Head-up display device

Abstract

This application provides a head-up display device, including an image source, a first reflecting component, a second reflecting component, and a light combining component, wherein the image source is installed on the top of the vehicle's cabin; the light combining component is used to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted by the image source; the first reflecting component is used to reflect the image light reflected by the light combining component; the light combining component is further configured to allow the image light reflected by the first reflecting component to pass through; and the second reflecting component is used to reflect the image light passing through the light combining component and allow it to reach a preset eye box area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of optical imaging technology, and more particularly to a head-up display device. Background Technology

[0002] Head-up display (HUD) technology uses optical reflection to project light emitted from an image source onto an imaging window (image panel, windshield, etc.), which then reflects the light into the driver's eye, forming a virtual image. This virtual image can display desired information, such as vehicle speed and other driving-related information, preventing driver distraction caused by looking down at the instrument panel while driving. This improves driving safety and provides a better driving experience.

[0003] As vehicle cabins become increasingly intelligent, the demand for HUDs in the cabin is also increasing. However, for scenarios where HUDs need to be installed in confined spaces, existing HUDs are too large and have long optical paths, making them unsuitable for installation in small spaces. Alternatively, after installation, they may cause problems such as inconvenience in use or unsightly appearance, which affect the passenger experience. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art, and proposes a head-up display device.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides a head-up display device, including an image source, a first reflective component, a second reflective component, and a light combining component, wherein the image source is installed on the top of the vehicle's cabin.

[0006] The light-combining component is used to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted by the image source; the first reflecting component is used to reflect the image light reflected by the light-combining component; the light-combining component is also configured to allow the image light reflected by the first reflecting component to pass through; the second reflecting component is used to reflect the image light passing through the light-combining component and allow it to reach a preset eye box area.

[0007] In some embodiments, the light combining component includes a reflective and transmissive diaphragm and a plurality of reversing diaphragms, wherein the reflective and transmissive diaphragm is used to transmit at least a portion of linearly polarized light with a first polarization direction and to reflect at least a portion of linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction; the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

[0008] A plurality of the reversing diaphragms are disposed between the reflective-transmitting diaphragm and the image source and the first reflective component, and are configured to receive linearly polarized light emitted by the image source with the polarization direction of the first direction, or to convert image light emitted by the image source into linearly polarized light with the polarization direction of the first direction; and to convert the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light when it propagates to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm into the second direction, and to convert the linearly polarized light in the second direction reflected by the reflective-transmitting diaphragm into polarized light in the third direction when it propagates to the first reflective component, and to convert the polarized light in the third direction reflected by the first reflective component into linearly polarized light with the polarization direction of the first direction when it propagates to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm.

[0009] In some embodiments, the plurality of commutation diaphragms include a first diaphragm and a second diaphragm, wherein the first diaphragm is located between the image source and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm; a portion of the second diaphragm is located between the first diaphragm and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm, and another portion of the second diaphragm is located between the first reflective component and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm;

[0010] The linearly polarized light is converted to the second polarization direction after passing through the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm in sequence; the linearly polarized light in the second direction reflected by the reflective transmission diaphragm is converted to a third polarized light after passing through another part of the second diaphragm, and the third polarized light in the third direction reflected by the first reflective component is converted to linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction after passing through another part of the second diaphragm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the reflective-transmitting film is a reflective polarizing film; both the first film and the second film are quarter-wave plates;

[0012] The head-up display device further includes a first substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, the reflective transmissive film being disposed on the surface of the first substrate near the first reflective component, and the second film being disposed on the surface of the reflective transmissive film near the first reflective component;

[0013] The head-up display device further includes a second substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, wherein the first diaphragm is disposed on the surface of the second substrate near or away from the image source.

[0014] In some embodiments, the plurality of commutation diaphragms include a third diaphragm and a fourth diaphragm, wherein the third diaphragm is located between the image source and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm; and the fourth diaphragm is located between the first reflective component and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm.

[0015] The linearly polarized light is converted to the second polarization direction after passing through the third diaphragm; the linearly polarized light in the second direction reflected by the reflective transmission diaphragm is converted to the third polarization direction after passing through the fourth diaphragm, and the third polarization direction reflected by the first reflective component is converted to linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction after passing through the fourth diaphragm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the reflective-transmitting film is a reflective polarizing film; the third film is a half-wave plate, and the fourth film is a quarter-wave plate;

[0017] The head-up display device further includes a first substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, a reflective and transmissive diaphragm disposed on the surface of the first substrate near the first reflective component, and a third diaphragm disposed on the light-emitting surface of the image source;

[0018] The head-up display device further includes a second substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, the second substrate being disposed between the first reflective component and the first substrate, and the fourth diaphragm being disposed on the surface of the second substrate near or away from the first reflective component.

[0019] In some embodiments, the plurality of commutation diaphragms further include a fifth diaphragm, which is disposed on the light-emitting side of the image source and is used to convert the image light emitted by the image source into linearly polarized light with the polarization direction of the first direction.

[0020] In some embodiments, the light combining component includes a reflective portion and a transmissive portion, wherein the reflective portion is disposed on the propagation path of the image light emitted by the image source and is offset from the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective component, and the reflective portion is used to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted by the image source;

[0021] The transmissive portion is disposed on the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective component, and is offset from the propagation path of the image light emitted by the image source. The transmissive portion is used to allow the image light reflected by the first reflective component to pass through.

[0022] In some embodiments, the head-up display device further includes a transmissive element at least partially disposed between the first reflective element and the second reflective element, the transmissive element having a first region and a second region offset from each other; the first region is located on the propagation path of the image light emitted from the image source; the second region is located on the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective element;

[0023] The portion of the transmissive element in the second region is capable of transmitting image light reflected by the first reflective element, or the portion of the transmissive element in the second region is a hollowed-out portion;

[0024] The light-combining component includes a reflective film, which serves as the reflective part and is disposed on the surface of the transmissive member on the side close to or away from the first reflective component, and is located in the first region.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first reflective element is mounted on the top of the vehicle's cabin;

[0026] The second reflective component serves as a light-blocking plate for the vehicle and is foldably disposed on the top of the vehicle's cabin. When unfolded, the light-blocking plate is located on the side of the light-combining component away from the first reflective component.

[0027] Alternatively, the second reflective component may be mounted on the back of the front seat of the vehicle.

[0028] Other objects and features of this application will become clear from reading the specification, claims and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein:

[0030] Figure 1 A perspective view of the head-up display device provided in the first embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the head-up display device provided in the first embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 Another longitudinal cross-sectional view of the head-up display device provided in the first embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 Another longitudinal cross-sectional view of the head-up display device provided in the first embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the head-up display device provided in the second embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 6 Another longitudinal cross-sectional view of the head-up display device provided in the second embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0037] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0038] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0039] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing different structures of this application. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, various specific examples of processes and materials are provided in this application, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0040] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0041] This application provides a head-up display (HUD) device. The HUD device can be installed on vehicles or other means of transportation. The HUD device includes an image source for outputting image light. The image source includes a backlight and a display panel disposed on the light-emitting side of the backlight. For example, the display panel is a liquid crystal display panel. The display panel includes multiple pixel units, each pixel unit including multiple pixels, for example, each pixel unit including red, green, and blue pixels; or, for example, each pixel unit including red, green, blue, and white pixels. The display panel is used to convert the light from the backlight into image light. Reflective components (such as windshields, sun visors, etc.) installed in the vehicle's cabin are used to reflect the image light to a preset eye box area, so that when the observer's eyes are within the preset eye box area, they can see the image formed by the image light. The image seen by the observer is a virtual image formed by the reflective components through reflection imaging. The observer can be a driver or a passenger. The observer can obtain the required vehicle information from the virtual image in front of their line of sight, such as driving speed, fuel consumption, etc., or other information, such as images from a virtual rearview mirror or audio-visual entertainment system.

[0042] Specifically, the aforementioned preset eyebox area refers to the region where the observer's eyes are located, where they can see the image output by the display device (i.e., the aforementioned virtual image). The preset eyebox area has a certain shape and size. Even if the observer's eyes deviate from the center of the preset eyebox area by a certain distance, such as a certain distance in the vertical or horizontal direction, as long as they are still within the preset area, they can see the image output by the display device.

[0043] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2The head-up display (HUD) device 100 provided in this application embodiment includes an image source 10, a first reflective component 20, a second reflective component 30, and a light-combining component 40. The image source 10 is installed on the ceiling of the vehicle's cabin to emit image light. The image source 10 can be installed on the ceiling of the vehicle's cabin, for example, via the light-combining component 40. That is, the light-combining component 40 is installed on the ceiling of the vehicle's cabin, and the image source 10 is installed on the light-combining component 40. The image source 10 can also be directly installed on the ceiling of the vehicle's cabin. By installing the image source 10 on the ceiling of the vehicle's cabin, it can be applied to scenarios where a HUD is added to locations such as the driver's and passenger's side light shields or above the driver's and passenger's seats in the cabin. Moreover, compared to traditional HUD devices that typically install all components, including the image source 10, near the dashboard or inside the dashboard, installing the image source 10 on the top of the cabin makes full use of the vertical space of the vehicle cabin and avoids occupying valuable dashboard space. This makes the layout of the HUD device with other in-vehicle devices (such as the dashboard, central control screen, etc.) more reasonable, improves the overall utilization of cabin space, and also provides more space for the integration of other smart devices.

[0044] Based on this, the light-combining component 40 is used to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted by the image source 10; the first reflecting component 20 is used to reflect the image light reflected by the light-combining component 40; the light-combining component 40 is also configured to allow the image light reflected by the first reflecting component 20 to pass through; the second reflecting component 30 is used to reflect the image light passing through the light-combining component 40 and make it reach the preset eye box area. The reflecting surface of the first reflecting component 20 can be a plane or a curved surface, and the curved surface can be a free-form surface, or an aspherical surface, a spherical surface, etc. The second reflecting component 30 can be a light-blocking plate, a windshield, etc., and the reflecting surface of the second reflecting component 30 can be a free-form surface, or an aspherical surface, a spherical surface, etc.

[0045] Traditional HUD devices are bulky due to their long optical paths, making them difficult to fit into the limited space of a vehicle cabin. To address this issue, this embodiment uses a light-combining component 40 to reflect the image light emitted from the image source 10. Simultaneously, the component is configured to allow the image light reflected by the first reflecting component 20 to pass through, effectively folding the optical path and significantly shortening its length. By combining this with the second reflection of the reflected light by the first reflecting component 20, and finally reflecting the light to the preset eye box area via the second reflecting component 30, the HUD device can achieve a large field of view (e.g., 40° × 20°) while significantly reducing its size, thus solving the problems of large size and difficult installation in existing HUDs.

[0046] Furthermore, through the coordinated operation of the light combining component 40 and the multi-stage reflection components (i.e., the first reflection component 20 and the second reflection component 30), the optical path can be effectively folded with fewer components, significantly shortening the optical path length, reducing the complexity and cost of the system, and reducing the dependence on other complex optical components, thereby reducing the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the equipment.

[0047] First Embodiment

[0048] In this embodiment, the image light emitted by the image source 10 can be linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a polarization direction of the first direction. Alternatively, the image light emitted by the image source 10 can also be unpolarized light. Figure 2 As shown, image source 10 is, for example, a mobile phone screen, and the image light emitted by the mobile phone screen is unpolarized light. Figure 3 As shown, the image source 10 is, for example, a device that can directly emit linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a polarization direction of a first direction.

[0049] Please refer to the following: Figures 1 to 3The light combining component 40 that achieves the above functions includes, for example, a reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43 and a plurality of reversing diaphragms (e.g., the first diaphragm 41 and the second diaphragm 42 described below). The reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43 is used to transmit at least a portion of linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a polarization direction of the first direction and to reflect at least a portion of linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a polarization direction of the second direction; the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction. Multiple reversing diaphragms are disposed between the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 and the image source 10 and the first reflective component 20. When the image light emitted by the image source 10 is linearly polarized light with a polarization direction of the first direction (e.g., S-light), the multiple reversing diaphragms are configured to receive the linearly polarized light emitted by the image source 10 with a polarization direction of the first direction, and to convert the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light when it propagates to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 into a second direction. The reversing diaphragms also convert the linearly polarized light with the second direction reflected by the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 into a third-direction polarized light when it propagates to the first reflective component 20 (the third direction is different from both the first and second directions; for example, the third-direction polarized light). Furthermore, the reversing diaphragms convert the third-direction polarized light reflected by the first reflective component 20 into linearly polarized light with a polarization direction of the first direction when it propagates to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43. When the image light emitted by the image source 10 is unpolarized light, multiple reversing diaphragms are configured to convert the image light emitted by the image source 10 into linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction, and to convert the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light to a second direction when it propagates to the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43. The linearly polarized light with a second direction reflected by the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43 is converted into a third-direction polarized light when it propagates to the first reflective member 20, and the third-direction polarized light reflected by the first reflective member 20 is converted into polarized light with a first polarization direction when it propagates to the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43.

[0050] Specifically, for the case where the image light emitted by image source 10 is linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with the polarization direction in the first direction, such as... Figure 3 As shown, multiple commutation diaphragms do not require conversion of the linear polarization of the image light emitted from image source 10 (i.e., they do not require conversion of the image light emitted from image source 10 into linearly polarized light in the first direction). They can directly convert the polarization direction of the light as it propagates to the reflective transmission diaphragm 43 into the second direction. This direct conversion method reduces unnecessary optical operations, improves the efficiency of the optical path, and avoids light loss caused by multiple conversions. Figure 3 This illustrates the case where the image light emitted by image source 10 is linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with the polarization direction in the first direction.

[0051] When the image light emitted by image source 10 is unpolarized, multiple reversing diaphragms first convert the image light emitted by image source 10 into linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction (e.g., S-light), and then convert its polarization direction to the second direction when it propagates to the reflective transmission diaphragm 43. This allows most types of light to be processed effectively, enabling the HUD device to be compatible with multiple light source types and enhancing the device's versatility and flexibility.

[0052] Since the reflective transmissive diaphragm 43 can reflect linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction, the linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction that has propagated through multiple commutation diaphragms to the reflective transmissive diaphragm 43 can be reflected by the reflective transmissive diaphragm 43. The linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction after being reflected by the reflective transmissive diaphragm 43 will pass through a portion of the multiple commutation diaphragms again and propagate to the first reflective component 20. During this process, the linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction that has passed through this portion of the commutation diaphragms is converted into third-polarized light when it propagates to the first reflective component 20. The first reflective component 20 is used to reflect the third-direction polarized light. The third-direction polarized light reflected by the first reflective component 20 will pass through the aforementioned partial reversing diaphragm again. This partial reversing diaphragm will convert the third-direction polarized light into linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with the polarization direction in the first direction when it propagates to the reflective transmission diaphragm 43. Since the reflective transmission diaphragm 43 can transmit linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with the polarization direction in the first direction, it is possible to allow the image light reflected by the first reflective component 20 to pass through so that the image light can propagate to the second reflective component 30.

[0053] The aforementioned reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 can reflect linearly polarized light (such as P-light) with a second polarization direction, while transmitting linearly polarized light (such as S-light) with a first polarization direction. This characteristic allows light to be reflected and transmitted efficiently in the light combining component 40, reducing light loss and improving the overall efficiency of the optical system. Simultaneously, multiple commutating diaphragms, by converting the polarization direction of linearly polarized light and switching between linearly polarized light and third-direction polarized light, ensure that the light maintains a suitable polarization state during propagation. This allows them to work in conjunction with the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 to realize the function of the light combining component 40: reflecting at least a portion of the image light emitted from the image source 10 and allowing the image light reflected by the first reflecting component 20 to pass through. Through the synergistic effect of the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 and the commutating diaphragms, the optical structure can be simplified, reducing the complexity and cost of the device. At the same time, the device can be made more compact, reducing its size and weight, making it more suitable for installation in confined spaces such as vehicle cabins.

[0054] Furthermore, the multiple commutation diaphragms that realize the above functions include, for example, a first diaphragm 41 and a second diaphragm 42, wherein the first diaphragm 41 is located between the image source 10 and the reflective / transmittive diaphragm 43; a portion of the second diaphragm 42 (i.e., Figure 2 and Figure 3 The right-hand portion of the second membrane 42 is located between the first membrane 41 and the reflective / transmittive membrane 43, while the other portion of the second membrane 42 (i.e., Figure 2 and Figure 3 The left portion of the image source 10 (the portion of the image source 10) is located between the first reflective component 20 and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43. Linearly polarized light with a first polarization direction (e.g., S-light) changes its polarization direction to a second direction after passing through the first diaphragm 41 and the second diaphragm 42 in sequence. The linearly polarized light with the second polarization direction reflected by the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 changes to a third polarization direction after passing through another portion of the second diaphragm 42, and the third polarization direction reflected by the first reflective component 20 changes to linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction after passing through another portion of the second diaphragm 42. This is achieved by placing a portion of the first diaphragm 41 and the second diaphragm 42 (i.e., the portion of the image source 10) between the image source 10 and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The right side of the first reflective component 20 and the other part of the second diaphragm 42 are disposed between the first reflective component 20 and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The left side of the image source 10 can be configured such that the image light propagating from the image source 10 to the reflective transmissive film 43 needs to pass through the first film 41 and the second film 42 in sequence, while the image light propagating from the reflective transmissive film 43 to the first reflective component 20 only passes through the second film 42, and the image light propagating from the first reflective component 20 to the reflective transmissive film 43 only passes through the second film 42. This difference ensures that the light maintains a suitable polarization state during propagation so that it can work in conjunction with the reflective transmissive film 43 to realize the function of the light combining component 40, that is, to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted by the image source 10 and to allow the image light reflected by the first reflective component 20 to pass through.

[0055] In some embodiments, when the image light emitted by the image source 10 is linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a polarization direction of the first direction, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the image light emitted from image source 10 can directly pass through the first diaphragm 41. For the case where the image light emitted from image source 10 is unpolarized light, such as... Figure 2As shown, the plurality of commutation diaphragms also include a fifth diaphragm 11, which is disposed on the light-emitting side of the image source 10 and is used to convert the image light emitted by the image source 10 into linearly polarized light with a polarization direction of the first direction. In this case, the image light emitted by the image source 10 is converted into linearly polarized light with a polarization direction of the first direction after passing through the fifth diaphragm 11, and then passes through the first diaphragm 41 mentioned above.

[0056] In one specific embodiment, the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 is, for example, a reflective polarizing diaphragm; the first diaphragm 41 and the second diaphragm 42 are both quarter-wave plates. In this case, the optical path of the image light is: linearly polarized light (such as S-beam) with a polarization direction of the first direction emitted by the image source 10, or unpolarized light emitted by the image source 10 is converted into linearly polarized light with a polarization direction of the first direction (such as S-beam) after passing through the fifth diaphragm 11. Figure 3 Taking the optical path indicated by the arrow as an example, the first diaphragm 41 converts linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction into light with a third polarization direction. The second diaphragm 42 converts the third polarized light with a third polarization direction into linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction. Thus, the linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction can be converted to the second polarization direction after passing through the first diaphragm 41 and the second diaphragm 42 sequentially and propagating to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43. Then, the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 reflects the linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction. Another part of the second diaphragm 42 converts the reflected linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction into light with a third polarization direction. The first reflecting component 20 reflects this third polarized light, and the light reflected by the first reflecting component 20 propagates towards the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43. This light first enters the second diaphragm 42, and another part of the second diaphragm 42 converts this third polarized light with a third polarization direction into linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction. The reflective transmissive film 43 transmits linearly polarized light (such as S-light) with a first polarization direction, allowing the light to propagate to the second reflective component 30. Finally, the image light reaches the preset eye box area, forming a virtual image.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the head-up display device 100 also includes a first substrate 51 capable of transmitting linearly polarized light, a reflective-transmitting film 43 disposed on the surface of the first substrate 51 near the first reflective member 20, and a second film 42 disposed on the surface of the reflective-transmitting film 43 near the first reflective member 20. The first substrate 51 is, for example, a transparent medium such as white glass. Preferably, to improve the transmission effect, an antireflective film 53 may also be disposed on the surface of the first substrate 51 away from the first reflective member 20.

[0058] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the head-up display device 100 also includes a second substrate 52 capable of transmitting linearly polarized light, and a first diaphragm 41 is disposed on the surface of the second substrate 52 near or away from the image source 10. The second substrate 52 is, for example, a transparent medium such as white glass.

[0059] By integrating the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43, the first diaphragm 41, and the second diaphragm 42 onto the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52, the space requirements between optical components are reduced, making the entire optical structure more compact and adaptable to space-constrained environments such as vehicle cabins. Furthermore, the transmission characteristics of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 ensure efficient light transmission during propagation. In addition, the protection provided by the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 ensures the performance stability of the optical components during long-term use, and also improves the stability and reliability of the equipment. Moreover, the arrangement of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 makes the installation and maintenance of the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43, the first diaphragm 41, and the second diaphragm 42 more convenient.

[0060] It should be noted that, in Figure 2 In the example shown, the second substrate 52 can be omitted. In this case, the first diaphragm 41 can be integrated on the light-emitting side of the image source 10. For example, the fifth diaphragm 11 is disposed on the light-emitting surface of the image source 10; the first diaphragm 41 is disposed on the surface of the fifth diaphragm 11 away from the image source 10. Figure 3 In the example shown, the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43 and the second diaphragm 42 are integrated on the first substrate 51, and the first diaphragm 41 and the image source 10 are integrated on the second substrate 52. In this case, as Figure 1 As shown, the head-up display device 100 also includes a mounting bracket 60, which provides a mounting and support base for the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 and the corresponding diaphragms integrated thereon, and integrates these components and the image source 10 into a single unit for easy installation. The mounting bracket 60 can, for example, be mounted on the ceiling of a vehicle's cabin. Figure 1 As shown, the mounting bracket 60 includes, for example, a first mounting frame and a second mounting frame at an angle. The space enclosed by the first mounting frame is used to mount the first substrate 51, and the second mounting frame is used to mount the second substrate 52. The angle between the first and second mounting frames is set according to the light emission direction of the image source 10 and the reflection angle of the reflective transmissive film 43. This angle is, for example, 45°. The surface of the mounting bracket 60 can be coated with a soft-touch paint to reduce light reflection.

[0061] In other embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, the multiple reversing diaphragms that realize the above functions may further include a third diaphragm 44 and a fourth diaphragm 45, wherein the third diaphragm 44 is located between the image source 10 and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43; the fourth diaphragm 45 is located between the first reflective component 20 and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43; the linearly polarized light emitted from the image source 10 is converted to a second polarization direction after passing through the third diaphragm 44; the linearly polarized light in the second direction reflected by the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 is converted to a third polarization direction after passing through the fourth diaphragm 45; and the third polarization direction reflected by the first reflective component 20 is converted to linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction after passing through the fourth diaphragm 45. By providing a third diaphragm 44 between the image source 10 and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43, and a fourth diaphragm 45 between the first reflecting component 20 and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43, image light propagating from the image source 10 to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 must pass through the third diaphragm 44, while image light propagating from the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 to the first reflecting component 20 passes through the fourth diaphragm 45, and image light propagating from the first reflecting component 20 to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 also passes through the fourth diaphragm 45. The difference between the third diaphragm 44 and the fourth diaphragm 45 ensures that the light maintains a suitable polarization state during propagation, allowing them to work in conjunction with the reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 to achieve the function of the light combining component 40, namely, reflecting at least a portion of the image light emitted from the image source 10 and allowing the image light reflected by the first reflecting component 20 to pass through. Further, in this embodiment, if the image light emitted from the image source 10 is linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a polarization direction of the first direction, the image light emitted from the image source 10 can directly pass through the aforementioned third diaphragm 44. However, for the case where the image light emitted by image source 10 is unpolarized light, such as Figure 4 As shown, the plurality of commutation diaphragms also include a fifth diaphragm 11, which is disposed on the light-emitting side of the image source 10 and is used to convert the image light emitted by the image source 10 into linearly polarized light with a polarization direction of the first direction. In this case, the image light emitted by the image source 10 is converted into linearly polarized light with a polarization direction of the first direction after passing through the fifth diaphragm 11, and then passes through the aforementioned third diaphragm 44.

[0062] In one specific embodiment, the reflective-transmitting film 43 is a reflective polarizing film; the third film 44 is a half-wave plate; and the fourth film 45 are all quarter-wave plates. In this case, the light path of the image rays is as follows: Figure 4As shown, linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction is emitted from image source 10, or unpolarized light emitted from image source 10 is converted into linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction after passing through the fifth diaphragm 11. The third diaphragm 44 (half-wave plate) converts the linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction into linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction. The reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 reflects the linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a second polarization direction. The fourth diaphragm 45 (quarter-wave plate) converts the reflected linearly polarized light (e.g., P-light) with a third polarization direction into light with a third polarization direction. The first reflecting component 20 reflects the light with a third polarization direction. The fourth diaphragm 45 (quarter-wave plate) converts the light with a third polarization direction into linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction. The reflective-transmitting diaphragm 43 transmits the linearly polarized light (e.g., S-light) with a first polarization direction, allowing the light to propagate to the second reflecting component 30. Ultimately, the image light reaches the preset eye box area, forming a virtual image.

[0063] In some embodiments, the head-up display device 100 further includes a first substrate 51 capable of transmitting linearly polarized light, a reflective transmissive diaphragm 43 disposed on the surface of the first substrate 51 near the first reflective member 20, and a third diaphragm 44 disposed on the light-emitting surface of the image source 10. In embodiments where a fifth diaphragm 11 is disposed on the light-emitting surface of the image source 10, the third diaphragm 44 is disposed on the surface of the fifth diaphragm 11 away from the image source 10.

[0064] In some embodiments, the head-up display device 100 further includes a second substrate 52 capable of transmitting linearly polarized light. The second substrate 52 is disposed between the first reflective component 20 and the first substrate 51, and a fourth diaphragm 45 is disposed on the surface of the second substrate 52 near or away from the first reflective component 20. By integrating the third diaphragm 44 onto the light-emitting surface of the image source 10, and integrating the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43 and the fourth diaphragm 45 onto the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52, the space requirements between optical elements are reduced, making the entire optical structure more compact to adapt to environments with limited space, such as vehicle cabins. Furthermore, the transmission characteristics of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 ensure efficient light transmission during propagation. In addition, the protection provided by the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 ensures the performance stability of the optical elements during long-term use, and also improves the stability and reliability of the device. Furthermore, the arrangement of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 makes the installation and maintenance of the reflective and transmissive diaphragm 43 and the fourth diaphragm 45 more convenient. The specific structure of the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 52 used in this embodiment can be similar to that of the above embodiments, only differing in position and angle, and will not be described again here.

[0065] Second Embodiment

[0066] The difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment described above lies in the structure of the light-combining component 40 that enables its function. Specifically, as shown... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the light-combining component 40 in this embodiment includes a reflective portion (e.g., a reflective film 47) and a transmissive portion (e.g., including a transmissive member 46 or a cutout on the transmissive member 46'). The reflective portion is disposed on the propagation path of the image light emitted from the image source 10 and is offset from the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective member 20. The reflective portion is used to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted from the image source 10. By offsetting the propagation path of the reflective portion from the image light reflected by the first reflective member 20, the image light reflected by the first reflective member 20 will not propagate to the reflective portion, preventing this portion of the image light from being reflected again by the reflective portion, thereby reducing unnecessary light reflection and interference. The transmissive portion is disposed on the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective member 20 and is offset from the propagation path of the image light emitted from the image source 10. The transmissive portion is used to allow the image light reflected by the first reflective member 20 to pass through. The propagation paths of the transmissive part and the image light emitted by the image source 10 are staggered, which can prevent the image light emitted by the image source 10 from passing directly through the transmissive part without passing through the reflective part, thereby ensuring that the light always passes through the correct optical element during propagation.

[0067] Specifically, the path of the image light rays is as follows: The image light rays emitted from the image source 10 first reach the reflecting unit. The reflecting unit reflects the image light rays, changing their propagation direction. The reflected image light rays pass through the first reflecting member 20, changing their propagation direction again. The image light rays reflected by the first reflecting member 20 reach the transmitting unit. The transmitting unit allows the image light rays to pass through and continue propagating to the second reflecting member 30. Finally, the image light rays reach the preset eyebox area, forming a virtual image.

[0068] The aforementioned design of the reflective and transmissive sections ensures that light emitted from image source 10 does not pass directly through the transmissive section but must first pass through the reflective section. Simultaneously, light reflected by the first reflective component 20 does not propagate to the reflective section, preventing this portion of light from being reflected again, reducing light loss and interference, and ensuring that light always passes through the correct optical elements during propagation, minimizing unnecessary reflection and transmission. Furthermore, by incorporating the reflective and transmissive sections, reliance on other complex optical elements is reduced, simplifying the optical structure and lowering the system's complexity and cost.

[0069] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5As shown, the head-up display device 100 further includes a transmissive element 46 at least partially disposed between the first reflective element 20 and the second reflective element 30. The transmissive element 46 has a first region (i.e., the portion on the right side of the transmissive element 46) and a second region (i.e., the portion on the left side of the transmissive element 46) that are offset from each other. The first region is located on the propagation path of the image light emitted by the image source 10. The second region is located on the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective element 20. The portion of the transmissive element 46 in the second region is capable of transmitting the image light reflected by the first reflective element 20. The light combining element 40 includes a reflective film 47, which serves as a reflective part and is disposed on the surface of the transmissive element 46 on the side close to or away from the first reflective element 20, and is located in the first region.

[0070] Specifically, by setting mutually staggered first and second regions on the transmissive element 46, it is ensured that the image light emitted from the image source 10 and the image light reflected by the first reflective element 20 propagate in different regions (i.e., the first region and the second region). The portion of the transmissive element 46 in the second region can transmit the image light reflected by the first reflective element 20, ensuring that the light is not blocked during propagation and reducing unnecessary light loss. For example, the portion of the transmissive element 46 in the second region uses a medium capable of transmitting image light, such as glass. The reflective film 47 serves as a reflective element and is integrated into the first region of the transmissive element 46. The portion of the transmissive element 46 in the first region uses a medium capable of transmitting image light, such as glass, to support and protect the reflective film 47. The protection provided by the transmissive element 46 ensures the performance stability of the reflective film 47 during long-term use and makes the installation and maintenance of the reflective film 47 more convenient. The transmissive element 46 and the image source 10 can also use the fixing bracket 60 in the first embodiment as the mounting and support base. Alternatively, a base similar to the second base 52 in the first embodiment can be provided for mounting and protecting the image source 10.

[0071] In other embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the transmissive element 46' has a first region and a second region that are staggered from each other, wherein the portion of the transmissive element 46' in the second region is a hollowed-out portion. The first region of the transmissive element 46' is located on the propagation path of the image light emitted from the image source 10; the reflective film 47 serves as a reflective portion and is disposed on the surface of the transmissive element 46' on the side close to or away from the first reflective member 20, and is located in the first region.

[0072] Based on the first and second embodiments described above, optionally, the first reflective component 20 is installed on the top of the vehicle's cabin; the second reflective component 30 serves as a light-blocking plate for the vehicle and is foldably installed on the top of the vehicle's cabin, with the light-blocking plate located on the side of the light-combining component 40 away from the first reflective component 20 when unfolded; or, the second reflective component 30 is installed on the back of the front seats of the vehicle. These two methods are compatible with the image source 10 being installed on the top of the vehicle's cabin and are suitable for scenarios where HUDs are added to locations such as the light-blocking plates above the driver and passenger seats (i.e., the front seats) in the cabin. Specifically, the light-blocking plate also serves as the second reflective component 30, used to reflect the image light from the HUD, allowing the driver or passenger to clearly see the content displayed on the HUD, such as vehicle speed, navigation information, and entertainment information, while being shaded from the sun. Moreover, integrating the second reflective component 30 into the light-blocking plate fully utilizes the space on the top of the vehicle's cabin, avoiding additional space occupation within the cabin, allowing the HUD device to better integrate into the vehicle's interior design. By installing the second reflective component 30 on the back of the front seat, the vertical space in the vehicle cabin is fully utilized, avoiding the occupation of other space in the cabin, and allowing the HUD device to be better integrated into the vehicle's interior design.

[0073] It is understood that the above embodiments are merely exemplary implementations used to illustrate the principles of this application, and this application is not limited thereto. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and substance of this application, and these modifications and improvements are also considered to be within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A head-up display device, characterized in that, It includes an image source, a first reflecting component, a second reflecting component, and a light combining component, wherein the image source is installed on the top of the vehicle's cabin. The light-combining component is used to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted by the image source; the first reflecting component is used to reflect the image light reflected by the light-combining component; the light-combining component is also configured to allow the image light reflected by the first reflecting component to pass through; the second reflecting component is used to reflect the image light passing through the light-combining component and allow it to reach a preset eye box area.

2. The head-up display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light combining component includes a reflective and transmissive diaphragm and a plurality of reversing diaphragms, wherein the reflective and transmissive diaphragm is used to transmit at least a portion of linearly polarized light with a first polarization direction and to reflect at least a portion of linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction; the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction. A plurality of the reversing diaphragms are disposed between the reflective-transmitting diaphragm and the image source and the first reflective component, and are configured to receive linearly polarized light emitted by the image source with the polarization direction of the first direction, or to convert image light emitted by the image source into linearly polarized light with the polarization direction of the first direction; and to convert the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light when it propagates to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm into the second direction, and to convert the linearly polarized light in the second direction reflected by the reflective-transmitting diaphragm into polarized light in the third direction when it propagates to the first reflective component, and to convert the polarized light in the third direction reflected by the first reflective component into linearly polarized light with the polarization direction of the first direction when it propagates to the reflective-transmitting diaphragm.

3. The head-up display device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of commutation diaphragms include a first diaphragm and a second diaphragm, wherein the first diaphragm is located between the image source and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm; a portion of the second diaphragm is located between the first diaphragm and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm, and another portion of the second diaphragm is located between the first reflective component and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm; The linearly polarized light is converted to the second polarization direction after passing through the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm in sequence; the linearly polarized light in the second direction reflected by the reflective transmission diaphragm is converted to a third polarized light after passing through another part of the second diaphragm, and the third polarized light in the third direction reflected by the first reflective component is converted to linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction after passing through another part of the second diaphragm.

4. The head-up display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reflective and transmissive film is a reflective polarizing film; both the first film and the second film are quarter-wave plates; The head-up display device further includes a first substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, the reflective transmissive film being disposed on the surface of the first substrate near the first reflective component, and the second film being disposed on the surface of the reflective transmissive film near the first reflective component; The head-up display device further includes a second substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, wherein the first diaphragm is disposed on the surface of the second substrate near or away from the image source.

5. The head-up display device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of commutation diaphragms includes a third diaphragm and a fourth diaphragm, wherein the third diaphragm is located between the image source and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm; and the fourth diaphragm is located between the first reflective component and the reflective-transmitting diaphragm. The linearly polarized light is converted to the second polarization direction after passing through the third diaphragm; the linearly polarized light in the second direction reflected by the reflective transmission diaphragm is converted to the third polarization direction after passing through the fourth diaphragm, and the third polarization direction reflected by the first reflective component is converted to linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction after passing through the fourth diaphragm.

6. The head-up display device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The reflective and transmissive film is a reflective polarizing film; the third film is a half-wave plate, and the fourth film is a quarter-wave plate; The head-up display device further includes a first substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, a reflective and transmissive diaphragm disposed on the surface of the first substrate near the first reflective component, and a third diaphragm disposed on the light-emitting surface of the image source; The head-up display device further includes a second substrate capable of transmitting the linearly polarized light, the second substrate being disposed between the first reflective component and the first substrate, and the fourth diaphragm being disposed on the surface of the second substrate near or away from the first reflective component.

7. The head-up display device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of commutation diaphragms also include a fifth diaphragm, which is disposed on the light-emitting side of the image source and is used to convert the image light emitted by the image source into linearly polarized light with the polarization direction of the first direction.

8. The head-up display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light combining component includes a reflective part and a transmissive part. The reflective part is disposed on the propagation path of the image light emitted by the image source and is offset from the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective part. The reflective part is used to reflect at least a portion of the image light emitted by the image source. The transmissive portion is disposed on the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective component, and is offset from the propagation path of the image light emitted by the image source. The transmissive portion is used to allow the image light reflected by the first reflective component to pass through.

9. The head-up display device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The head-up display device further includes a transmissive element at least partially disposed between the first reflective element and the second reflective element, the transmissive element having a first region and a second region that are offset from each other; the first region is located on the propagation path of the image light emitted by the image source; the second region is located on the propagation path of the image light reflected by the first reflective element; The portion of the transmissive element in the second region is capable of transmitting image light reflected by the first reflective element, or the portion of the transmissive element in the second region is a hollowed-out portion; The light-combining component includes a reflective film, which serves as the reflective part and is disposed on the surface of the transmissive member on the side close to or away from the first reflective component, and is located in the first region.

10. The head-up display device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The first reflective component is mounted on the top of the vehicle's cabin. The second reflective component serves as a light-blocking plate for the vehicle and is foldably disposed on the top of the vehicle's cabin, with the light-blocking plate, when unfolded, located on the side of the light-combining component away from the first reflective component; or, the second reflective component is mounted on the back of the front seat of the vehicle.

Images