Display device for vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a display device for a vehicle. The display device for a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises: an image generating device comprising a light output device and outputting a projection image; an optical path separating unit that reflects a first projection image, which is a part of the projection image from the image generating device; a screen, on one surface of which the first projection image from the optical path separating unit is projected; and a focus changing unit disposed between the image generating device and the optical path separating unit or between the optical path separating unit and the screen and changing the focus of the first projection image. Accordingly, it is possible to change the focus of the projection image projected on the screen while integrating a plurality of displays.

Description

Vehicle display device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle display device, and more particularly, to a vehicle display device capable of varying the focus of a projection image projected on a screen while integrating a plurality of displays.

[0002] A vehicle is a device that allows the user to move in the desired direction. A representative example is an automobile.

[0003] Meanwhile, for the convenience of vehicle users, vehicle display devices are being installed inside vehicles.

[0004] For example, displays are placed in clusters and other areas to display various types of information. Meanwhile, vehicles are increasingly equipped with various displays, including AVN (Audio Video Navigation) displays and head-up displays that project images onto the windshield, separate from the cluster, to display driving information and other information.

[0005] As such, as various displays are placed within vehicles, research is being conducted on ways to integrate and operate them.

[0006] Meanwhile, prior art document 1, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-59224, relates to a front window display device, and discloses controlling the brightness of a window display device (HUD) using data from a light sensor.

[0007] However, according to prior art document 1, only contents regarding a window display device are disclosed, so there is a disadvantage in that integrated operation of various displays is difficult.

[0008] Meanwhile, prior art documents 2, U.S. Patent Publication No. US10298890, relate to a vehicle display device and disclose a cluster display using image projection.

[0009] However, according to prior art 2, only the contents for cluster displays are disclosed, so there is a disadvantage in that integrated operation of various displays is difficult.

[0010] The problem of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle display device capable of varying the focus of a projection image projected on a screen while integrating and implementing multiple displays.

[0011] Meanwhile, another problem of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle display device capable of varying the position or shape of a screen while integrating and implementing multiple displays.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described problem, a vehicle display device includes an optical output device, an image generating device for outputting a projection image, an optical path separator for reflecting a first projection image, which is a part of the projection images from the image generating device, a screen on which the first projection image from the optical path separator is projected on one surface, and a focus variable unit disposed between the image generating device and the optical path separator or between the optical path separator and the screen, for varying the focus of the first projection image.

[0013] Meanwhile, the focus variable part may include at least one of a concave lens or a convex lens.

[0014] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a signal processing device that controls a focus variable unit, and the focus variable unit may include a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

[0015] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a diffusion unit that is disposed between the image generating device and the windshield and diffuses a second projection image, which is another part of the projection image.

[0016] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a diffusion unit disposed between an image generating device and a windshield to diffuse a second projection image, which is another portion of a projection image, and a second focus variable unit disposed between the image generating device and the diffusion unit to vary the focus of the second projection image.

[0017] Meanwhile, the second focus variable unit may include at least one of a concave lens or a convex lens.

[0018] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a signal processing device that controls a second focus variable unit, and the second focus variable unit may include a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

[0019] Meanwhile, when the distance between the image generating device and the focus variable part is the first distance, the distance between the optical path separator and the screen is set to the second distance, and when the distance between the image generating device and the focus variable part is the third distance smaller than the first distance, the distance between the optical path separator and the screen can be set to the fourth distance smaller than the second distance.

[0020] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a sensor disposed between an optical path separation unit and a screen to sense a second projection image, and a signal processing unit that controls a focus variable unit based on a signal sensed by the sensor.

[0021] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a position changing unit that changes the position of the screen based on a control signal of a signal processing device.

[0022] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a camera disposed inside the vehicle, and a shape changing unit that changes the shape of the screen based on a control signal from a signal processing device based on a camera image from the camera.

[0023] Meanwhile, the signal processing device can control the focus of the first projection image to be at a first distance in the first mode, and can control the focus of the first projection image to be at a second distance in the second mode.

[0024] Meanwhile, the light output device may include a light source and a liquid crystal panel that outputs a first projection image and a second projection image based on light output from the light source.

[0025] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes an optical output device, an image generating device that outputs a projection image, an optical path separator that reflects a first projection image, which is a part of the projection image from the image generating device, a diffusion unit that is disposed between the image generating device and a windshield and diffuses a second projection image, which is another part of the projection image, a focus variable unit that is disposed between the image generating device and the diffusion unit and varies the focus of the second projection image, and a screen on which the first projection image from the optical path separator is projected on one surface.

[0026] Meanwhile, the focus variable part may include at least one of a concave lens or a convex lens.

[0027] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a signal processing device that controls a focus variable unit, and the focus variable unit may include a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

[0028] A vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an optical output device, an image generating device that outputs a projection image, an optical path separator that reflects a first projection image, which is a part of the projection images from the image generating device, a screen on which the first projection image from the optical path separator is projected on one surface, and a focus variable unit that is disposed between the image generating device and the optical path separator or between the optical path separator and the screen, and that varies the focus of the first projection image. Accordingly, while integrating a plurality of displays, it is possible to vary the focus of the projection image projected on the screen.

[0029] Meanwhile, the focus variable unit may include at least one of a concave lens and a convex lens. Accordingly, the focus of the projected image projected onto the screen can be varied while integrating multiple displays.

[0030] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a signal processing device that controls a focus variable unit, wherein the focus variable unit may include a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal. Accordingly, while integrating multiple displays, the focus of a projected image projected onto a screen can be varied.

[0031] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a diffusion unit positioned between the image generating device and the windshield to diffuse a second projection image, which is another portion of the projection image. Accordingly, the clarity of the second projection image can be improved.

[0032] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a diffusion unit disposed between an image generating device and a windshield to diffuse a second projection image, which is another portion of a projection image, and a second focus variable unit disposed between the image generating device and the diffusion unit to vary the focus of the second projection image. Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of the second projection image while integrating and implementing a plurality of displays.

[0033] Meanwhile, the second focus variable unit may include at least one of a concave lens or a convex lens. Accordingly, the focus of the second projection image can be varied while integrating multiple displays.

[0034] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a signal processing device that controls a second focus variable unit, wherein the second focus variable unit may include a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal. Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of the second projection image while integrating multiple displays.

[0035] Meanwhile, when the distance between the image generating device and the focus variable part is the first distance, the distance between the optical path separator and the screen is set to the second distance, and when the distance between the image generating device and the focus variable part is the third distance that is smaller than the first distance, the distance between the optical path separator and the screen can be set to the fourth distance that is smaller than the second distance. Accordingly, a compact vehicle display can be implemented by integrating multiple displays.

[0036] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a sensor positioned between the optical path separation unit and the screen to sense a second projection image, and a signal processing unit that controls a focus variable unit based on a signal sensed by the sensor. Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of the projection image while integrating multiple displays.

[0037] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a position-changing unit that changes the position of the screen based on a control signal from a signal processing device. Accordingly, the position of the screen can be changed while integrating multiple displays.

[0038] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a camera positioned inside the vehicle, and a shape-changing unit that changes the shape of the screen based on a control signal from a signal processing device based on camera images from the camera. Accordingly, it is possible to change the shape of the screen while integrating multiple displays.

[0039] Meanwhile, the signal processing device can control the focus of the first projection image to be at a first distance in the first mode, and can control the focus of the first projection image to be at a second distance in the second mode. Accordingly, when integrating multiple displays, the focus of the projection image can be varied depending on the mode.

[0040] Meanwhile, the light output device may include a light source and a liquid crystal panel that outputs a first projection image and a second projection image based on light output from the light source. Accordingly, the focus of the projection image can be varied while integrating multiple displays.

[0041] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes an optical output device, an image generating device that outputs a projection image, an optical path separator that reflects a first projection image, which is a part of the projection image from the image generating device, a diffusion unit that is disposed between the image generating device and a windshield and diffuses a second projection image, which is another part of the projection image, a focus variable unit that is disposed between the image generating device and the diffusion unit and varies the focus of the second projection image, and a screen on which the first projection image from the optical path separator is projected on one surface. Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of the second projection image while integrating and implementing a plurality of displays.

[0042] Meanwhile, the focus variable unit may include at least one of a concave lens and a convex lens. Accordingly, the focus of the second projection image can be varied while integrating multiple displays.

[0043] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a signal processing device for controlling a focus variable unit, wherein the focus variable unit may include a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal. Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of a second projection image while integrating multiple displays.

[0044] Figure 1 is a drawing showing an example of the exterior and interior of a vehicle.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the appearance of a vehicle display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIG. 2.

[0047] FIG. 4a is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIGS. 4b to 4d are diagrams illustrating the internal configuration of a vehicle display device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIGS. 4E to 4F are drawings for reference in explaining the operation of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4C.

[0050] FIGS. 4g to 4h are drawings for reference in explaining the operation of the vehicle display device of FIGS. 4a to 4d.

[0051] FIGS. 5A and 5B are various examples of internal block diagrams of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4A or FIG. 4B.

[0052] FIG. 5c is an example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4c.

[0053] FIGS. 6A to 6B are various examples of internal block diagrams of the vehicle display device of FIG. 5B.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a vehicle display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Figures 9a to 10c are drawings referred to in the description of Figure 8.

[0056] FIG. 11 is another example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIGS. 4a to 4b.

[0057] FIG. 12 is another example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIGS. 4a to 4b.

[0058] Figures 13a to 13d are drawings referenced in the description of Figure 12.

[0059] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0060] The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description are given solely for the convenience of writing this specification and do not impart any particularly significant meaning or role to the components themselves. Therefore, the terms "module" and "part" may be used interchangeably.

[0061] Figure 1 is a drawing showing an example of the exterior and interior of a vehicle.

[0062] Referring to the drawing, the vehicle (200) is operated by a plurality of wheels (103FR, 103FL, 103RL, etc.) that rotate by a power source and a steering wheel (150) for controlling the direction of travel of the vehicle (200).

[0063] Meanwhile, the vehicle (200) may further be equipped with a camera (195) for capturing images of the front of the vehicle.

[0064] Meanwhile, the vehicle (200) may be equipped with multiple displays (180a, 180b, 180h) for displaying images, information, etc. inside.

[0065] For example, among the plurality of displays (180a, 180b, 180h), the first display (180a) may be a cluster display, the second display (180b) may be an AVN (Audio Video Navigation) display, and the third display (180h) may be a HUD display, which is a head-up display (HUD) that projects an image onto a predetermined area (Ara) of a windshield (WS).

[0066] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, among multiple displays (180a, 180b, 180h), the first display (180a) and the third display (180h) are integrated and implemented as a single device.

[0067] To this end, the vehicle display device (100) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a picture generation device (300).

[0068] That is, the vehicle display device (100) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure outputs a plurality of projection images using a single optical output device (300), separates the optical paths of the plurality of projection images, projects the first projection image onto a screen (Scr) through a first optical path to display cluster information, and projects the second projection image onto a windshield (WS) through a second optical path to display vehicle driving information. Accordingly, it is possible to integrate and implement a plurality of displays.

[0069] Meanwhile, the vehicle (200) described in this specification may be a concept that includes all of a vehicle equipped with an engine as a power source, a hybrid vehicle equipped with an engine and an electric motor as a power source, and an electric vehicle equipped with an electric motor as a power source.

[0070] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the appearance of a vehicle display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] A vehicle display device (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a signal processing device (170) that performs signal processing for displaying images, information, etc. on at least one of a plurality of displays (180a, 180b, 180h).

[0072] Among the plurality of displays (180a, 180b, 180h), the first display (180a) may be a cluster display (180a) for displaying driving status, operation information, etc., the second display (180b) may be an AVN (Audio Video Navigation) display (180b) for displaying vehicle driving information, a navigation map, various entertainment information, or images, and the third display (180h) may be a HUD display for displaying vehicle driving information.

[0073] The signal processing device (170) has a memory (508) and a processor (175) inside and can control at least one of a plurality of displays (180a, 180b, 180h).

[0074] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) can execute a first virtual machine to a third virtual machine (not shown) on a hypervisor (505) within a processor (175).

[0075] The first virtual machine (not shown) is a server virtual machine and can control the second virtual machine (not shown) and the third virtual machine (not shown), which are guest virtual machines.

[0076] Meanwhile, the second virtual machine can be named the first guest virtual machine (Guest Virtual Maschine), and the third virtual machine can be named the second guest virtual machine.

[0077] The first guest virtualization machine (not shown) operates for the first display (180a), and the second guest virtualization machine (not shown) can operate for the second display (180b) or the third display (180h).

[0078] Meanwhile, the server virtualization machine (not shown) within the processor (175) can control the memory (508) based on the hypervisor (505) to be set for the same data transmission to the first guest virtualization machine (not shown) and the second guest virtualization machine (not shown). Accordingly, the same information or the same image can be displayed in synchronization on the first display (180a) and the second display (180b) within the vehicle.

[0079] Meanwhile, a server virtualization machine (not shown) within the processor (175) can receive and process wheel speed sensor data of the vehicle, and transmit the processed wheel speed sensor data to at least one of the first guest virtualization machine (not shown) or the second guest virtualization machine (not shown). Accordingly, the wheel speed sensor data of the vehicle can be shared with at least one virtual machine, etc.

[0080] Accordingly, it is possible to control multiple displays (180a, 180b, 180h) using one signal processing device (170).

[0081] Meanwhile, some of the multiple displays (180a, 180b, 180h) may operate under Linux OS, while others may operate under Web OS.

[0082] The signal processing device (170) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can control multiple displays (180a, 180b, 180h) operating under various operating systems (OS) to display the same information or the same image in synchronization.

[0083] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an internal block diagram of a vehicle display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an input unit (110), a communication device (120), an interface (130), a memory (140), a signal processing device (170), a plurality of displays (180a, 180b, 180h), an audio output unit (185), and a power supply unit (190).

[0085] The input unit (110) may be equipped with physical buttons, pads, etc. for button input, touch input, etc.

[0086] Meanwhile, the input unit (110) may be equipped with a microphone (not shown) for user voice input.

[0087] The communication device (120) can exchange data wirelessly with a mobile terminal (800) or a server (not shown).

[0088] In particular, the communication device (120) can wirelessly exchange data with the vehicle driver's mobile terminal. Various data communication methods are possible, such as Bluetooth, WiFi, WiFi Direct, and APiX.

[0089] The communication device (120) can receive weather information, road traffic information, for example, TPEG (Transport Protocol Expert Group) information, from a mobile terminal (800) or a server (not shown). To this end, the communication device (120) may be equipped with a mobile communication module (not shown).

[0090] The interface (130) can receive sensor information, etc. from the ECU (770) or sensor device (760) and transmit the received information to the signal processing device (170).

[0091] Here, the sensor information may include at least one of vehicle direction information, vehicle location information (GPS information), vehicle angle information, vehicle speed information, vehicle acceleration information, vehicle inclination information, vehicle forward / backward information, battery information, fuel information, tire information, vehicle lamp information, vehicle interior temperature information, and vehicle interior humidity information.

[0092] Such sensor information may be obtained from a heading sensor, a yaw sensor, a gyro sensor, a position module, a vehicle forward / backward sensor, a wheel sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, a body tilt detection sensor, a battery sensor, a fuel sensor, a tire sensor, a steering sensor based on steering wheel rotation, a vehicle internal temperature sensor, a vehicle internal humidity sensor, etc. Meanwhile, the position module may include a GPS module for receiving GPS information.

[0093] Meanwhile, the interface (130) can receive vehicle front image data, vehicle side image data, vehicle rear image data, vehicle surrounding obstacle distance information, etc. from a camera (195) or a rider (not shown), and transmit the received information to a signal processing device (170).

[0094] The memory (140) can store various data for the overall operation of the vehicle display device (100), such as a program for processing or controlling the signal processing device (170).

[0095] For example, the memory (140) may store data regarding a hypervisor, a server virtualization machine (not shown), and multiple guest virtualization machines for execution within the processor (175).

[0096] The audio output unit (185) converts an electric signal from the signal processing device (170) into an audio signal and outputs it. For this purpose, a speaker or the like may be provided.

[0097] The power supply unit (190) can supply power required for the operation of each component under the control of the signal processing device (170). In particular, the power supply unit (190) can receive power from a battery or the like inside the vehicle.

[0098] The third display, the HUD display (180h), includes an image generating device (300 in FIG. 1) for image projection and can output an augmented reality-based object under the control of a signal processing device (170).

[0099] For example, the HUD display (180h) can output vehicle speed information, vehicle direction information, front vehicle object, distance indicator from the front vehicle, etc.

[0100] As another example, the HUD display (180h) can output an augmented reality rain carpet, an augmented reality route carpet, or an augmented reality dynamic carpet corresponding to the lane image.

[0101] The signal processing device (170) can control multiple displays (180a, 180b, 180h).

[0102] The signal processing device (170) controls the overall operation of each unit within the vehicle display device (100).

[0103] For example, the signal processing device (170) may include a memory (508) and a processor (175) that performs signal processing for a vehicle display (180a, 180b).

[0104] The processor (175) executes a hypervisor (not shown), and can execute a server virtualization machine (not shown) and multiple guest virtualization machines (not shown) on the executed hypervisor.

[0105] At this time, the first guest virtualization machine (not shown) operates for the first display (180a), and the second guest virtualization machine (not shown) can operate for the second display (180b) or the third display (180h).

[0106] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) can process various signals such as audio signals, video signals, and data signals. To this end, the signal processing device (170) can be implemented in the form of a system on chip (SOC).

[0107] FIG. 4a is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a vehicle display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes an image generating device (300) that outputs a projection image, an optical path separator (310) that reflects a first projection image (LTa) that is a part of the projection images from the image generating device (300), a screen (Scr) on which the first projection image (LTa) from the optical path separator (310) is projected on one surface, and a focus variable unit (365) that is disposed between the image generating device (300) and the optical path separator (310) or between the image generating device (300) and the screen (Scr) to vary the focus of the first projection image (LTa).

[0109] Accordingly, by integrating multiple displays, the focus of the first projection image (LTa) projected on the screen (Scr) can be varied.

[0110] In the drawing, it is illustrated that a focus variable part (365) is placed between an image generating device (300) and an optical path separator (310).

[0111] Meanwhile, the focus variable part (365) may have at least one of a concave lens or a convex lens.

[0112] For example, the focus variable part (365) may have a concave lens and may increase the focal length.

[0113] As another example, the focus variable portion (365) may have a convex lens and may reduce the focal length.

[0114] As another example, the focus variable portion (365) may have a lens array having at least one concave lens and at least one convex lens.

[0115] Meanwhile, the focus variable part (365) may be equipped with a liquid lens (500 in FIG. 7a) whose focus is variable by an electric signal. Accordingly, while integrating multiple displays (180a, 180h), it is possible to vary the focus of the first projection image (LTa) projected onto the screen (Scr).

[0116] Meanwhile, the focus variable part (365) may include an electrochromic, liquid crystal, or suspended particle that varies the focus based on an electric signal from a signal processing device (170).

[0117] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a signal processing device (170 of FIG. 5) that controls a focus variable part (365).

[0118] For example, a signal processing device (170 in FIG. 5) can control a focus variable unit (365) by outputting an electric signal.

[0119] Meanwhile, the first projection image (LTa) that has passed through the focus variable part (365) on the screen (Scr) is projected onto one side (Sfa), so that a cluster display can be implemented.

[0120] Meanwhile, the image generating device (300) outputs a second projection image (LTb), which is another part of the projection image, to the wind shield (WS).

[0121] Meanwhile, the second projection image (LTb) reflected from the windshield (WS) is output to the Ara area, which is the driver's field of vision. Accordingly, a HUD display can be implemented based on the second projection image (LTb).

[0122] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a diffusion unit (320) disposed between an image generating device (300) and a windshield (WS) to diffuse a second projection image (LTb), which is another part of the projection image.

[0123] Accordingly, the second projection image (LTb) can be spread and output to the wind shield (WS).

[0124] Meanwhile, the diffusion part (320) and the screen (Scr) can each be implemented with a light-transmitting material.

[0125] At this time, it is preferable that the light transmittance of the diffusion unit (320) be greater than the light transmittance of the screen (Scr). Accordingly, the second projection image (LTb) can be diffused and output to the wind shield (WS).

[0126] For example, when a projection image is output from an image generating device (300), a first projection image (LTa), which is part of the projection image, passes through a first optical path such as an optical path separator (310) and a screen (Scr), and a second projection image (LTb), which is part of the projection image, passes through a second optical path such as being reflected from a wind shield (WS).

[0127] Meanwhile, the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) output from the image generating device (300) may correspond to the distance from the image generating device (300) to the screen (Scr), and the focal length of the second projection image (LTb) output from the image generating device (300) may correspond to the distance to the diffusion unit (320).

[0128] In one display device (100), the first projection image (LTa) and the second projection image (LTb) are output through different paths, so the focal distances of the first projection image (LTa) and the second projection image (LTb) may be different.

[0129] Accordingly, in the present disclosure, a focus variable part (365) that varies the focus of the first projection image (LTa) is arranged to vary the focal length of the first projection image (LTa).

[0130] In particular, the signal processing device (170) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure controls the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) to correspond to the focal length of the second projection image (LTb). Accordingly, it is possible to adjust the focus of the projection image projected on the screen (Scr) while integrating and implementing multiple displays.

[0131] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can control the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) to be suitable for the user's line of sight when the first mode requires focusing of the first projection image (LTa) among the first projection image (LTa) and the second projection image (LTb).

[0132] That is, in the first mode, the signal processing device (170) can control the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) to become the first distance.

[0133] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can control the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) so as not to be suitable for the user's line of sight when the second mode is one in which focusing of the first projection image (LTa) is unnecessary among the first projection image (LTa) and the second projection image (LTb).

[0134] That is, in the second mode, the signal processing device (170) can control the focal distance of the first projection image (LTa) to be the second distance rather than the first distance. At this time, the second distance can be greater or smaller than the first distance.

[0135] Accordingly, the focus of the projection image projected on the screen (Scr) can be adjusted depending on whether focusing of the first projection image (LTa) is required.

[0136] Meanwhile, as shown in the drawing, by using a projection image output from one image generating device (300), multiple displays (180a, 180h) can be integrated and implemented, enabling the implementation of a compact vehicle display (100).

[0137] Meanwhile, unlike in the drawing, the optical path separation unit (310) may reflect a first projection image (LTa), which is a part of the projection image from the image generating device (300), and transmit a second projection image (LTb), which is another part.

[0138] For this purpose, the optical path separation unit (310) may be equipped with a polarizing beam splitter.

[0139] FIGS. 4b to 4d are diagrams illustrating the internal configuration of a vehicle display device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0140] FIG. 4b is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a vehicle display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100b) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is similar to the vehicle display device (100) of FIG. 4a, but differs in that the focus variable part (365) is positioned between the image optical path separator (310) and the screen (Scr), rather than between the image generating device (300) and the optical path separator (310).

[0142] A vehicle display device (100b) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes an optical output device (400), an image generating device (300) that outputs a projection image, an optical path separator (310) that reflects a first projection image (LTa) that is a part of the projection images from the image generating device (300), a screen (Scr) on which the first projection image (LTa) from the optical path separator (310) is projected on one surface, and a focus variable device (365) that is disposed between the optical path separator (310) and the screen (Scr) and varies the focus of the first projection image (LTa). Accordingly, while integrating a plurality of displays, it is possible to vary the focus of the projection image projected on the screen (Scr).

[0143] FIG. 4c is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a vehicle display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100m) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is similar to the vehicle display device (100) of FIG. 4a, but differs in that it further includes a second focus variable portion (360) disposed between the image generating device (300) and the diffusion portion (320) to vary the focus of the second projection image (LTb).

[0145] That is, a vehicle display device (100m) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes an optical output device (400), an image generating device (300) that outputs a projection image, an optical path separator (310) that reflects a first projection image (LTa) that is a part of the projection image from the image generating device (300), a screen (Scr) on which the first projection image (LTa) from the optical path separator (310) is projected on one surface, a focus variable unit (365) that is arranged between the image generating device (300) and the optical path separator (310) and varies the focus of the first projection image (LTa), a diffusion unit (320) that is arranged between the image generating device (300) and a windshield (WS) and varies the focus of the second projection image (LTb) that is another part of the projection image, and a second focus unit that is arranged between the image generating device (300) and the diffusion unit (320) and varies the focus of the second projection image (LTb). Includes a variable portion (360).

[0146] Accordingly, by integrating and implementing multiple displays, the focus of the first projection image (LTa) and the second projection image (LTb) can be varied.

[0147] Meanwhile, the second focus variable part (360) may have at least one of a concave lens or a convex lens.

[0148] Meanwhile, the second focus variable part (360) may be equipped with a liquid lens (500) whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

[0149] A vehicle display device (100b) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a signal processing device (170) that controls a second focus variable unit (360).

[0150] Meanwhile, as shown in the drawing, by using a projection image output from one image generating device (300), multiple displays (180a, 180h) can be integrated and implemented, and a compact vehicle display (100m) can be implemented.

[0151] Meanwhile, unlike in the drawing, the optical path separation unit (310) may reflect a first projection image (LTa), which is a part of the projection image from the image generating device (300), and transmit a second projection image (LTb), which is another part.

[0152] FIG. 4d is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a vehicle display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100n) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is similar to the vehicle display device (100) of FIG. 4a, but differs in that the focus variable part (360) varies the focus of the second projection image (LTb).

[0154] That is, a vehicle display device (100n) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes an optical output device (400), an image generating device (300) that outputs a projection image, an optical path separator (310) that reflects a first projection image (LTa) that is a part of the projection image from the image generating device (300), a diffusion unit (320) that is disposed between the image generating device (300) and a windshield (WS) and that diffuses a second projection image (LTb) that is another part of the projection image, a focus variable unit (360) that is disposed between the image generating device (300) and the diffusion unit (320) and that varies the focus of the second projection image (LTb), and a screen (Scr) on which the first projection image (LTa) from the optical path separator (310) is projected on one surface. Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of the second projection image (LTb) while integrating and implementing a plurality of displays.

[0155] Meanwhile, the focus variable part (360) may include at least one of a concave lens or a convex lens. Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of the second projection image (LTb) while integrating multiple displays.

[0156] Meanwhile, the focus variable part (360) may be equipped with a liquid lens (500) whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

[0157] Meanwhile, a vehicle display device (100n) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a signal processing device (170) that controls a focus variable unit (365). Accordingly, it is possible to vary the focus of the second projection image (LTb) while integrating and implementing multiple displays.

[0158] FIGS. 4E to 4F are drawings for reference in explaining the operation of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4C.

[0159] FIG. 4e illustrates that when the distance between the image generating device (300) and the focus variable part (365) in the vehicle display device (100a) is the first distance (P1), the distance between the optical path separator (310) and the screen (Scr) is set to the second distance (Pa).

[0160] The signal processing device (170) can adjust the distance between the optical path separation unit (310) and the screen (Scr) based on the distance or focal distance between the image generation device (300) and the focus variable unit (365).

[0161] To this end, the vehicle display device (100a) may further include a position change unit (390 in FIG. 6a) for changing the position of the screen (Scr).

[0162] That is, the signal processing device (170) in the vehicle display device (100a) can set the distance between the optical path separation unit (310) and the screen (Scr) to the second distance when the distance between the image generating device (300) and the focus variable unit (365) is the first distance.

[0163] FIG. 4f illustrates that when the distance between the image generating device (300) and the focus variable part (365) in the vehicle display device (100a) is the third distance (P2), the distance between the optical path separator (310) and the screen (Scr) is set to the fourth distance (Pb).

[0164] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) within the vehicle display device (100a) may be configured such that when the distance between the image generating device (300) and the focus variable part (365) is a third distance (P3) that is smaller than the first distance (P1), the distance between the optical path separation part (310) and the screen (Scr) may be set to a fourth distance (Pb) that is smaller than the second distance (Pa). Accordingly, a compact vehicle display can be implemented by integrating multiple displays.

[0165] FIGS. 4g to 4h are drawings for reference in explaining the operation of the vehicle display device of FIGS. 4a to 4d.

[0166] FIG. 4g illustrates that a cluster image (410) is displayed on a screen (Scr), which is a first display (180a), and a HUD image (430) is displayed on a predetermined area (Ara) of a windshield (Ws).

[0167] According to the vehicle display device (100) of FIG. 4a, the vehicle display device (100b) of FIG. 4b, the vehicle display device (100m) of FIG. 4c, or the vehicle display device (100n) of FIG. 4d, as shown in FIG. 4g, a cluster image (410) can be displayed on a screen (Scr), and a HUD image (430) can be displayed on a predetermined area (Ara) of a windshield (Ws).

[0168] Figure 4h is a drawing showing an area (Ara) where a HUD image is displayed by being reflected on a windshield (Ws) and an area (Arb) where a screen (Scr) is located.

[0169] According to the vehicle display device (100) of FIG. 4a, the vehicle display device (100b) of FIG. 4b, the vehicle display device (100m) of FIG. 4c, or the vehicle display device (100n) of FIG. 4d, as shown in FIG. 4h, the area (Ara) where the HUD image is displayed and the area (Arb) where the screen (Scr) is located can be displayed together, so that a plurality of displays (180a, 180h) can be integrated and implemented.

[0170] FIGS. 5A and 5B are various examples of internal block diagrams of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4A or FIG. 4B.

[0171] FIG. 5a is an example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4a.

[0172] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a signal processing device (170), an image generating device (300), an optical path separation unit (310), a focus variable unit (365), a screen (Scr), and a wind shield (WS).

[0173] The focus variable part (365) can be placed between the image generating device (300) and the optical path separation part (310), as shown in the drawing.

[0174] The first projection image (LTa), which is a part of the projection images output from the image generating device (300), may be reflected by the optical path separator (310). Accordingly, the optical path separator (310) may also be referred to as an optical reflection unit.

[0175] Meanwhile, the second projection image (LTb), which is another part of the projection image output from the image generating device (300), is output to the wind shield (WS) and reflected from the wind shield (WS), which is a reflective medium.

[0176] The vehicle display device (100) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a sensor (CSR) that senses a second projection image (LTb) and is disposed between the optical path separation unit (310) and the screen (Scr).

[0177] The signal processing device (170) can control the focus variable part (365).

[0178] Specifically, the signal processing device (170) can control the focus variable part (365) based on a signal sensed by the sensor (CSR).

[0179] For example, if the focus variable part (365) includes a liquid lens (500 of FIG. 7a) whose refractive index, etc., is varied based on an electric signal, the signal processing device (170) can vary the focus of the liquid lens (500 of FIG. 7a) by varying the level or pulse width of the focus control signal (Sco).

[0180] As another example, when the focus variable part (365) includes electrochromic, liquid crystal, or suspended particles, the signal processing device (170) can vary the focus of the electrochromic, liquid crystal, or suspended particles by varying the level or pulse width of the focus control signal (Sco).

[0181] Meanwhile, the first projection image (LTa) that has passed through the focus variable section (365) is incident on the screen (Scr), which is a transmission medium, and thus the cluster image (Ima) can be displayed.

[0182] Meanwhile, the second projection image (LTb) reflected from the windshield (WS) can be displayed as a HUD image (Imb) in a predetermined area (Ara).

[0183] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) can control the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) reflected from the optical path separator (310) to be greater than the focal length of the second projection image (LTb) reflected from the windshield (WS), and the greater the difference, the smaller the focal length of the first projection image (LTa). Accordingly, the focus of the first projection image (LTa) projected on the screen (Scr) can be varied.

[0184] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) can control the focus of the first projection image (LTa) to be at a first distance in the first mode, and can control the focus of the first projection image (LTa) to be at a second distance in the second mode. Accordingly, the focus of the first projection image (LTa) projected on the screen (Scr) can be varied.

[0185] Meanwhile, the vehicle display device (100) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an external light sensor (711), an internal light sensor (713), or a user input unit (110).

[0186] The signal processing device (170) can output a control signal (Sco) for controlling the focal distance of the focus variable unit (365) based on external illuminance (Cso) from an external illuminance sensor (711), internal illuminance (Csi) from an internal illuminance sensor (713), or a setting input (Csp) from a user input unit (110).

[0187] For example, the signal processing device (170) can control the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) to become smaller as the external illuminance (Cso) increases.

[0188] As another example, the signal processing device (170) can control the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) to become smaller as the internal illuminance (Csi) becomes smaller.

[0189] As another example, the signal processing device (170) can control the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) to become smaller as the setting input (Csp) becomes smaller. Accordingly, the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) projected on the screen (Scr) can be varied.

[0190] Meanwhile, the image generation device (300) includes an optical output device (400) for optical output.

[0191] Meanwhile, the light output device (400) may include a light source (309) and a digital mirror device (308) that reflects light output from the light source (309).

[0192] For example, the light source (309) may include an LED diode or a laser diode.

[0193] Meanwhile, the digital mirror device (308) may be equipped with a plurality of digital mirrors. For example, it may be equipped with a digital micromirror device (DMD).

[0194] Meanwhile, the image generation device (300) may further include a digital mirror control unit (305) for controlling a digital mirror device (308) and a light source control unit (306) for controlling a light source (309).

[0195] In particular, the image generation device (300) has a processor (370), and the processor (370) may include a digital mirror control unit (305) for controlling a digital mirror device (308) and a light source control unit (306) for controlling a light source (309).

[0196] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) may be equipped with an image generation control unit (173) for controlling the image generation device (300), a focus control unit (174) for controlling the focus variable unit (365), and a sensor receiving unit (172) for receiving a sensed signal from a sensor (CSR).

[0197] Meanwhile, the image generation control unit (173), the focus control unit (174), and the sensor receiving unit (172) may be provided within the processor (175) within the signal processing device (170).

[0198] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) can control the brightness of the first projection image (LTa) to be lower than the brightness of the second projection image (LTb) output from the light output device (400) for each frame, in order to reduce the brightness difference between the first projection image (LTa) projected on the screen (Scr) and the second projection image (LTb) reflected on the windshield (WS).

[0199] For example, the signal processing device (170) can control the area corresponding to the first projection image (LTa) among the digital mirror devices (308) to be turned off during the first period.

[0200] At this time, the signal processing device (170) can control the area corresponding to the second projection image (LTb) among the digital mirror devices (308) to be switched on or off during the first period.

[0201] That is, the signal processing device (170) can control the number of times or frequency of off-times of an area corresponding to the first projection image (LTa) among the digital mirror devices (308) to be greater than that of an area corresponding to the second projection image (LTb) during the first period. Accordingly, the brightness of the first projection image (LTa) output from the light output device (400) becomes lower than that of the second projection image (LTb).

[0202] As another example, the signal processing device (170) can control, during the first period, at least a portion of the light source corresponding to the first projection image (LTa) to be turned off, and the light source corresponding to the second projection image (LTb) to be switched on or off.

[0203] That is, the signal processing device (170) can control the number of times or frequency of the light sources corresponding to the first projection image (LTa) to be turned off more frequently than the light sources corresponding to the second projection image (LTb) among the light sources (309) during the first period. Accordingly, the brightness of the first projection image (LTa) becomes lower than the brightness of the second projection image (LTb) output from the light output device (400).

[0204] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) may perform operation control of the digital mirror device (308) or operation control of the light source (309) based on external illuminance (Cso) from the external illuminance sensor (711), internal illuminance (Csi) from the internal illuminance sensor (713), or setting input (Csp) from the user input unit (110).

[0205] For example, the signal processing device (170) can control the brightness of the first projection image (LTa) to be smaller than the brightness of the second projection image (LTb) output from the light output device (400) for each frame as the external illuminance (Cso) increases.

[0206] As another example, the signal processing device (170) can control the brightness of the first projection image (LTa) to be lower than the brightness of the second projection image (LTb) output from the light output device (400) for each frame as the internal illuminance (Csi) decreases.

[0207] As another example, the signal processing device (170) can control the brightness of the first projection image (LTa) to be smaller than the brightness of the second projection image (LTb) output from the light output device (400) for each frame as the setting input (Csp) becomes smaller.

[0208] FIG. 5b is an example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4b.

[0209] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100b) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a signal processing device (170), an image generating device (300), an optical path separation unit (310), a focus variable unit (365), a screen (Scr), and a wind shield (WS).

[0210] The focus variable part (365) can be placed between the optical path separation part (310) and the screen (Scr), as shown in the drawing.

[0211] The operation of the signal processing device (170), the operation of the image generation device (300), etc. are omitted with reference to the description of Fig. 5a.

[0212] FIG. 5c is an example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIG. 4c.

[0213] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100b) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a signal processing device (170), an image generating device (300), an optical path separation unit (310), a focus variable unit (365), a second focus variable unit (360), a screen (Scr), and a wind shield (WS).

[0214] The focus variable part (365) can be placed between the image generating device (300) and the optical path separation part (310), as shown in the drawing.

[0215] Meanwhile, the second focus variable part (360) can be placed between the image generating device (300) and the wind shield (WS), as shown in the drawing.

[0216] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) can output a second focus variable control signal (SCob) to the second focus variable unit (360) for controlling the second focus variable unit (360), and can output a focus variable control signal (SCoa) to the focus variable unit (365) for controlling the focus variable unit (365).

[0217] Accordingly, the focal distance of the focus variable part (365) and the second focus variable part (360) can be controlled.

[0218] The operation of other signal processing devices (170), operation of image generation devices (300), etc. are omitted with reference to the description of Fig. 5a.

[0219] FIGS. 6A to 6B are various examples of internal block diagrams of the vehicle display device of FIG. 5B.

[0220] FIG. 6a is another example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIG. 5b.

[0221] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100ba) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is different in that it further includes a position changing unit (390) that changes the position of the screen (Scr) based on a control signal of a signal processing device (170).

[0222] The position change unit (390) is equipped with an electric motor (not shown) and can move the position of the screen (Scr) toward the driver or in the opposite direction to the driver.

[0223] FIG. 6b is another example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIG. 5b.

[0224] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100c) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is similar to the vehicle display device (100) of FIG. 5b, but differs in that a focus pattern unit (302) is further provided within the image generating device (300b).

[0225] In addition, a vehicle display device (100c) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is different in that it further includes a position changing unit (390) that changes the position of the screen (Scr) based on a control signal of a signal processing device (170).

[0226] The position change unit (390) is equipped with an electric motor (not shown) and can move the position of the screen (Scr) toward the driver or in the opposite direction to the driver.

[0227] The image generation device (300) outputs a projection image based on an input image from an external input or an input image from a signal processing device (170).

[0228] At this time, the focus pattern unit (302) in the image generation device (300b) can change the focus pattern based on an input image from an external input or an input image from a signal processing device (170).

[0229] For example, when the input image is an image of the first type, the image generation device (300) can control the focus pattern to become the first pattern by changing the diopter of the variable focal length lens.

[0230] As another example, the image generation device (300) can control the focus pattern to become the second pattern by changing the diopter of the focal length variable lens when the input image is a second type of image.

[0231] Meanwhile, the focus pattern unit (302) may be provided within the processor (370).

[0232] Figures 7a and 7b are drawings explaining the driving method of a liquid lens.

[0233] First, (a) of FIG. 7a illustrates that a first voltage (V1) is applied to the liquid lens (500), causing the liquid lens to operate like a concave lens.

[0234] Next, (b) of FIG. 7a illustrates that a second voltage (V2) greater than the first voltage (V1) is applied to the liquid lens (500), and the liquid lens does not change the direction of light propagation.

[0235] Next, (c) of FIG. 7a illustrates that a third voltage (V3) greater than the second voltage (V2) is applied to the liquid lens (500), causing the liquid lens to operate like a convex lens.

[0236] Meanwhile, in FIG. 7a, it is exemplified that the curvature or diopter of the liquid lens changes depending on the level of the applied voltage, but this is not limited thereto, and it is also possible for the curvature or diopter of the liquid lens to change depending on the pulse width of the applied pulse.

[0237] Next, (a) of FIG. 7b illustrates that the liquid lens (500) operates like a convex lens as the liquid within the liquid lens has the same curvature.

[0238] That is, according to (a) of Fig. 7b, the incident light (Lpaa) is concentrated, and the corresponding output light (Lpab) is output. At this time, the focal length may be Fa.

[0239] Next, (b) of FIG. 7b illustrates that the direction of light propagation changes upward as the liquid within the liquid lens (500) has an asymmetrical curve.

[0240] That is, according to (b) of Fig. 7b, the incident light (Lpaa) is concentrated upward, and the corresponding output light (Lpac) is output.

[0241] Next, (c) of Fig. 7b illustrates that the focal length of light, the distance of (a) of Fig. 7b, is Fc, which is smaller than Fa, depending on the variation of the symmetrical curve of the liquid within the liquid lens (500).

[0242] FIGS. 7C to 7E are drawings illustrating the structure of a liquid lens. In particular, FIG. 7C illustrates a top view of the liquid lens, FIG. 7D illustrates a bottom view of the liquid lens, and FIG. 7E illustrates a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIGS. 7C and 7E.

[0243] In particular, FIG. 7c may be a drawing corresponding to the right side of the liquid lens (500) of FIGS. 7a to 7b, and FIG. 7d may be a drawing corresponding to the left side of the liquid lens (500) of FIGS. 7a to 7b.

[0244] Referring to the drawing, the liquid lens (500) may have a common electrode (COM) (520) disposed at the top, as shown in FIG. 7c. At this time, the common electrode (COM) (520) may be disposed in a tube shape, and a liquid (530) may be disposed in a lower region of the common electrode (COM) (520), particularly, in a region corresponding to the hollow region.

[0245] Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawing, it is also possible to place an insulator (not shown) between the common electrode (COM) (520) and the liquid to insulate the common electrode (COM) (520).

[0246] And, as shown in FIG. 7d, a plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) may be arranged below the common electrode (COM) (520), particularly, below the liquid (530). The plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) may be arranged, particularly, in a form that surrounds the liquid (530).

[0247] And, a plurality of insulators (550a to 550d) for insulation may be placed between the plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) and the liquid (530).

[0248] That is, the liquid lens (500) may include a common electrode (COM) (520), a plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) spaced apart from the common electrode (COM) (520), and a liquid (530) and an electrically conductive aqueous solution (595 in FIG. 7e) disposed between the common electrode (COM) (520) and the plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d).

[0249] Referring to FIG. 7e, the liquid lens (500) may include a plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) on a first substrate (510), a plurality of insulators (550a to 550d) for insulating the plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d), a liquid (530) on the plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d), an electroconductive aqueous solution (595) on the liquid (530), a common electrode (COM) (520) spaced apart from the liquid (530), and a second substrate (515) on the common electrode (COM) (520).

[0250] The common electrode (520) may be formed in a hollow tube shape. Furthermore, a liquid (530) and an electrically conductive aqueous solution (595) may be placed in the hollow region. The liquid (530) may be placed in a circular shape, as shown in FIGS. 7C to 7D . The liquid (530) may be a non-conductive liquid, such as oil.

[0251] Meanwhile, the size of the hollow region may increase from the bottom to the top, and accordingly, the size of the plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) may decrease from the bottom to the top.

[0252] In Fig. 7e, among the plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d), the first electrode (LA) (540a) and the second electrode (LB) (540b) are formed to be inclined, and their sizes become smaller as they go from the bottom to the top.

[0253] Meanwhile, unlike FIGS. 7c to 7e, it is also possible for a plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) to be formed at the upper portion, which is the position of the common electrode (520), and for the common electrode (520) to be formed at the lower portion.

[0254] Meanwhile, in FIGS. 7c to 7e, four electrodes are exemplified as multiple electrodes, but this is not limited thereto, and it is possible for a variety of electrodes of two or more to be formed.

[0255] Meanwhile, in FIG. 7e, when a pulse-shaped electric signal is applied to the first electrode (LA) (540a) and the second electrode (LB) (540b) after a predetermined time after a pulse-shaped electric signal is applied to the common electrode (520), a potential difference occurs between the common electrode (520), the first electrode (LA) (540a), and the second electrode (LB) (540b), and accordingly, the shape of the electrically conductive aqueous solution (595) having electrical conductivity changes, and in response to the change in the shape of the electrically conductive aqueous solution (595), the shape of the liquid (530) inside the liquid (530) changes.

[0256] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the curvature of the formed liquid (530) can be varied according to the electric signals applied to the plurality of electrodes (LA to LD) (540a to 540d) and the common electrode (520), thereby varying the focal length of the focus variable portion (365).

[0257] To this end, the sensor unit (962) in the present disclosure detects the size or change in the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0) between the first insulator (550a) on the first electrode (540a) in the liquid lens (500) and the electrically conductive aqueous solution (595).

[0258] In Fig. 7e, AM0 is exemplified as the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0). In particular, it is exemplified that the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0) in contact with the electrically conductive aqueous solution (595) among the inclined portions of the first insulator (550a) on the first electrode (540a) is AM0.

[0259] In Fig. 7e, it is illustrated that the liquid (530) is neither concave nor convex and is parallel to the first substrate (510). The curvature at this time can be defined as, for example, 0.

[0260] Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 7e, a capacitance (C) can be formed in a boundary region (Ac0) that is in contact with an electrically conductive aqueous solution (595) among the inclined portions of the first insulator (550a) on the first electrode (540a) by the following mathematical expression 1.

[0261]

[0262] At this time, ε may represent the dielectric constant of the dielectric (550a), A may represent the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0), and d may represent the thickness of the first dielectric (550a).

[0263] Here, assuming that ε and d are fixed values, the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0) may have a great influence on the capacitance (C).

[0264] That is, the larger the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0), the larger the capacitance (C) formed in the boundary region (Ac0).

[0265] Meanwhile, as the curvature of the liquid (530) changes, the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0) changes, so in the present disclosure, the area of ​​the boundary region (Ac0) is detected using the sensor unit (962), or the capacitance (C) formed in the boundary region (Ac0) is detected.

[0266] Meanwhile, the capacitance of Fig. 7e can be defined as CAc0.

[0267] FIG. 7f is a drawing illustrating a signal processing device (170) controlling a liquid lens (500).

[0268] Referring to the drawing, the signal processing device (170) may include a focal distance calculation unit (714) that calculates a focal distance based on a signal sensed by a sensor (CSR), and a lens driving unit (716) that outputs a lens driving control signal (Sco) based on the calculated focal distance.

[0269] The lens drive control signal (Sco) may also be referred to as a focus control signal.

[0270] Meanwhile, by the lens driving control signal (Sco), the light incident on the liquid lens (500) can have its light propagation direction maintained as is, like DRa, its light propagation direction dispersed, like DRb, or its light propagation direction concentrated, like DRc.

[0271] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a vehicle display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0272] Referring to the drawing, a signal processing device (170) in a vehicle display device (100) receives sensor data from a sensor (CSR) (S810).

[0273] Next, the signal processing device (170) calculates the focal distance of the current projection image based on sensor data from the sensor (CSR) (S815).

[0274] For example, the signal processing device (170) calculates the focal length of the current first projection image (LTa) based on sensor data from the sensor (CSR) (S815).

[0275] Next, the signal processing device (170) compares the calculated focal length with the target focal length to determine whether a focus change is necessary (S825).

[0276] And, the signal processing device (170) can output a focus control signal (Sco) for focus change when focus change is required (S825).

[0277] For example, the signal processing device (170) can control the pulse width or pulse level of the focus control signal (Sco) to increase from the first level to the second level when shortening of the focal length is required.

[0278] As another example, the signal processing device (170) can control the pulse width or pulse level of the focus control signal (Sco) to decrease from the first level to the third level when an increase in the focal length is required.

[0279] Accordingly, the focal length of the first projection image (LTa) can be varied.

[0280] Next, the signal processing device (170) determines whether a positional movement of the screen (Scr) is required based on sensor data from the sensor (CSR) (S835).

[0281] And, if position movement is required, the signal processing device (170) can output a position control signal to the position change unit (390) (S835).

[0282] For example, the signal processing device (170) can control the pulse width or pulse level of the position control signal to increase when a decrease in the position of the screen (Scr) is required.

[0283] As another example, the signal processing device (170) can control the pulse width or pulse level of the position control signal to decrease when an increase in the position of the screen (Scr) is required.

[0284] Accordingly, the position of the screen (Scr) can be moved toward or away from the driver.

[0285] Figures 9a to 10c are drawings referred to in the description of Figure 8.

[0286] FIG. 9a and FIG. 9b illustrate that the sensor (CSR) has a plurality of sensors (CSra, CSrb, CSrc, CSrd), and the plurality of sensors (CSra, CSrb, CSrc, CSrd) are respectively arranged at the corners of the screen (SCR).

[0287] FIG. 9c and FIG. 9d illustrate that the position change unit (390) operates based on a position control signal from a signal processing device (170), thereby moving the position of the screen (Scr) toward the driver.

[0288] For example, based on a position control signal from a signal processing device (170), the length of a linker (not shown) connected to a screen (Scr) in a position change unit (390) may be increased, so that the position of the screen (Scr) may move toward the driver.

[0289] FIG. 9e illustrates that the position change unit (390) operates based on a position control signal from a signal processing device (170), thereby moving the position of the screen (Scr) in the opposite direction to the driver.

[0290] For example, based on a position control signal from a signal processing device (170), the length of a linker (not shown) connected to a screen (Scr) in a position change unit (390) is reduced, so that the position of the screen (Scr) can move in the opposite direction to the driver.

[0291] FIG. 10a is a diagram illustrating adding a focus pattern frame to an input image frame.

[0292] Referring to the drawing, the image generation device (300) adds a focus pattern frame (1015) to an input image frame (1010) to generate and output a projection image frame (1025).

[0293] At this time, in the focus pattern frame (1015), patterns for sensing from multiple sensors (CSra, CSrb, CSrc, CSrd) can be placed at each corner.

[0294] Meanwhile, the image generation device (300) can generate and output a projection image frame (1025) of the first frame rate by adding a focus pattern frame (1015) of a second frame rate lower than the first frame rate to an input image frame (1010) of the first frame rate.

[0295] The first frame rate at this time may be 60 Hz, and the second frame rate may be 20 Hz.

[0296] Meanwhile, the addition of the focus pattern frame (1015) can be performed by the focus pattern unit (302) within the image generation device (300).

[0297] FIG. 10b is a drawing illustrating a first projection image (LTa) from an image generating device (300) being projected onto a screen (Scr) via a focus variable part (365).

[0298] In particular, the projection image frame (1025) of FIG. 10a can be projected onto a screen (Scr).

[0299] Meanwhile, the signal processing device (170) can determine focus variation or screen movement, etc., based on a signal sensed by the sensor (CSR) in response to a pattern within the projection image frame (1025).

[0300] FIG. 10b illustrates that the position change unit (390) operates based on a position control signal from a signal processing device (170), thereby moving the position of the screen (Scr) toward the driver.

[0301] For example, based on a position control signal from a signal processing device (170), the length of a linker (not shown) connected to a screen (Scr) in a position change unit (390) may increase, so that the position of the screen (Scr) may move toward the driver.

[0302] Accordingly, the driver can view the first projection image (LTa) stably.

[0303] FIG. 11 is another example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIGS. 4a to 4b.

[0304] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100c) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is similar to the vehicle display device of FIG. 6b, but differs in that it further includes an in-vehicle camera (ICS).

[0305] The signal processing device (170) can determine whether the position of the screen (Scr) needs to be changed based on the camera image from the vehicle interior camera (ICS).

[0306] And, the signal processing device (170) can output a position change control signal to the position change unit (390) when a change in the position of the screen (Scr) is required.

[0307] FIG. 12 is another example of an internal block diagram of the vehicle display device of FIGS. 4a to 4b.

[0308] Referring to the drawings, a vehicle display device (100d) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is similar to the vehicle display device (100c) of FIG. 11, but differs in that it further includes a shape change portion (1215).

[0309] The shape change unit (1215) can change the shape of the screen (Scr).

[0310] For this purpose, the shape change unit (1215) may be equipped with a driving motor (not shown), etc.

[0311] The signal processing device (170) can determine whether the position of the screen (Scr) needs to be changed based on the camera image from the vehicle interior camera (ICS).

[0312] Alternatively, the signal processing device (170) can determine whether a shape change of the screen (Scr) is necessary based on a camera image from an in-vehicle camera (ICS).

[0313] In addition, the signal processing device (170) can output a shape change control signal to the shape change unit (1215) when a shape change of the screen (Scr) is required.

[0314] Figures 13a to 13d are drawings referenced in the description of Figure 12.

[0315] Figure 13a illustrates a rectangular screen (Scra) being placed in a cluster area (180a).

[0316] The screen (Scra) at this time may have a first width (Wa) and a first height (ha).

[0317] The signal processing device (170) can change the size of the screen.

[0318] Figure 13b illustrates the reduction in the size of the screen (Scrb).

[0319] In particular, Fig. 13b shows a screen (Scrb) having a rectangular shape placed in a cluster area (180a), and the screen (Scrb) may have a second width (Wb) smaller than the first width (Wa) and a second height (hb) smaller than the first height (ha), compared to Fig. 13a.

[0320] The signal processing device (170) can vary the height of the screen.

[0321] Figure 13c illustrates the reduction in the height of the screen (Scrc).

[0322] In particular, Fig. 13c shows a rectangular screen (Scrc) arranged in a cluster area (180a), and the screen (Scrc), compared to Fig. 13a, has a width that is the same as the first width (Wa), but may have a third height (hc) that is smaller than the first height (ha).

[0323] The signal processing device (170) can change the shape of the screen (Scra).

[0324] Figure 13d illustrates that the shape of the screen (Scrd) changes from a rectangular shape to a hexagonal shape.

[0325] Meanwhile, although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An image generating device including an optical output device and outputting a projection image; An optical path separator that reflects a first projection image, which is a part of the projection images from the image generating device; A screen on which the first projection image from the optical path separation unit is projected on one surface; A vehicle display device comprising a focus variable unit arranged between the image generating device and the optical path separator or between the optical path separator and the screen, the focus variable unit varying the focus of the first projection image.

2. In paragraph 1, The above focus variable part is, A vehicle display device having at least one of a concave lens and a convex lens.

3. In paragraph 1, It further includes a signal processing device that controls the above focus variable part; The above focus variable part is, A vehicle display device comprising a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

4. In paragraph 1, A vehicle display device further comprising a diffusion unit disposed between the image generating device and the windshield, the diffusion unit diffusing a second projection image, which is another part of the projection image.

5. In paragraph 1, A diffusion unit disposed between the image generating device and the wind shield to diffuse a second projection image, which is another part of the projection image; A vehicle display device further comprising a second focus variable unit disposed between the image generating device and the diffusion unit to vary the focus of the second projection image.

6. In paragraph 5, The above second focus variable part is, A vehicle display device having at least one of a concave lens and a convex lens.

7. In paragraph 5, It further includes a signal processing device that controls the second focus variable unit; The above second focus variable part is, A vehicle display device comprising a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

8. In paragraph 1, When the distance between the image generating device and the focus variable part is the first distance, the distance between the optical path separator and the screen is set to the second distance, A vehicle display device, wherein when the distance between the image generating device and the focus variable part is a third distance smaller than the first distance, the distance between the optical path separator and the screen is set to a fourth distance smaller than the second distance.

9. In paragraph 1, A sensor disposed between the optical path separation unit and the screen, the sensor sensing the second projection image; A vehicle display device further comprising a signal processing device that controls the focus variable unit based on a signal sensed by the sensor.

10. In paragraph 9, A vehicle display device further comprising a position changing unit that changes the position of the screen based on a control signal of the signal processing device.

11. In paragraph 9, Cameras placed inside the vehicle; A vehicle display device further comprising a shape changing unit that changes the shape of the screen based on a control signal from the signal processing device based on a camera image from the camera.

12. In paragraph 3, The above signal processing device, In the first mode, the focus of the first projection image is controlled to be at the first distance, A vehicle display device in which, in the second mode, the focus of the first projection image is controlled to be at a second distance.

13. In paragraph 1, The above optical output device, A vehicle display device comprising a light source and a liquid crystal panel that outputs the first projection image and the second projection image based on light output from the light source.

14. An image generating device including an optical output device and outputting a projection image; An optical path separator that reflects a first projection image, which is a part of the projection images from the image generating device; A diffusion unit disposed between the image generating device and the wind shield to diffuse a second projection image, which is another part of the projection image; A focus variable unit arranged between the image generating device and the diffusion unit to vary the focus of the second projection image; A vehicle display device including a screen on which the first projection image from the optical path separation unit is projected on one surface.

15. In paragraph 14, The above focus variable part is, A vehicle display device having at least one of a concave lens and a convex lens.

16. In paragraph 14, It further includes a signal processing device that controls the above focus variable part; The above focus variable part is, A vehicle display device comprising a liquid lens whose focus is variable by an electric signal.

Images