Windshield, head-up display system and vehicle

Abstract

A windshield (210), a head-up display system (200) and a vehicle (1000). The windshield (210) is provided with a first head-up display area (217); the windshield (210) comprises an outer glass pane (10), an inner glass pane (20), an interlayer (30) and a dimming element (40); the inner glass pane (20) and the outer glass pane (10) are spaced apart and arranged opposite to each other; the interlayer (30) and the dimming element (40) are both located between the inner glass pane (20) and the outer glass pane (10); the interlayer (30) is used for connecting the inner glass pane (20) and the outer glass pane (10); the dimming element (40) is located in the first head-up display area (217), and the dimming element (40) is used for adjusting the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area (217), the upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area (217) being greater than or equal to 50%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range being less than or equal to 10%.

Description

Windshields, head-up displays, and vehicles

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the China Patent Office on March 5, 2024, with application number 202410248597.5 and application name “Windshield, Head-Up Display System and Vehicle”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a windshield, a head-up display system, and a vehicle. Background Art

[0003] To increase the diversity of vehicle interior designs, many vehicle manufacturers are integrating heads-up displays (HUDs) on windshields, displaying information such as vehicle speed, RPM, and navigation. Current HUD solutions project images onto the lower area of ​​the windshield. In these cases, the black border of the windshield is often raised to serve as the HUD's background. However, excessively high black borders restrict the driver's field of view, affecting their judgment of the distance ahead and reducing vehicle reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides a windshield, a head-up display system, and a vehicle, which can avoid the head-up display from limiting the driver's field of view, does not affect the driver's judgment of the distance in front of the vehicle, and ensures the vehicle's driving reliability.

[0005] The present application provides a windshield, the windshield having a main viewing area and a first head-up display area, the visible light transmittance of the main viewing area being greater than or equal to 70%, the first head-up display area being located on the bottom side of the main viewing area, the windshield comprising an outer sheet of glass, an inner sheet of glass, an intermediate layer, and a dimming element, the inner sheet of glass and the outer sheet of glass being spaced apart and arranged opposite to each other, the intermediate layer and the dimming element being both located between the inner sheet of glass and the outer sheet of glass, the intermediate layer being used to connect the inner sheet of glass and the outer sheet of glass, the dimming element being located in the first head-up display area, the dimming element being used to adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area, the upper limit of an adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area being greater than or equal to 50%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range being less than or equal to 10%.

[0006] The upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area is greater than or equal to 70%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range is less than or equal to 5%.

[0007] The windshield further includes a shading layer, which includes a first shading portion located at a bottom edge of the windshield, and the first head-up display area is located on a side of the first shading portion close to the main visual field area.

[0008] Wherein, the height of the first light shielding portion from the bottom side to the top side of the windshield is less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0009] The height of the first head-up display area from the bottom side to the top side of the windshield is less than or equal to 300 mm.

[0010] The windshield further comprises a P-polarized light anti-reflection film, which is arranged on a surface of the inner glass away from the outer glass, and at least partially covers the first head-up display area.

[0011] Wherein, the windshield further includes a functional film layer, and the functional film layer is provided on the surface of the outer glass facing the inner glass or the surface of the inner glass facing the outer glass.

[0012] The windshield further comprises a sunshade area, which is located on the top side of the main field of view area. The windshield further comprises a sunshade, which is located between the inner glass and the outer glass and within the sunshade area.

[0013] Among them, the sunshade is a dimming element, the sunshade is a dimming element, the sunshade is used to adjust the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area, the upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area is greater than or equal to 50%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range is less than or equal to 10%.

[0014] The difference between the upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area and the first head-up display area is less than or equal to 5%, and the difference between the lower limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area and the first head-up display area is less than or equal to 5%.

[0015] In which, the windshield also includes a shading layer located at the edge of the windshield, the shading layer includes a second shading portion located on the top side of the main field of view area, and the shading area is located on the side of the second shading portion close to the main field of view area and / or away from the main field of view area.

[0016] Wherein, the minimum distance between the sunshade area and the main field of view area is greater than or equal to 10 mm.

[0017] Wherein, the windshield is a panoramic windshield, and the windshield includes a first field of view area and a second field of view area. The main field of view area is located in the first field of view area, and the second field of view area is located on the top side of the first field of view area. In the direction from the lower side to the top side of the windshield, the first field of view area has a first curvature, and the second field of view area has a second curvature. The first curvature and the second curvature are not equal. The first field of view area and the second field of view area are connected by a transition area with a third curvature, and the third curvature is greater than the first curvature and the second curvature.

[0018] The middle layer includes a first head-up display portion, which is located in the first head-up display area. The thickness of the first head-up display portion gradually decreases from the top side to the bottom side of the windshield.

[0019] The present application also provides a head-up display system, comprising a projection device and any of the windshields described above, wherein the projection device is located on a side of the inner glass facing away from the outer glass, and the projection device is configured to emit a first projection light ray toward the first head-up display area, wherein the first projection light ray is reflected from a surface of the inner glass and forms a virtual first projection image on a side of the outer glass facing away from the inner glass.

[0020] Wherein, the top edge of the first projection image is located below the bottom edge of the main visual field area.

[0021] The projection distance of the first head-up display area is greater than or equal to 1 m and less than or equal to 2.5 m.

[0022] Wherein, the projection light of the projection device includes S-polarized light and P-polarized light.

[0023] The S-polarized light accounts for 0% to 80%, and the P-polarized light accounts for 20% to 100%.

[0024] Wherein, the projection angle of the projection device is between 42 degrees and 85 degrees.

[0025] The windshield further has a second head-up display area, which is located within the main field of view. The projection device is further configured to emit a second projection light beam toward the second head-up display area. The second projection light beam is reflected from the surface of the inner glass to form a virtual second projection image on a side of the outer glass facing away from the inner glass.

[0026] The second projection light and the first projection light have different proportions of P-polarized light.

[0027] The projection distance of the second head-up display area is greater than or equal to 5m and less than or equal to 10m.

[0028] The projection device has color compensation for the color of the projection light, and the color compensation value of the projection light of the projection device is the same as the color deviation value of the light after being reflected on the surface of the inner glass.

[0029] The present application also provides a vehicle, comprising a vehicle body and any one of the above-mentioned head-up display systems, wherein the head-up display system is installed on the vehicle body.

[0030] In the windshield shown in this application, the dimming element can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area. When the head-up display function of the first head-up display area is enabled, such as when the vehicle is moving, the dimming element can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area to less than or equal to 10%, and the first head-up display area is in a dark state. The first head-up display area can serve as the display background of the head-up display, replacing the black border used as the display background in the prior art. The darkened first head-up display area provides a high contrast for the displayed image, ensuring the clarity of the displayed image. When the head-up display function of the first head-up display area is disabled, such as when the vehicle is parked, the dimming element can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area to greater than or equal to 50%, and the first head-up display area is in a transparent state. The windshield can provide a complete field of view for the driver and passengers without affecting the vehicle's aesthetic appearance. In other words, in this embodiment, the first head-up display area can be used as the display background of the head-up display instead of the black border in the prior art, which can avoid the head-up display limiting the driver's field of view, provide the driver with a wider field of view, do not affect the driver's judgment of the distance in front of the vehicle, ensure the driving reliability of the vehicle, and also improve the appearance of the vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present application will be described below.

[0032] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle provided in a first embodiment of the present application;

[0033] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of a head-up display system in the vehicle shown in FIG1 ;

[0034] FIG3 is a schematic plan view of the windshield structure of the vehicle shown in FIG1 ;

[0035] FIG4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the windshield shown in FIG3 taken along the lower edge II in the first embodiment;

[0036] FIG5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the windshield shown in FIG3 taken along line II-II in the first embodiment;

[0037] FIG6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the windshield shown in FIG3 taken along line II-II in the second embodiment;

[0038] FIG7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the windshield shown in FIG3 taken along line II-II in the third embodiment;

[0039] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of a windshield in a vehicle provided in a second embodiment of the present application.

[0040] Figure 1: Vehicle 1000, vehicle body 100, head-up display system 200, windshield 210, projection device 220, eye 2000, field of view 211, non-field of view 212, main field of view 213, first non-field of view 214, second non-field of view 215, third non-field of view 216, first head-up display area 217, second head-up display area 218, sunshade area 219, outer glass 10, inner glass 20, intermediate layer 30, dimming element 40, light-shielding layer 70, P-polarized light anti-reflection film 80, first surface 101, second surface 102, third surface 201, fourth surface 202, second head-up display unit 32, functional film layer 90, first field of view 211a, second field of view 211b, first non-field of view 212a and second non-field of view 212b. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0042] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a structural diagram of a vehicle 1000 provided in a first embodiment of the present application, and Figure 2 is a structural diagram of a head-up display system 200 in the vehicle 1000 shown in Figure 1.

[0043] A first embodiment of the present application provides a vehicle 1000, comprising a vehicle body 100 and a head-up display system 200, which is mounted on the vehicle body 100. The head-up display system 200 comprises a windshield 210 and a projection device 220, wherein the windshield 210 is mounted on the front side of the vehicle body 100 and the projection device 220 is mounted inside the vehicle body 100. The projection device 220 can emit projection light toward the windshield 210, which can be reflected from the windshield 210. The light reflected from the windshield 210 can enter the eyes 2000 of the driver and passenger, thereby realizing the head-up display of the head-up display system 200.

[0044] Please refer to Figure 3, which is a schematic plan view of the structure of windshield 210 in vehicle 1000 shown in Figure 1. For ease of description, the height direction of windshield 210 is defined as the Z-axis direction, the length direction of windshield 210 is defined as the X-axis direction, and the thickness direction of windshield 210 is defined as the Y-axis direction. The X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction are mutually perpendicular.

[0045] In this embodiment, the windshield 210 is a non-panoramic windshield. The windshield 210 has a viewing area 211 and a non-viewing area 212. The viewing area 211 is located in the middle of the windshield 210. The viewing area 211 includes a main viewing area 213, which is located in the middle of the viewing area 211. The visible light transmittance of the main viewing area 213 is greater than or equal to 70%. It should be noted that the viewing area 211 mentioned in the description of the windshield 210 in this application refers to the area of ​​the windshield 210 through which the driver and passengers can see the outside of the vehicle 1000, and the main viewing area 213 refers to the area that the driver mainly observes while driving the vehicle 1000.

[0046] The non-viewing area 212 is located at the edge of the windshield 210 and surrounds the viewing area 211. The non-viewing area 212 includes a first non-viewing area 214, a second non-viewing area 215, and two third non-viewing areas 216. The first non-viewing area 214 is located at the bottom edge of the windshield 210, below the viewing area 211. Exemplarily, the height h1 of the first non-viewing area 214, measured from the bottom to the top of the windshield 210, is less than or equal to 200 mm. In some embodiments, the height h1 of the first non-viewing area 214, measured from the bottom to the top of the windshield 210, is less than or equal to 150 mm. The second non-viewing area 215 is located at the top edge of the windshield 210, above the viewing area 211, and spaced apart from the first non-viewing area 214. The two third non-viewing areas 216 are connected between the first non-viewing area 214 and the second non-viewing area 215 and spaced apart from each other along the X-axis.

[0047] It should be noted that the directional terms such as "top" and "bottom" involved in this application are described with reference to the orientation shown in Figure 3, with the direction facing the positive Z-axis as "top" and the direction facing the negative Z-axis as "bottom". They do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on this application.

[0048] In addition, the windshield 210 includes a first head-up display area 217, a second head-up display area 218, a camera area (not shown), and a sunshade area 219. The first head-up display area 217 is located at the bottom of the windshield 210. A portion of the first head-up display area 217 overlaps with the viewing area 211, while a portion overlaps with the non-viewing area 212. In other embodiments, the first head-up display area 217 may entirely overlap with the viewing area 211, while not overlapping with the non-viewing area 212. This is not a specific limitation in this application.

[0049] Specifically, the first heads-up display area 217 is located at the bottom side of the primary viewing area 213 and at the top side of the first non-viewing area 214. For example, the bottom of the first heads-up display area 217 may overlap with the first non-viewing area 214, and two opposite sides of the first heads-up display area 217 along the X-axis may overlap with the two third non-viewing areas 216, respectively. It should be noted that the top edge of the first heads-up display area 217 may be flush with the bottom edge of the primary viewing area 213, or may be located below the bottom edge of the primary viewing area 213.

[0050] The projection device 220 can emit a first projection light beam toward the first head-up display area 217. After being reflected from the surface of the inner glass 20 (as shown in Figures 4 and 5), the first projection light beam can form a virtual first projected image on the side of the outer glass 10 (as shown in Figures 4 and 5) facing away from the inner glass 20. The first head-up display area 217 can display information displayed on the vehicle 1000's instrument panel, such as speed, engine speed, navigation, and time. Exemplarily, the projection distance L1 of the first head-up display area 217 is between 1 meter and 2.5 meters. The projection distance L1 refers to the distance between the virtual first projected image formed on the side of the outer glass 10 facing away from the inner glass 20 after the first projection light beam emitted by the projection device 220 is reflected from the surface of the inner glass 20 and the eye area 2000 of a passenger in the vehicle 1000.

[0051] The width W1 of the first projection image is between 1000 mm and 1350 mm, and the height H1 of the first projection image is less than or equal to 300 mm in the direction from the bottom side to the top side of the windshield 210. In some embodiments, the height H1 of the first projection image is between 100 mm and 250 mm in the direction from the bottom side to the top side of the windshield 210.

[0052] It is understandable that the information displayed in the first head-up display area 217 is very important for the driving safety of the vehicle 1000. If the first head-up display area 217 is used to replace the instrument panel in the existing vehicle 1000 and the first head-up display area 217 is used as the only display area for displaying instrument panel information, then the requirements for the clarity and contrast of the displayed image are relatively high, so that the driver can clearly identify the displayed information under any environmental conditions.

[0053] The second head-up display area 218 is located in the center of the windshield 210, spaced apart from the first head-up display area 217. Specifically, the second head-up display area 218 is located within the viewing area 211. The second head-up display area 218 is located within the primary viewing area 213. In this embodiment, there are two second head-up display areas 218. The two second head-up display areas 218 are spaced apart along the X-axis.

[0054] The projection device 220 can emit a second projection light beam toward the second head-up display area 218. The second projection light beam can be emitted from the surface of the inner glass 20 (as shown in Figures 4 and 5) and form a virtual second projected image on the side of the outer glass 10 (as shown in Figures 4 and 5) facing away from the inner glass 20. The second projection light beam has a different light source type than the first projection light beam, i.e., the second projection light beam and the first projection light beam have different P-polarized light ratios. For example, if the first projection light beam has an 80% P-polarized light ratio and a 20% S-polarized light ratio, the second projection light beam may have an 20% P-polarized light ratio and an 80% S-polarized light ratio. Alternatively, if the first projection light beam has an 90% P-polarized light ratio and a 10% S-polarized light ratio, the second projection light beam may have an 30% P-polarized light ratio and a 70% S-polarized light ratio. Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present application, the P-polarized light ratios of the first and second projection lights may also be other ratios, which are not specifically limited in this application. The second head-up display area 218 can display information about the interaction between the vehicle 1000 and the road, with the displayed image projected directly in front of the vehicle 1000. Exemplarily, the projection distance L2 of the second head-up display area 218 is between 5m and 10m. The projection distance L2 refers to the distance between the second projection light emitted by the projection device 220 toward the second head-up display area 218, the second projection light reflected from the surface of the inner glass 20, and the virtual second projection image formed on the side of the outer glass 10 facing away from the inner glass 20, and the eye area 2000 of the passenger in the vehicle 1000.

[0055] It is understood that, assuming the projection light source of projection device 220 remains unchanged, the darker the background, the better the contrast between the projected image and the background, the higher the clarity and color of the projected image. Compared to first head-up display area 217, the information displayed in second head-up display area 218 has less impact on the driving safety of vehicle 1000, and the background of the projected image is more complex. Therefore, the image displayed in second head-up display area 218 may be partially distorted under extreme conditions such as strong ambient light.

[0056] The camera area and sunshade area 219 are both located at the top of the windshield 210 and spaced apart from the second head-up display area 218. Specifically, the camera area and sunshade area 219 are both located at the top of the field of view 211 and spaced apart from the main field of view 213. The camera area and field of view 211 overlap. It should be noted that the camera area refers to the area on the windshield 210 corresponding to the vehicle 1000's driving recorder.

[0057] Part of the sunshade area 219 overlaps with the field of view area 211, and part of it overlaps with the non-field of view area 212. Exemplarily, the top of the sunshade area 219 overlaps with the second non-field of view area 215, and a side portion of the sunshade area 219 along the X-axis direction may overlap with a third non-field of view area 216. There are two sunshade areas 219. Along the X-axis direction, the two sunshade areas 219 are located on opposite sides of the camera area, and are spaced apart from the camera area. Exemplarily, the minimum spacing between the sunshade area 219 and the main field of view area 213 is greater than or equal to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the minimum spacing between the sunshade area 219 and the main field of view area 213 is greater than or equal to 25 mm.

[0058] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5 . Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the windshield 210 shown in Figure 3 , taken along line II of the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the windshield 210 shown in Figure 3 , taken along line II-II of the first embodiment. The phrase "taking along line II" refers to taking along the plane of line II, and similar descriptions throughout this application should be understood in the same manner.

[0059] Windshield 210 includes outer glass 10, inner glass 20, intermediate layer 30, dimming element 40, sunshade, light shielding layer 70, and P-polarized light anti-reflection film 80. Along the thickness direction of windshield 210, outer glass 10 and inner glass 20 are spaced apart and arranged opposite each other. The outer glass 10 is the portion of windshield 210 facing away from projection device 220, while the inner glass 20 is the portion of windshield 210 facing projection device 220. The intermediate layer 30, dimming element 40, and sunshade are all located between outer glass 10 and inner glass 20. For example, the dimming element 40 and sunshade may be embedded within intermediate layer 30.

[0060] The outer glass 10 has a first surface 101 and a second surface 102. Along the thickness direction of the outer glass 10, the first surface 101 and the second surface 102 are disposed opposite each other. The first surface 101 is the surface of the outer glass 10 facing away from the inner glass 20, and the second surface 102 is the surface of the outer glass 10 facing the inner glass 20. The inner glass 20 has a third surface 201 and a fourth surface 202. Along the thickness direction of the inner glass 20, the third surface 201 and the fourth surface 202 are disposed opposite each other. The third surface 201 is the surface of the inner glass 20 facing the outer glass 10, and the fourth surface 202 is the surface of the inner glass 20 facing away from the outer glass 10. Both the outer glass 10 and the inner glass 20 are made of clear glass or ultra-clear glass.

[0061] The intermediate layer 30 is bonded between the outer glass 10 and the inner glass 20. Specifically, the intermediate layer 30 is bonded between the second surface 102 and the third surface 201 to facilitate assembly between the outer glass 10 and the inner glass 20. The intermediate layer 30 is semi-solid and semi-liquid, allowing it to flow between the outer glass 10 and the inner glass 20. Exemplary materials for the intermediate layer 30 include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyolefin thermoplastic elastomer (POE), polycarbonate (PC), or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

[0062] The light shielding layer 70 is provided at the edge of the second surface 102. The light shielding layer 70 is provided around the viewing area 211 and is located in the non-viewing area 212. Exemplarily, the light shielding layer 70 is made of black ink. The light shielding layer 70 includes a first light shielding portion, a second light shielding portion, and two third light shielding portions. The first light shielding portion is located at the bottom edge of the windshield 210 and is located in the first non-viewing area 214. The first head-up display area 217 is located on the side of the first light shielding portion close to the main viewing area 213. The second light shielding portion is located at the top of the windshield 210 and is located in the second non-viewing area 215, and is spaced apart from the first light shielding portion. The sunshade area 219 is located on the side of the second light shielding portion close to the main viewing area 213. The two third light shielding portions are connected between the first light shielding portion and the second light shielding portion, are spaced apart from each other, and are respectively located in the third non-viewing area 216. For example, the height h2 of the first light shielding portion, as measured from the bottom to the top of the windshield 210, is equal to h1 and is less than or equal to 200 mm. In some embodiments, the height h2 of the first light shielding portion, as measured from the bottom to the top of the windshield 210, is less than or equal to 150 mm. It should be noted that the area of ​​the windshield 210 where the light shielding layer 70 is located defines the non-viewing area 212. The light shielding layer 70 may also be referred to as a black border.

[0063] The first head-up display area 217 is located within the area where the dimming element 40 is located. The dimming element 40 can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217. The upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217 is greater than or equal to 50%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range is less than or equal to 10%. In other words, the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217 can be adjusted within a maximum range of 0% to 100%, and a minimum range of 10% to 50%. Specifically, the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217 can be adjusted within a range of 1% to 99%, 1% to 80%, 1% to 70%, or 5% to 50%. In some embodiments, the upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217 is greater than or equal to 70%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range is less than or equal to 5%. The dimming element 40 includes, but is not limited to, liquid crystal dye (LC dye) films, electrochromism (EC) films, suspended particle devices (SPD) films, and black polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) films. For example, when the dimming element 40 includes a black polymer dispersed liquid crystal film, the mass percentage of the black dye is 5%. The dimming element 40 has an on state and an off state. When the dimming element 40 is in the on state, the dimming element 40 is in a dark state. When the dimming element 40 is in the off state, the dimming element 40 is in a transparent state.

[0064] In the first head-up display area 217 of the windshield 210 shown in this embodiment, the dimming element 40 can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217, thereby enabling the first head-up display area 217 to switch between a dark state and a transparent state. When the head-up display function of the first head-up display area 217 is enabled, such as when the vehicle 1000 is moving, the dimming element 40 can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217 to less than or equal to 5%, placing the first head-up display area 217 in the dark state. The first head-up display area 217 can serve as the background of the head-up display, replacing the black border used in the prior art. The dimming element 40 in the dark state provides a higher contrast for the displayed image, ensuring the clarity of the displayed image.

[0065] When the head-up display function of first head-up display area 217 is disabled, such as when vehicle 1000 is parked, dimming element 40 adjusts the visible light transmittance of first head-up display area 217 to greater than or equal to 70%. First head-up display area 217 is transparent, allowing windshield 210 to provide a full field of view for the driver and passengers without affecting the aesthetic appearance of vehicle 1000. In other words, in this embodiment, first head-up display area 217 can be used as the background of the head-up display, replacing the black borders of conventional technology. This avoids the head-up display's restriction on the driver's field of view, provides the driver with a wider field of view, and does not affect the driver's judgment of the distance ahead, thereby ensuring the driving reliability of vehicle 1000 and improving the aesthetic appearance of vehicle 1000.

[0066] In some embodiments, a single sunshade may cover the entire sunshade area 219. In some embodiments, two sunshades may be provided, one located in each sunshade area 219. In this embodiment, the sunshade may be a dimming element capable of adjusting the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219. The upper limit of the adjustment range for the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 is greater than or equal to 50%, and the lower limit is less than or equal to 10%. In some embodiments, the upper limit of the adjustment range for the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 is greater than or equal to 70%, and the lower limit is less than or equal to 5%. In other words, the maximum visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 can be adjusted within a range of 0% to 100%, and the minimum can be adjusted within a range of 10% to 50%. Specifically, the adjustable range for the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 can be 1% to 99%, 1% to 80%, 1% to 70%, or 5% to 50%, etc. Sunshades include, but are not limited to, dye liquid crystal films, electrochromic films, suspended particle films, and black polymer dispersed liquid crystal films. For example, when the sunshade comprises a black polymer dispersed liquid crystal film, the mass percentage of the black dye is 5%. In other embodiments, the sunshade may also be a conventional sunshade that provides a sunshade function, such as a black ink layer, and this application does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the difference between the upper limit of the adjustable range of visible light transmittance between the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 is less than or equal to 5%, and the difference between the lower limit of the adjustable range of visible light transmittance between the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 is less than or equal to 5%. In certain further embodiments, the difference between the upper limit of the adjustable range of visible light transmittance between the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 can be 0%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%, and the difference between the lower limit of the adjustable range of visible light transmittance between the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 can be 0%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%.

[0068] In some embodiments, the sunshade can be made of the same material as the dimming element 40 to adjust the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219. In this case, the difference between the upper limit of the adjustable range of visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 is 0, and the difference between the lower limit of the adjustable range of visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 is also 0. This ensures that the visual effects of the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 remain the same when viewed at their brightest or darkest.

[0069] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the sunshade may be made of a different material than the dimming element 40 to adjust the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219. When the sunshade and the dimming element 40 are made of different materials to adjust the visible light transmittance, the difference between the upper limit of the adjustable range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 is less than or equal to 5%, and the difference between the lower limit of the adjustable range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 is less than or equal to 5%. In other words, the difference in light transmittance between the sunshade area 219 and the first head-up display area 217 in the brightest or darkest state is less than or equal to 5%.

[0070] In the sunshade area 219 of the windshield 210 shown in this embodiment, a dimming element is used as a sunshade, replacing conventional sunshades in the prior art. The sunshade adjusts the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219, allowing the sunshade area 219 to switch between a dark state and a transparent state. The sunshade can adjust the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 to less than or equal to 10%, and the sunshade area 219 is in the dark state. In the dark state, the sunshade area 219 absorbs light from outside the vehicle 1000, providing a sunshade. The sunshade can also adjust the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area 219 to greater than or equal to 50%, and the sunshade area 219 is in the transparent state. The windshield 210 provides a full field of vision for the driver and passengers without affecting the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle 1000. In other words, in this embodiment, a sun visor can be used to replace the sun visor device of the prior art to provide sunshade effect, which can avoid the limitation of the driver's field of view by the sun visor device of the prior art, provide the driver with a wider field of view, and does not affect the driver's judgment of the distance in front of the vehicle, thereby ensuring the driving reliability of the vehicle 1000 and improving the appearance of the vehicle 1000.

[0071] A P-polarized anti-reflective film 80 is provided on the fourth surface 202, covering at least the first head-up display area 217. Specifically, the P-polarized anti-reflective film 80 covers the fourth surface 202 and is positioned opposite the projection surface of the projection device 220. In this embodiment, the P-polarized anti-reflective film 80 may be a nanofilm, which increases the P-light reflectivity of the fourth surface 202 to reduce ghosting between the first head-up display area 217 and the second head-up display area 218. When the driver or passenger wears polarized glasses, they can still clearly see the images displayed in the first head-up display area 217 and the second head-up display area 218. In other embodiments, the P-polarized anti-reflective film 80 may also be provided on the surface of the inner glass 20 facing the outer glass 10.

[0072] The projection device 220 is located on the side of the inner glass 20 facing away from the outer glass 10, and is spaced apart from and opposite to the surface of the inner glass 20 facing away from the outer glass 10. Specifically, the projection device 220 is located on the side of the P-polarized light anti-reflection film 80 facing away from the inner glass 20, and is spaced apart from and opposite to the P-polarized light anti-reflection film 80. The projection light of the projection device 220 includes S-polarized light and P-polarized light. Exemplarily, the proportion of S-polarized light is between 0% and 80%, and the proportion of P-polarized light is between 20% and 100%. The proportion of P-polarized light to S-polarized light can be between 40% to 60% and 60% to 40%, or the proportion of P-polarized light to S-polarized light can be between 95% to 5% and 100% to 0%.

[0073] In this embodiment, the projection angle of the projection device 220 is between 42 degrees and 85 degrees. In some embodiments, the projection angle of the projection device 220 is between 42 degrees and 72 degrees. It should be noted that the projection angle of the projection device 220 is close to the Brewster angle of glass (approximately 56.5 degrees). For ordinary glass, within this incident angle range, P-polarized light is almost not reflected, and the reflectivity of S-polarized light is approximately 10% to 15%.

[0074] In this embodiment, the design of the P-polarized anti-reflective film 80 significantly increases the reflectivity of P-polarized light. Since linearly polarized light loses some light energy, given a constant power level of the projection device 220, the windshield 210 in this application exhibits high reflectivity for both P-polarized and S-polarized light, minimizing energy loss. This results in a naturally brighter and more visually clearer projected image. This eliminates the need for a multi-layered design of the dimming element 40, achieving high image quality and helping to reduce the cost of the windshield 210. The total reflectivity of P-polarized and S-polarized light in the first head-up display area 217 is greater than or equal to 4%. When the head-up display function of the first head-up display area 217 is enabled, the dimming element 40 is in a dark state, and the projection device 220 projects light, preferably a mixture of P-polarized and S-polarized light. This produces a clearer image in the first head-up display area 217, allowing the driver and passenger to view the displayed image even while wearing polarized glasses. When the head-up display function of the first head-up display area 217 is turned off, for example, when the vehicle 1000 is in a parking state, the dimming element 40 is in a transparent state, the projection device 220 is powered off, the windshield 210 can provide passengers with a better field of view, and the first head-up display area 217 does not affect the appearance of the vehicle 1000 at this time.

[0075] It should be noted that when the projection light of the projection device 220 is reflected by the dimming element 40, the color will change. For example, if the color of the projection light of the projection device 220 is (R0, G0, B0), then the color after reflection by the dimming element 40 is (R1, G1, B1), R1≠R0, G1≠G0, B1≠B0, then the color of the displayed image on the first head-up display area 217 will deviate from the color of the actual projected image. To ensure the accuracy of the color of the image displayed by the projection device 220 on the first head-up display area 217, color compensation can be performed on the color of the projection light of the projection device 220. For example, if the original design color of the projection light is (R0, G0, B0), the color compensation values ​​of the projection light of the projection device 220 are ΔR, ΔG, and ΔB. The color of the projection light of the projection device 220 is compensated to (R2, G2, B2), where R2 = R0 + ΔR, G2 = G0 + ΔG, and B2 = B0 + ΔB. Then, the color of the projection light after reflection by the dimming element 40 becomes (R3, G3, B3), where R3 = R0, G3 = G0, and B3 = B0. This ensures that the color of the image displayed on the first head-up display area 217 is consistent with the color of the designed projection image. The color deviation values ​​of the projection light after reflection from the surface of the inner glass are R2-R3, G2-G3, and B2-B3.

[0076] Next, taking the projection angle of the projection device 220 on the first head-up display area 217 as 65 degrees as an example, the reflectivity of the fourth surface 202 when the proportions of P-polarized light and S-polarized light in the projection light of the projection device 220 are different will be described.

[0077] Table 1

[0078] According to Table 1, compared to the projection device 220 using 100% P-polarized light, when the projection device 220 uses mixed light including P-polarized light and S-polarized light, the reflectivity of the fourth surface 202 will be improved. In other words, the energy loss of the projection light source of the projection device 220 will be reduced, and the mixed light of P-polarized light and S-polarized light will improve the energy utilization rate of the projection light source.

[0079] Please refer to FIG. 3 and FIG. 6 . FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the windshield 210 shown in FIG. 3 taken along line II-II in the second embodiment.

[0080] The windshield 210 shown in this embodiment differs from the windshield 210 shown in the first embodiment described above in that the intermediate layer 30 includes a first head-up display (HUD) (not shown) and two second HUDs 32. The first HUD is located in a first HUD area 217, and the two second HUDs 32 are located in two second HUD areas 218, respectively, and are spaced apart from the first HUD. The thickness of the first and second HUDs 32 gradually decreases from the top to the bottom of the windshield 210. For example, the cross-section of the first and second HUDs 32 along the YZ plane is wedge-shaped. In other embodiments, the cross-section of the intermediate layer 30 along the YZ plane is wedge-shaped from the top to the bottom of the windshield 210.

[0081] It should be understood that when the projection light of the projection device 220 includes P-polarized light and S-polarized light, the S-polarized light may undergo multiple reflections to varying degrees at the dimming element and the fourth surface 202, depending on the optical properties of the dimming element, such as transmittance and reflectivity. The gradual thickness variation of the first and second head-up display portions 32 can correct ghosting caused by multiple reflections of the S-polarized light, further enhancing the brightness of the first and second head-up display areas 217 and 218. The reflectivity of the second head-up display area 218 is greater than or equal to 8%.

[0082] It should be noted that due to differences in the optical path designs of the first and second HUD areas 217, 218, the wedge angles used to eliminate ghosting in the first and second HUD areas 217, 218 may differ. For example, the wedge angles of the first and second HUD areas 32 differ to eliminate ghosting in the first and second HUD areas 217, 218, respectively. Furthermore, both the first and second HUD areas 32 may include multiple layers of wedge film (not shown). These layers are stacked sequentially along the thickness of the windshield 210 to increase the brightness of the first and second HUD areas 217, 218.

[0083] Please refer to FIG. 3 and FIG. 7 . FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the windshield 210 shown in FIG. 3 taken along line II-II in accordance with the third embodiment.

[0084] The windshield 210 shown in this embodiment differs from the windshields 210 shown in the first and second embodiments described above in that it further includes a functional film layer 90, which is disposed on the second surface 102. Specifically, the functional film layer 90 covers the second surface 102. In certain embodiments, the functional film layer 90 is disposed on the third surface 201. Exemplarily, the functional film layer 90 includes, but is not limited to, an infrared blocking film. The infrared blocking film may be an infrared reflective film, which includes at least one functional layer and at least two dielectric layers, with each functional layer positioned between two adjacent dielectric layers. The infrared reflective film can reflect infrared rays, achieving a lower total solar transmittance (Tts), giving the anti-reflective glass a heat-insulating and sun-blocking effect. The total solar transmittance (TTS) is preferably less than or equal to 20%, more preferably less than or equal to 16%, or even less than or equal to 13%, thereby significantly improving thermal comfort within the vehicle. The infrared reflective film may include one functional layer, two, three, four, or even more functional layers. The material of the functional layer is a metal or metal alloy selected from at least one element of Ag (silver), Au (gold), Cu (copper), Al (aluminum), and Pt (platinum). Specifically, examples include one silver layer, two silver layers, three silver layers, or four silver layers. The dielectric layer protects the functional layer, preventing damage during processing or use, and also adjusts the optical, mechanical, and reflective color properties of the infrared reflective film. The dielectric layer can be made of at least one nitride, oxide, or oxynitride selected from Group A elements. Group A elements are selected from at least one element of Zn, Sn, Ti, Si, Al, Ni, Cr, Nb, Mg, Zr, Ga, Y, In, Sb, V, and Ta. Examples of dielectric layer materials include ZnSnOx (zinc tin oxide), TiOx (titanium oxide), and SiNx (silicon nitride). The infrared blocking film can also be an infrared absorbing film, which has an absorption effect on light in the 780nm to 2500nm band. The infrared absorbing film can be a thermoplastic resin film containing heat-insulating particles, such as PVB containing CWO particles, PVB containing ITO particles, etc. Among them, the heat-insulating particles can be selected from metal oxide particles with high infrared shielding function, such as indium tin oxide particles (ITO particles), aluminum-doped tin oxide particles, antimony-doped tin oxide particles (ATO particles), gallium-doped zinc oxide particles (GZO particles), indium-doped zinc oxide particles (IZO particles), aluminum-doped zinc oxide particles (AZO particles), niobium-doped titanium oxide particles, sodium-doped tungsten oxide particles, cesium-doped tungsten oxide particles (CWO), thallium-doped tungsten oxide particles, rubidium-doped tungsten oxide particles, tin-doped zinc oxide particles, silicon-doped zinc oxide particles, etc. In order to further improve the heat-insulating performance of the infrared absorbing film, ITO particles or CWO particles are preferred.

[0085] Please refer to FIG8 , which is a schematic plan view of the windshield 210 in a vehicle provided in a second embodiment of the present application.

[0086] The windshield 210 of the vehicle shown in this embodiment differs from the windshield 210 of the vehicle shown in the first embodiment described above in that it is a panoramic windshield. The windshield 210 has two viewing areas 211 and two non-viewing areas 212. The two viewing areas 211 are a first viewing area 211a and a second viewing area 211b. The main viewing area 213 is located within the first viewing area 211a, and the second viewing area 211b is located above the first viewing area 211a. From the bottom to the top of the windshield 210, the first viewing area 211a has a first curvature, and the second viewing area 211b has a second curvature, with the first and second curvatures being unequal. The first and second viewing areas 211a and 211b are connected by a transition zone having a third curvature, which is greater than the first and second curvatures. The description of the first viewing area 211a can refer to the description of the viewing area 211 in the above embodiment.

[0087] The two non-viewing areas 212 are a first non-viewing area 212a and a second non-viewing area 212b. The description of the first non-viewing area 212a can refer to the description of the non-viewing area 212 in the above embodiment. The second non-viewing area 212b is located on the side of the second non-viewing area 215 away from the first non-viewing area 214 and is arranged around the second viewing area 211b.

[0088] Furthermore, the descriptions of the first and second heads-up display areas 217 and 218 can be found in the descriptions of the first and second heads-up display areas 217 and 218 in the above embodiments, respectively. In this embodiment, there is only one sunshade area 219, located on the side of the second light-shielding portion away from the primary viewing area 213 and covering the second viewing area 211b. The edge of the sunshade area 219 overlaps with the second non-viewing area 212b. There is only one sunshade, located within the sunshade area 219. The description of the sunshade can be found in the description of the sunshade in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0089] In the windshield 210 shown in this application, a first head-up display area 217 is used as a display background, replacing the black border used as a display background in the prior art. The dimming element 40 can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217, thereby enabling the first head-up display area 217 to switch between a dark state and a transparent state. When the head-up display function of the first head-up display area 217 is enabled, such as when the vehicle 1000 is moving, the dimming element 40 can adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area 217 to less than or equal to 5%, and the first head-up display area 217 is in a dark state. The first head-up display area 217 can serve as the display background of the head-up display. In the dark state, the first head-up display area 217 provides a higher contrast for the displayed image, ensuring the clarity of the displayed image. When the head-up display function of first head-up display area 217 is disabled, such as when vehicle 1000 is parked, dimming element 40 adjusts the visible light transmittance of first head-up display area 217 to greater than or equal to 70%. First head-up display area 217 is transparent, allowing windshield 210 to provide a full field of view for the driver and passengers without affecting the aesthetic appearance of vehicle 1000. In other words, in this embodiment, first head-up display area 217 can be used as the background of the head-up display, replacing the black borders of conventional technology. This avoids the head-up display's restriction on the driver's field of view, provides the driver with a wider field of view, and does not affect the driver's judgment of the distance ahead, thereby ensuring the driving reliability of vehicle 1000 and improving the aesthetic appearance of vehicle 1000.

[0090] The above is a detailed introduction to the embodiments of the present application. Specific examples are used herein to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present application. The description of the above embodiments is only used to help understand the method and core idea of ​​the present application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, according to the idea of ​​the present application, there may be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope. In summary, the content of this specification should not be understood as a limitation on the present application.

Claims

1. A windshield, characterized in that: The windshield has a main field of view area and a first head-up display area. The visible light transmittance of the main field of view area is greater than or equal to 70%. The first head-up display area is located on the bottom side of the main field of view area. The windshield includes an outer sheet of glass, an inner sheet of glass, an intermediate layer, and a dimming element. The inner sheet of glass and the outer sheet of glass are spaced apart and arranged opposite to each other. The intermediate layer and the dimming element are both located between the inner sheet of glass and the outer sheet of glass. The intermediate layer is used to connect the inner sheet of glass and the outer sheet of glass. The first head-up display area is located in the area where the dimming element is located. The dimming element is used to adjust the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area. The upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area is greater than or equal to 50%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range is less than or equal to 10%.

2. The windshield according to claim 1, characterized in that An upper limit of an adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the first head-up display area is greater than or equal to 70%, and a lower limit of the adjustment range is less than or equal to 5%.

3. The windshield according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The windshield further includes a light-shielding layer including a first light-shielding portion located at a bottom edge of the windshield, and the first head-up display area is located on a side of the first light-shielding portion close to the main visual field area.

4. The windshield according to claim 3, characterized in that A height of the first light shielding portion from the bottom side to the top side of the windshield is less than or equal to 200 mm.

5. The windshield according to claim 1, wherein: A height of the first head-up display area from the bottom side to the top side of the windshield is less than or equal to 300 mm.

6. The windshield according to claim 1, wherein: The windshield further includes a P-polarized light anti-reflection film, which is disposed on a surface of the inner glass away from the outer glass. The P-polarized light anti-reflection film at least partially covers the first head-up display area.

7. The windshield according to claim 1, wherein: The windshield further includes a functional film layer, which is provided on a surface of the outer glass facing the inner glass or a surface of the inner glass facing the outer glass.

8. The windshield according to claim 1, characterized in that: The windshield further comprises a sunshade area, which is located on the top side of the main visual field area. The windshield further comprises a sunshade, which is located between the inner glass and the outer glass and within the sunshade area.

9. The windshield according to claim 8, characterized in that: The sunshade is a dimming element used to adjust the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area. The upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area is greater than or equal to 50%, and the lower limit of the adjustment range is less than or equal to 10%.

10. The windshield according to claim 9, characterized in that The difference between the upper limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area and the first head-up display area is less than or equal to 5%, and the difference between the lower limit of the adjustment range of the visible light transmittance of the sunshade area and the first head-up display area is less than or equal to 5%.

11. The windshield according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that: The windshield also includes a shading layer located at the edge of the windshield, the shading layer includes a second shading portion located on the top side of the main field of view area, and the shading area is located on a side of the second shading portion close to the main field of view area and / or a side away from the main field of view area.

12. The windshield according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that: The minimum distance between the sunshade area and the main field of view area is greater than or equal to 10 mm.

13. The windshield according to claim 1, wherein: The windshield is a panoramic windshield, and includes a first viewing area and a second viewing area. The main viewing area is located within the first viewing area, and the second viewing area is located on the top side of the first viewing area. In the direction from the lower side to the top side of the windshield, the first viewing area has a first curvature, and the second viewing area has a second curvature. The first curvature and the second curvature are not equal. The first viewing area and the second viewing area are connected by a transition area with a third curvature, and the third curvature is greater than the first curvature and the second curvature.

14. The windshield according to claim 1, wherein: The middle layer includes a first head-up display portion, which is located in the first head-up display area. The thickness of the first head-up display portion gradually decreases from the top side to the bottom side of the windshield.

15. A head-up display system, characterized in that: The windshield according to any one of claims 1 to 14 comprises a projection device and the windshield, wherein the projection device is located on a side of the inner glass facing away from the outer glass, the projection device is configured to emit a first projection light beam toward the first head-up display area, and the first projection light beam forms a virtual first projection image on a side of the outer glass facing away from the inner glass after being reflected from a surface of the inner glass.

16. The head-up display system according to claim 15, characterized in that: A top edge of the first projection image is located below a bottom edge of the main viewing area.

17. The head-up display system according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that: The projection distance of the first head-up display area is greater than or equal to 1 m and less than or equal to 2.5 m.

18. The head-up display system according to claim 15, characterized in that: The projection light of the projection device includes S-polarized light and P-polarized light.

19. The head-up display system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The S-polarized light accounts for 0% to 80%, and the P-polarized light accounts for 20% to 100%.

20. The head-up display system according to claim 15, characterized in that: The projection angle of the projection device is between 42 degrees and 85 degrees.

21. The head-up display system according to claim 15, characterized in that: The windshield further has a second head-up display area, which is located in the main field of view. The projection device is further configured to emit a second projection light beam toward the second head-up display area. The second projection light beam is reflected from the surface of the inner glass to form a virtual second projection image on a side of the outer glass facing away from the inner glass.

22. The head-up display system according to claim 21, characterized in that: The second projection light and the first projection light have different proportions of P-polarized light.

23. The head-up display system according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that: The projection distance of the second head-up display area is greater than or equal to 5 meters and less than or equal to 10 meters.

24. The head-up display system according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that: The projection device has color compensation for the color of the projection light, and the color compensation value of the projection light of the projection device is the same as the color deviation value of the light after being reflected on the surface of the inner glass.

25. A vehicle, characterized in that: The invention comprises a vehicle body and a head-up display system according to any one of claims 15 to 24, wherein the head-up display system is installed on the vehicle body.

Images