Head-up display device

Abstract

A head-up display device is provided that allows for a compact design. A head-up display device 100 is equipped with a display unit 20, which has a display surface 21 from which a display light L is emitted, and a prism 140 through which the display light L emitted from the display surface 21 is transmitted. The prism 140 is provided with an incident surface 141i, onto which the display light L from the display surface 21 is incident, and an emitting surface 141o, from which the display light L, incident from the incident surface 141i onto the prism 140, is emitted. The emitting surface 141o is provided with a first cover surface 142, which extends in one direction along the display surface 21, and an inclined surface 143, which is inclined relative to the first cover surface 142.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a head-up display device. Technical background

[0002] For example, a display device according to patent document 1 is provided with a first display panel and a second display panel, and at the same time the first display panel and the second display panel are arranged so close to each other that the angle between the first display panel and the second display panel is approximately 90°, and a first display light emitted by the first display panel and a second display light emitted by the second display panel are reflected, so that two virtual images with different angles are displayed. State of the art document (patent document)

[0003] Patent Document 1: JP 4883283 B2 Summary of the invention Problem to be solved by the invention

[0004] The setup according to the patent document 1 cited above required several display panels, resulting in a large head-up display device.

[0005] The present disclosure, which was created in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, is based on the objective of providing a head-up display device in which a compact design can be achieved. Means of solving the task

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned goal, the head-up display device according to the present disclosure is provided with a display device having a display surface from which a display light is emitted and a prism through which the display light emitted from the display surface is transmitted, wherein the prism is provided with an incident surface onto which the display light is emitted from the display surface and an emitting surface from which the display light emitted from the incident surface onto the prism is emitted, and wherein the emitting surface is provided with a first cover surface extending in one direction along the display surface and an inclined surface inclined with respect to the first cover surface. Advantages of the invention

[0007] According to the present disclosure, a compact design can be achieved in a head-up display device. Brief description of the drawings [ Fig. 1] is a schematic view of a vehicle according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 2] is a schematic view of a head-up display device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. Figure 3] is a top view of a prism according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. Figure 4] is a side view of the prism according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 5] is a view showing virtual images over an actual landscape according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. Figure 6] is a top view of the vehicle traveling on a road according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. Figure 7] is a schematic view of a head-up display device according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. Figure 8] is a perspective view of a prism and a display device according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. Figure 9] is a longitudinal sectional view of the prism and the display device according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig.

[10] is a view showing virtual images over an actual landscape according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. Figure 11] is a front view of a concave mirror according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 12] is a top view of the concave mirror according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig.

[13] is a schematic view showing a light path from a display device to a virtual image according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig.

[14] is a schematic view showing a light path from the display device to a virtual image according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig.

[15] is a diagram showing the position of each grid of imagined virtual image display areas according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 16] is a schematic view of a head-up display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 17] is a longitudinal section view of a prism and a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 18] is a view showing virtual images and imagined virtual image display areas according to the modified example of the present revelation. [ Fig. 19] is a longitudinal section view of a prism and a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [ Fig.

[20] is a top view of a prism according to a modified example of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the invention (First embodiment)

[0008] A head-up display device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is explained with reference to the drawings.

[0009] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a head-up display device 100 is installed in the dashboard of a vehicle 200. The head-up display device 100 projects a display light L onto a windshield 201, which is an example of one of the elements subject to projection, and thus displays several virtual images V1, V2, which contain vehicle information. If a sight point EP of a visual perceiver 1 is located within a sight area R, the visual perceiver 1 can visually perceive the virtual images V1, V2. The virtual image V1 is displayed in an imaginary virtual image display area K1. The virtual image V2 is displayed in an imaginary virtual image display area K2. The several imaginary virtual image display areas K1, K2 are each conceived as a substanceless plane and can be tilted in different orientations.

[0010] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the imaginary virtual image display area K1 extends along the vertical direction. Here, "along the vertical direction" indicates that the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is less than ± 45° with respect to the vertical direction. The imaginary virtual image display area K2 is inclined such that it intersects the imaginary virtual image display area K1. For example, the imaginary virtual image display area K2 runs along a road surface. Here, "along a road surface" indicates that the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is less than ± 45° with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0011] In the present example, the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is tilted such that it is oriented more towards the top the further it is from the visual observer 1. In this example, a point P, where the two imaginary virtual image display areas K1 and K2 intersect, is positioned further towards the bottom (viewed from the vehicle width direction) than the center of the imaginary virtual image display area K1 (viewed from the vehicle width direction).

[0012] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the virtual image V2 is displayed from the perspective of the visual observer 1 in such a way that it runs along a road surface, which is an actual landscape. The virtual image V1 is displayed from the perspective of the visual observer 1 in such a way that it is positioned relative to a road surface, which is an actual landscape. The virtual image V2 contains information related to a road surface, e.g., symbol information such as a route guidance arrow or similar. The virtual image V1 contains written character information such as vehicle speed or similar, or marking information. Written characters include numbers, alphabets, hiragana, katakana, kanji, etc. It should be noted that the virtual image V1 may also contain an icon representing a structure on the Earth's surface, such as a building, a tree, or similar. Comparing the display with this icon makes it easier for the visually oriented user to recognize that a display of the virtual image V1 that does not contain this icon is also shown along the vertical direction.

[0013] In the present embodiment, the imaginary virtual image display areas K1, K2 are arranged along the vehicle width direction (left-right direction). As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, of the imaginary virtual image display areas K1 and K2, the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is positioned close to a center line C of the vehicle 200, and the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is positioned away from the center line C of the vehicle 200. For example, if the vehicle 200 is a left-hand drive vehicle, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is positioned on the right side from the perspective of the visually perceiving observer 1, and the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is positioned on the left side. However, if the vehicle 200 is a right-hand drive vehicle, although not shown, the imaginary virtual image display area K2, which runs along a road surface, is positioned on the left side from the perspective of the visually perceiving observer 1, and the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is positioned on the right side. This increases the visual recognizability of the virtual images V1 and V2.

[0014] Next, the construction of the Head-up Display Device 100 will be explained. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the head-up display device 100 is equipped with a concave mirror 12, which is an optical relay, a display device 20, a control section 25, a housing 30, and a prism 140, which is an example of a virtual image alignment adjustment device. The vehicle 200 is also equipped with a viewpoint detection section 205.

[0015] The housing 30 is box-shaped and made of a light-shielding resin or metal. The concave mirror 12, the indicator 20, and the prism 140 are housed within the housing 30. The housing 30 is provided with a window section 31, which consists of a translucent element that allows the indicator light L generated in an interior space of the housing 30 to pass through towards the windshield 201.

[0016] The display device 20 has a display surface 21 that emits the display light L, which represents an image. The display device 20 can be one with a liquid crystal panel and a lighting device, or it can be one with a reflective display element such as a DMD (Digital Micromirror Device) or similar, and a projector. The display surface 21 faces the front underside of the vehicle 200. The image displayed on the display surface 21 undergoes distortion correction, which corrects any distortion of the virtual images V1, V2 visually perceived by the visual observer 1. The display surface 21 is inclined relative to the center of the light axis La of the display light L. The center of the light axis La is positioned in the center of the cross-section of the display light L.

[0017] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the display area 21 is provided with a first area 20a, from which the indicator light L corresponding to the virtual image V1 is emitted, and a second area 20b, from which the indicator light L corresponding to the virtual image V2 is emitted. Character information is displayed in the first area 20a and symbol information is displayed in the second area 20b.

[0018] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the control section 25 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GDC (Graphics Display Controller), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The control section 25 acquires information from an external source, such as vehicle speed and route guidance, as well as information about the detection result of the viewpoint detection section 205, and generates an image based on this information, which is displayed on the display area 21. The prism 140 is placed on the display surface 21, and the indicator light L, emitted from the display surface 21, is transmitted through it. The prism 140 will be explained in detail later.

[0019] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the concave mirror 12 has a reflective surface 12a that curves concavely along the vertical and horizontal directions of the vehicle. The concave mirror 12 reflects the indicator light L, which has passed through the prism 140, towards the windshield 201. The concave mirror 12 reflects the indicator light L from the display surface 21 towards the windshield 201 in such a way that it is spread out. The reflective surface 12a of the concave mirror 12 is oriented towards the rear top of the vehicle 200. The concave mirror 12 has the function of suppressing distortion of virtual images due to reflection from the windshield 201.

[0020] Next, the construction of prism 140 will be explained. As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, prism 140 is formed by a material whose refractive index n is greater than that of air (n = 1), e.g., glass or an optical resin. Prism 140 is formed in an approximate plate shape covering the display area 21. In this example, the display area 21 forms a rectangular shape elongated in the direction of the vehicle's width, and prism 140 forms a thick rectangular plate elongated in the direction of the vehicle's width.

[0021] The prism 140 is provided with a receiving surface 141i, which is positioned opposite the display surface 21 and onto which a display light from the display surface 21 is directed, and a emitting surface 141o, which is positioned on the side facing away from the receiving surface 141i and from which the incident display light L is emitted. The receiving surface 141i is formed in a rectangular plane shape. The receiving surface 141i of the prism 140 can be attached to the display surface 21 by optical bonding, and the prism 140 can also be supported by a support mechanism (not shown).

[0022] As in Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the radiating surface 141o is provided with a first cover surface 142, which runs parallel to the display surface 21, and an inclined surface 143, which is inclined with respect to the first cover surface 142. The first cover surface 142 and the inclined surface 143 are aligned along the vehicle's width direction. The first cover surface 142 and the inclined surface 143 have the same length in the vertical direction. The area of ​​the inclined surface 143 is larger than the area of ​​the first cover surface 142 because the inclined surface 143 is inclined. A section of the prism 140 corresponding to the inclined surface 143 forms a right-angled triangular prism shape extending along the vehicle's width direction, and the inclined surface 143 is positioned on the slope of this prism shape. A section of the prism 140 corresponding to the first cover surface 142 forms a rectangular thick plate shape whose thickness direction is orthogonal to the display surface 21. Viewed from the vehicle's width direction, the first cover surface 142 intersects the inclined surface 143.

[0023] As in the lower part of the Fig. As shown in Figure 2, an imaginary display plane 148A and an imaginary display plane 148B are formed in prism 140, positioned in the center of prism 140 in the thickness direction. By virtue of its own refractive index n, prism 140 allows the display surface 21 to function as if it were positioned on the imaginary display plane 148A and the imaginary display plane 148B. Consequently, prism 140 enables a single display surface 21 to perform the same function as multiple display surfaces. The imaginary display plane 148A is positioned between the first cover surface 142 and the incident surface 141i and is formed in the same plane shape as that of the first cover surface 142. The imaginary display plane 148B is formed between the tilting surface 143 and the incident surface 141i.The imaginary display plane 148B extends such that an angle α, enclosed by the incident surface 141i and the tilting surface 143, is divided into two equal parts. The imaginary display plane 148A corresponds to the imaginary virtual image display area K1. The imaginary display plane 148B corresponds to the imaginary virtual image display area K2.

[0024] The imaginary display plane 148A runs parallel to the display area 21. Therefore, the imaginary virtual image display area K1, which corresponds to the imaginary display plane 148A, extends along the vertical direction. The imaginary display plane 148B is inclined relative to the display area 21. Therefore, the imaginary virtual image display area K2, which corresponds to the imaginary display plane 148B, is inclined relative to the vertical direction. The inclination angle of the imaginary virtual image display area K2 with respect to the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is determined depending on the inclination angle of the imaginary display plane 148B with respect to the imaginary display plane 148A.

[0025] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the viewpoint detection section 205 detects the position of the viewpoint EP of the visually detecting entity 1 and outputs the detection result to the control section 25. The viewpoint detection section 205 is equipped, for example, with a camera (not shown) that records the viewpoint EP of the visually detecting entity 1 and a viewpoint acquisition section (not shown) that acquires the position of the viewpoint EP based on data acquired by the camera. This viewpoint acquisition section can be part of the control section 25 or it can be a separate structure. If the control section 25 determines, based on the detection result of the viewpoint detection section 205, that the viewpoint EP of the visually detecting entity 1 is positioned within an eye box (visual field R), it allows the display of the two virtual images V1 and V2.If, based on the detection result of the viewpoint detection section 205, control section 25 determines that the viewpoint of the visually perceiving entity 1 has deviated to the right from the viewing area R, it continues to display the virtual image V2 on the right side and simultaneously deletes the display of the virtual image V1 on the left side. This prevents the virtual image V1, which is actually displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K1, from appearing as if it were displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K2 when the viewpoint of the visually perceiving entity 1 deviates to the right from the viewing area R.If, based on the detection result of the viewpoint detection section 205, the control section 25 determines that the viewpoint of the visually sensing entity 1 has deviated to the left from the viewing area R, it continues to display the virtual image V1 on the left side and simultaneously deletes the display of the virtual image V2 on the right side. This prevents the virtual image V2, which is actually displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K2, from appearing as if it were displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K1 when the viewpoint of the visually sensing entity 1 deviates to the left from the viewing area R. It should be noted that in the present embodiment, the aforementioned setup, in which the display of one of the virtual images V1 or V2 is deleted according to the viewpoint movement of the visually sensing entity 1, can also be omitted. In this case, the viewpoint detection section 205 can also be omitted.

[0026] Next, the effect of the Head-up Display device 100 will be explained. When the indicator light L is emitted from the display surface 21, it is directed onto the prism 140. The prism 140 produces the same effect as if the indicator light L were emitted from the imaginary display plane 148A and the imaginary display plane 148B with different orientations. After passing through the prism 140, the indicator light L is reflected by the concave mirror 12 towards the windshield 201. The indicator light L is reflected at the windshield 201 and reaches the visual sensor 1. This causes the multiple virtual images V1, V2 to be displayed in different orientations, corresponding to the orientation of the imaginary display plane 148A and the imaginary display plane 148B. (Effects)

[0027] According to the first embodiment described above, the following effects are achieved.

[0028] (1-1) The head-up display device 100 is provided with the display unit 20, which has the display surface 21 from which the display light L is emitted, and the prism 140, through which the display light L emitted from the display surface 21 is transmitted. The prism 140 is provided with the incident surface 141i, onto which the display light L is emitted from the display surface 21, and the emitting surface 141o, from which the display light L, emitted from the incident surface 141i onto the prism 140, is emitted. The emitting surface 141o is provided with the first cover surface 142, which extends in one direction along the display surface 21, and the inclined surface 143, which is inclined with respect to the first cover surface 142. According to this setup, two virtual images V1, V2 with different orientations can be displayed by a single display device 20 using the first top surface 142 and the inclined surface 143 of the prism 140.Consequently, two display devices are not required and a compact design of the Head-up Display Device 100 can be achieved.

[0029] (1-2) The display area 21 is provided with the first area 20a, from which the indicator light L, passing through the first cover surface 142, is emitted, and the second area 20b, from which the indicator light L, passing through the inclined surface 143, is emitted. Character information is displayed in the first area 20a. Symbol information is displayed in the second area 20b. According to this structure, information adapted to the orientations of two virtual images V1 and V2 can be displayed.

[0030] (2-1) The head-up display device 100 projects the display light L onto the windscreen 201, which is an example of one of the elements subjected to projection, and thus makes the virtual image V1, which is an example of a first virtual image, and the virtual image V2, which is an example of a second virtual image, visually perceptible to the visually perceiving person 1.The head-up display device 100 is provided with the prism 140, which is an example of a virtual image alignment specification section, which in a state in which the imaginary virtual image display area K1, which is an example of a first imaginary virtual image display area in which the virtual image V1 is displayed, and the imaginary virtual image display area K2, which is an example of a second imaginary virtual image display area in which the virtual image V2 is displayed, are arranged in the left-right direction (vehicle width direction) as seen from the visually perceiving person 1, specifies the imaginary virtual image display area K1 in an alignment extending along the vertical direction as seen from the visually perceiving person 1 and specifies the imaginary virtual image display area K2 in an alignment inclined with respect to the imaginary virtual image display area K1.

[0031] According to this structure, the visual recognizability of the virtual images V1, V2 can be improved by arranging two virtual images V1, V2 in the left-right direction and at the same time making the orientations of the two virtual images V1, V2 different.

[0032] (2-2) The head-up display device 100 is provided with the display unit 20, which has the display surface 21 from which the display light L is emitted. The display light L, emitted from the display surface 21, is transmitted through the prism 140. The prism 140 is provided with the tilting surface 143, which is a surface for emitting the display light L, is formed in an area of ​​the display light L corresponding to the imaginary virtual image display area K2, and is tilted with respect to the display surface 21.

[0033] According to this setup, the orientation of the imaginary virtual image display area K2 can be easily achieved by intersecting the imaginary virtual image display area K1, provided by the prism 140. For example, a setup can be implemented in which the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is laid down and simultaneously the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is stood upright.

[0034] (2-3) In the imaginary virtual image display area K1, character information is displayed as virtual image V1. In the imaginary virtual image display area K2, symbol information related to an actual landscape is displayed as virtual image V2. According to this structure, information adapted to the orientations of two virtual images V1 and V2 can be displayed.

[0035] (2-4) The head-up display device 100 is provided with the control section 25, which acquires position information about the viewpoint EP of the visually sensing person 1, which, if it judges on the basis of the acquired position information that the viewpoint EP of the visually sensing person 1 has deviated to the right from an eye box (viewing area R), deletes the display of the virtual image V1 on the left side of the virtual images V1, V2, and which, if it judges on the basis of the acquired position information that the viewpoint EP of the visually sensing person 1 has deviated to the left from the eye box, deletes the display of the virtual image V2 on the right side of the virtual images V1, V2.

[0036] This setup prevents the virtual image V1, which is actually displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K1, from appearing as if it were displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K2 when the viewpoint EP of the visually perceiving individual 1 deviates to the right from the viewpoint R. It also prevents the virtual image V2, which is actually displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K2, from appearing as if it were displayed in the imaginary virtual image display area K1 when the viewpoint EP of the visually perceiving individual 1 deviates to the left from the viewpoint R. Consequently, the visual detectability of the virtual images V1 and V2 can be improved.

[0037] (2-5) The head-up display device 100 is installed in the vehicle 200. The virtual image V2 along a road surface is positioned closer to the center line C of the vehicle 200 than the virtual image V1, which is an upright image.

[0038] According to this setup, the display of the virtual image V1 prevents the visual recognition of a street situation by the visually recognizing person 1. (Second embodiment)

[0039] A head-up display device according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure is explained with reference to the drawings. The present embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above primarily in that the first top surface and the tilting surface of the prism are arranged in a vertical line. The following discussion mainly focuses on the difference from the first embodiment described above.

[0040] As in Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, a prism 40 and the display device 20 form a rectangular plate shape that is long in the vertical direction. The prism 40 is provided with a receiving surface 41i, which is positioned opposite the display surface 21 and onto which a display light from the display surface 21 is directed, and with an emitting surface 41o, from which the display light L, which was directed onto the prism 40 via the receiving surface 41i, is emitted. The emitting surface 41o is provided with a first top surface 42, which runs parallel to the display surface 21, and an inclined surface 43, which is inclined relative to the first top surface 42. The first top surface 42 and the inclined surface 43 are adjacent to each other in the vertical direction. The first top surface 42 is positioned further towards the top than the inclined surface 43. The inclined surface 43 is inclined in such a way that it gets closer to the display device 20 the further it is directed towards the lower side.

[0041] It should be noted that the display unit 20 and the prism 40 can also form a rectangular plate shape that is long in the width direction.

[0042] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, an imaginary display plane 48A is positioned between the first cover surface 42 and the incident surface 41i. An imaginary display plane 48B is positioned between the tilting surface 43 and the incident surface 41i and extends in a direction that divides an angle α, enclosed by the tilting surface 43 and the incident surface 41i, into two equal parts. The center of the light axis La of the display light L passes through the boundary section between the imaginary display plane 48A and the imaginary display plane 48B. It should be noted that it is also possible for the center of the light axis La of the display light L not to pass through the boundary section and instead pass through both the imaginary display plane 48A and the imaginary display plane 48B.

[0043] An angle θ1 of an extended line (line shown by a dashed line of the Fig. 9) The angle θ2 of the imaginary display plane 48A with respect to the center of the light axis La is smaller than the angle θ2 of the imaginary display plane 48B with respect to the center of the light axis La. The larger the angle θ2 (cf. Fig. 9) the greater the inclination angle of the imaginary virtual image display area K2 with respect to the vertical direction.

[0044] As in Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the imaginary display plane 48A corresponds to the imaginary virtual image display area K1 along the vertical direction. The imaginary display plane 48B corresponds to the imaginary virtual image display area K2, which is inclined relative to the imaginary virtual image display area K1. The upper end of the imaginary display plane 48A corresponds to the lower end of the imaginary virtual image display area K1, and the lower end of the imaginary display plane 48B corresponds to the upper end of the imaginary virtual image display area K2. This means that the respective images of the imaginary display plane 48A and the imaginary display plane 48B are displayed in reverse in the vertical direction and in the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle as virtual images V1 and V2. As in Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the imaginary virtual image display area K2, viewed from the perspective of the visual observer 1, is positioned further towards the top than the imaginary virtual image display area K1. The upper edge of the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is adjacent to the lower edge of the imaginary virtual image display area K2. The imaginary virtual image display area K2 is tilted such that it is oriented more towards the top the further it is from the visual observer 1. (Third embodiment)

[0045] A head-up display device according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure is explained with reference to the drawings. The present embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in that the orientation of virtual images is changed by altering the curvature of the concave mirror instead of the prism. The following mainly explains the difference from the first embodiment described above.

[0046] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the reflective surface 12a of the concave mirror 12, viewed from the front, forms a long shape in the direction of the vehicle width (left-right direction). As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the curvature of the reflective surface 12a is designed such that it increases towards the right side Rd in the direction of the vehicle's width (longitudinal direction of the reflective surface 12a), specifically that the curve gradually becomes sharper towards the right side Rd. This change in curvature results in a greater thickness H of the concave mirror 12, as viewed from above, towards the right side Rd.

[0047] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, an area 12R on the right side Rd of the reflective surface 12a reflects light from the display light L, corresponding to the virtual image V2. An area 12L on the left side Ld of the reflective surface 12a reflects light from the display light L, corresponding to the virtual image V1. The average curvature of area 12R is greater than the average curvature of area 12L. The greater the curvature of the reflective surface 12a, the higher the magnification factor of the virtual images V1 and V2. Consequently, the size of the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is enlarged compared to the size of the imaginary virtual image display area K1, as shown in Figure 11. Fig. 13 and Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the condition is met when "the average curvature of area 12R > the average curvature of area 12L". The larger the size of the imaginary virtual image display areas K1, K2 becomes, the greater the light path difference between the end on the side closest to the visual observer (lower end) and the end on the side furthest from the visual observer (upper end) of the imaginary virtual image display areas K1, K2, and the greater the inclination angle β1, β2 of the virtual images V1, V2 with respect to the vertical direction. Therefore, the inclination angle β2 (cf. Figure 14) is... Fig. 14) of the virtual image V2, which is displayed by the indicator light L, which has passed through the area 12R of the reflective surface 12a, relative to the inclination angle β1 (cf. Fig. 13) of the virtual image V1, which is displayed by the indicator light L, which has passed through the area 12L of the reflective surface 12a.

[0048] With reference to Fig. Figure 15 shows a simulation result representing the inclination of the virtual images V1 and V2 in the present embodiment. The diagram of the Fig. In diagram 15, the ordinate axis Z corresponds to the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle, and the abscissa axis X corresponds to the vehicle's width. The larger the numerical value on the ordinate axis Z, the further away from the visually perceiving point 1 it indicates. Furthermore, each point in this diagram corresponds to the center position of each grid when the imaginary virtual image display areas K1 and K2, corresponding to the display area 21, are divided into 5 horizontal × 4 vertical grids.

[0049] A chart line L1 is a line that connects each chart point to the points in the first row located in the first position from the top. A chart line L2 is a line that connects each chart point to the points in the second row located in the second position from the top. A chart line L3 is a line that connects each chart point to the points in the third row located in the third position from the top. A chart line L4 is a line that connects each chart point to the points in the fourth row located in the fourth position from the top. A chart line L5 is a line that connects each chart point to the points in the fifth row located in the fifth position from the top.

[0050] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, for diagram points Rd on the right side, corresponding to the imaginary virtual image display area K2 and the virtual image V2, the distance between the respective diagram lines L1 to L5 is large, indicating that the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is tilted. Conversely, for diagram points Ld on the left side, corresponding to the imaginary virtual image display area K1 and the virtual image V1, the distance between the respective diagram lines L1 to L5 is small, indicating that the tilt of the imaginary virtual image display area K1 is small. Furthermore, it is evident that the tilt angle between the two imaginary virtual image display areas K1 and K2 changes gradually.

[0051] It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited by the foregoing embodiments and drawings. As long as the essence of the present disclosure remains unchanged, modifications (including the deletion of components) may be made as the circumstances require. Examples of such modifications are explained below. (Modified examples)

[0052] In the first embodiment described above, the section of prism 140 comprising the first cover surface 142 and formed in a rectangular thick-plate shape can also be omitted. In this case, prism 140 can also be formed in a triangular prism shape encompassing the inclined surface 143 and can be provided only in the second region 20b of the display surface 21. The same applies to the second embodiment described above, so that the section of prism 40 comprising the first cover surface 42 and formed in a rectangular thick-plate shape can also be omitted.

[0053] Although in the embodiments described above the indicator light L was projected directly from the display surface 21 onto the concave mirror 12, this is not a limitation. A corrective mirror can also be provided that reflects the indicator light L, projected from the display surface 21, towards the concave mirror 12. This corrective mirror is, for example, a concave mirror with a longitudinal profile. Alternatively, an optical relay that directs the indicator light L from the display surface 21 to the windshield 201 can be constructed using this corrective mirror and the concave mirror 12.

[0054] In the respective embodiments described above, the concave mirror 12 can also be mounted to rotate about a rotating shaft extending along the width of the vehicle. By rotating the concave mirror 12 about this shaft, the height at which the indicator light L is projected onto the visual observer 1 is adjusted.

[0055] In the first embodiment described above, a structure can also be achieved in which the indicator light L is not separated from a non-indicator area 21a (cf. Fig. 9) the display area 21, which corresponds to the boundary section of the imaginary display planes 48A, 48B. This prevents the display from moving back and forth between the virtual images V1, V2 when the viewer's point of view is moved within a viewing area, thus reducing any discomfort experienced by the viewer. It should be noted that there is no limitation to this modified example. A setup can also be achieved in which the display light L does not reach the boundary section of the imaginary display planes 48A, 48B by using a light-shielding device such as a light-shielding element or similar. In the second or third embodiment described above, the non-display area 21a or the light-shielding device can also be used.

[0056] The prisms 40 and 140 in the respective embodiments mentioned above may be modified as required. With reference to Fig. 16 to Fig. 20 modified examples of the shape of a prism and the arrangement of virtual images are explained.

[0057] For example, in a Fig. In the modified example shown in Figure 16, a prism 240 has a beam surface 241o with a first top surface 242, which runs parallel to the display surface 21, and an inclined surface 243, which is inclined relative to the first top surface 242. The inclined surface 243 is inclined such that it extends further away from the display surface 21 the further it is vertically from the first top surface 242. The inclined surface 243 is positioned on the upper side of the first top surface 242. An imaginary display plane 248A is formed at the center of the first top surface 242 and an incident beam surface 241i. An imaginary display plane 248B is formed at the center of the inclined surface 243 and the incident beam surface 241i.In this modified example, the imaginary virtual image display area K2 is positioned along the lower direction of the imaginary virtual image display area K1, and the lower end of the imaginary virtual image display area K1, which runs along the vertical direction, is positioned such that it corresponds to the upper end of the imaginary virtual image display area K2, which runs along a road surface. This allows the virtual image V2, which runs along a road surface, to be displayed in a position close to the visually perceiving entity 1.

[0058] For example, in a Fig. 17 modified examples shown, in addition to the structure of the one in Fig. In the modified example shown in Figure 16, the radiating surface 241o of a prism 240A is provided with a second cover surface 244 that runs parallel to the display surface 21. The second cover surface 244 is positioned at a distance from the display surface 21 that is greater than that of the first cover surface 242. The second cover surface 244 is positioned vertically on the side facing away from the first cover surface 242 with respect to the inclined surface 243. The inclined surface 243 is formed such that it connects the first cover surface 242 with the second cover surface 244. The thickness of a section of the prism 240A corresponding to the second cover surface 244 is greater than the thickness of a section of the prism 240A corresponding to the first cover surface 242. An imaginary display plane 248C is formed in the middle of the second cover surface 244 and the radiating surface 241i.In this modified example, in addition to virtual images V1 and V2, those of the . Fig. 16 are equal, a virtual image V3 is displayed by a light from the indicator light L, which passes through the second cover surface 244, in an imaginary virtual image display area K3, as in Fig. Figure 18 shows that the imaginary virtual image display area K3 extends downwards from the lower end of the imaginary virtual image display area K2. According to this modified example, three virtual images V1, V2, and V3 with different orientations can be displayed by a single display device 20.

[0059] For example, in a Fig. In the modified example shown in Figure 19, a radiating surface 441o of a prism 440 is provided with a curved inclined surface 443 and a curved top surface 442. The curved top surface 442 is formed such that it curves convexly along the vertical direction. The curved inclined surface 443 is formed such that it indents concavely along the vertical direction. The curvature of the curved top surface 442 is greater than the curvature of the curved inclined surface 443. The curvature of the curved top surface 442 gradually decreases as it approaches the curved inclined surface 443. This continuously couples the curved top surface 442 and the curved inclined surface 443 to each other.An imaginary display plane 448A is formed between the curved top surface 442 and the incident surface 41i in a curvature surface shape corresponding to the curved top surface 442. An imaginary display plane 448B is formed between the curved inclined surface 443 and the incident surface 41i in a curvature surface shape corresponding to the curved inclined surface 443. According to this modified example, the edge between the imaginary virtual image display areas K1, K2 is rounded, and the imaginary virtual image display areas K1, K2 are connected to each other in such a way that they connect seamlessly. Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the inclined surface 143 and the first cover surface 142 had the same length in the vertical direction (top-bottom direction). Fig. 3), as in Fig. Figure 3 is shown. However, there is no restriction on this, and they can also have different lengths. For example, in a 540 prism, one is in Fig. In the modified example shown in Figure 20, the length of a sloping surface 543 in the vertical direction is shorter than the length of a first cover surface 542 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the sloping surface 543 is constructed such that it is clamped in the vertical direction by the first cover surface 542. This means that in the Fig. In the modified example shown in Figure 20, the inclined surface 543 is constructed such that it is surrounded in three directions (in this example, in the upper direction, the lower direction, and the right direction) by the first cover surface 542. It should be noted that there is no restriction to this in Fig. Figure 20 shows a modified example. The inclined surface 543 can also have a configuration in which it is positioned such that it encompasses an upper corner section or a lower corner section of a radiating surface 5410, and in which it is surrounded in two directions (e.g., in the upper and right directions or in the lower and right directions) by the first cover surface 542. This allows a section in the imaginary virtual image display area K1 to become the imaginary virtual image display area K2, thus enabling a variety of display configurations for the virtual images V1 and V2. It should be noted that the perimeter of the inclined surface 543 and the perimeter of the first cover surface 542 can also be specified in reverse.

[0060] The prisms 40, 140, 240, 240A, and 440 listed above can also be made of Ulexit, i.e., television stone. This allows for the formation of an imaginary display plane on a light-emitting surface of the prisms 40, 140, 240, 240A, and 440.

[0061] A prism 40A can also be provided with a protruding section 49 that extends out of the display area 21, as indicated by a dashed line of the Fig. Figure 9 shows that light from the indicator light L is transmitted through the protruding section 49, traveling from the display surface 21 to the upper end of the reflective surface 12a (see Figure 9). Fig.7) of the concave mirror 12. The projecting section 49 is provided on the upper side surface of the prism 40 of the second embodiment described above and is designed such that its height increases the closer it is to the emission surface 410 from the display surface 21. This allows the entire area of ​​the reflective surface 12a of the concave mirror 12 to be utilized and the size of the imaginary virtual image display area K1 to be increased. Furthermore, the edge section between the top surface and the inclined surface can also be rounded in each of the prisms 40, 40A, 140, 240, 240A, 440 described above. The top surface section and the inclined surface section of each of the prisms 40, 40A, 140, 240, 240A, 440 listed above can also be formed separately. Furthermore, a prism can also be combined with the structure of the third embodiment described above, in which the curvature of the reflective surface 12a is changed. This allows the imaginary virtual image display area K2 to be inclined more steeply.

[0062] Although in the third embodiment described above the curvature of the reflective surface 12a was designed such that it gradually increases towards the right side Rd, there is no limitation to this. Different specific curvatures can also be specified for two regions 12L, 12R of the reflective surface 12a.

[0063] Although in the aforementioned embodiments the head-up display device 100 was installed in a vehicle, there is no limitation to this. It can also be installed in a means of transport such as an aircraft, a ship, etc. Furthermore, the element subjected to projection is not limited to the windshield 201 and can also be a special combiner. Additionally, the display lights L can also be crossed in a light path by the convergence effect of a mirror or a lens. Even in this case, the effects of the present invention are achieved if the prism or the display device is configured according to the desired design of virtual images and the circumstances. For example, if the indicator lights L are crossed once in a light path in the top-bottom direction, the prism or the indicator device should be arranged in reverse in the top-bottom direction compared to a case in which they are not crossed. Reference symbol list

[0064] 1 Visually detecting 12 Concave mirrors 12L, 12R Areas 12a Reflecting surface 20 Display device 20a First area 20b Second area 21 Display area 21a Non-display area 25 Control section 30 Housing 31 Window section 40, 40A, 140, 240, 240A, 440, 540 Prisms 41i, 141i, 241i Incoming beam surfaces 41o, 141o, 241o, 441o, 541o Outgoing beam surfaces 42, 142, 242, 542 First cover surfaces 442 Curved cover surface 43, 143, 243, 543 Inclined surfaces 244 Second cover surface 443 Curved inclined surface 48A, 48B, 148A, 148B, 248A, 248B, 248C, 448A, 448B Imaginary Display Levels 49 Protruding Section 100 Head-up Display Device 200 Vehicle 201 Windshield 205 Viewpoint Detection Section α, θ1, θ2, β1, β2 Angle C Centerline L Indicator Light K1, K2, K3 Imaginary Virtual Image Display Areas L1 to L5 Chart Lines R Viewing Area V1, V2, V3 Virtual Images X Abscissa Axis Z Ordinate Axis EP Viewpoint La Light Axis Center Ld Left Side Rd Right Side QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 4883283 B2

[0003]

Claims

[1] Head-up display device equipped with a display device having a display surface from which a display light is emitted, and a prism through which the display light emitted by the display surface is transmitted, where the prism with an irradiation surface onto which the display light is irradiated from the display surface, and an emitting surface from which the display light irradiated from the incident surface onto the prism is emitted, and where the radiating area is a first cover surface extending in a direction along the display surface, and an inclined surface which is inclined relative to the first cover surface. [2] Head-up display device according to claim 1, wherein the prism is provided with a second cover surface which runs parallel to the display surface and whose height with respect to the incident light surface differs from that of the first cover surface, and wherein the inclined surface is formed such that it connects the first cover surface to the second cover surface. [3] Head-up display device according to claim 1 or 2, where the display area with a first area from which the display light passing through the first cover surface is emitted, and a second area from which the indicator light passing through the inclined surface is emitted, where character information is displayed in the first area, and where symbol information is displayed in the second area. [4] Head-up display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a first imaginary display plane is formed between the first cover surface and the incident light surface of the prism, whereby a second imaginary display plane is formed between the inclined surface and the incident surface of the prism, and wherein the display surface is provided with a non-display region in which a region corresponding to a boundary portion between the first imaginary display plane and the second imaginary display plane is brought into a non-display state.

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