Vehicle display device

Abstract

A vehicle display device (3001) for projecting an image from a counter surface facing a windshield (F) in an instrument panel (I) onto the windshield (F), comprising: a display device (3002) arranged in the instrument panel (I), and an aperture (3005) arranged on a counter surface section, wherein the aperture (3005) has a cover section (3003) for covering over the display device (3002) and a frame section (3004) arranged around the cover section (3003), wherein the cover section (3003) has a vehicle-front end section (3003a) which is arranged in a lower position than a rear end section (3003b), and in the frame section (3004) a front frame (3004A) is formed on a front side of the cover section (3003) to have an upwardly convex surface and is arranged to slope downwards from a tip of the upwardly convex surface to a rear of the vehicle, such that a boundary at which the vehicle-front end section (3003a) of the cover section (3003) rests against a rear end section (3042) of the front frame (3004A), is positioned lower than the tip of the upwardly convex surface, and wherein the cover section (3003) is designed to have a downwardly convex surface, wherein the vehicle-front end section (3003a) of the cover section (3003) and the rear end section (3042) of the front frame (3004A) are arranged to have a curved surface at the boundary where upper surfaces are continuous with each other.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle display device which is arranged on an instrument panel and projects an image onto a windscreen. State of the art

[0002] The prior art discloses a device comprising a display unit arranged in an instrument panel and projecting an image onto a windshield, as a vehicle display device (see, for example, patent reference 1). In the vehicle display device described in patent reference 1, the display unit projects an image from an opening section formed in the instrument panel upwards onto the windshield. Furthermore, a cover, comprising a cover section for overlaying the display unit and a frame section enclosing the cover section, is arranged in the opening section, the cover section protecting the display unit from dust, moisture, and the like. List of citations from patent literature Patent Literature 1: JP 2007-148092A Patent Literature 2: JP 2008-40091A

[0003] Further prior art is known from DE 10 2005 012 011 A1. This discloses a vehicle display device consisting of an image sensor, a mirror, and a refractive lens. The lens is cylindrical and simultaneously functions as a cover.

[0004] Documents JP 2013 - 086 691 A and JP 2011 - 150 099 A should also be mentioned as state of the art. Summary of the invention: Technical problem

[0005] However, in the vehicle display device described in patent literature 1, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, a frame section 101 is arranged essentially on the same plane as an instrument panel I. Furthermore, a cover section 102 is arranged pointing upwards, and external light, such as sunlight, reflected from the cover section 102, occasionally reaches an eye point EP of a passenger (especially a driver) and adversely causes the passenger to feel uncomfortable.

[0006] Incidentally, to prevent light reflected from the cover section from being directed towards a passenger, a configuration like the one in [reference to relevant document] is conceivable. Fig. Figure 11 shows a cover section 202 arranged to be inclined downwards and forwards, such that the front of the cover section 202 is positioned below the rear. In this configuration, light reflected from the cover section 202 is prevented from being directed forwards and causing discomfort to the passenger.

[0007] However, in the configuration where the cover section 202 is inclined downwards at the front, external light is less likely to reach an inner surface 203 of a frame section 201 at a front face. Therefore, when an aperture is reflected onto a windscreen F due to external light, the inner surface 203 is reflected darkly compared to other sections, and this section is highlighted, thus adversely reducing visibility. In particular, in a display device that projects an image onto a windscreen, where the image is designed such that a passenger focuses on the image at a distant point, such a reflection will be focused at a point relatively close to the passenger. For this reason, when the passenger focuses on an image projected by the display device, left and right parallax occurs in the reflection.For this reason, visibility is likely to decrease.

[0008] One object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle display device that offers good visibility without causing discomfort to a passenger.

[0009] Additionally, a vehicle display device is proposed in which, in order to prevent light reflected from a cover section from being directed towards a passenger, the cover section is arranged to be inclined downwards at the front, so that the front of the cover section is lower than the rear (see, for example, patent literature 2). In the vehicle display device described in patent literature 2, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, a cover section 302 is arranged to be inclined downwards at the front. As a result, external light is prevented from reaching a passenger's (especially a driver's) eye point EP and causing the passenger discomfort.

[0010] However, in the vehicle display device described in patent literature 2, the cover section 302 is supported by a frame section 301, which extends essentially vertically to an instrument panel I. For this reason, it was disadvantageously necessary to arrange the instrument panel I and the frame section 301 separately, with the costs increasing due to the number of parts and the number of manufacturing processes.

[0011] Furthermore, when external light enters from the front, it reaches the instrument panel I, but not a rearward-facing surface 303 on the front face of a frame section 301. Adversely, a section near surface 303 is reflected darkly onto a windscreen F, and the reflection is emphasized, resulting in reduced visibility. In particular, in a display device that projects an image onto a windscreen, where the image is designed such that a passenger focuses on the image at a distant point, such a reflection is focused at a point relatively close to the passenger. Therefore, when the passenger focuses on an image projected by the display device, left and right parallax occurs. For this reason, visibility is likely to be reduced.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle display device that enables cost reduction and good visibility without causing discomfort to a passenger. Solution to the problem

[0013] The problems are solved with a vehicle display device having the features of claim 1. An advantageous embodiment of the invention is further specified in dependent claim 2.

[0014] According to the present invention, as described above, the front end section of the cover is positioned lower than the rear end section. As a result, external light reflected from the cover section is prevented from being directed towards a passenger and causing discomfort.

[0015] According to the present invention, as described above, the front frame slopes downwards towards the rear; in other words, the front frame does not have a forward-folded section that becomes an undercut section. As a result, the front frame and instrument panel can be integrally formed and die-cut using an upper and lower pair of molds, and the number of parts and manufacturing steps can be reduced, thus achieving cost savings. Furthermore, external light can also potentially reach the rear of the front frame (i.e., near the cover section). When the frame section is reflected onto the windshield, the front frame is prevented from appearing dark upon reflection. The reflection is not emphasized, and a reduction in visibility is prevented.Additionally, the front end section of the cover is positioned lower than the rear end section. This prevents external light reflected by the cover from being directed forward or upward towards a passenger and causing discomfort.

[0016] According to the invention, the cover section is designed to have a downwardly convex surface, wherein the vehicle-front end section of the cover section and a rear end section of the front frame are arranged to comprise a curved surface at a boundary where the vehicle-front end section of the cover section and the rear end section of the frame section support each other, the curved surface being formed by continuous surfaces of the vehicle-front end section of the cover section and the rear end section of the frame section.According to this configuration, the front end of the cover section and the rear end of the front frame have a curved surface at the boundary between them, formed by the continuous upper surfaces. As a result, the boundary between the cover section and the front frame is smooth, and reflections onto the windshield are not emphasized.

[0017] Furthermore, according to the invention, the front frame is configured to have an upwardly convex surface, wherein a vehicle-front end section of the front frame is arranged to encompass a curved surface at a boundary where the vehicle-front end section of the front frame is supported against the opposing surface section. This curved surface is formed by continuous surfaces of the vehicle-front end section of the front frame and the opposing surface section. According to such a configuration, the front frame is configured to have an upwardly convex surface. As a result, the upper surface is smooth, and reflection onto the windshield is not emphasized. Additionally, the front frame has the curved surface formed by continuous surfaces of the front end section and the opposing surface.As a result, the boundary between the front frame and the opposing surface section of the instrument panel is smoothly formed, and a reflection onto the windshield cannot be emphasized.

[0018] Additionally, in the vehicle display device according to the present invention, it is preferred that the frame section is configured to include the front frame, one of the rear frames arranged on a rear side of the cover section, and left and right frames arranged on both sides of the cover section in a vehicle width direction, wherein the front frame is arranged to form an acute angle between a first tangent plane in contact with an upper surface of a front end section of the vehicle and a second tangent plane in contact with an upper surface of a rear end section, wherein the rear frame is arranged in the same plane as the opposite surface section or is arranged to form an obtuse angle with respect to the opposite surface section, and wherein the left and right frames are arrangedto form obtuse angles with the opposite surface section, in order to run continuously with the opposite surface section.

[0019] In this configuration, the frame sections located at the front, back, left, and right of the cover section are arranged to form obtuse angles with the opposing surface section or are positioned in the same plane. As a result, all sides of the cover section can be enclosed by the frame section, and both the frame section and the instrument panel can be formed as a single unit. While the cover section is securely held, the number of parts and manufacturing steps can be reduced, resulting in cost savings. Additionally, the first and second tangent planes form an obtuse angle. Consequently, the front frame has a slight slope and can be easily punched out after forming. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0020] According to the vehicle display device in accordance with the present invention, as described above, the front end section of the cover is positioned lower than the rear end section. This prevents passenger discomfort. Furthermore, external light collected by the light-collecting section is reflected by the reflector plate and emitted by the output plate. As a result, good visibility is achieved. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a vehicle display device according to a first example, not an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 2 is a side view showing the vehicle display device. Fig. Figure 3 is an enlarged side view to show a key section of the vehicle display device. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating a vehicle display device according to a second example, not an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 5 is a side view showing the vehicle display device. Fig. Figure 6 is an enlarged side view to show a key section of the vehicle display device. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating a vehicle display device according to a third example, which is an embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 8 is a side view illustrating the vehicle display device of the embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 9 is a sectional view showing shapes for forming a frame section of the vehicle display device of the embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 10 is a side view illustrating a state-of-the-art vehicle display device. Fig. Figure 11 is a side view illustrating another state-of-the-art vehicle display device. Fig. Figure 12 is a side view illustrating yet another state-of-the-art vehicle display device. Description of the examples

[0021] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings. [First example, not the invention]

[0022] In the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is a vehicle display device 1001 according to a first example, a device for reflecting any image onto a windshield F of a vehicle. The vehicle display device 1001 is configured to have a display unit 1002 serving as a display device, which is arranged within an instrument panel I and projects an image, a cover section 1003 for covering over the display unit 1002, and a frame section 1004 that encloses all sides of the cover section 1003, the cover section 1003 and the frame section 1004 forming a aperture 1005. In this embodiment, the front-and-back directions and the left-and-right directions are as shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows the up and down directions as shown in Figure 1. Fig. 2 is shown.

[0023] The display unit 1002 is configured to have a display source 1021 that projects an image forward, and a mirror 1022 that reflects the image projected by the display source 1021 upwards, and a driver focuses on the image at a distant point.

[0024] The cover section 1003 is a translucent, flat material having a downwardly convex surface and a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the top. The cover section 1003 is arranged to be supported by the frame section 1004 and has a front end section 1003a positioned lower than a rear end section 1003b, a lower end close to the front end section 1003a, and an upper end close to the rear end section 1003b.

[0025] Frame section 1004 comprises a front frame 1004A, a rear frame 1004B, and left and right frames 1004C, and is mounted by being fitted into an opening section located in instrument panel I. As shown in the enlarged view according to Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the front frame 1004A is configured to have a reflecting plate 1041 with high reflectivity and with a front end section 1041a supported by the instrument panel I, and a rear end section 1041b supporting the front end section 1003a of the cover section 1003, and an output plate 1042 projecting from the rear end section 1041b of the reflecting plate 1041, which covers the reflecting plate 1041 and extends forward over the front end section 1041a, and a light-collecting section 1043 arranged between the front end section 1041a of the reflecting plate 1041 and a front end section 1423 of the output plate 1042.The upper side surfaces of the rear frame 1004B and the left and right frames 1004C are substantially the same in color and gloss as the instrument panel I, and are designed such that when the upper side surfaces are reflected onto the windscreen F, no boundary is emphasized between the upper side surfaces and the instrument panel I.

[0026] The reflecting plate 1041 is configured to have a first reflecting section 1411 extending rearward and downward from the front end section 1041a, and a second reflecting section 1412 adjoining the rear end section 1041c of the first reflecting section 1411 and extending substantially horizontally rearward to the rear end section 1041b of the reflecting plate 1041. A first reflective bump 1411a is formed on an upper side face of the first reflecting section 1411, and a second reflective bump 1412a is formed on an upper side face of the second reflecting section 1412.The first reflective roughness section 1411a is designed to have a roughness degree that increases towards the back side, and the second reflective roughness section 1412a is designed to have a higher roughness degree than the first reflective roughness section 1411a.

[0027] The output plate 1042 has an outer upper surface 1421 which is substantially the same as instrument panel I in terms of color and gloss. External light is reflected by the upper surface 1421, and light is transmitted through a lower surface 1422 facing the reflecting plate 1041 and emitted by the upper surface 1421 with substantially the same color as the reflected light. Additionally, the output plate 1042 is formed of a flat material with an upwardly convex surface, and a diffuse unevenness section 1422a is formed on the lower surface 1422. The front end section 1423 is positioned higher than the rear end section 1003b of the cover section 1003, and a rear end section 1424 rests against the front end section 1003a of the cover section 1003.It is noted that in this embodiment the front end section 1423 of the output plate 1042 is a top end section, and that the rear end section 1424 is a bottom end section.

[0028] The light-collecting section 1043 is formed with a translucent, flat material such as a resin and glass, and is arranged to collect external light (for example, sunlight) into a space 1004S enclosed by the reflecting plate 1041 and the output plate 1042.

[0029] The reflection of external light by the front frame 1004A is described below. In this embodiment, the angle of the external light with respect to a horizontal surface is θ, and the angle of the first reflecting section 1411 with respect to a horizontal surface is ϕ. When θ is less than ϕ, external light is less likely to reach the top surface 1421 of the output plate 1042, but is likely to reach near the rear end section 1041b in the second reflecting section 1412, and is reflected irregularly by the second reflecting section 1412. When θ is substantially equal to ϕ, external light is reflected near the front end section 1423 of the top surface 1421, collected into space 1004S along the first reflecting section 1411, and reflected irregularly by the second reflecting section 1412.

[0030] If θ is greater than ϕ, external light is reflected from the upper surface 1421, collected into space 1004S, and reflected by the first reflecting section 1411. Because the first reflecting unevenness section 1411a is designed to have an unevenness degree that increases towards the rear, the first reflecting section 1411 likely reflects external light near the front end section 1041a towards the second reflecting section 1412, and the first reflecting section 1411 likely reflects external light near the rear end section 1041c (i.e., a boundary with the second reflecting section 1412) irregularly. External light reflected from the first reflecting section 1411 towards the second reflecting section 1412 is reflected irregularly by the second reflecting section 1412.As θ approaches 90°, external light is less likely to be collected into space 1004S, but is likely to be reflected from the entire upper surface 1421.

[0031] That is, if θ is small, external light is likely to be reflected irregularly from the second reflecting section 1412, and if θ is large, external light is likely to be reflected from the upper surface 1421. In both cases, light is transmitted through the output plate 1042, or light reflected from the output plate 1042 is directed towards the front disk F.

[0032] Furthermore, if θ is less than θ2, which is an angle of the rear end section 1424 of the output plate 1042 with respect to a horizontal surface, external light is shielded from the output plate 1042 to prevent it from reaching the cover section 1003, and external light is prevented from being reflected from the cover section 1003 and reaching a direct eye point EP. On the other hand, if θ is greater than θ2 (i.e., if external light enters from above or from behind), light reflected forward from the cover section 1003 is shielded from the output plate 1042.

[0033] According to this embodiment, the following effects occur. That is, the front end section 1003a of the cover section 1003 is positioned lower than the rear end section 1003b. As a result, external light reflected by the cover section 1003 is not directed forward and does not reach the eye point EP, thus preventing passenger discomfort.

[0034] Furthermore, light transmitted through or reflected from the output plate 1042 is directed towards the windscreen F. As a result, the front frame 1004A is prevented from being reflected darkly, and any reflection from the front frame 1004A onto the windscreen F is treated the same as reflections from the rear frame 1004B, the left and right frames 1004C, and the instrument panel I. The overall reflection is not emphasized, and good visibility is maintained.

[0035] Furthermore, the first reflective roughness section 1411a is configured to have a roughness that increases towards the rear, and the second reflective roughness section 1411b is configured to have a greater roughness than the first reflective roughness section 1411a. As a result, reflection of the front frame 1004A onto the windscreen F near the rear end section 1041b of the reflector plate 1041, which captured external light is less likely to reach, is prevented. Additionally, light is reflected irregularly from the reflective roughness sections 1411a and 1411b. Consequently, the uniformity of the reflected light is reduced, and reflection of the front frame 1004A onto the windscreen F is not emphasized.

[0036] Furthermore, the diffuse unevenness section 1422a is formed on the lower surface 1422 of the output plate 1042, and as a result, incident light is scattered onto the output plate 1042. Inconsistency of the light emitted from the upper surface 1421 can be reduced, and reflection from the front frame 1004A onto the front window F can also be minimized.

[0037] Furthermore, the front end section 1423 of the output plate 1042 is positioned higher than the rear end section 1003b of the cover section 1003, and the rear end section 1424 rests against the front end section 1003a of the cover section 1003. As a result, external light reflected forward from the cover section 1003 is shielded by the upper surface 1421 of the output plate 1042, and it is prevented that external light is reflected further by the windshield F and directed towards a passenger.

[0038] It is noted that the present invention is not limited to the first embodiment, but includes other configurations and the like which can achieve the objectives of the present invention, and also includes the following modifications and the like. For example, in the first embodiment, the reflector plate 1041 is configured to have the first reflector section 1411 and the second reflector section 1412, and both reflector sections have different angles of inclination. However, the reflector plate 1041 can be arranged between the instrument panel I and the cover section 1003 at a constant angle, or it can have a downwardly convex surface. According to such configurations, the reflector plate 1041 can be simplified.

[0039] Furthermore, the first reflective unevenness section 1411a and the second reflective unevenness section 1411b, which exhibit different degrees of unevenness, are formed in the reflecting plate 1041. However, the reflective unevenness sections can have a constant degree of unevenness or can be omitted. If the reflective unevenness sections have a constant degree of unevenness, the reflecting plate can be simplified, and if the reflective unevenness sections are omitted, the reflecting plate can be simplified even further.

[0040] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the diffuse unevenness section 1422a is formed on the lower surface 1422 of the output plate 1042. However, the diffuse unevenness section can be omitted, and if the diffuse unevenness section is omitted, the output plate can be simplified.

[0041] Furthermore, the first example has the configuration in which the front end section 1423 of the output plate 1042 is positioned higher than the rear end section 1003b of the cover section 1003. However, the position of the front end section 1423 can be essentially the same as that of the instrument panel I. According to such a configuration, the output plate 1042 is prevented from rising from an upper side surface of the instrument panel I, and the front frame 1004A can have an appearance integrated with the instrument panel I to improve the design.

[0042] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the light-collecting section 1043 is formed with the translucent, flat material. However, the light-collecting section only needs to be configured to collect external light into the space 1004S. The translucent, flat material can be enclosed by an opaque frame material, or the front end section 1041a of the reflecting plate 1041 and the front end section 1423 of the output plate 1042 can be arranged with a gap, and this gap can be used as the light-collecting section. If the gap between the front end sections 1041a and 1423 is used as the light-collecting section, the number of parts can be reduced to achieve a cost reduction.

[0043] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the frame section 1004 is supported by being fitted into the opening section arranged in the instrument panel I. However, a part supporting the frame section can be located in the display unit, and the front frame can be supported from below. [Second example, not the invention]

[0044] A second example relating to the figures is described below. In the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 is a vehicle display device 2001 according to this embodiment, a device for reflecting any image onto a windshield F of a vehicle. The vehicle display device 2001 is configured to have a display unit 2002, which serves as a display device arranged within an instrument panel I and projects an image, a cover section 2003 for covering over the display unit 2002, a frame section 2004 which encloses all sides of the cover section 2003, and a light sensor 2005 which measures an illuminance level of an external light transmitted through the windshield and reaching the interior of the vehicle, the cover section 2003 and the frame section 2004 forming an aperture 2006. In this embodiment, front and rear directions as well as left and right directions are as shown in Fig. 4 is shown, and up and down directions are as shown in Fig. 5 is shown.

[0045] The display unit 2002 is configured to have a display source 2021 that projects an image forward, and a mirror 2022 that reflects the image projected by the display source 2021 upward, with a driver focusing on the image at a distant point.

[0046] The cover section 2003 is a translucent, flat material having a downwardly convex surface and a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the top. The cover section 2003 is supported by the frame section 2004 and is arranged to have a front end section 2003a positioned lower than the rear end section 2003b, with a lower end close to the front end section 2003a and an upper end close to the rear end section 2003b.

[0047] Frame section 2004 comprises a front frame 2004A, a rear frame 2004B, and left and right frames 2004C, and is supported by being fitted into an opening section located in instrument panel I. As shown in an enlarged view according to Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the front frame 2004A is configured to include an upwardly convex main body 2041, an LED 2042 serving as a light source, arranged on an upper surface of the main body 2041 and illuminating the windscreen, a flat, diffuse plate 2043 covering the main body 2041 and the LED 2042 and scattering the irradiated light, and an upwardly convex output plate 2044 covering the diffuse plate 2043. The upper sides of the rear frame 2004B and the left and right frames 2004C are substantially the same color and gloss as the instrument panel I and are designed such that when the upper side surfaces are reflected onto the windscreen F, no boundary is emphasized between the upper side surfaces and the instrument panel I.

[0048] The output plate 2044 has an outer upper surface 2441 which is substantially the same as instrument panel I in terms of color and gloss. External light is reflected by the upper surface 2441, and light is transmitted through a lower surface 2442 facing the main body 2041 and emitted by the upper surface 2441 with substantially the same color as the reflected light. Additionally, a diffuse unevenness section 2442a is formed on the lower surface 2442. A vertex section 2443 is arranged at a position above the rear end section 2003b of the cover section 2003, and a lower end section 2444, which constitutes a rear end section, rests against the front end section 2003a of the cover section 2003.

[0049] The illumination by LED 2042 is described below. A front face of the output plate 2044 is likely to reflect external light. Conversely, external light is less likely to reach a rear face of the output plate 2044. For this reason, LED 2042 is positioned on a lower side of the main body 2041 to emit light, so that light is emitted from this rear face and is reflected by or transmitted through the entire output plate 2044. When the illumination sensor 2005, located on the front face of the main body 2041 of the front frame 2004A, detects external light, the illumination sensor 2005 sends a detection signal corresponding to an illuminance level of the external light to an ECU acting as a control device (not shown). The control device then controls LED 2042 to emit light at an illuminance level corresponding to the detection signal.Here, a ratio of the brightness level of the emitted light to the illuminance level of the external light is set based on a reflectivity on the upper surface 2441 of the output plate 2044 and transmittances of the diffuse plate 2043 and the output plate 2044, such that an illuminance level of the external light reflected by the output plate 2044 is essentially equal to an illuminance level of the irradiation light of the LED 2042 transmitted through the diffuse plate 2043 and the output plate 2044.

[0050] The following describes the reflection of external light. If the angle θ3 of external light with respect to a horizontal surface is smaller than the angle θ4 of the bottom end section 2444 of the output plate 2044 with respect to a horizontal surface, external light is blocked by the output plate 2044 to prevent it from reaching the cover section 2003, and external light is prevented from being reflected by the cover section 2003 and reaching a direct eye point EP. On the other hand, if θ3 is larger than θ4 (i.e., if external light enters from above or behind), light reflected forward by the cover section 2003 is blocked by the output plate 2044.

[0051] According to this embodiment, the following effects occur. That is, the front end section 2003a of the cover section 2003 is positioned lower than the rear end section 2003b. As a result, external light reflected by the cover section 2003 is not directed forward and does not enter a passenger's field of vision, thus preventing passenger discomfort.

[0052] Furthermore, light is reflected or transmitted through the entire output plate 2044. As a result, the front frame 2004A is prevented from being reflected darkly, and any reflection from the front frame 2004A onto the windscreen F is the same as reflections from the rear frame 2004B, the left and right frames 2004C, and the instrument panel I. The overall reflection is not emphasized, and good visibility is maintained.

[0053] Furthermore, the LED 2042 is controlled to emit light at a brightness level consistent with the illuminance level of the external light measured by the illumination sensor 205. As a result, it is possible to prevent inconsistencies in the reflection of the output plate 2044.

[0054] Furthermore, the diffuse unevenness section 2442a is formed on the lower surface 2442 of the output plate 2044, and as a result, incident light is scattered by the output plate 2044. Inconsistency of the light emitted from the upper surface 2441 can be reduced, and reflection from the front frame 2004A onto the front window F can be minimized.

[0055] Furthermore, the apex section 2443 of the output plate 2044 is positioned higher than the rear end section 2003b of the cover section 2003, and the lower end section 2444 rests against the front end section 2003a of the cover section 2003. As a result, external light reflected forward from the cover section 2003 is shielded by the upper surface 2441 of the output plate 2044, and it is prevented that external light is further reflected by the windshield F and directed towards a passenger.

[0056] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the second embodiment, but may include other configurations and the like that can achieve the objectives of the present invention, and also includes the following modifications and the like. For example, in the second embodiment, the ECU controls the LED 2042 to emit light with a brightness level corresponding to the level of external light detected by the illumination sensor 2005. However, the illumination sensor 2005 can be omitted, and when the display unit 2002 projects an image, the LED 2042 can be controlled to emit light. Omitting the illumination sensor 2005 reduces the number of parts and simplifies the control.Additionally, if the display unit 2002 does not project an image, visibility is not reduced even if part of the front frame 2004A is reflected darkly onto the windscreen F.

[0057] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the illumination sensor 2005 sends the detection signal in accordance with the illuminance level of the external light. However, the illumination sensor 2005 can measure an angle of the external light to send a signal, and a plurality of front and rear (top and bottom) LEDs can be arranged in parallel and controlled to emit light independently. Since external light is less likely to be reflected from the rear of the output plate 2044 when the angle θ3 of the external light with respect to a horizontal surface is large, the rear LED is controlled to emit light with a high luminance level. Conversely, since external light is not reflected from the rear of the vertex section 2443 when θ3 is small, the front and rear LEDs are controlled to emit light with substantially the same luminance level.As a result of such control, even if the angle of external light varies, the reflection from the output plate 2044 onto the front window can be uniform.

[0058] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the diffuse plate 2043 is arranged above the LED 2042. However, the diffuse plate 2043 can be omitted. For example, a light source that illuminates a wide area can be used, or a plurality of light sources can be arranged parallel to each other to illuminate a wide area.

[0059] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the diffuse unevenness section 2442a is formed on the lower surface 2442 of the output plate 2044. However, the diffuse unevenness section can be omitted. If the diffuse unevenness section is omitted, the output plate can be simplified.

[0060] Furthermore, the second embodiment has the configuration in which the apex section 2443 of the output plate 2044 is arranged in a position higher than the rear end section 2003b of the cover section 2003. However, the position in which the apex section 2443 is arranged can be essentially the same as that of the instrument panel I. According to such a configuration, the output plate 2044 is prevented from protruding above an upper side surface of the instrument panel I, and the front frame 2004A can have an appearance integrated with the instrument panel I to improve the design.

[0061] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the LED 2042 is controlled to emit light such that the output plate 2044 is reflected onto the windscreen F with substantially the same brightness as the instrument panel I. However, the LED can be arranged to emit light of varying intensities and colors, and can be configured so that the output plate 2044 is reflected with a different color or brightness compared to the instrument panel I. According to such a configuration, if there is an abnormality in a vehicle, a driving condition, or the like, a reflection from the output plate 2044 can be highlighted to alert the driver. [Third example and embodiment of the invention]

[0062] A third example and embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 is a vehicle display device 3001 according to this embodiment, a device for reflecting an image onto a windshield F of a vehicle. The vehicle display device 3001 is configured to have a display unit 3002, which serves as a display device arranged under a counter-surface section I facing the windshield F in an instrument panel and projects an image; a cover section 3003 for covering the display unit 3002; and a frame section 3004, which encloses all sides of the cover section 3003, wherein the cover section 3003 and the frame section 3004 form a aperture 3005. In this embodiment, the front-and-back directions and the left-and-right directions are as shown in Figure 8. Fig. Figure 7 shows that the up and down directions are as shown in Figure 7. Fig. 8 is shown.

[0063] The display unit 3002 is configured to have a display source 3021 which projects an image forward, and a mirror 3022 which reflects the image projected by the display source 3021 upwards, with a driver focusing on the image at a distant point.

[0064] The cover section 3003 is a translucent, flat material having a downwardly convex surface and a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the top. The cover section 3003 is supported by the frame section 3004 and is arranged to have a front end section 3003a positioned lower than the rear end section 3003b, a lower end close to the front end section 3003a, and an upper end close to the rear end section 3003b.

[0065] The frame section 3004 comprises a front frame 3004A, a rear frame 3004B, and left and right frames 3004C, and is integrally formed with the counter-surface section I of the instrument panel. The front frame 3004A is configured to have an upwardly convex surface and is arranged to slope downwards from a front to a back. A front end section 3041 of the front frame 3004A forms an obtuse angle with respect to the counter-surface section I to connect continuously to the counter-surface section I, with upper surfaces at a boundary 3411 of the front end section 3041 and the counter-surface section I being continuous to each other to form a curved surface.A rear end section 3042 abuts the front end section 3003a of the cover section 3003 and has a curved surface formed by the rear end section 3042 and the front end section 3003a, which extend continuously towards each other along an upper surface of a boundary 3421 between the rear end section 3042 and the front end section 3003a. Additionally, as shown in . Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the front frame 3004A is arranged such that an obtuse angle ϕ2 is formed between a first tangent plane 3041a, which is in contact with the upper surface of the front end section 3041, and a second tangent plane 3042a, which is in contact with the upper surface of the rear end section 3042. The rear frame 3004B is continuous to the opposite surface section I and extends forward, with the left and right frames 3004C forming obtuse angles with the opposite surface section I in order to be continuous to the opposite surface section I and to extend to the cover section 3003.

[0066] The following describes the reflection of external light by surface section 3003. An upper surface of the cover section 3003 is a curved upper surface, and if light incident at a front region and light incident at a rear region are incident at the same angle, even if the reflection angles differ, the tendencies of the change in the reflection angle at the front and rear regions in response to a change in the angle of incidence of the light are the same. For this reason, in this embodiment, the reflection by a substantially central section in the front and rear directions of the cover section 3003 is described.

[0067] If the angle θ5 of external light with respect to a horizontal surface is smaller than the angle θ6 of the second tangent plane with respect to a horizontal surface, external light is blocked by the front frame 3004A to prevent it from reaching the cover section 3003, and reflection from the cover section 3003 and directing it to eye point EP is prevented. If θ5 is larger than θ6, external light is reflected slightly backward from above. Such reflected light has a large angle of incidence with respect to the front lens F (entering at an angle that is nearly parallel). For this reason, some of the external light is reflected downward and backward from the front lens F and is directed below eye point EP.It must be taken into account that reflected light with a larger angle of incidence with respect to the front glass F is shielded by the rear frame 3004B or the rear end section 3003b of the cover section 3003 and is prevented from being directed towards the eye point EP.

[0068] As θ5 increases, one direction of the light reflected by the cover section 3003 becomes approximately perpendicular to the front lens F. When the angle of incidence of light becomes nearly vertical, the reflectivity of the front lens F decreases. For this reason, when θ5 is large, reflection by the front lens F can be ignored. Therefore, regardless of the angle θ5 with respect to a horizontal surface, external light is prevented from being reflected further by the cover section 3003 or the front lens F and reaching the eye point EP. Furthermore, as θ5 increases further and external light enters from above or behind, the light reflected forward by the cover section 3003 is blocked by the front frame 3004A.

[0069] The following describes a method for forming the frame section 3004 and the instrument panel with reference to Fig. 9 described. An upper form 3061 and a lower form 3062 are in top-and-bottom directions, which are in Fig. Figure 9 shows the molds being closed to form a cavity, and a resin material is injected into the cavity to integrally form the frame section 3004 and the instrument panel. After the instrument panel and frame section 3004 have been integrally formed, the upper mold 3061 and the lower mold 3062 are opened in the top and bottom directions.

[0070] According to this embodiment, the following effects occur. That is, external light is prevented from being reflected by the frame section 3003 or the windscreen F and reaching an eye point EP. As a result, it is possible to prevent the passenger from feeling uncomfortable.

[0071] Furthermore, the front frame 3004A is arranged to slope downwards from the front to the rear, and as a result, external light is likely to reach the vicinity of the rear end section 3042 of the front frame 3004A. Reflection of the frame section 3004 onto the windscreen F is not emphasized, and good visibility can be maintained.

[0072] Furthermore, the front frame 3004A has an upwardly convex surface. As a result, the brightness of a reflection does not change abruptly, and a reflection cannot be emphasized.

[0073] Furthermore, the continuously curved surfaces are formed on the upper surfaces of the boundary 3411 between the front frame 3004A and the opposing surface section I, as well as on the boundary 3421 between the front frame 3004A and the cover section 3003. As a result, the reflection of the boundaries 3411 and 3421 onto the windshield F cannot be emphasized.

[0074] Furthermore, the front frame 3004A and the left and right frames 3004C form obtuse angles with the opposite surface section I to be continuous with the opposite surface section I, and the rear frame 3004B is continuous with the opposite surface section I to extend substantially horizontally, i.e., no undercut section is formed. As a result, the molds 3061 and 3062 can be opened after the instrument panel and frame section 3004 have been integrally formed. Here, the angle ϕ2 formed between the first tangent plane 3041a and the second tangent plane 3042a is an obtuse angle. As a result, the front frame 3004A slopes gently, and the molds can be easily opened. The instrument panel and frame section 3004 are integrally formed.As a result, the number of molds can be reduced, and the number of parts as well as the number of manufacturing processes can be reduced in order to achieve a cost reduction.

[0075] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the third embodiment, but includes other configurations and the like which can achieve the objectives of the present invention, and also includes the following modifications and the like. For example, in the third embodiment, the cover section 3003 has a downwardly convex surface, but the cover section can also be flat. If the cover section 3003 is flat, one configuration can be simplified, and it becomes unnecessary to consider a curvature of the cover section 3003 when the display unit 3002 projects an image. Alternatively, the cover section can be formed in the form of a parabolically curved surface with a focal point on the front glass F and an axis of symmetry substantially perpendicular to the front glass F.If the cover section is formed in such a form as a parabolically curved surface, external light passing near the focal point and reaching the cover section can be reflected in the direction that is substantially perpendicular to the front glass F, and this reflected light can be prevented from being reflected further by the front glass F.

[0076] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the front frame 3004A has an upwardly convex surface, but the front frame can also be flat. If the front frame 3004A is flat, the configuration can be simplified.

[0077] Furthermore, the third embodiment has the following configuration, wherein the continuously curved surface is formed on the upper surface of boundary 3411 between the front frame 3004A and the opposing surface section I, as well as on the upper surface of boundary 3421 between the front frame 3004A and the cover section 3003. However, boundaries 3411 and 3421 can be angled. If boundaries 3411 and 3421 are configured at an angle, the front frame 3004A can be supported at any angle relative to the cover section 3003, and the tilt angle of the cover section 3003 can be set to any desired angle.

[0078] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the angle ϕ2 formed between the first tangent plane 3041a and the second tangent plane 3042a on the upper surface of the front frame 3004A is an obtuse angle. However, the angle ϕ2 can be substantially a right angle as long as no undercut section is formed on the front frame 3004A. Additionally, if ϕ2 is substantially a right angle, the front end section 3003a of the cover section 3003 can be positioned further down, while preventing the dimensions of the front frame 3004A from increasing in the front-to-back directions, and more reliably preventing external light from being reflected toward an eye point EP.It should be taken into account that if ϕ2 is essentially a right angle, external light will reach close to the rear end section 3042 as described above, as long as θ6 is equal to or less than 90° (as long as the front end section 3041 tilts upwards towards the rear), and good visibility can be maintained.

[0079] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the rear frame 3004B is continuous with respect to the opposing surface section I and extends forward. However, the rear frame 3004B can be arranged to form an obtuse angle with respect to the opposing surface section I and to slope downwards towards the front.

[0080] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the frame section 3004 is arranged at the front, rear, and to the left and right of the cover section 3003. However, it is only necessary for at least the front frame 3004A to be arranged. For example, the rear end section of the cover section can extend to the counter surface section I, wall sections that stand upright and extend to the counter surface section I can be arranged on both the left and right sides of the cover section, and the rear end section as well as the wall sections can be supported by this counter surface section.

[0081] Furthermore, in this embodiment, frame section 3004 and the instrument panel are formed by injecting the resin material into the cavity formed by molds 3061 and 3062. However, frame section 3004 and the instrument panel can be integrally formed into the shape described in the embodiment by using suitable molds and materials.

[0082] Furthermore, best configurations, methods, and the like for carrying out the present invention are disclosed in the above description; however, the present invention is not limited to the above description. That is, although the present invention is shown and mainly described with specific embodiments, those skilled in the art can carry out a variety of modifications of the embodiments described above in detailed configurations, including shapes, materials, and numerical quantities, without departing from the concept and scope of the present invention.

[0083] Therefore, the description disclosed above, which limits shapes, materials, and the like, is illustrative for a facilitated understanding of the present invention, but does not limit the present invention. Therefore, descriptions using partial names that lie outside of some or all of the limited shapes, materials, or other information are included in the present invention.

[0084] A vehicle display device for projecting an image from a counter surface facing a windshield in an instrument panel onto the windshield, the vehicle display device comprising: a display device that is arranged in the instrument panel and projects an image; and a cover comprising a cover section for covering over the display device and a frame section which is arranged at least on one vehicle front of the cover section and which is arranged on the opposite surface, wherein the cover section has a vehicle-front end section which is arranged in a lower position than a rear end section, wherein in the frame section a front frame arranged at a vehicle front of the cover section has a reflector plate which is designed to have high reflectivity on an upper side and which slopes downwards towards a vehicle rear, an output plate for covering an upper side of the reflector plate and a light-collecting section which collects external light such that the external light from a front side enters between the reflector plate and the output plate, and wherein The output plate is designed with a semi-transparent part that transmits light reflected from the reflecting plate through it and reflects external light.

[0085] The vehicle indicator device, wherein the reflector plate has a first reflective section inclined downwards towards the rear of the vehicle, and a second reflective section which is continuously connected to a rear end section of the first reflective section and has an angle of inclination that is shallower than the angle of the first reflective section, wherein a first reflective unevenness section with a degree of unevenness that increases towards the rear of the vehicle is formed on an upper surface of the first reflective section, and wherein a second reflective unevenness section with a degree of unevenness greater than the degree of unevenness of the first reflective unevenness section is formed on an upper surface of the second reflective section.

[0086] The vehicle display device, wherein a diffuse unevenness section is formed for scattering incident light on a surface of the output plate facing the reflecting plate.

[0087] The vehicle display device, wherein the cover section is designed to have a downwardly convex surface, an outer surface of the output plate is designed to have an upwardly convex surface, and the output plate has a lower end section that is located near the vehicle front end section of the cover section, and an upper end section that is located in a higher position than the cover section.

[0088] A vehicle display device for projecting an image from a counter surface facing a windshield in an instrument panel onto the windshield, the vehicle display device comprising: a display device that is arranged in the instrument panel and projects an image; and a cover comprising a cover section for covering over the display device and a frame section arranged on at least one vehicle front of the cover section and on the opposite surface, wherein the cover section has a front end section that is positioned lower than a rear end section, wherein in the frame section a light source which emits light onto the windscreen and an output plate for covering one top of the light source in a front frame which is arranged at the front of the vehicle of the cover section are arranged, and The output plate is designed with a semi-transparent part that transmits the irradiated light from the light source and reflects external light.

[0089] The vehicle display device, comprising: a light sensor that measures the illuminance level of an external light near the front frame; and Control device that controls the light source to emit light with a brightness level in accordance with the illuminance level measured by the lighting sensor.

[0090] The vehicle display device, wherein a diffusing plate, which scatters the irradiated light of the light source into the space between the light source and the output plate, is arranged in the front frame.

[0091] The vehicle display device, wherein a diffuse unevenness section is formed for scattering the incident light on a surface of the output plate facing the light source.

[0092] The vehicle display device, wherein the cover section is designed to have a downwardly convex surface, an outer surface of the output plate is formed in an upwardly convex manner, and wherein the output plate has an underside end section arranged in a vicinity of the vehicle front end section of the cover section, and a crown section arranged at a higher position than the cover section.

[0093] A vehicle display device for projecting an image from a counter surface facing a windshield in an instrument panel onto the windshield, comprising a display device arranged in the instrument panel, and a aperture arranged on the counter surface section, wherein The aperture has a cover section for covering over the display device and a frame section arranged around the cover section. wherein the cover section has a vehicle-front end section which is arranged in a lower position than a rear end section, and in the frame section a front frame is arranged on a front side of the cover section in such a way as to tilt downwards from a vehicle front to a vehicle rear.

[0094] The vehicle display device, wherein the cover section is designed to have a downwardly convex surface, wherein the vehicle-front end section of the cover section and a rear end section of the front frame are arranged to comprise a curved surface at a boundary where the vehicle-front end section of the cover section and the rear end section of the front frame support each other, the curved surface being formed by continuous surfaces of the vehicle-front end section of the cover section and the rear end section of the front frame.

[0095] The vehicle display device, wherein the front frame is designed to have an upwardly convex surface, and a vehicle-front end section of the front frame is arranged to encompass a curved surface at a boundary where the vehicle-front end section of the front frame is supported against the opposing surface section, which is formed by continuous surfaces of the vehicle-front end section of the front frame and the opposing surface section.

[0096] The vehicle display device, wherein the frame section is designed to include the front frame, a rear frame arranged on the rear of the cover section of the vehicle, and left and right frames arranged on both sides of the cover section in a vehicle width direction. the front frame is arranged to form an obtuse angle between a first tangent plane in contact with an upper surface of a vehicle front end section and a second tangent plane in contact with an upper surface of a rear end section, the rear frame is arranged on the same plane as the opposite surface section, or is arranged to form an obtuse angle with respect to the opposite surface section, and the left and right frames are arranged to form obtuse angles with respect to the opposite surface section, in order to be continuous with the opposite surface section. Reference symbol list 1001 Vehicle display device 1002 Display unit (display device) 1003 Cover section 1004 Frame section 1005 aperture 1004a Front frame 1041 Reflector plate 1042 Output plate 1043 Light Collecting Section 1411 First reflective section 1412 Second reflective section 1411a First reflective unevenness section 1412a Second reflective unevenness section 1422a Diffuse unevenness section 2001 Vehicle Display Device 2002 Display unit (display device) 2003 Cover section 2004 framework section 2005 Lighting sensor 2006 aperture 2004A Front Frame 2042 LEDs (light source) 2043 Diffuse plate 2044 Output plate 2442a Diffuse unevenness section 3001 Vehicle display device 3002 Display unit (display device) 3003 Cover section 3004 Frame section 3004A Front Frame 3004B Rear Frame 3004C Left and right frames 3041a First tangent plane 3042b Second tangent plane 3005 aperture

Claims

[1] A vehicle display device (3001) for projecting an image from a counter surface facing a windshield (F) in an instrument panel (I) onto the windshield (F), comprising: a display device (3002) arranged in the instrument panel (I), and an aperture (3005) arranged on a counter surface section, wherein the aperture (3005) has a cover section (3003) for covering over the display device (3002) and a frame section (3004) arranged around the cover section (3003), wherein the cover section (3003) has a vehicle-front end section (3003a) which is arranged in a lower position than a rear end section (3003b), and in the frame section (3004) a front frame (3004A) is formed on a front side of the cover section (3003) to have an upwardly convex surface and is arranged to slope downwards from a tip of the upwardly convex surface to a rear of the vehicle, such that a boundary at which the vehicle-front end section (3003a) of the cover section (3003) rests against a rear end section (3042) of the front frame (3004A), is positioned lower than the tip of the upwardly convex surface, and wherein the cover section (3003) is designed to have a downwardly convex surface, wherein the vehicle-front end section (3003a) of the cover section (3003) and the rear end section (3042) of the front frame (3004A) are arranged to have a curved surface at the boundary where upper surfaces are continuous with each other. [2] The vehicle display device according to claim 1, wherein the frame section (3004) is designed to include the front frame (3004A), a rear frame (3004B) arranged on a vehicle rear side of the cover section (3003), and left and right frames (3004C) arranged in a vehicle width direction on both sides of the cover section (3003), the front frame (3004A) is arranged to form an obtuse angle between a first tangent plane (3041a) in contact with an upper surface of a vehicle front end section (3003a) and a second tangent plane (3042a) in contact with an upper surface of a rear end section (3042), the rear frame (3004B) is arranged on the same plane as the opposite surface section or is arranged to form an obtuse angle with respect to the opposite surface section, and the left and right frames (3004C) are arranged to form obtuse angles with respect to the opposite surface section, in order to be continuous with the opposite surface section.

Images