the seat surface along the normal NLb of the image plane in the image IMb formed by the second display unit 10b. More specifically, the display device 1000b is mounted, for example, in a vehicle, and the seat is a seat of the vehicle, and the position of the seat is represented by the position of the seat surface (front and rear position) in the length direction of the vehicle. In this case, a line segment along the normal NLb is projected onto a line segment along the length direction of the vehicle. In the above-described display device, the posture of the seat is represented by the height and tilt angle (first tilt angle) of the seat surface and the tilt angle (second tilt angle) of the seat back. The second input unit includes: a seat position input unit that inputs a first adjustment amount for the seat position; a seat height input unit that inputs a second adjustment amount for the seat height; a seat tilt angle input unit that inputs a third adjustment amount for a first tilt angle of the seat; and a SB tilt angle input unit that inputs a fourth adjustment amount for a second tilt angle of the seat back. As the seat position moves forward, the eye position of the visual inspector CR moves forward. As the seat height increases, the eye position of the visual inspector CR increases. As the rear of the seat is lowered relative to the front, the eye position of the visual inspector CR decreases. As the seat back is made vertical, the eye position of the visual inspector moves forward and increases.

[0084] The storage unit 63 is a circuit connected to the control processing unit 62, which stores various prescribed programs and various prescribed data under the control of the control processing unit 62.

[0085] The various prescribed procedures include, for example, a control processing program, which includes, for example, a control program, a first processing program, a second processing program, and a first drive control program. The control program controls each part 10 (10a, 10b), 61, 63-65 of the display device 1000b according to the function of each part. The first processing program is a program for determining a first change amount based on the eye position detected by the detection unit 64, and is a program for determining the first change amount based on at least one of the position and posture investigated by the investigation unit 65. The second processing program is a program for processing each image displayed on the plurality of display units 10 (20, 30). The first drive control program is a program for controlling the first change drive unit 6112 in a manner that becomes the first change amount input by the first input unit 612.

[0086] Among the various specified data, there are, for example, data required to execute these procedures, such as the first change amount received by the first input unit 612, the first change amount obtained by the first processing program, conversion information (first conversion information) that converts the eye position detected by the detection unit 64 into the first change amount, and conversion information (second conversion information) that converts at least one of the position and posture investigated by the investigation unit 65 into the first change amount. The first and second conversion information are respectively appropriately prepared in advance based on multiple samples and stored in the storage unit 63.

[0087] Such a storage unit 63 may include, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile storage element, or EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) as a rewritable non-volatile storage element. Furthermore, the storage unit 63 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as the working memory of the so-called control processing unit 62, which stores data generated during the execution of the specified program. Alternatively, the storage unit 63 may be configured to include a hard disk drive or solid-state drive (SSD) with a relatively large storage capacity.

[0088] The control processing unit 62 is a circuit used to control each part 10 (10a, 10b), 61, 63-65 of the display device 1000b according to the function of each part, to process each image displayed on the plurality of first display parts 10a and the plurality of second display parts 10b, and to change the distance 'a' of at least one of the plurality of (two) first display parts 10a and second display parts 10b, in this case, the distance 'a' of the second display part 10b. The control processing unit 62 is configured, for example, to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and its peripheral circuitry. In the control processing unit 62, by executing the control processing program, a control unit 621, a second processing unit 622, a first processing unit 623, and a first drive control unit 624 (6113) are functionally configured.

[0089] The control unit 621 controls each part 10 (10a, 10b), 61, 63~65 of the display device 1000b according to the function of each part, and is responsible for the overall control of the display device 1000b.

[0090] The first processing unit 623 calculates a first change amount based on the eye position detected by the detection unit 64 using the first conversion information. The first processing unit 623 also calculates the first change amount based on at least one of the position and posture investigated by the investigation unit 65 using the second conversion information.

[0091] As described above, the first drive control unit 624 (6113) controls the first change drive unit 6112 to become a first change quantity input by the first input unit 612. In this embodiment, the first drive control unit 624 (6113) also controls the first change drive unit 6112 to become a first change quantity obtained by the first processing unit 623. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described later, the first drive control unit 624 (6113) also controls the first change drive unit 6112 to become a second change quantity notified from the second processing unit 622.

[0092] Therefore, in this embodiment, the first implementation unit 611, which includes the first drive control unit 624 (6113), the first change drive unit 6112, and the first change mechanism 6111, is equivalent to an example of a first implementation unit that changes at least one of the distance and the magnification according to the first change amount received by the first input unit, and is also equivalent to an example of a first implementation unit that changes at least one of the distance and the magnification according to the first change amount obtained by the first processing unit.

[0093] More specifically, when the display device 1000b is mounted on a vehicle and changes at least one of the distance and the magnification according to the first change amount obtained by the first processing unit 623, the first implementation unit 611 changes the distance a in the following first to fourth ways.

[0094] In the first embodiment, at least one of the distance DS and the magnification m is the distance DS, and at least one of the position and the posture is the position. When the seat position is at an initial seat position (default seat position) and the distance DS is an initial distance (default distance), if the first change amount is an amount that brings the seat closer to the steering wheel compared to the initial seat position, the distance DS is changed in a manner that makes it longer than the initial distance based on the first change amount; if the first change amount is an amount that moves the seat further away from the steering wheel compared to the initial seat position, the distance DS is changed in a manner that makes it shorter than the initial distance based on the first change amount.

[0095] In the second approach, at least one of the distance DS and the multiplier m is the distance DS, and at least one of the position and the posture is the posture. The first implementation unit 611, when the tilt angle is an initial tilt angle (default tilt angle) and the distance DS is an initial distance, changes the distance DS in a manner that becomes longer than the initial distance based on the first change amount if the first change amount is smaller than the initial tilt angle, and changes the distance DS in a manner that becomes shorter than the initial distance based on the first change amount if the first change amount is larger than the initial tilt angle.

[0096] In the third method, at least one of the distance DS and the magnification m is the magnification m, and at least one of the position and the posture is the position. The first implementation unit 611, when the seat position is the initial seat position and the magnification m is the initial magnification (default magnification), if the first change amount is an amount that brings the seat closer to the steering wheel compared to the initial seat position, changes the magnification m in a manner less than the initial magnification based on the first change amount; if the first change amount is an amount that moves the seat further away from the steering wheel compared to the initial seat position, changes the magnification m in a manner greater than the initial magnification based on the first change amount.

[0097] In the fourth method, at least one of the distance DS and the magnification m is the magnification m, and at least one of the position and the posture is the posture. When the tilt angle is at an initial tilt angle and the magnification m is an initial magnification, if the first change amount is less than the initial tilt angle, the magnification m is changed in a manner less than the initial magnification based on the first change amount; if the first change amount is greater than the initial tilt angle, the magnification m is changed in a manner greater than the initial magnification based on the first change amount.

[0098] In the first and second embodiments, the first implementation unit 611 changes the distance a in a manner that becomes the distance DS. In the third and fourth embodiments, the first implementation unit 611 changes the distance a in a manner that becomes the magnification m.

[0099] The second processing unit 622 processes each image displayed on the plurality of first display units 10a and the plurality of second display units 10b. More specifically, the second processing unit 622, for at least one of the plurality of first display units 10a and the plurality of second display units 10b (here, a second display unit 10b), changes at least one of the distance DS and magnification m by a second change amount based on the content displayed on the image. More specifically, the second processing unit 622 causes the image display unit 11 to display a predetermined image, and if the predetermined image displays predetermined content (specific content) set in advance, it notifies the first drive control unit 624 (6113) of the second change amount. Upon receiving this notification, the first drive control unit 624 (6113) controls the first change drive unit 6112 in a manner that corresponds to the second change amount notified from the second processing unit 622. As a result, the first change drive unit 6112 drives the first change mechanism 6111 in a manner that corresponds to the second change amount, and the first change mechanism 6111 changes the distance a in a manner that corresponds to the second change amount. The specific content is set in advance, and the second change amount is set in advance.

[0100] For example, at least one of the distance DS and the multiplier m is the distance DS, and the specific content is content containing information that promotes attention. In this case, the second change amount is the amount by which the distance DS becomes shorter than the initial distance. Therefore, when the content contains information that promotes attention, the distance DS is changed in such a way that it becomes shorter than the initial distance.

[0101] Alternatively, for example, at least one of the distance DS and the magnification m is the magnification m, and the specific content is content containing information that promotes attention. In this case, the second change amount is the amount by which the magnification m is greater than the initial magnification. Therefore, when the specific content contains information that promotes attention, the magnification m is changed in a manner greater than the initial magnification.

[0102] The information that prompts the user to pay attention is pre-set appropriately. For example, when the display device 1000b is mounted in a vehicle, the information that prompts the user to pay attention is a message such as "speed exceeded" or "crossing ahead".

[0103] Such a second processing unit 622 and a first implementation unit 611 are equivalent to an example of a second modification unit, which modifies at least one of the distance from the visual confirmer of the imaging image to the imaging image and the magnification based on the content displayed on the imaging image.

[0104] In the display device 1000b with this structure, a visual observer (CR) inputs a first change amount from the first input unit 612. For at least one of the plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b (here, the second display unit 10b), at least one of the distance DS and magnification m is changed according to the input first change amount. Thus, the display device 1000b can display an appropriate image to the visual observer (CR). When the visual observer (CR) sits down, for the second display unit 10b, at least one of the distance DS and magnification m is changed according to the first change amount corresponding to the eye position of the visual observer (CR) detected by the detection unit 64. Thus, the display device 1000b can automatically display an appropriate image to the visual observer (CR), and can display an appropriate image for each visual observer (CR) seated in a chair. When at least one of the seat position and posture is changed, for the second display unit 10b, at least one of the distance DS and magnification m is changed according to the first change amount corresponding to at least one of the seat position and posture investigated by the investigation unit 65. Therefore, the display device 1000b can display an appropriate image for each visual observer (CR) seated in the seat. After changing at least one of the distance DS and magnification m based on the detection result of the detection unit 64, at least one of the distance DS and magnification m can be fine-tuned by the visual observer (CR) using the first input unit 612. After changing at least one of the distance DS and magnification m based on the investigation result of the investigation unit 65, at least one of the distance DS and magnification m can be fine-tuned by the visual observer (CR) using the first input unit 612.

[0105] Furthermore, when the image displayed by the second display unit 10b contains specific content, at least one of the distance DS and magnification m is changed according to the second change amount. Thus, the display device 1000b can expand the range of image representation and diversify image representation. When the specific content contains information that encourages attention, the display device 1000b can emphasize and draw attention to it.

[0106] As explained above, the display device 1000b in the second embodiment can change at least one of the distance DS and magnification m for at least one of the plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b. Therefore, the display device 1000b can display an appropriate imaging image to the visual observer CR.

[0107] Next, another embodiment will be described.

[0108] (Third Implementation)

[0109] The display device 1000d in the third embodiment, like the display device 1000a in the first embodiment, includes first and second display units 10a (20a, 30a) and 10b (20b, 30b) arranged in a manner where their respective optical paths intersect. Furthermore, in the display device 1000d of the third embodiment, each image displayed on the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b is controlled.

[0110] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the display device in the third embodiment. The display device 1000d in the third embodiment is, for example, as shown in... Figure 8 As shown, it includes multiple first display units 10a and second display units 10b, a control processing unit 82, and a storage unit 83.

[0111] The display device 1000d in the third embodiment can include any one of the first to third type of display units 10, 20, 30 as the plurality (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b, or it can include display units with other structures. Here, for the sake of simplicity, the first display unit 10a and second display unit 10b of the first type will be used, and the following description will be given.

[0112] The storage unit 83 is a circuit connected to the control processing unit 82, which stores various prescribed programs and various prescribed data under the control of the control processing unit 82.

[0113] The various prescribed procedures include, for example, a control processing program, which includes, for example, a control program and an image control program. The control program controls each part 10 (10a, 10b), 83 of the display device 1000d according to its function. The image control program controls each image displayed on the plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b (each image displayed on the image display units 11a, 11b).

[0114] The various specified data include, for example, the data required to execute these programs, such as the images displayed on the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b respectively.

[0115] The control processing unit 82 is a circuit used to control each part 10 (10a, 10b) and 83 of the display device 1000d according to the function of each part, and to control each image displayed on the plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b respectively. In the control processing unit 82, the control unit 821 and the image control unit 822 are functionally configured by executing the control processing program.

[0116] The control unit 821 controls each part 10 (10a, 10b) and 83 of the display device 1000d according to the function of each part, and is responsible for the overall control of the display device 1000d.

[0117] The image control unit 822 controls each image displayed on the plurality of (two) first display units 10a and second display units 10b (each image displayed on the image display units 11a and 11b respectively). Since each image displayed on the image display units 11a and 11b is controlled, each imaging image formed by the optical systems 12a and 12b is controlled.

[0118] More specifically, the image control unit 822 controls each image in any of the seventh to tenth modes as follows.

[0119] In the seventh method, the image control unit 822 switches the images of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b to each other.

[0120] In the eighth embodiment, the image control unit 822 controls the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b to form a single image from the images displayed on the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b, respectively. For example, when the imaging image formed by the first display unit 10a and the imaging image formed by the second display unit 10b are arranged along one direction on one side and the other side, the single image is divided into a half-image on one side and a half-image on the other side along the one direction. The image control unit 822 controls the first display unit 10a to display the half-image on one side and controls the second display unit 10b to display the half-image on the other side. When the display device 1000d is provided, the one direction may be, for example, the up-down direction (vertical direction) or, for example, the left-right direction (horizontal direction).

[0121] In the ninth embodiment, the image is an image displaying content having multiple elements. The image control unit 822 controls the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b to move at least one of the multiple elements sequentially from one side to the other in each of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b. For example, when the content includes an image of a background and an image of a moving object as the elements, the image control unit 822 controls the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b to move the image of the moving object from the image displayed on the first display unit 10a to the image displayed on the second display unit 10b.

[0122] In the tenth embodiment, the image control unit 822 controls the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b so that one of the display units 10a and the second display unit 10b displays a predetermined image, while the other display unit 10 does not display the predetermined image.

[0123] It should be noted that in this tenth method, such as Figure 8 As shown by the dashed line, the display device 1000d may also have a fourth input unit 86. This fourth input unit 86 is connected to the control processing unit 82 and is a device that accepts a specified input from the display unit 10 of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b that displays the specified image. The fourth input unit 86 outputs the accepted specified input from the display unit 10 to the control processing unit 82. The fourth input unit 86 may include, for example, a toggle switch. One contact of the toggle switch is assigned to the first display unit 10a, and the other contact is assigned to the second display unit 10b. The image control unit 822 controls the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b to display the specified image on the designated display unit 10 of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b, while the specified image is not displayed on the remaining unassigned display units 10. By providing such a fourth input unit 86, the visual confirmer CR can form an imaging image through the desired display unit 10, and the display device 1000d can customize the position of the imaging image (the display position of the imaging image).

[0124] Furthermore, in this tenth embodiment, the display device 1000d is mounted in the vehicle such that an occupant (an example of a visual observer CR) can visually view the images of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b respectively. For example... Figure 8 As shown by the dashed line, the display device 1000d also includes a detection unit 84 for detecting the position of the occupant's eyes. The detection unit 84 is the same as the detection unit 64 in the display device 1000b of the second embodiment, and therefore its description is omitted. Based on the eye position detected by the detection unit 84, the image control unit 822 determines which display unit 10 in the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b will display the predetermined image, and displays the predetermined image on the determined display unit 10. By including such a detection unit 84, the display device 1000d can automatically customize the display position of the imaging image according to the visual observer (CR).

[0125] In the display device 1000d with this structure, the images displayed on the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are controlled. In the seventh embodiment, the images on the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are switched with each other. Thus, the display device 1000d can customize the display position of the imaging image according to the visual observer's CR. In the eighth embodiment, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are controlled so that the images displayed on the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b form a single image. In the ninth embodiment, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are controlled so that at least one of the plurality of elements moves sequentially from one side to the other in each of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b. According to these eighth and ninth embodiments, the display device 1000d can expand the range of image representation and diversify image representation. In the tenth method, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are controlled such that one of the display units 10a and 10b displays a predetermined image, while the other display unit 10 does not display the predetermined image. Thus, the display device 1000d can customize the display position of the imaging image according to the visual observer (CR).

[0126] As explained above, the display device 1000d in the third embodiment is capable of controlling the images displayed on the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b respectively.

[0127] Next, another embodiment will be described.

[0128] (Fourth Implementation)

[0129] The display device 1000e in the fourth embodiment, like the display device 1000a in the first embodiment, includes first and second display units 10a (20a, 30a) and 10b (20b, 30b) arranged in a manner where their respective optical paths intersect. Furthermore, the display device 1000e in the fourth embodiment also includes a third display unit 10c (20c, 30c). This third display is configured such that the optical path of the third image display unit intersects with the optical path of at least one of the first and second image display units.

[0130] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the display device in the fourth embodiment. Figure 9 The left-hand image is a top view. Figure 9 The image on the right is a side view. It should be noted that... Figure 9 This illustrates a case where a left-hand drive vehicle is equipped with the display device 1000e according to the fourth embodiment.

[0131] For example, Figure 9As shown, the display device 1000e in the fourth embodiment includes three first to third display units 10a (20a, 30a), 10b (20b, 30b), and 10c (20c, 30c) and a housing (shell) HSB that houses these first to third display units 10 (20, 30). More specifically, the display device 1000e also includes a third display unit 10c and a translucent lens 53 in the display device 1000a of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b is omitted.

[0132] The third display unit 10c is configured such that its optical path LPc is orthogonal to the intersection point PS1 of the optical paths LPa and LPb of the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b. That is, the first, second, and third display units 10a, 10b, and 10c are configured such that the optical paths LPa of the first display unit 10a, LPb of the second display unit 10b, and LPc of the third display unit 10c are orthogonal to each other at the intersection point PS1. It should be noted that the optical paths LPa, LPb, and LPc only need to intersect; the intersection angle is not limited to a right angle.

[0133] More specifically, the frame HSB is similar to the frame HSA in the display device 1000a of the first embodiment. In the frame HSA, no visual confirmation window is formed on the sixth member MB6, but in the frame HSB, a generally rectangular through-hole is formed on the sixth member MB6 as a third visual confirmation window WDc (not shown) for visually confirming the image (imaging image) formed by the third display unit 10c. That is, the frame HSB is the same as the frame HSA except that the sixth member MB6 has the third visual confirmation window WDc, and its description is omitted. It should be noted that, similar to the first and second visual confirmation windows WDa and WDb, a third window member WMc (not shown) may be embedded in the third visual confirmation window WDc; alternatively, the third window member WMc may not be present. The third display unit 10c has the same structure as the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b, is disposed on the fifth inner surface WL5 of the fifth member MB5, and is housed within the frame.

[0134] It should be noted that, similar to the display device 1000a in the first embodiment, the first to third display units 10a to 10c may use the second type of display unit 20, or the third type of display unit 30, or display units 10, 20, and 30 of different types.

[0135] The semi-transparent lens 53 is an optical element that reflects a portion of the incident visible light while allowing the remainder to pass through. The transmittance of the semi-transparent lens 53 can be approximately 50%. The semi-transparent lens 53 is configured such that its semi-transparent surface intersects the normal to the display surface 111 in the image display unit 11 of the third display unit 10c at a 45-degree angle. The propagation direction of the image light from the image display unit 11 is bent by 90 degrees by the semi-transparent lens 53, making it parallel to the image light from the image display unit 11 in the second display unit 10b.

[0136] Because the first to third display units 10a-10c are configured in this way, the first display unit 10a and the second display unit 10b are configured so that the first visual acknowledgment CR3 can visually confirm it, and the third display unit 10c is configured so that the second visual acknowledgment CR4, which is different from the first visual acknowledgment CR3, can visually confirm it. In one example, the display device 1000e is mounted on a left-hand drive vehicle. In this example, the first visual acknowledgment CR3 is the driver sitting in the driver's seat, and the first display unit 10a (20a, 30a) is used as a HUD. In this case, as described above, the semi-transparent mirror 51 of the windshield WS, located near the dashboard, functions as a combination unit for the HUD in the windshield WS of the vehicle VC. The second display unit 10b serves as the front of the driver, who is the first visual acknowledgment CR3. The second visual acknowledgment CR4 is the passenger sitting in the front passenger seat arranged in the driver's seat, and the third display unit 10c is used as the CID of the passenger who is the second visual acknowledgment. The driver and the passenger are seated in a direction parallel to the optical path LPc of the third display unit 10c.

[0137] As explained above, in the display device 1000e of the fourth embodiment, the plurality of first, second, and third display units 10a, 10b, and 10c are arranged only with their respective optical paths intersecting, thus increasing the design freedom of the display device 1000a having multiple display units 10 (10a, 10b, 10c). In the aforementioned display device 1000e, the first, second, and third display units 10a, 10b, and 10c are arranged in a frame HSB with a shared space. In the aforementioned display device 1000, three images can be formed by a single device. The aforementioned display device 1000e uses any of the first, second, and third type display units 10, 20, and 30, thus enabling miniaturization.

[0138] It should be noted that, in the described embodiment, the first and second display units 10a (20a, 30a) and 10b (20b, 30b) can also be configured such that, when visually confirmed by the observer CR, at least a portion of the first image of the first display unit 10a (20a, 30a) overlaps with the second image of the second display unit 10b (20b, 30b). This can improve the sense of depth. For example, by configuring the first display unit 10a such that its distance (height) from the first inner surface WL1 is longer (higher) on the side closer to the observer CR than on the side farther from the observer CR, the display device 1000a can make the first image IMa of the first display unit 10a close to the second image IMa of the second display unit 10b, and can make the first image IMa of the first display unit 10a overlap with the second image IMa of the second display unit 10b (20b, 30b).

[0139] Alternatively, for example, the first imaging image IMa of the first display unit 10a can be formed as a virtual image, and the second imaging image IMb of the second display unit 10b can be formed as a real image, thereby causing the first imaging image IMa and the second imaging image IMb to overlap.

[0140] Optical systems 12, 22, and 32 enable the first imaging image IMa to be visually verifiable outside the frame. In other words, the first imaging image IMa can be visually verified without passing through the first visual verification window WDa.

[0141] Optical systems 12, 22, and 32 are capable of imaging the second imaging image IMb in a manner that allows for visual confirmation via the second visual confirmation window WDb. In other words, the second imaging image IMb can be visually confirmed by viewing it through the second visual confirmation window WDb. Furthermore, it can be said that the second imaging image IMb cannot be visually confirmed without viewing it through the second visual confirmation window WDb.

[0142] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the first to third type of display units 10, 20, and 30 were used, but the following fourth to sixth type of display units may also be used.

[0143] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device that uses a fourth method of display. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a display device that uses a fourth method of display, as another example. Figure 12This is a schematic diagram of a display device that uses a fourth method of display, as yet another example. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing a display device that uses a fifth method of display as an example. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a display device that uses a sixth method of display, as another example. Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating, as an example, a display device using the fifth and sixth modes of display. Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing a display device that uses the fifth and sixth methods as another example.

[0144] For example, such as Figures 10 to 12 As shown, the display unit of the fourth embodiment includes image display units 11 (11b, 11a, 11b) for displaying images, but unlike the image display units 11b, 11a, 11b, it does not have an optical system for forming an imaging image. Figure 10 In the example shown, the display device 1000f, which has such a fourth type of display unit, replaces the display unit 10b in the display device 1000a of the first embodiment with the fourth type of display unit (image display unit 11b). Otherwise, the display device 1000f is the same as the display device 1000a, and therefore its description is omitted. Figure 11 In the example shown, the display device 1000g replaces the display unit 10a in the first embodiment of the display device 1000a with the fourth type of display unit (image display unit 11a). Otherwise, the display device 1000g is the same as the display device 1000a, and therefore its description is omitted. It should be noted that when the fourth type of display unit (image display unit 11a) is used as a HUD 42, the display device 1000g includes a combiner as an optical system for the image display unit 11a. Figure 12 In the example shown, display device 1000h replaces display unit 10a in display device 1000a of the first embodiment with the fourth type of display unit (image display unit 11a), and replaces display unit 10b in display device 1000a of the first embodiment with the fourth type of display unit (image display unit 11b). The fourth type of display unit (image display unit 11b) is used as HUD 42, and display device 1000h includes a combiner as an optical system for the image display unit 11b. Apart from these points, display device 1000h is the same as display device 1000a, so its description is omitted.

[0145] For example, such as Figure 13As shown, the display unit 91 (91a, 91b) of the fifth embodiment includes an image display unit 11 (11a, 11b) for displaying images and a frame HSC (HSC-1, HSC-2) for housing the image display unit 11 (11a, 11b). The image display unit 11b does not have an optical system for forming an imaging image. More specifically, the display unit 91a of the fifth embodiment includes an image display unit 11a for displaying images and a frame HSC-1 for housing the image display unit 11a, which is used as a HUD 42 and has a combiner as an optical system for the image display unit 11a. The frame HSC-1 is similar to the frame HSA in the display device 1000a of the first embodiment. In the frame HSA, a second visual confirmation window WDb is formed on the fourth member MB4, but in the frame HSC-1, a second visual confirmation window WDb is not formed on the fourth member MB4. Apart from this, the frame HSC-1 is the same as the frame HSA, so its description is omitted. The image display unit 11a is disposed on the first inner surface (e.g., the bottom surface) WL1 of such a frame and housed in the frame HSC-1. The display unit 91b of the fifth embodiment includes the image display unit 11b that displays an image and the frame HSC-2 that houses the image display unit 11b, but does not have an optical system for forming an imaging image relative to the image display unit 11b. The frame HSC-2 is similar to the frame HSA in the display device 1000a of the first embodiment. In the frame HSA, a first visual confirmation window WDa is formed on the third member MB3, but in the frame HSC-2, the first visual confirmation window WDa is not formed on the third member MB3. Otherwise, the frame HSC-2 is the same as the frame HSA, so its description is omitted. The image display unit 11b is disposed on the second inner surface (e.g., the left side when viewing the paper from the front) WL2 of such a frame and housed in the frame HSC-2. And, in Figure 13 In the example shown, the display device 1000i includes a fifth-mode display unit 91a and a fifth-mode display unit 91b, which are configured such that their respective optical paths intersect at a crossroads (intersection) PS1. Figure 13 In the example shown, the cross angle is 90°, but the cross angle is not limited to 90°.

[0146] For example, such as Figure 14As shown, the display unit 92 (92a, 92b) of the sixth embodiment includes display units 10 (10a (20a, 30a), 10b (20b, 30b)) and a housing HSC (HSC-1, HSC-2) for housing the display units 10 (20, 30). That is, in the sixth embodiment, only one display unit 10 (20, 30) is provided in one housing HSC. More specifically, the display unit 92a of the sixth embodiment includes display units 10a (20a, 30a) and a housing for housing the display units 10a (20a, 30a). The frame HSC-1. The display unit 11a (20a, 30a) is disposed on the first inner surface (e.g., the bottom surface) WL1 of the frame and housed in the frame HSC-1. The display unit 92b of the sixth embodiment includes a display unit 10b (20b, 30b) and a frame HSC-2 housing the display unit 10b (20b, 30b). The display unit 10b (20b, 30b) is disposed on the second inner surface (e.g., the left side when viewing the paper from the front) WL2 of the frame and housed in the frame HSC-2. Moreover, in Figure 14 In the example shown, the display device 1000j includes a sixth-mode display unit 92a and a sixth-mode display unit 92b, which are configured such that their respective optical paths intersect at a crossroads (intersection) PS1. Figure 14 In the example shown, the cross angle is 90°, but the cross angle is not limited to 90°.

[0147] Furthermore, the display device 1000 can be equipped with display sections of different types. Figure 15 In the example shown, the display device 1000k includes a sixth-mode display unit 92a and a fifth-mode display unit 91b, which are arranged such that their respective optical paths intersect at a crossroads (intersections) PS1. Figure 15 In the example shown, the cross angle is 90°, but the cross angle is not limited to 90°. Figure 16 In the example shown, the display device 1000l includes a fifth-mode display unit 91a and a sixth-mode display unit 92b used as a HUD 42. These fifth-mode display units 91a and sixth-mode display units 92b are arranged such that their respective optical paths intersect at a crossroads (intersections) PS1. Figure 16 In the example shown, the cross angle is 90°, but the cross angle is not limited to 90°.

[0148] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above, but this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0149] For example, the above description describes a display device with an image display unit, but is not limited thereto. For example, this disclosure may also include a device without an image display unit but equipped with an optical system. For example, the frame of the display device may have a mounting section for mounting the image display unit. The mounting section may be located on a portion of the frame wall, inside the frame, or within the frame. In this case, the image display unit may be located inside or within the frame. Alternatively, the mounting section may be located outside or on the outside of the frame. That is, the image display unit may be located outside or on the outside of the frame. In this case, the frame may have an opening formed by cutting off a portion of the wall. The mounting section may be configured relative to the frame such that display light emitted from the image display unit mounted on the mounting section is guided to the inside of the frame through the opening. The mounting section may be configured relative to the frame such that display light emitted from the image display unit mounted on the mounting section is guided to the inside of the frame through the opening. The mounting section may be connected to the outer wall of the frame, or it may be connected to the outer wall of the frame by blocking at least a portion of the opening. A light-transmitting component, such as glass or resin, can also be placed in the opening. For example, in... Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a display device with an image display unit provided in the mounting section, but it can also be a device without an image display unit in the mounting section. In this case, the device can be an image display unit housing with a frame, which includes a visual confirmation section, an optical system, and a mounting section for placing the image display unit. The structure of the display device described in each of the above embodiments can also be implemented in the image display unit housing. That is, the position of the mounting section can be specified in such a way that the image display unit becomes the structure of each of the above embodiments when it is placed in the mounting section. Alternatively, the frame of the image display unit housing may have an opening through which the image display unit can be inserted. In this case, the image display unit housing may have the same structure as the display device, except that the frame has an opening and the image display unit can be inserted from the outside.

[0150] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-232921, filed on December 27, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0151] To illustrate the invention, the invention has been adequately and sufficiently described above with reference to the accompanying drawings through embodiments. However, those skilled in the art should recognize that modifications and / or improvements can be readily made to the above-described embodiments. Therefore, any modifications or improvements implemented by those skilled in the art that do not depart from the scope of the technical solution described in the claims are to be interpreted as being included within the scope of the technical solution.

[0152] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0153] 1000a, 1000b, 1000d, 1000e display devices

[0154] Display sections 10 (10a, 10b, 10c), 20 (20a, 20b, 20c), and 30 (30a, 30b, 30c).

Claims

1. A display device, wherein, The display device includes: The first display unit includes a first image display unit for displaying a first image and a first optical system for forming a first imaging image of the first image; as well as The second display unit includes a second image display unit for displaying a second image. The first display unit and the second display unit are arranged in a manner that their respective optical paths intersect.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second display unit is configured such that the second optical path of the second image display unit intersects with the first optical path of the first image display unit within the first optical system.

3. The display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second display unit further includes a second optical system for forming an imaging image of the second image. The first display unit and the second display unit are arranged in a manner in which their respective optical paths intersect within the first optical system and within the second optical system.

4. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The normals of the image planes of the first display unit and the second display unit intersect at point 1.

5. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first display unit and the second display unit are configured such that a first distance from the visual observer who visually confirms their respective imaging images to the first imaging image of the first display unit is different from a second distance from the visual observer to the second imaging image of the second display unit.

6. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first display unit and the second display unit are also configured such that, under visual confirmation by a visual confirmer, the first imaging image of the first display unit and the second imaging image of the second display unit overlap at least partially.

7. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first display unit and the second display unit are configured such that a first distance from the visual confirmer of the respective imaging image to the first imaging image of the first display unit is equal to a second distance from the visual confirmer to the second imaging image of the second display unit.

8. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, At least one of the first display unit and the second display unit further includes a first modification unit that modifies at least one of the distance from the visual observer confirming the image to the image and the magnification. The first display unit and the second display unit are mounted in the vehicle in a manner that allows the occupants to visually confirm their respective imaging images. The first modification unit includes: a survey unit that surveys at least one of a position and an orientation on the seat of the vehicle; and a first processing unit that calculates a first modification amount based on the position and orientation surveyed by the survey unit. And a first implementation unit, which changes at least one of the distance and the multiplier based on a first change amount determined by the first processing unit.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, At least one of the distance and the multiplier is the distance. The position is at least one of the position and the pose. When the seat is in the initial seat position and the distance is the initial distance, if the first change amount is an amount that is closer to the steering wheel than the initial seat position, the first implementation unit changes the distance in a manner that becomes longer than the initial distance based on the first change amount; if the first change amount is an amount that is farther away from the steering wheel than the initial seat position, the first implementation unit changes the distance in a manner that becomes shorter than the initial distance based on the first change amount.

10. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, At least one of the distance and the magnification is the magnification. The position is at least one of the position and the pose. When the seat is in the initial seat position and the magnification is the initial magnification, if the first change amount is closer to the steering wheel than the initial seat position, the first implementation unit changes the magnification in a manner that becomes less than the initial magnification based on the first change amount; if the first change amount is farther away from the steering wheel than the initial seat position, the first implementation unit changes the magnification in a manner that is greater than the initial magnification based on the first change amount.

11. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, At least one of the first display unit and the second display unit further includes a second modification unit, which changes at least one of the distance and magnification from the visual observer visually confirming the image to the image based on the content displayed on the image.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein, At least one of the distance and the multiplier is the distance. If the content contains information that encourages attention, the second modification unit changes the distance in a way that makes it shorter than the initial distance.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein, At least one of the distance and the magnification is the magnification. If the content contains information that promotes attention, the second modification unit changes the magnification to a higher level than the initial magnification.

14. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The display device further includes an image control unit that controls the images displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit, respectively. The image control unit causes the images of the multiple display units to switch between each other.

15. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The display device further includes an image control unit that controls the images displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit, respectively. The image control unit controls the first display unit and the second display unit to form one image from the images displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit respectively.

16. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The display device further includes an image control unit that controls the images displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit, respectively. The image control unit controls the first display unit and the second display unit to move the image from one to the other in each of the first display unit and the second display unit.

17. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The display device further includes an image control unit that controls the images displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit, respectively. The image control unit controls the first display unit and the second display unit to display a predetermined image on one of the first display unit and the second display unit, while not displaying the predetermined image on the other.

18. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The display device further includes a third display unit, which has a third image display unit for displaying a third image. The third display unit is configured such that the optical path of the third image display unit intersects with the optical paths of at least one of the first image display unit and the second image display unit.

19. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The display device further includes a third display unit, which has a third image display unit for displaying a third image. The first display unit and the second display unit are configured in a manner that allows a first visual observer to visually confirm them. The third display unit is configured in a manner that allows a second visual confirmer, different from the first visual confirmer, to visually confirm it.

20. A vehicle, wherein, The vehicle is equipped with a display device according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. A display system, wherein, The display system includes: The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 19; and The camera is capable of communicating with the display device. At least one of the first image display unit and the second image display unit displays an image captured by the camera.

22. A mobile body, wherein, The mobile body has the display system as described in claim 21.

23. An image display unit housing device, wherein, The image display unit housing device includes: The first display unit includes a first setting unit capable of setting a first image display unit for displaying a first image, and a first optical system for forming a first imaging image of the first image; as well as The second display unit includes a second setting unit capable of setting a second image display unit for displaying a second image. The first display unit and the second display unit are arranged in a manner that their respective optical paths intersect.

Images