Imaging device for vehicle having reduced volume

Abstract

An imaging device for a vehicle comprises: a first cover which is formed on the front surface of a dashboard of the vehicle; a second cover which is arranged, spaced apart from the first cover, in an inner area inward of the front surface; a picture generation unit (PGU) which is arranged inside the dashboard and generates a first optical signal and a second optical signal to one side of the dashboard; a first mirror disposed on the second cover and one side of the dashboard and configured to reflect the first optical signal and the second optical signal from the one side; and a second mirror configured to transmit the first optical signal that has passed through the first mirror disposed on the second cover and the second optical signal reflected from the first mirror disposed on the second cover.

Description

Reduced volume vehicle imaging device

[0001] This specification relates to a vehicle imaging device. More specifically, it relates to a vehicle imaging device with reduced volume and a vehicle equipped with the same.

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

[0003] Meanwhile, various sensors and electronic devices are being installed in vehicles to enhance the convenience of users. In particular, research is actively being conducted on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to enhance user convenience. Furthermore, development of autonomous vehicles is also actively underway.

[0004] Meanwhile, vehicle displays, which display various driving information, are positioned below the driver's forward field of vision, potentially compromising driving safety (rubber necking). Therefore, vehicle-mounted video devices, such as head-up displays (HUDs), can be installed in vehicles to ensure driving safety by projecting images onto the windshield, closer to the driver's field of vision.

[0005] These HUDs (Head-up displays) can be implemented as large screens using Augmented Reality (AR) to display driving-related information. Due to the limited installation space of large-screen AR-HUDs, products with a reduced volume (less than 10L) and large screen (FOV 10X4 degrees or more) may be required. However, there is a problem in that it is difficult to implement a vehicle imaging device such as an AR-HUD with a reduced volume (less than 10L) in a product with a large screen (FOV 10X4 degrees or more) of a certain size or larger.

[0006] The purpose of this specification is to provide a vehicle imaging device with reduced volume and a vehicle equipped with the same.

[0007] In addition, the present specification aims to implement a vehicle imaging device that guarantees a field of view (FOV) of a certain angle or more in a reduced volume due to the limited mounting space of a large-screen AR-HUD.

[0008] In addition, the present specification aims to implement a vehicle imaging device that uses multiple mirrors to reflect different AR images through different areas of a windshield and provide them within a user's field of vision.

[0009] In addition, the present specification aims to implement a vehicle imaging device that has different arrangement structures depending on vehicle specifications and optimizes the space occupied in terms of length or volume.

[0010] Additionally, the present specification aims to implement continuous images related to driving-related information into a single image module so that the images have a large aspect ratio.

[0011] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0012] In order to achieve the above object, a vehicle imaging device according to the present specification includes: a first cover formed on a front surface of a dashboard of a vehicle; a second cover disposed spaced apart from the first cover in an area inside the front surface; a picture generation unit (PGU) disposed inside the dashboard and forming a first optical signal and a second optical signal to one side of the dashboard; a first mirror disposed on one side of the dashboard and the second cover and configured to reflect the first optical signal and the second optical signal from the one side; and a second mirror configured to pass the first optical signal passing through the first mirror disposed on the second cover and the second optical signal reflected from the first mirror disposed on the second cover.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the vehicle imaging device may further include a third mirror configured with a first length to reflect a first optical signal of a first polarization component emitted from a first region of the PGU; and a fourth mirror overlapping the third mirror and configured with a second length different from the first length to reflect a second optical signal of a second polarization component emitted from a second region of the PGU.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the first length of the third mirror is formed to be shorter than the second length of the fourth mirror, and the third mirror can be arranged in a higher region on the vertical axis than the fourth mirror.

[0015] According to an embodiment, a first optical signal of the first polarization in the first region may be reflected from the third mirror, pass through the fourth mirror, and be reflected from the first mirror, and a second optical signal of the second polarization in the second region may be reflected from the fourth mirror and then from the first mirror.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the PGU may be configured as a display plane. The vehicle imaging device may further include a vertical structure formed at a first height on the display plane to prevent interference between the first optical signal of the first region and the second optical signal of the second region.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the vehicle imaging device may further include a polarizing plate spaced apart from the display plane by a second height in the first region and configured to delay the first optical signal of the second polarization by λ / 2. The polarizing plate may convert the first optical signal of the second polarization into the first optical signal of the first polarization.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the first mirror may include a first portion disposed on the one side; and a second portion connected to the first portion and disposed on the second cover. The second portion may pass a first optical signal reflected from the first portion, pass a second optical signal reflected from the first portion, and reflect a second optical signal reflected from the second mirror.

[0019] According to an embodiment, a first light signal passing through a first point of the second mirror may be displayed as a first AR image on a first area of ​​a windshield of the vehicle, and a second light signal passing through a second point of the second mirror after being initially reflected from the second part of the first mirror and the second mirror may be displayed as a second AR image on a second area of ​​the windshield of the vehicle. The second point of the second mirror may be arranged closer to a user in the vehicle than the first point. The first area and the second area of ​​the windshield may correspond to a lower portion and an upper portion of the windshield.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the second cover may include the first mirror; and a polarizing plate disposed on a rear surface of the first mirror and configured to convert polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the first cover may include the second mirror; a polarizing plate disposed on a first surface of the second mirror and configured to convert polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal; and a polarizing film disposed on a second surface of the second mirror and formed to pass a second polarization component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the PGU may include a first PGU arranged in a first region of the PGU and configured to emit a first optical signal of the first polarization component; a second PGU arranged in a second region of the PGU and configured to emit a second optical signal of the second polarization component; and a third PGU arranged in a third region adjacent to the second region of the PGU and configured to emit a third optical signal of the second polarization component.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the PGU may include a first PGU arranged in a first region of the PGU and configured to emit a first optical signal of the first polarization component; a second PGU arranged in a second region of the PGU and configured to emit a second optical signal of the second polarization component; and a third PGU arranged in a third region between the first region and the second region of the PGU and configured to emit a third optical signal of the first polarization component.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the PGU may be configured as a display plane. The vehicle imaging device may further include a first vertical structure formed at a first point on the display plane with a first height to prevent interference between the first optical signal of the first region and the second optical signal of the second region; and a second vertical structure formed at a second point on the display plane with a second height to prevent interference between the second optical signal of the second region and the third optical signal of the third region.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the vehicle imaging device may further include a polarizing plate configured to delay the first optical signal by a phase of λ / 2 and spaced apart from the display plane by a third height in the first region. The polarizing plate may convert the first optical signal of the second polarization into the first optical signal of the first polarization.

[0026] According to an embodiment, a first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region may pass through the fourth mirror, be reflected by the third mirror, pass through the fourth mirror, be reflected from the first portion of the first mirror, and pass through the second portion of the first mirror and the second mirror. A second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region may be reflected by the fourth mirror and the first portion of the first mirror, pass through the second portion of the first mirror, be reflected from the second mirror and the second portion of the first mirror, and pass through the second mirror. A third optical signal of the second polarization component of the third region may be reflected by the fourth mirror and the first portion of the first mirror, pass through the second portion of the first mirror, be reflected from the second mirror and the second portion of the first mirror, and pass through the second mirror.

[0027] According to an embodiment, a first optical signal passing through the second part of the first mirror and the first point of the second mirror may be displayed as a first AR image on a first area of ​​a windshield of a vehicle, a second optical signal passing through the second point of the second mirror after being initially reflected from the second mirror may be displayed as a second AR image on a second area of ​​the windshield, and a third optical signal passing through the third point of the second mirror after being initially reflected from the second mirror may be displayed as a third AR image on a third area of ​​the windshield. The third point of the second mirror may be arranged closest to a user in the vehicle. The first area, the second area, and the third area of ​​the windshield may correspond to a lower portion, a center, and an upper portion of the windshield.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the PGU may be configured as a display plane. The vehicle imaging device may include a first vertical structure formed at a first point on the display plane with a first height to prevent interference between the first optical signal of the first region and the third optical signal of the third region; and a second vertical structure formed at a second point on the display plane with a second height to prevent interference between the third optical signal of the third region and the second optical signal of the second region.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the vehicle imaging device may further include a first polarizing plate spaced apart from the display plane by a third height in the first region and configured to delay the first optical signal by a λ / 2 phase; and a second polarizing plate spaced apart from the display plane by a fourth height in the third region and configured to delay the third optical signal by a λ / 2 phase. The first polarizing plate may convert a first optical signal of the second polarization into a first optical signal of the first polarization, and the second polarizing plate may convert a third optical signal of the second polarization into a third optical signal of the first polarization.

[0030] According to an embodiment, a first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region may pass through the fourth mirror, be reflected from the third mirror, pass through the fourth mirror, be reflected from the first part of the first mirror, and pass through the second part of the first mirror and the second mirror. A third optical signal of the first polarization component of the third region may pass through the fourth mirror, be reflected from the third mirror, pass through the fourth mirror, be reflected from the first part of the first mirror, and pass through the second part of the first mirror and the second mirror. A second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region may be reflected from the third mirror and the first part of the first mirror, pass through the second part of the first mirror, be reflected from the second mirror and the second part of the first mirror, and pass through the second mirror.

[0031] According to an embodiment, a first optical signal passing through a first point of the second mirror may be displayed as a first AR image on a first area of ​​a windshield of a vehicle, a third optical signal passing through the second part of the first mirror and the second point of the second mirror may be displayed as a second AR image on a second area of ​​the windshield, and a second optical signal passing through a third point of the second mirror may be displayed as a third AR image on a third area of ​​the windshield. The third point of the second mirror may be arranged closest to a user in the vehicle. The first area, the second area, and the third area of ​​the windshield may correspond to a lower portion, a center, and an upper portion of the windshield.

[0032] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0033] The technical features of a vehicle imaging device having a reduced volume according to the present specification and a vehicle equipped with the same can be summarized as follows.

[0034] According to the present specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that guarantees a field of view (FOV) of a certain angle or more in a reduced volume according to the limited mounting space of a large-screen AR-HUD by configuring a plurality of covers to reflect or pass an optical signal.

[0035] According to the present specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that ensures a field of view (FOV) of a certain angle or more in a reduced volume according to the limited mounting space of a large-screen AR-HUD by attaching a polarizing film to at least one side of a cover.

[0036] According to the present specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that uses multiple mirrors to reflect different AR images through different areas of a windshield and provide them within a user's field of vision.

[0037] According to this specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that has different arrangement structures depending on vehicle specifications and optimizes the space occupied in terms of length or volume.

[0038] According to this specification, if there are few constraints in terms of length, the optical signals of the PGU can be directed to the windshield through mirrors arranged on one side of the dashboard and covers, thereby presenting a structure with reduced height.

[0039] According to this specification, if there is a significant constraint in terms of length, the optical signals of the PGU can be reflected through mirrors on the other side of the dashboard and directed to the windshield through mirrors arranged on the mirrors and covers on one side of the dashboard, thereby presenting a structure with a reduced length.

[0040] According to this specification, a volume reduction effect can be maximized through a multi-selective reflection / transmission optical system using multiple covers placed on the front and inside of a dashboard used to prevent foreign matter from entering.

[0041] According to this specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that has a volume reduction effect of more than 40% compared to large-screen AR-HUDs existing on the market.

[0042] According to this specification, a vehicle imaging device that can be implemented as an AR-HUD having a volume of about 9 L or less within a vehicle can be provided.

[0043] The effects of this specification are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the exterior of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a drawing of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from various external angles.

[0046] Figures 3 and 4 are drawings showing the interior of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a block diagram for reference in explaining a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present specification.

[0048] Figure 6a shows a configuration in which a screen of a predetermined ratio is formed in a specific area of ​​the windshield of a vehicle.

[0049] Fig. 6b shows a structure in which a vehicle video device for implementing a screen of a predetermined ratio of Fig. 6a is placed inside a vehicle dashboard.

[0050] Fig. 7 shows the structure of a vehicle imaging device having first and second mirrors.

[0051] Fig. 8 shows the structure of a vehicle imaging device having first to fourth mirrors.

[0052] Fig. 9 shows areas in which the first optical signal of P polarization and the second optical signal of S polarization are reflected by the mirror and propagate in the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 8.

[0053] Figure 10 shows the polarization states of signals incident on, passing through, and reflected from each structure of the vehicle imaging device of Figure 8.

[0054] Figures 11 to 13 illustrate vehicle imaging devices having different laminated structures in the first and second mirrors according to embodiments.

[0055] Figure 14 shows the structure of a vehicle imaging device capable of displaying three AR images.

[0056] Figure 15 shows the polarization states of signals incident on, passing through, and reflected from each structure of the vehicle imaging device of Figure 14.

[0057] Fig. 16 shows the paths of P-polarized, S-polarized, and S-polarized optical signals for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 7.

[0058] Fig. 17 shows the paths of P-polarized, S-polarized, and S-polarized optical signals for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Figs. 8 and 14.

[0059] Fig. 18 shows the paths of optical signals of P polarization, P polarization, and S polarization for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 7.

[0060] Fig. 19 shows the paths of optical signals of P polarization, P polarization, and S polarization for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Figs. 8 and 14.

[0061] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not in themselves have distinct meanings or roles. In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0062] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0063] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0064] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0065] In this application, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood not to exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0066] The vehicle described in this specification may include a concept that includes automobiles and motorcycles. In the following, the vehicle will be described primarily with automobiles.

[0067] The vehicle described in this specification may be a concept that includes all types of vehicles, such as internal combustion engine vehicles equipped with an engine as a power source, hybrid vehicles equipped with an engine and an electric motor as a power source, and electric vehicles equipped with an electric motor as a power source.

[0068] In the following description, the left side of the vehicle means the left side of the vehicle's driving direction, and the right side of the vehicle means the right side of the vehicle's driving direction.

[0069] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the exterior of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present specification.

[0070] FIG. 2 is a drawing of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present specification viewed from various external angles.

[0071] Figures 3 and 4 are drawings showing the interior of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present specification.

[0072] FIG. 5 is a block diagram for reference in explaining a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present specification.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the vehicle (100) may include wheels that rotate by a power source and a steering input device (510) for controlling the direction of travel of the vehicle (100).

[0074] The vehicle (100) may be an autonomous vehicle.

[0075] The vehicle (100) can be switched to autonomous driving mode or manual mode based on user input.

[0076] For example, the vehicle (100) can be switched from manual mode to autonomous driving mode or from autonomous driving mode to manual mode based on user input received through the user interface device (200).

[0077] The vehicle (100) can be switched to autonomous driving mode or manual mode based on driving situation information. The driving situation information can be generated based on object information provided by the object detection device (300).

[0078] For example, the vehicle (100) can be switched from manual mode to autonomous driving mode or from autonomous driving mode to manual mode based on driving situation information generated by the object detection device (300).

[0079] For example, the vehicle (100) can be switched from manual mode to autonomous driving mode or from autonomous driving mode to manual mode based on driving situation information received through the communication device (400).

[0080] The vehicle (100) can be switched from manual mode to autonomous driving mode or from autonomous driving mode to manual mode based on information, data, and signals provided from an external device.

[0081] When the vehicle (100) is operated in autonomous driving mode, the autonomous vehicle (100) can be operated based on the driving system (700).

[0082] For example, an autonomous vehicle (100) may be driven based on information, data, or signals generated from a driving system (710), an exit system (740), or a parking system (750).

[0083] When the vehicle (100) is driven in manual mode, the autonomous vehicle (100) can receive user input for driving through the driving control device (500). Based on the user input received through the driving control device (500), the vehicle (100) can be driven.

[0084] The overall length refers to the length from the front to the rear of the vehicle (100), the overall width refers to the width of the vehicle (100), and the overall height refers to the length from the bottom of the wheel to the roof. In the following description, the overall length direction (L) may refer to the direction that serves as a reference for measuring the overall length of the vehicle (100), the overall width direction (W) may refer to the direction that serves as a reference for measuring the overall width of the vehicle (100), and the overall height direction (H) may refer to the direction that serves as a reference for measuring the overall height of the vehicle (100).

[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the vehicle (100) may include a user interface device (200), an object detection device (300), a communication device (400), a driving operation device (500), a vehicle driving device (600), a driving system (700), a navigation system (770), a sensing unit (120), an interface unit (130), a memory (140), a control unit (170), and a power supply unit (190).

[0086] Depending on the embodiment, the vehicle (100) may include other components in addition to the components described herein, or may not include some of the components described herein.

[0087] The user interface device (200) is a device for communication between a vehicle (100) and a user. The user interface device (200) can receive user input and provide information generated in the vehicle (100) to the user. The vehicle (100) can implement a UI (User Interface) or UX (User Experience) through the user interface device (200).

[0088] The user interface device (200) may include an input unit (210), an internal camera (220), a biometric detection unit (230), an output unit (250), and a processor (270).

[0089] Depending on the embodiment, the user interface device (200) may include additional components other than the described components, or may not include some of the described components.

[0090] The input unit (200) is for receiving information from a user, and data collected from the input unit (120) can be analyzed by a processor (270) and processed into a user's control command.

[0091] The input unit (200) may be placed inside the vehicle. For example, the input unit (200) may be placed in an area of ​​a steering wheel, an area of ​​an instrument panel, an area of ​​a seat, an area of ​​each pillar, an area of ​​a door, an area of ​​a center console, an area of ​​a head lining, an area of ​​a sun visor, an area of ​​a windshield, or an area of ​​a window.

[0092] The input unit (200) may include a voice input unit (211), a gesture input unit (212), a touch input unit (213), and a mechanical input unit (214).

[0093] The voice input unit (211) can convert a user's voice input into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal can be provided to a processor (270) or a control unit (170).

[0094] The voice input unit (211) may include one or more microphones.

[0095] The gesture input unit (212) can convert a user's gesture input into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal can be provided to a processor (270) or a control unit (170).

[0096] The gesture input unit (212) may include at least one of an infrared sensor and an image sensor for detecting a user's gesture input.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the gesture input unit (212) may detect a user's three-dimensional gesture input. To this end, the gesture input unit (212) may include a light output unit that outputs a plurality of infrared lights or a plurality of image sensors.

[0098] The gesture input unit (212) can detect a user's 3D gesture input through a TOF (Time of Flight) method, a structured light method, or a disparity method.

[0099] The touch input unit (213) can convert a user's touch input into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal can be provided to a processor (270) or a control unit (170).

[0100] The touch input unit (213) may include a touch sensor for detecting a user's touch input.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the touch input unit (213) may be formed integrally with the display unit (251), thereby implementing a touch screen. Such a touch screen may provide both an input interface and an output interface between the vehicle (100) and the user.

[0102] The mechanical input unit (214) may include at least one of a button, a dome switch, a jog wheel, and a jog switch. An electrical signal generated by the mechanical input unit (214) may be provided to a processor (270) or a control unit (170).

[0103] The mechanical input unit (214) can be placed on a steering wheel, center fascia, center console, cockpit module, door, etc.

[0104] The internal camera (220) can capture images of the vehicle interior. The processor (270) can detect the user's status based on the images of the vehicle interior. The processor (270) can obtain information about the user's gaze from the images of the vehicle interior. The processor (270) can detect the user's gestures from the images of the vehicle interior.

[0105] The biometric detection unit (230) can obtain the user's biometric information. The biometric detection unit (230) includes a sensor capable of obtaining the user's biometric information, and can use the sensor to obtain the user's fingerprint information, heartbeat information, etc. The biometric information can be used for user authentication.

[0106] The output unit (250) is for generating output related to vision, hearing, or touch.

[0107] The output unit (250) may include at least one of a display unit (251), an audio output unit (252), and a haptic output unit (253).

[0108] The display unit (251) can display graphic objects corresponding to various information.

[0109] The display unit (251) may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a 3D display, and an e-ink display.

[0110] The display unit (251) can implement a touch screen by forming a mutual layer structure with the touch input unit (213) or forming it as an integral part.

[0111] The display unit (251) may be implemented as a HUD (Head Up Display), a CID (Center Information Display), a cluster, and / or an RSE (Rear Seat Entertainment). When the display unit (251) is implemented as a HUD, the display unit (251) may be equipped with a projection module to output information through an image projected onto a windshield or window.

[0112] The display unit (251) may include a transparent display. The transparent display may be attached to a windshield or window.

[0113] A transparent display can display a predetermined screen while having a predetermined transparency. To have transparency, the transparent display may include at least one of a transparent TFEL (Thin Film Electroluminescent), a transparent OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode), a transparent LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a pass-through transparent display, and a transparent LED (Light Emitting Diode) display. The transparency of the transparent display can be adjusted.

[0114] Meanwhile, the user interface device (200) may include a plurality of display units (251a to 251g).

[0115] The display unit (251) may be arranged in one area of ​​the steering wheel, one area of ​​the instrument panel (521a, 251b, 251e), one area of ​​the seat (251d), one area of ​​each pillar (251f), one area of ​​the door (251g), one area of ​​the center console, one area of ​​the head lining, one area of ​​the sun visor, or may be implemented in one area of ​​the windshield (251c), one area of ​​the window (251h).

[0116] Driving-related information for the driver may be displayed in one area (251a, 251b) of the instrument panel. A personalized infotainment display for a passenger seated in the front passenger seat may be implemented in one area (251e) of the instrument panel using a vehicle-mounted video device. A personalized infotainment display for RSE (Rear Seat Entertainment) may be implemented in one area (251d) of the seat using a vehicle-mounted video device.

[0117] The audio output unit (252) converts an electric signal provided from the processor (270) or the control unit (170) into an audio signal and outputs the converted signal. To this end, the audio output unit (252) may include one or more speakers.

[0118] The haptic output unit (253) generates a tactile output. For example, the haptic output unit (253) can operate by vibrating a steering wheel, a seat belt, or a seat (110FL, 110FR, 110RL, 110RR) so that the user can perceive the output.

[0119] The processor (270) can control the overall operation of each unit of the user interface device (200).

[0120] Depending on the embodiment, the user interface device (200) may include a plurality of processors (270) or may not include a processor (270).

[0121] If the user interface device (200) does not include a processor (270), the user interface device (200) may be operated under the control of a processor or control unit (170) of another device in the vehicle (100).

[0122] Meanwhile, the user interface device (200) may be referred to as a vehicle display device.

[0123] The user interface device (200) can be operated under the control of the control unit (170).

[0124] The object detection device (300) is a device for detecting an object located outside a vehicle (100).

[0125] Objects may be various objects related to the operation of the vehicle (100).

[0126] Meanwhile, a vehicle imaging device according to this specification is described. In this regard, the vehicle display, which displays various driving information, is located below the driver's forward driving field of vision, which can affect driving safety (rubber necking). Therefore, vehicle imaging devices, such as recent HUDs (Head-up displays), can be installed in vehicles to ensure driving safety by projecting images onto the windshield near the driver's field of vision.

[0127] Additionally, an infotainment device needs to be implemented in the passenger or rear seat of a vehicle to provide personal information and entertainment content. Therefore, a vehicle-mounted video device is needed to display driving-related information in the area in front of the driver's seat or to provide personal entertainment content in the area in front of the passenger or rear seat.

[0128] To display such driving-related information or entertainment content on a specific area of ​​the windshield at the front of the vehicle, the width in one direction must be a certain percentage greater than the length in the other direction, creating a large aspect ratio. The problem is that there is no specific provision regarding where in the vehicle the vehicle-mounted video device can be installed and how it can be structured to accommodate such a large aspect ratio.

[0129] To address these issues, the present disclosure provides a vehicle imaging device having a large aspect ratio using a vehicle-related projection optical system. Furthermore, the present disclosure displays driving-related information on a screen having a large aspect ratio on a specific area of ​​a windshield in front of a vehicle. Furthermore, the present disclosure provides a vehicle imaging device having an optical structure and a special screen for enabling an image to have a large aspect ratio in a single imaging module. Furthermore, the present disclosure implements a continuous image associated with driving-related information in a single imaging module so that the image has a large aspect ratio. Furthermore, the present disclosure provides a vehicle imaging device having a small and thin volume.

[0130] A vehicle imaging device for achieving the aforementioned purpose is described in detail with reference to drawings. In this regard, Fig. 6a illustrates a configuration in which a screen of a predetermined aspect ratio is formed on a specific area of ​​a vehicle's windshield. Fig. 6b illustrates a structure in which a vehicle imaging device for implementing the screen of Fig. 6a of a predetermined aspect ratio is positioned within the vehicle's dashboard.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 6A, an image having a width (Wa) in one axis direction and a length (La) in the other axis direction may be displayed on a specific area (251R) of a windshield of a vehicle. The image may be configured to include a plurality of image areas on which information necessary for driving the vehicle is displayed. The plurality of image areas may include a first image area (IR1) to a third image area (IR3). A first image including vehicle-related information may be displayed on the first image area (IR1) closest to the field of vision of a driver of the vehicle. A second image related to a vehicle driving route may be displayed on the second image area (IR2). A third image related to a map including a starting point and a destination may be displayed on the third image area (IR3). As a plurality of images are displayed on the specific area (251R), the width (Wa) in one axis direction may be set to a predetermined ratio, for example, 5 times or more, than the length (La) in the other axis direction.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, a vehicle imaging device (1000) may be placed inside a dashboard of a vehicle. The vehicle imaging device (1000) may be placed in a specific area inside the dashboard so as not to overlap with an area where a steering wheel and pedals are placed. An image reflected by light from a screen panel (1200) constituting the vehicle imaging device (1000) may be displayed on a specific area (251R) of a windshield of the vehicle. The specific area (251R) may be implemented with a predetermined length (La) so that the image is displayed within the driver's field of vision. The distance from the center of the driver's line of sight to the center of the specific area (251R) may be implemented with a predetermined distance (Da).

[0133] Hereinafter, a vehicle imaging device according to the present specification will be described. Fig. 7 illustrates the structure of a vehicle imaging device having first and second mirrors. The vehicle imaging device (1000a) of Fig. 7 may be configured to include a first cover (1010), a second cover (1020), an image forming unit (PGU) (1100), and a plurality of mirrors (1310, 1320).

[0134] The first cover (1010) may be formed on the front surface of a dashboard (1001a) of a vehicle. The second cover (1020) may be positioned in an area inside the front surface of the dashboard (1001a). The second cover (1020) may be positioned in an area inside the first cover (1010) positioned on the front surface of the dashboard (1001a) and spaced apart from the first cover (1010).

[0135] The image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be positioned inside the dashboard (1001a). The image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may form a first optical signal and a second optical signal to one side of the dashboard (1001a). The image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be positioned so that the optical signal formed to one side is reflected by the first and second mirrors (1310, 1320).

[0136] The image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be placed inside the dashboard (1001a). The image forming unit (1100) may be placed to form an optical signal on one side. The image forming unit (1100) includes various projection devices and a display that displays pixels on a screen. The image forming unit (1100) may be implemented as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a digital light processing (DLP), a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS), or a micro light-emitting diode (micro LED).

[0137] An image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be configured to include a first region (1100a) and a second region (1100b). The first region (1100a) and the second region (1100b) of the image forming unit (1100) may be formed integrally or separately. In a structure in which the image forming unit (1100) is formed separately, the first region (1100a) and the second region (1100b) may correspond to the first PGU and the second PGU, respectively.

[0138] A light source of S polarization or P polarization emitted from the display plane of the image forming unit (PGU) (1100) can be switched as needed. Meanwhile, a polarizing plate (1103) implemented as a half wave plate (HWP) can be formed in the internal space of the dashboard inside the image forming unit (PGU) (1100).

[0139] A first mirror (1310) may be disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001a) and a second cover (1020). The first mirror (1310) may be configured to reflect a first optical signal and a second optical signal on one side of the dashboard (1001a). A second mirror (1320) may be disposed on the first cover (1010). The second mirror (1320) may be configured to pass a first optical signal reflected from the first mirror (1310) and a second optical signal reflected from the first mirror (1310) on one side of the dashboard (1001a).

[0140] A second mirror (1320) may be placed on the first cover (1010). The second mirror (1320) may be configured to pass a first optical signal that has passed through the first mirror (1310) and a second optical signal reflected from the first mirror (1310) placed on the second cover (1320). Accordingly, the second mirror (1320) may be configured to pass both the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0141] A PGU (1100) that emits optical signals may be configured as a display plane. The vehicle imaging device (1000) may further include a vertical structure (1101a) arranged vertically on the display plane of the PGU (1100). The vertical structure (1101a) may be formed at a first height on the display plane to prevent interference between a first optical signal of a first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) and a second optical signal of a second region (1100b) of the PGU (1100). The vertical structure (1101a) may be arranged to minimize noise between image paths emitted from a display plane such as an LCD. The vertical structure (1101a) may be arranged at a center point of one axis on the display plane of the PGU (1100), but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0142] The vehicle imaging device (1000) may further include a polarizing plate (1103a) spaced apart and arranged in parallel on the display plane of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103a) may be configured to convert the polarization of the first optical signal by a second height spaced apart from the display plane in the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103a) may convert the first optical signal of the second polarization into the first optical signal of the first polarization. The polarizing plate (1103a) may be implemented as a Half Wave Plate (HWP) that converts the first optical signal of S polarization into the first optical signal of P polarization, but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0143] The first mirror (1310) may be disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001a) and on the second cover (1020), which is an internal area. The first mirror (1310) may include a vertical portion disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001a) and a horizontal portion disposed on the second cover (1020), which is an internal area. The first mirror (1310) may include a first portion (1310a), which is a vertical portion, and a second portion (1310b), which is a horizontal portion.

[0144] The first mirror (1310) may be configured to include a first portion (131Oa) and a second portion (131Ob). The first portion (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) may be disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001a). The first portion (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001a) may be formed concavely. The first portion (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) may form a concave mirror with a concave surface. The second portion (131Ob) of the first mirror (1310) may be connected to the first portion (131Oa).

[0145] The shape of the first part (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) is not limited to a concave mirror having a concave surface. The shape of the first part (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) may be implemented as a convex mirror having a convex surface, a spherical mirror having a spherical surface, an aspherical mirror having an aspherical surface, a freeform mirror having an arbitrary shape of the surface, or a flat mirror having a flat surface, depending on the application. The shapes of the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320) may also include any one of a plane, a plane, a spherical surface, an aspherical surface, a cylindrical form, or a freeform form.

[0146] The second part (131Ob) of the first mirror (1310) may be disposed on the second cover (1020). The second part (131Ob) may be configured to pass a first optical signal reflected from the first part (131Oa). The second part (131Ob) may be configured to pass a second optical signal reflected from the first part (131Oa). The second part (131Ob) may be configured to reflect a second optical signal reflected from the second mirror (1320). The second optical signal reflected from the second part (131Ob) may have its polarization converted and pass through the second mirror (1320).

[0147] The vehicle imaging device (1000a) of FIG. 7 may have a somewhat increased length, but a reduced height and a simplified structure since the number of mirrors can be implemented as two. Meanwhile, FIG. 8 illustrates the structure of a vehicle imaging device having first to fourth mirrors. The vehicle imaging device (1000a) of FIG. 7 can have a reduced overall height because it does not have the reflection structures of the third and fourth mirrors. Meanwhile, the vehicle imaging device (1000) of FIG. 8 can have a reduced overall length due to the reflection structures of the third and fourth mirrors (1330, 1340).

[0148] Fig. 9 shows regions in which a first optical signal of P polarization and a second optical signal of S polarization are reflected by a mirror and propagate in the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 8. Fig. 10 shows the polarization states of signals incident on, passing through, and reflected from each structure of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 8.

[0149] A vehicle imaging device according to the present specification will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 10. The vehicle imaging device (1000) may be configured to include a first cover (1010), a second cover (1020), a picture forming unit (PGU) (1100), and a plurality of mirrors (1310, 1320, 1330, 1340).

[0150] The first cover (1010) may be formed on the front surface of a dashboard (1001) of a vehicle. The second cover (1020) may be positioned in an area inside the front surface of the dashboard (1001). The second cover (1020) may be positioned in an area inside the first cover (1010) positioned on the front surface of the dashboard (1001) and spaced apart from the first cover (1010).

[0151] The first cover (1010) may be arranged at a first angle with respect to the horizontal plane. The second cover (1020) may be arranged at a second angle with respect to the horizontal plane. The first angle of the first cover (1010) and the second angle of the second cover (1020) may be formed at an angle greater than or equal to 0 degrees. In this regard, the distance between the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020) may be formed to be reduced in an area adjacent to the user (driver) side. The first angle of the first cover (1010) and the second angle of the second cover (1020) may be formed at an angle greater than or equal to 0 degrees so that the distance between the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020) is reduced in an area adjacent to the user side.

[0152] The first angle of the first cover (1010) and the second angle of the second cover (1020) may be formed at angles less than a predetermined angle to suit the dashboard specifications of the vehicle. The first angle of the first cover (1010) and the second angle of the second cover (1020) may be substantially the same, or the second angle of the second cover (1020) may be formed at an angle greater than the critical angle.

[0153] The first cover (1010) forms the upper surface of the dashboard and prevents impurities such as dust from entering the interior of the dashboard, and thus may be referred to as an upper dust cover. The second cover (1020) forms the lower surface of the dashboard and prevents impurities such as dust from entering the interior of the dashboard, and thus may be referred to as a lower dust cover.

[0154] The first cover (1010) may be implemented as a three-layer structure including a second mirror (1320) implemented as a half mirror, a polarizing plate (1321) implemented as a quarter wave plate (QWP), and a polarizing film (132). The second cover (1020) may be implemented as a two-layer structure including a first mirror (1310) (the second part (1310b) of the first mirror) implemented as a half mirror, and a polarizing plate (1311) implemented as a QWP.

[0155] A polarizing plate (1311) implemented as a QWP of a second cover (1020) may be placed on a layer close to an image reflected by a first portion (1310a) of a first mirror (1310), which is a concave mirror. A polarizing plate (1321) implemented as a QWP of the first cover (1010) may be placed on a layer in close contact with the second cover (1020). A second mirror (1320), which is a half mirror, may be placed between a polarizing film (1322) that transmits S polarization and the polarizing plate (1321) implemented as a QWP.

[0156] The image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be placed inside the dashboard (1001). The image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may form an optical signal to one side. The image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be placed so that the optical signal formed to one side is reflected by the third and fourth mirrors (1330, 1340).

[0157] An image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be positioned within a dashboard (1001). The image forming unit (1100) may be positioned to form an optical signal on one side. The image forming unit (1100) includes various projection devices and a display that displays pixels on a screen. The image forming unit (1100) may be implemented as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a DLP, an LCoS, or a micro light emitting diode.

[0158] An image forming unit (PGU) (1100) may be configured to include a first region (1100a) and a second region (1100b). The first region (1100a) and the second region (1100b) of the image forming unit (1100) may be formed integrally or separately. In a structure in which the image forming unit (1100) is formed separately, the first region (1100a) and the second region (1100b) may correspond to the first PGU and the second PGU, respectively.

[0159] A light source of S polarization or P polarization emitted from the display plane of the image forming unit (PGU) (1100) can be switched as needed. Meanwhile, a polarizing plate (1103) implemented as a half wave plate (HWP) can be formed in the internal space of the dashboard inside the image forming unit (PGU) (1100).

[0160] The third mirror (1330) may be configured with a first length (L1) to reflect a first optical signal of a first polarization emitted from a first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100). The fourth mirror (1340) may be configured with a second length (L2) to reflect a second optical signal of a second polarization emitted from a second region (1100b) of the PGU (1100). The third mirror (1330) may be configured to reflect a first optical signal of P polarization, and the fourth mirror (1340) may be configured to reflect a second optical signal of S polarization, but is not limited thereto. The third mirror (1330) and the fourth mirror (1340) may be configured to reflect first and second optical signals having different orthogonal polarization components, respectively.

[0161] The third mirror (1330) may be configured with a first length (L1) in the first tilt axis direction. The fourth mirror (1340) may be arranged to overlap the third mirror (1330). The fourth mirror (1340) may be configured with a second length (L2) in the second tilt axis direction. The first length (L1) of the third mirror (1330) may be formed shorter than the second length (L2) of the fourth mirror (1340). The third mirror (1330) may be arranged in an upper region on the Z-axis, which is a vertical axis, than the fourth mirror (1340).

[0162] The second tilt axis of the fourth mirror (1340) may be formed at a greater angle than the first tilt axis of the third mirror (1330). The angle difference between the first tilt axis of the third mirror (1330) and the second tilt axis of the fourth mirror (1340) may be formed to be less than a predetermined angle. The first tilt angle of the third mirror (1330) and the second tilt angle of the fourth mirror (1340) may be formed in a range between 0 degrees and 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0163] The third mirror (1330) and the fourth mirror (1340) may be implemented as folding mirrors. The third mirror (1330) and the fourth mirror (1340) may be implemented to enable selective transmission and reflection depending on the polarization component. The third mirror (1330) and the fourth mirror (1340) may be implemented as an RPM (Reflective Polarizing Mirror) or a WGP (Wire Grid Polarizer), which are examples of selective transmission and reflection types, instead of a half mirror, but are not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application. The third mirror (1330) and the fourth mirror (1340) may be implemented as two folding mirrors or as one folding mirror depending on the application. When implemented as one folding mirror, the first region of the fourth mirror (1340) may be implemented to reflect a signal of the first polarization (P polarization). When implemented with one folding mirror, the second area of ​​the fourth mirror (1340) can be implemented to reflect a signal of the second polarization (S polarization).

[0164] The first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320) may be configured to selectively reflect and transmit the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320) may be implemented as half mirrors to selectively reflect and transmit the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0165] A first mirror (1310) may be disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001) and a second cover (1020). The first mirror (1310) may be configured to reflect a first optical signal and a second optical signal on one side of the dashboard (1001). A second mirror (1320) may be disposed on the first cover (1010). The second mirror (1320) may be configured to pass a first optical signal reflected from the first mirror (1310) and a second optical signal reflected from the first mirror (1310) on one side of the dashboard (1001).

[0166] A first optical signal of a first polarization of a first region (1100a) of a PGU (1100) can pass through a fourth mirror (1340), be reflected by a third mirror (1330), and pass through a fourth mirror (1340). A first optical signal of a first polarization of a first region (1100a) of a PGU (1100) can pass through a fourth mirror (1340) and be reflected by a first mirror (1310). A second optical signal of a second polarization of a second region (1100b) of a PGU (1100) can be reflected by a fourth mirror (1340). A second optical signal of a second polarization of a second region (1100b) of a PGU (1100) can be reflected by a first mirror (1310) after being reflected by a fourth mirror (1340).

[0167] A second mirror (1320) may be disposed on the first cover (1010). The second mirror (1320) may be configured to pass a first optical signal reflected from the first mirror (1310) and a second optical signal reflected from the first mirror (1310) on one side of the dashboard (1001). Accordingly, the second mirror (1320) may be configured to pass both the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0168] A PGU (1100) that emits optical signals may be configured as a display plane. The vehicle imaging device (1000) may further include a vertical structure (1101) arranged vertically on the display plane of the PGU (1100). The vertical structure (1101) may be formed at a first height on the display plane to prevent interference between a first optical signal of a first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) and a second optical signal of a second region (1100b) of the PGU (1100). The vertical structure (1101) may be arranged to minimize noise between image paths emitted from a display plane such as an LCD. The vertical structure (1101) may be arranged at a center point of one axis on the display plane of the PGU (1100), but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0169] The vehicle imaging device (1000) may further include a polarizing plate (1103) spaced apart and arranged in parallel on the display plane of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103) may be configured to convert the polarization of the first optical signal by a second height spaced apart from the display plane in the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103) may be configured to delay the first optical signal of the second polarization by λ / 2. Here, λ represents a wavelength. For example, the polarizing plate (1103) may convert the first optical signal of the second polarization into the first optical signal of the first polarization. The polarizing plate (1103) may be implemented as a Half Wave Plate (HWP) that converts the first optical signal of S polarization (or P polarization) into the first optical signal of P polarization (or S polarization). However, the polarizing plate (1103) is not limited to this configuration and can be changed depending on the application.

[0170] The first mirror (1310) may be disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001) and on the second cover (1020), which is an internal area. The first mirror (1310) may include a vertical portion disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001) and a horizontal portion disposed on the second cover (1020), which is an internal area. The first mirror (1310) may include a first portion (1310a), which is a vertical portion, and a second portion (1310b), which is a horizontal portion.

[0171] The first mirror (1310) may be configured to include a first portion (131Oa) and a second portion (131Ob). The first portion (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) may be disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001). The first portion (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) disposed on one side of the dashboard (1001) may be formed concavely. The first portion (131Oa) of the first mirror (1310) may form a concave mirror having a concave surface. The second portion (131Ob) of the first mirror (1310) may be connected to the first portion (131Oa).

[0172] A first portion (131Oa) of a first mirror (1310) may be disposed on one side of a dashboard (1001). A second portion (131Ob) of the first mirror (1310) may be connected to the first portion (131Oa). The second portion (131Ob) of the first mirror (1310) may be disposed on a second cover (1020). The second portion (131Ob) may be configured to pass a first optical signal reflected from the first portion (131Oa). The second portion (131Ob) may be configured to pass a second optical signal reflected from the first portion (131Oa). The second portion (131Ob) may be configured to reflect a second optical signal reflected from the second mirror (1320). The second optical signal reflected from the second portion (131Ob) can pass through the second mirror (1320) with its polarization converted.

[0173] Meanwhile, the first and second optical signals passing through different points of the second mirror (1320) may be displayed as images in different areas of the windshield (251). The first optical signal passing through the first point (P1) of the second mirror (1320) may be displayed as a first AR image (AR1) in the first area of ​​the windshield (251) of the vehicle. The second optical signal passing through the second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) after being initially reflected from the second part of the first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320) may be displayed as a second AR image (AR2) in the second area of ​​the windshield (251) of the vehicle. The second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) may be arranged inside the vehicle closer to the user inside the vehicle than the first point (P1). The first and second regions of the wind shield (251) may correspond to the lower and upper portions of the wind shield (251).

[0174] The second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned on the inside of the vehicle closest to the user inside the vehicle. The second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned farthest from the user inside the vehicle. The first region, the second region, and the third region of the windshield (251) may correspond to the lower part, the center, and the upper part of the windshield (251). Accordingly, the first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) may correspond to the lower AR image, the center AR image, and the upper AR image, respectively. The second AR image (AR2), which is the upper AR image, has a structural characteristic that it is formed by being reflected two or more times from the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020).

[0175] The first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) are synthesized to form a forward target FOV (Field of View). The first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) can be configured to display different indicators in different areas of the windshield (251).

[0176] The areas where the first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) are displayed can be implemented so that some areas overlap, as shown in FIG. 9. The first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) can be configured to display overlapping images in a specific area of ​​the windshield (251). The first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) can pass through a second mirror (1320) adjacent to the windshield (251). The area of ​​the overlapping portion of the first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) can be implemented to be 100% or less of the area of ​​the portion where the first AR image (AR1) or the second AR image (AR2) is displayed.

[0177] Meanwhile, the first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320) placed on the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020) of the dashboard (1001) are formed in a laminated structure and can be implemented as a selective reflection and transmission structure depending on the polarization component.

[0178] The first cover (1010) may be configured to include a second mirror (1320), a polarizing plate (1321), and a polarizing film (1322). The polarizing plate (1321) may be disposed on a first surface of the second mirror (1320). The polarizing film (1322) may be disposed on a second surface of the second mirror (1320). The first surface and the second surface of the second mirror (1320) may correspond to a rear surface and a front surface of the second mirror (1320), respectively, but are not limited thereto. Depending on the polarization states and / or applications of the first and second optical signals, the first surface and the second surface of the second mirror (1320) may also correspond to the front and rear surfaces of the second mirror (1320).

[0179] The second cover (1020) may be configured to include a first mirror (1310) (a second portion (1310b) of the first mirror) and a polarizing plate (1311). The first mirror (1310) (a second portion (1310b) of the first mirror) may be configured as a half mirror configured to selectively transmit and reflect optical signals. The polarizing plate (1311) may be disposed on a rear surface of the first mirror (1310). The polarizing plate (1311) may be configured to convert polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0180] The polarizing plate (1311) can be implemented as a Quarter Wave Plate (QWP) that converts an optical signal of P polarization (or S polarization) into an optical signal of first circular polarization (or second circular polarization), but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application. The polarizing plate (1331) converts a first optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) into a first optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-handed circular polarization). The polarizing plate (1331) converts a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) into a second optical signal of a second circular polarization (right-handed circular polarization). The polarizing plate (1341) converts a second optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) reflected from a second mirror (1320) into a second optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-handed circular polarization).

[0181] A polarizing plate (1321) may be disposed on the first surface of the second mirror (1320). The polarizing plate (1321) may be configured to convert the polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The polarizing plate (1321) may be implemented as a Quarter Wave Plate (QWP) that converts an optical signal of left-circular polarization (or right-circular polarization) into an optical signal of S-polarization (or P-polarization), but is not limited thereto and may be changed according to the application. The polarizing plate (1321) converts a first optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-circular polarization) into a first optical signal of a second polarization (S-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts a second optical signal of a second circular polarization (right-circular polarization) into a second optical signal of the first polarization (P-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts the second optical signal of the first circular polarization (left-hand circular polarization) reflected from the first mirror (1310) into the second optical signal of the second polarization (S-polarization).

[0182] A polarizing film (1322) may be disposed on the second surface of the second mirror (1320). The polarizing film (1322) may be formed to pass the second polarization (S polarization) component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The polarizing film (1322) may be configured as an S polarization film that blocks (reflects) the first polarization (P polarization) component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal and passes the second polarization (S polarization) component.

[0183] The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to pass a first optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1321). The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to block (reflect) a second optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1341). The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to pass a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1321).

[0184] Meanwhile, in the vehicle imaging device according to the present specification, the first and second mirrors disposed on the first cover and the second cover are formed in a laminated structure so as to selectively reflect or transmit optical signals of P polarization and S polarization. FIGS. 11 to 13 illustrate vehicle imaging devices having different laminated structures in the first and second mirrors according to embodiments.

[0185] Fig. 11 illustrates a vehicle imaging device having a laminated structure of the first and second covers of Fig. 10. Referring to Figs. 10 and 11, the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020) of the dashboard are formed in a laminated structure and can be implemented as a selective reflection and transmission structure depending on the polarization component.

[0186] The first cover (1010) may be configured to include a second mirror (1320), a polarizing plate (1321), and a polarizing film (1322). The polarizing plate (1321) may be placed on the back surface of the second mirror (1320). The polarizing film (1322) may be placed on the front surface of the second mirror (1320).

[0187] The second cover (1020) may be configured to include a first mirror (1310) (a second portion (1310b) of the first mirror) and a polarizing plate (1311). The first mirror (1310) (a second portion (1310b) of the first mirror) may be configured as a half mirror configured to selectively transmit and reflect optical signals. The polarizing plate (1311) may be disposed on the rear surface of the first mirror (1310). The polarizing plate (1311) may be configured to convert polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0188] The polarizing plate (1311) can be implemented as a quarter wave plate (QWP) that converts an optical signal of P polarization (or S polarization) into an optical signal of first circular polarization (or second circular polarization). The polarizing plate (1331) converts a first optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) into a first optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-handed circular polarization). The polarizing plate (1331) converts a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) into a second optical signal of a second circular polarization (right-handed circular polarization). The polarizing plate (1341) converts a second optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) reflected from a second mirror (1320) into a second optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-handed circular polarization).

[0189] A polarizing plate (1321) may be laminated on the back surface of the second mirror (1320). The polarizing plate (1321) may be configured to convert the polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The polarizing plate (1321) may be implemented as a quarter wave plate (QWP) that converts an optical signal of left-circular polarization (or right-circular polarization) into an optical signal of S-polarization (or P-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts a first optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-circular polarization) into a first optical signal of a second polarization (S-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts a second optical signal of a second circular polarization (right-circular polarization) into a second optical signal of a first polarization (P-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts the second optical signal of the first circular polarization (left-hand circular polarization) reflected from the first mirror (1310) into the second optical signal of the second polarization (S-polarization).

[0190] A polarizing film (1322) may be laminated on the front surface of the second mirror (1320). The polarizing film (1322) may be formed to pass the second polarization (S polarization) component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The polarizing film (1322) may be configured as an S polarization film that blocks (reflects) the first polarization (P polarization) component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal and passes the second polarization (S polarization) component.

[0191] The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to pass a first optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1321). The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to block (reflect) a second optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1341). The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to pass a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1321).

[0192] Fig. 12 illustrates a vehicle imaging device having a laminated structure of a first cover including a polarizing plate (1321), a transparent portion (1323), and a second mirror (1320b). Referring to Fig. 12, the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020) of the dashboard are formed in a laminated structure, and can be implemented as a selective reflection and transmission structure depending on the polarization component. The laminated structure of the second cover (1020) of Fig. 12 is the same as the laminated structure of the second cover (1020) of Figs. 10 and 11, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0193] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 12, the first cover (1010) may be configured to include a polarizing plate (1321), a transparent portion (1323), and a second mirror (1320b). The polarizing plate (1321) may be placed on the back surface of the transparent portion (1323). The second mirror (1320b) may be placed on the front surface of the transparent portion (1323).

[0194] A polarizing plate (1321) may be laminated on the back surface of the transparent portion (1323). The polarizing plate (1321) may be configured to convert the polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The polarizing plate (1321) may be implemented as a quarter wave plate (QWP) that converts an optical signal of left-circular polarization (or right-circular polarization) into an optical signal of S-polarization (or P-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts a first optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-circular polarization) into a first optical signal of a second polarization (S-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts a second optical signal of a second circular polarization (right-circular polarization) into a second optical signal of the first polarization (P-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts the second optical signal of the first circular polarization (left-hand circular polarization) reflected from the first mirror (1310) into the second optical signal of the second polarization (S-polarization).

[0195] The transparent portion (1323) may be implemented as glass or a sheet of a transparent material. The transparent portion (1323) may be configured to allow the first optical signal and the second optical signal converted by the polarizing plate (1321) to pass through.

[0196] The second mirror (1320b) may be laminated on the front surface of the transparent portion (1323). The polarizing plate (1321b) may be configured to convert the polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The second mirror (1320b) may be implemented as an RPM (Reflective Polarizing Mirror) or WGP (Wire Grid Polarizer), which are examples of a selective transmission reflection type instead of a half mirror, but is not limited thereto and may be changed according to the application. The second mirror (1320b) may be implemented to pass an optical signal of a specific polarization and reflect an optical signal of an orthogonal polarization orthogonal to the specific polarization. The second mirror (1320b) may be implemented to pass an optical signal of S polarization and reflect an optical signal of P polarization.

[0197] Fig. 13 illustrates a vehicle imaging device having a laminated structure of a first cover including a polarizing plate (1321), a transparent portion (1323), a second mirror (1320b), and a polarizing film (1322). Referring to Fig. 13, the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020) of the dashboard are formed in a laminated structure so that they can be implemented as a selective reflection and transmission structure depending on the polarization component. The laminated structure of the second cover (1020) of Fig. 13 is the same as the laminated structure of the second cover (1020) of Figs. 10 and 11, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0198] The first cover (1010) may be configured to include a polarizing plate (1321), a transparent portion (1323), a second mirror (1320b), and a polarizing film (1322). The polarizing plate (1321) may be placed on the back surface of the transparent portion (1323). The second mirror (1320b) may be placed on the front surface of the transparent portion (1323).

[0199] A polarizing plate (1321) may be laminated on the back surface of the transparent portion (1323). The polarizing plate (1321) may be configured to convert the polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The polarizing plate (1321) may be implemented as a quarter wave plate (QWP) that converts an optical signal of left-circular polarization (or right-circular polarization) into an optical signal of S-polarization (or P-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts a first optical signal of a first circular polarization (left-circular polarization) into a first optical signal of a second polarization (S-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts a second optical signal of a second circular polarization (right-circular polarization) into a second optical signal of the first polarization (P-polarization). The polarizing plate (1321) converts the second optical signal of the first circular polarization (left-hand circular polarization) reflected from the first mirror (1310) into the second optical signal of the second polarization (S-polarization).

[0200] The transparent portion (1320b) may be implemented as glass or a sheet of a transparent material. The transparent portion (1320b) may be configured to allow the first optical signal and the second optical signal converted by the polarizing plate (1321) to pass through.

[0201] The second mirror (1320b) may be laminated on the front surface of the transparent portion (1323). The polarizing plate (1321b) may be configured to convert the polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The second mirror (1320b) may be implemented as an RPM (Reflective Polarizing Mirror) or WGP (Wire Grid Polarizer), which are examples of a selective transmission reflection type instead of a half mirror, but is not limited thereto and may be changed according to the application. The second mirror (1320b) may be implemented to pass an optical signal of a specific polarization and reflect an optical signal of an orthogonal polarization orthogonal to the specific polarization. The second mirror (1320b) may be implemented to pass an optical signal of S polarization and reflect an optical signal of P polarization.

[0202] A polarizing film (1322) may be laminated on the front surface of the second mirror (1320b). The polarizing film (1322) may be formed to pass the second polarization (S polarization) component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal. The polarizing film (1322) may be configured as an S polarization film that blocks (reflects) the first polarization (P polarization) component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal and passes the second polarization (S polarization) component.

[0203] The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to pass a first optical signal of the second polarization (S polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1321) and passed through the transparent portion (1320b) and the second mirror (1320b). The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to block (reflect) a second optical signal of the first polarization (P polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1341). The polarizing film (1322) may be configured to pass a second optical signal of the second polarization (S polarization) converted through the polarizing plate (1321).

[0204] Meanwhile, the vehicle imaging device according to the present specification can be formed into a three-layer structure to display three AR images. In this regard, Fig. 14 illustrates the structure of a vehicle imaging device capable of displaying three AR images. Fig. 15 illustrates the polarization states of signals incident, passing through, and reflected by each structure of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 14.

[0205] Fig. 16 shows the paths of P-polarized, S-polarized, and S-polarized optical signals for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 7. Fig. 17 shows the paths of P-polarized, S-polarized, and S-polarized optical signals for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 8 and Fig. 14. Fig. 18 shows the paths of P-polarized, P-polarized, and S-polarized optical signals for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 7. Fig. 19 shows the paths of P-polarized, P-polarized, and S-polarized optical signals for each region of the PGU of the vehicle imaging device of Fig. 8 and Fig. 14.

[0206] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 7, 10, 15, and 16, the first cover (1010) may be configured to include a second mirror (1320), a polarizing plate (1321), and a polarizing film (1322). The polarizing plate (1321) may be arranged on a first surface of the second mirror (1320) and configured to convert a first optical signal and a second optical signal. The polarizing film (1322) may be arranged on a second surface of the second mirror (1320) and formed to pass a second polarization component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0207] The second cover (1020) may be configured to include a first mirror (1310) (a second portion (1310b) of the first mirror) and a polarizing plate (1311). The first mirror (1310) (a second portion (1310b) of the first mirror) may be configured as a half mirror configured to selectively transmit and reflect optical signals. The polarizing plate (1311) may be disposed on the rear surface of the first mirror (1310). The polarizing plate (1311) may be configured to convert polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

[0208] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 7 and 16, the PGU (1100) may be configured with a plurality of regions so that the first to third AR images (AR1, AR2, AR3) are displayed. The PGU (1100) may have PGUs arranged in each of the plurality of regions. The PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first PGU (1100a), a second PGU (1100b), and a third PGU (1100c). The first PGU (1100a) may be arranged in a first region of the PGU (1100). The first PGU (1100a) may be configured to emit a first optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) component. The second PGU (1100b) may be arranged in a second region of the PGU (1100). The second PGU (1100b) may be configured to emit a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) component. The third PGU (1100c) may be arranged in a third region adjacent to the second region of the PGU (1100). The third PGU (1100c) may be configured to emit a third optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) component.

[0209] The PGU (1100) may be configured as a display plane. The PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first vertical structure (1101a) and a second vertical structure (1102a). The first vertical structure (1101a) may be formed at a first height at a first point (P1a) on the display plane to prevent interference between a first optical signal of a first region and a second optical signal of a second region. The second vertical structure (1102a) may be formed at a second height at a second point (P2a) on the display plane to prevent interference between a second optical signal of a second region and a third optical signal of a third region. The first and second vertical structures (1101a, 1102a) may be arranged to minimize noise between image paths emitted from a display plane such as an LCD.

[0210] The first height of the first vertical structure (1101a) and the second height of the second vertical structure (1102a) may be formed to be the same height. The first point where the first vertical structure (1101a) is arranged and the second point where the second vertical structure (1102a) is arranged may be defined as points that are evenly spaced by 1 / 3 on one axis of the PGU (1100), but are not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0211] The vehicle imaging device (1000a) may further include a polarizing plate (1103a) spaced apart and arranged in parallel on the display plane of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103a) may be configured to convert the polarization of the first optical signal by a third height spaced apart from the display plane in the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103a) may convert the first optical signal of the second polarization into the first optical signal of the first polarization. The polarizing plate (1103a) may be implemented as a Half Wave Plate (HWP) that converts the first optical signal of the S polarization into the first optical signal of the P polarization, but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0212] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted from the first to third regions of the PGU (1100) can be implemented to be selectively reflected and passed through the mirrors in different ways depending on the polarization state.

[0213] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted in each area of ​​the PGU (1100) can form first to third AR images (AR1, AR2, AR3) displayed in different areas of the windshield (251). The first optical signal that passes through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the first point (P1) of the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the first AR image (AR1) in the first area of ​​the windshield (251) of the vehicle. The second optical signal that passes through the second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) after being initially reflected from the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the second AR image (AR2) in the second area of ​​the windshield (251). The third optical signal that passes through the third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) after being initially reflected from the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as a third AR image (AR3) in the third area of ​​the windshield (251).

[0214] The third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned on the inside of the vehicle closest to the user inside the vehicle. The second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned farthest from the user inside the vehicle. The first region, the second region, and the third region of the windshield (251) may correspond to the lower part, the center, and the upper part of the windshield (251). Accordingly, the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) may correspond to the lower AR image, the center AR image, and the upper AR image, respectively. The third AR image (AR3), which is the upper AR image, has a structural characteristic that it is formed by being reflected two or more times from the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020).

[0215] The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) are synthesized to form a forward target FOV (Field of View). The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) can be configured to display different indicators in different areas of the windshield (251).

[0216] The areas where the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) are displayed can be implemented so that some areas overlap. Therefore, it can be configured to display an overlapping image in a specific area of ​​the windshield (251) using two or more images among the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third image (AR3). The first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2), and the second AR image (AR2) and the third AR image (AR3) can be configured to display an overlapping image in a specific area of ​​the windshield (251). The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) can pass through the second mirror (1320) adjacent to the windshield (251). The area of ​​the overlapping portion of the first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) may be implemented to be 100% or less of the area of ​​the portion where the first AR image (AR1) or the second AR image (AR2) is displayed. The area of ​​the overlapping portion of the second AR image (AR2) and the third AR image (AR3) may be implemented to be 100% or less of the area of ​​the portion where the second AR image (AR2) or the third AR image (AR3) is displayed.

[0217] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 14, 15, and 17, the PGU (1100) may be configured with a plurality of regions so that the first to third AR images (AR1, AR2, AR3) are displayed. The PGU (1100) may have PGUs arranged in each of the plurality of regions. The PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first PGU (1100a), a second PGU (1100b), and a third PGU (1100c). The first PGU (1100a) may be arranged in a first region of the PGU (1100). The first PGU (1100a) may be configured to emit a first optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) component. The second PGU (1100b) may be arranged in a second region of the PGU (1100). The second PGU (1100b) may be configured to emit a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) component. The third PGU (1100c) may be arranged in a third region adjacent to the second region of the PGU (1100). The third PGU (1100c) may be configured to emit a third optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) component.

[0218] The PGU (1100) may be configured as a display plane. The PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first vertical structure (1101) and a second vertical structure (1102). The first vertical structure (1101) may be formed at a first height at a first point (P1b) on the display plane to prevent interference between a first optical signal of a first region and a second optical signal of a second region. The second vertical structure (1102) may be formed at a second height at a second point (P2b) on the display plane to prevent interference between a second optical signal of a second region and a third optical signal of a third region. The first and second vertical structures (1101, 1102) may be arranged to minimize noise between image paths emitted from a display plane such as an LCD.

[0219] The first height of the first vertical structure (1101) and the second height of the second vertical structure (1102) may be formed to be the same height. The first point where the first vertical structure (1101) is placed and the second point where the second vertical structure (1102) is placed may be defined as points that are evenly spaced by 1 / 3 on one axis of the PGU (1100), but are not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0220] The vehicle imaging device (1000) may further include a polarizing plate (1103) spaced apart and arranged in parallel on the display plane of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103) may be configured to convert the polarization of the first optical signal by a third height spaced apart from the display plane in the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100). The polarizing plate (1103) may be configured to delay the first optical signal of the second polarization by λ / 2. For example, the polarizing plate (1103) may convert the first optical signal of the second polarization into the first optical signal of the first polarization. The polarizing plate (1103) may be implemented as an HWP that converts the first optical signal of the S polarization (or P polarization) into the first optical signal of the P polarization (or S polarization). However, the polarizing plate (1103) is not limited to this configuration and can be changed depending on the application.

[0221] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted from the first to third regions of the PGU (1100) can be implemented to be selectively reflected and passed through the mirrors in different ways depending on the polarization state.

[0222] The first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) can pass through the fourth mirror (1340), be reflected by the third mirror (1320), and pass through the fourth mirror (1340). The first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected by the first part (1310a) of the first mirror (1310), and pass through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320).

[0223] The second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region (1100b) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected from the fourth mirror (1340) and the first part (1310a) of the first mirror (1310) and pass through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310). The second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region (1100b) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected from the second mirror (1320) and the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and pass through the second mirror (1320).

[0224] The third optical signal of the second polarization component of the third region (1100c) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected from the fourth mirror (1340) and the first part (1310a) of the first mirror (1310) and pass through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310). The third optical signal of the second polarization component of the third region (1100c) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected from the second mirror (1320) and the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and pass through the second mirror (1320).

[0225] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted in each area of ​​the PGU (1100) can form first to third AR images (AR1, AR2, AR3) displayed in different areas of the windshield (251). The first optical signal that passes through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the first point (P1) of the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the first AR image (AR1) in the first area of ​​the windshield (251) of the vehicle. The second optical signal that passes through the second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) after being initially reflected from the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the second AR image (AR2) in the second area of ​​the windshield (251). The third optical signal that passes through the third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) after being initially reflected from the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as a third AR image (AR3) in the third area of ​​the windshield (251).

[0226] The third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned on the inside of the vehicle closest to the user inside the vehicle. The second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned farthest from the user inside the vehicle. The first region, the second region, and the third region of the windshield (251) may correspond to the lower part, the center, and the upper part of the windshield (251). Accordingly, the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) may correspond to the lower AR image, the center AR image, and the upper AR image, respectively. The third AR image (AR3), which is the upper AR image, has a structural characteristic that it is formed by being reflected two or more times from the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020).

[0227] The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) are synthesized to form a forward target FOV (Field of View). The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) can be configured to display different indicators in different areas of the windshield (251).

[0228] The areas where the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) are displayed can be implemented so that some areas overlap. Therefore, it can be configured to display an overlapping image in a specific area of ​​the windshield (251) using two or more images among the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third image (AR3). The first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2), and the second AR image (AR2) and the third AR image (AR3) can be configured to display an overlapping image in a specific area of ​​the windshield (251). The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) can pass through the second mirror (1320) adjacent to the windshield (251). The area of ​​the overlapping portion of the first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) may be implemented to be 100% or less of the area of ​​the portion where the first AR image (AR1) or the second AR image (AR2) is displayed. The area of ​​the overlapping portion of the second AR image (AR2) and the third AR image (AR3) may be implemented to be 100% or less of the area of ​​the portion where the second AR image (AR2) or the third AR image (AR3) is displayed.

[0229] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 7 and 18, the PGU (1100) may be configured with a plurality of regions so that the first to third AR images (AR1, AR2, AR3) are displayed. The PGU (1100) may have PGUs arranged in each of the plurality of regions. The PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first PGU (1100a), a second PGU (1100b), and a third PGU (1100c). The first PGU (1100a) may be arranged in a first region of the PGU (1100). The first PGU (1100a) may be configured to emit a first optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) component. The second PGU (1100b) may be arranged in a second region of the PGU (1100). The second PGU (1100b) may be configured to emit a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) component. The third PGU (1100c) may be arranged in a third region between the first region and the second region of the PGU (1100). The third PGU (1100c) may be configured to emit a third optical signal of the first polarization (P polarization) component.

[0230] The PGU (1100) may be configured as a display plane. The PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first vertical structure (1101a) and a second vertical structure (1102a). The first vertical structure (1101a) may be formed at a first height at a first point (P1a) on the display plane to prevent interference between a first optical signal of a first region and a third optical signal of a third region. The second vertical structure (1102a) may be formed at a second height at a second point (P2a) on the display plane to prevent interference between a third optical signal of a third region and a second optical signal of a second region.

[0231] The first height of the first vertical structure (1101a) and the second height of the second vertical structure (1102a) may be formed to be the same height. The first point where the first vertical structure (1101) is placed and the second point where the second vertical structure (1102) is placed may be defined as points that are evenly spaced by 1 / 3 on one axis of the PGU (1100), but are not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0232] The vehicle imaging device (1000) may further include first and second polarizing plates (1103a, 1104a) spaced apart and arranged in parallel on a display plane of the PGU (1100). The first polarizing plate (1103a) may be spaced apart from the display plane by a third height in a first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) and configured to convert the polarization of a first optical signal. The first polarizing plate (1103a) may convert a first optical signal of a second polarization into a first optical signal of a first polarization. The second polarizing plate (1104a) may be spaced apart from the display plane by a fourth height in a third region (1100c) of the PGU (1100) and configured to convert the polarization of a third optical signal. The second polarizing plate (1104a) can convert a third optical signal of the second polarization into a first optical signal of the first polarization.

[0233] The third height of the first polarizing plate (1103a) and the fourth height of the second polarizing plate (1104a) may be formed to be the same height. The third height from the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) to the first polarizing plate (1103) and the fourth height from the third region (1100c) to the third polarizing plate (1103a) may be set to be the same.

[0234] The first polarizing plate (1103) may be implemented as an HWP that converts a first optical signal of S polarization (or P polarization) into a first optical signal of P polarization (or S polarization), but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application. The second polarizing plate (1104) may be implemented as an HWP that converts a third optical signal of S polarization (or P polarization) into a third optical signal of P polarization (or S polarization), but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0235] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted from the first to third regions of the PGU (1100) can be implemented to be selectively reflected and passed through the mirrors in different ways depending on the polarization state.

[0236] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted in each area of ​​the PGU (1100) can form first to third AR images (AR1, AR2, AR3) displayed in different areas of the windshield (251). The first optical signal passing through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the first point (P1) of the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the first AR image (AR1) in the first area of ​​the windshield (251) of the vehicle. The second optical signal passing through the second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the second AR image (AR2) in the second area of ​​the windshield (251). The third optical signal that passes through the third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) after being initially reflected from the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as a third AR image (AR3) in the third area of ​​the windshield (251).

[0237] The third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned on the inside of the vehicle closest to the user inside the vehicle. The second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned farthest from the user inside the vehicle. The first region, the second region, and the third region of the windshield (251) may correspond to the lower part, the center, and the upper part of the windshield (251). Accordingly, the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) may correspond to the lower AR image, the center AR image, and the upper AR image, respectively. The third AR image (AR3), which is the upper AR image, has a structural characteristic that it is formed by being reflected two or more times from the first cover (1010) and the second cover (1020).

[0238] The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) are synthesized to form a forward target FOV (Field of View). The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) can be configured to display different indicators in different areas of the windshield (251).

[0239] The areas where the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) are displayed can be implemented so that some areas overlap. Therefore, it can be configured to display an overlapping image in a specific area of ​​the windshield (251) using two or more images among the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third image (AR3). The first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2), and the second AR image (AR2) and the third AR image (AR3) can be configured to display an overlapping image in a specific area of ​​the windshield (251). The first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) can pass through the second mirror (1320) adjacent to the windshield (251). The area of ​​the overlapping portion of the first AR image (AR1) and the second AR image (AR2) may be implemented to be 100% or less of the area of ​​the portion where the first AR image (AR1) or the second AR image (AR2) is displayed. The area of ​​the overlapping portion of the second AR image (AR2) and the third AR image (AR3) may be implemented to be 100% or less of the area of ​​the portion where the second AR image (AR2) or the third AR image (AR3) is displayed.

[0240] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 14, 15, and 19, the PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first PGU (1100a), a second PGU (1100b), and a third PGU (1100c). The first PGU (1100a) may be arranged in a first region of the PGU (1100). The first PGU (1100a) may be configured to emit a first optical signal of a first polarization (P polarization) component. The second PGU (1100b) may be arranged in a second region of the PGU (1100). The second PGU (1100b) may be configured to emit a second optical signal of a second polarization (S polarization) component. The third PGU (1100c) may be arranged in a third region between the first region and the second region of the PGU (1100). The third PGU (1100c) may be configured to emit a third optical signal of the first polarization (P polarization) component.

[0241] The PGU (1100) may be configured as a display plane. The PGU (1100) may be configured to include a first vertical structure (1101) and a second vertical structure (1102). The first vertical structure (1101) may be formed at a first height at a first point (P1b) on the display plane to prevent interference between a first optical signal of a first region and a third optical signal of a third region. The second vertical structure (1102) may be formed at a second height at a second point (P2b) on the display plane to prevent interference between a third optical signal of a third region and a second optical signal of a second region.

[0242] The first height of the first vertical structure (1101) and the second height of the second vertical structure (1102) may be formed to be the same height. The first point where the first vertical structure (1101) is placed and the second point where the second vertical structure (1102) is placed may be defined as points that are evenly spaced by 1 / 3 on one axis of the PGU (1100), but are not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0243] The vehicle imaging device (1000) may further include first and second polarizing plates (1103, 1104) spaced apart and arranged in parallel on a display plane of the PGU (1100). The first polarizing plate (1103) may be spaced apart from the display plane by a third height in a first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) and configured to convert the polarization of a first optical signal. The first polarizing plate (1103) may convert a first optical signal of a second polarization into a first optical signal of a first polarization. The second polarizing plate (1104) may be spaced apart from the display plane by a fourth height in a third region (1100c) of the PGU (1100) and configured to convert the polarization of a third optical signal. The second polarizing plate (1104) can convert a third optical signal of the second polarization into a first optical signal of the first polarization.

[0244] The third height of the first polarizing plate (1103) and the fourth height of the second polarizing plate (1104) may be formed to be the same height. The third height from the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) to the first polarizing plate (1103) and the fourth height from the third region (1100c) to the third polarizing plate (1103) may be set to be the same.

[0245] The first polarizing plate (1103) may be implemented as an HWP that converts a first optical signal of S polarization (or P polarization) into a first optical signal of P polarization (or S polarization), but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application. The second polarizing plate (1104) may be implemented as an HWP that converts a third optical signal of S polarization (or P polarization) into a third optical signal of P polarization (or S polarization), but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0246] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted from the first to third regions of the PGU (1100) can be implemented to be selectively reflected and passed through the mirrors in different ways depending on the polarization state.

[0247] The first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) can pass through the fourth mirror (1340), be reflected by the third mirror (1330), and pass through the fourth mirror (1340). The first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region (1100a) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected by the first part (1310a) of the first mirror (1310), and pass through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320).

[0248] The third optical signal of the first polarization component of the third region (1100c) of the PGU (1100) can pass through the fourth mirror (1340), be reflected by the third mirror (1330), and pass through the fourth mirror (1340). The third optical signal of the first polarization component of the third region (1100c) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected by the first part (1310a) of the first mirror (1310), and pass through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the second mirror (1320).

[0249] The second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region (1100b) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected from the third mirror (1330) and the first part (1310a) of the first mirror (1310) and pass through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310). The second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region (1100b) of the PGU (1100) can be reflected from the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and pass through the second mirror (1320).

[0250] Meanwhile, the first to third optical signals emitted in each area of ​​the PGU (1100) can form first to third AR images (AR3) displayed in different areas of the windshield (251). The first optical signal passing through the first point (P1) of the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the first AR image (AR1) in the first area of ​​the windshield (251) of the vehicle. The second optical signal passing through the second part (1310b) of the first mirror (1310) and the second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the second AR image (AR2) in the second area of ​​the windshield (251). The third optical signal passing through the third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) can be displayed as the third AR image (AR3) in the third area of ​​the windshield (251).

[0251] The third point (P3) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned on the inside of the vehicle closest to the user inside the vehicle. The second point (P2) of the second mirror (1320) may be positioned farthest from the user inside the vehicle. The first area, the second area, and the third area of ​​the windshield (251) may correspond to the lower, center, and upper portions of the windshield (251). Accordingly, the first AR image (AR1), the second AR image (AR2), and the third AR image (AR3) may correspond to the lower AR image, the center AR image, and the upper AR image, respectively.

[0252] The above has described a vehicle imaging device with a reduced volume according to the present specification and a vehicle equipped with the same. The technical features of the vehicle imaging device with a reduced volume according to the present specification and the vehicle equipped with the same can be summarized as follows, but are not limited thereto.

[0253] According to the present specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that guarantees a field of view (FOV) of a certain angle or more in a reduced volume according to the limited mounting space of a large-screen AR-HUD by configuring a plurality of covers to reflect or pass an optical signal.

[0254] According to the present specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that ensures a field of view (FOV) of a certain angle or more in a reduced volume according to the limited mounting space of a large-screen AR-HUD by attaching a polarizing film to at least one side of a cover.

[0255] According to the present specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that uses multiple mirrors to reflect different AR images through different areas of a windshield and provide them within a user's field of vision.

[0256] According to this specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that has different arrangement structures depending on vehicle specifications and optimizes the space occupied in terms of length or volume.

[0257] According to this specification, if there are few constraints in terms of length, the optical signals of the PGU can be directed to the windshield through mirrors arranged on one side of the dashboard and covers, thereby presenting a structure with reduced height.

[0258] According to this specification, if there is a significant limitation in terms of length, the optical signals of the PGU can be reflected through mirrors on the other side of the dashboard and directed to the windshield through mirrors arranged on the mirrors and covers on one side of the dashboard, thereby presenting a structure with a reduced length.

[0259] According to this specification, a volume reduction effect can be maximized through a multi-selective reflection / transmission optical system using multiple covers placed on the front and inside of a dashboard used to prevent foreign matter from entering.

[0260] According to this specification, a vehicle imaging device can be implemented that has a volume reduction effect of more than 40% compared to large-screen AR-HUDs existing on the market.

[0261] According to this specification, a vehicle imaging device that can be implemented as an AR-HUD having a volume of about 9 L or less within a vehicle can be provided.

[0262] The effects of this specification are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0263] The present invention described above can be implemented as computer-readable code on a medium in which a program is recorded. Computer-readable media include all types of recording devices that store data that can be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable media include hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state disks (SSDs), silicon disk drives (SDDs), ROMs, RAMs, CD-ROMs, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, and optical data storage devices. In addition, the computer may include a processor or a control unit. Accordingly, the above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but rather as illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In a vehicle video device, A first cover formed on the front surface of the vehicle's dashboard; A second cover positioned spaced apart from the first cover in an inner area of ​​the front surface; A picture generation unit (PGU) disposed inside the dashboard and forming a first optical signal and a second optical signal onto one side of the dashboard; A first mirror arranged on one side of the dashboard and the second cover, and configured to reflect the first optical signal and the second optical signal on the one side; and A vehicle imaging device comprising a second mirror configured to pass the first optical signal passing through the first mirror arranged on the second cover and the second optical signal reflected from the first mirror arranged on the second cover.

2. In paragraph 1, A third mirror having a first length configured to reflect a first optical signal of a first polarization emitted from a first region of the PGU; A vehicle imaging device further comprising a fourth mirror having a second length different from the first length and overlapping the third mirror to reflect a second optical signal of a second polarization component emitted from a second region of the PGU.

3. In paragraph 2, The first length of the third mirror is formed to be shorter than the second length of the fourth mirror, A vehicle imaging device, wherein the third mirror is positioned in a higher region on the vertical axis than the fourth mirror.

4. In paragraph 3, The first optical signal of the first polarization in the first region is reflected from the third mirror, passes through the fourth mirror, and is reflected from the first mirror, A vehicle imaging device, wherein the second optical signal of the second polarization in the second region is reflected from the fourth mirror and then from the first mirror.

5. In paragraph 2, The above PGU is composed of a display plane, A vehicle imaging device further comprising a vertical structure formed at a first height on the display plane to prevent interference between the first optical signal of the first region and the second optical signal of the second region.

6. In paragraph 5, In the first region, the polarizing plate is further configured to delay the first optical signal of the second polarization by λ / 2, and is spaced apart from the display plane by a second height. A vehicle imaging device, wherein the polarizing plate converts a first optical signal of the second polarization into a first optical signal of the first polarization.

7. In paragraph 1, The above first mirror, A first part arranged on the above side; and A second part connected to the first part and disposed on the second cover, A vehicle imaging device, wherein the second part passes a first optical signal reflected from the first part, passes a second optical signal reflected from the first part, and reflects a second optical signal reflected from the second mirror.

8. In paragraph 7, The first light signal passing through the first point of the second mirror is displayed as a first AR image on the first area of ​​the windshield of the vehicle, The second optical signal that passes through the second point of the second mirror after being initially reflected from the second portion of the first mirror and the second mirror is displayed as a second AR image in the second area of ​​the windshield of the vehicle, The second point of the second mirror is positioned closer to the user in the vehicle than the first point, A vehicle imaging device, wherein the first region and the second region of the windshield correspond to the lower and upper portions of the windshield.

9. In paragraph 1, The above second cover, the first mirror; and A vehicle imaging device comprising a polarizing plate arranged on a rear surface of the first mirror and configured to convert polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

10. In paragraph 9, The above first cover, The second mirror above; A polarizing plate arranged on the first surface of the second mirror and configured to convert the polarizations of the first optical signal and the second optical signal; and A vehicle imaging device comprising a polarizing film disposed on the second surface of the second mirror and formed to pass the second polarization component of the first optical signal and the second optical signal.

11. In paragraph 1, The above PGU is, A first PGU arranged in a first region of the PGU and configured to emit a first optical signal of the first polarization component; A second PGU arranged in a second region of the PGU and configured to emit a second optical signal of the second polarization component; and A vehicle imaging device comprising a third PGU arranged in a third region adjacent to the second region of the PGU and configured to emit a third optical signal of the second polarization component. (Third optical signal of S polarization) 12. In paragraph 1, The above PGU is, A first PGU arranged in a first region of the PGU and configured to emit a first optical signal of the first polarization component; A second PGU arranged in a second region of the PGU and configured to emit a second optical signal of the second polarization component; and A vehicle imaging device, comprising a third PGU arranged in a third region between the first region and the second region of the PGU and configured to emit a third optical signal of the first polarization component.

13. In paragraph 11, The above PGU is composed of a display plane, A first vertical structure formed at a first height at a first point on the display plane to prevent interference between the first optical signal of the first region and the second optical signal of the second region; and A vehicle imaging device further comprising a second vertical structure formed at a second height at a second point on the display plane to prevent interference between the second optical signal of the second region and the third optical signal of the third region.

14. In paragraph 13, In the first region, the polarizing plate is further configured to delay the first optical signal by λ / 2 and is spaced apart from the display plane by a third height. A vehicle imaging device, wherein the polarizing plate converts a first optical signal of the second polarization into a first optical signal of the first polarization.

15. In paragraph 10, The first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region passes through the fourth mirror, is reflected from the third mirror, passes through the fourth mirror, is reflected from the first part of the first mirror, and passes through the second part of the first mirror and the second mirror. The second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region is reflected from the first part of the fourth mirror and the first mirror, passes through the second part of the first mirror, is reflected from the second mirror and the second part of the first mirror, and passes through the second mirror. A vehicle imaging device, wherein the third optical signal of the second polarization component of the third region is reflected from the fourth mirror and the first part of the first mirror, passes through the second part of the first mirror, is reflected from the second mirror and the second part of the first mirror, and passes through the second mirror.

16. In paragraph 15, The first optical signal passing through the second portion of the first mirror and the first point of the second mirror is displayed as a first AR image on the first area of ​​the windshield of the vehicle, A second optical signal that passes through a second point of the second mirror after being initially reflected from the second mirror is displayed as a second AR image in a second area of ​​the windshield, A third optical signal that passes through a third point of the second mirror after being initially reflected from the second mirror is displayed as a third AR image in a third area of ​​the windshield. The third point of the second mirror is positioned closest to the user in the vehicle, A vehicle imaging device, wherein the first region, the second region, and the third region of the windshield correspond to the lower, center, and upper portions of the windshield.

17. In paragraph 10, The above PGU is composed of a display plane, A first vertical structure formed at a first height at a first point on the display plane to prevent interference between the first optical signal of the first region and the third optical signal of the third region; and A vehicle imaging device comprising a second vertical structure formed at a second height at a second point on the display plane to prevent interference between the third optical signal of the third region and the second optical signal of the second region.

18. In paragraph 17, A first polarizing plate configured to delay the polarization of the first optical signal by λ / 2, spaced apart from the display plane by a third height in the first region; and In the third region, a second polarizing plate is further included, spaced apart from the display plane by a fourth height, and configured to delay the polarization of the third optical signal by λ / 2. The first polarizing plate converts the first optical signal of the second polarization into the first optical signal of the first polarization, A vehicle imaging device, wherein the second polarizing plate converts a third optical signal of the second polarization into a third optical signal of the first polarization.

19. In paragraph 12, The first optical signal of the first polarization component of the first region passes through the fourth mirror, is reflected from the third mirror, passes through the fourth mirror, is reflected from the first part of the first mirror, and passes through the second part of the first mirror and the second mirror. The third optical signal of the first polarization component of the third region passes through the fourth mirror, is reflected from the third mirror, passes through the fourth mirror, is reflected from the first part of the first mirror, and passes through the second part of the first mirror and the second mirror. A vehicle imaging device, wherein the second optical signal of the second polarization component of the second region is reflected from the first part of the third mirror and the first mirror, passes through the second part of the first mirror, is reflected from the second mirror and the second part of the first mirror, and passes through the second mirror.

20. In paragraph 19, The first light signal passing through the first point of the second mirror is displayed as a first AR image on the first area of ​​the windshield of the vehicle, A third optical signal passing through the second portion of the first mirror and the second point of the second mirror is displayed as a second AR image in the second area of ​​the windshield, The second optical signal passing through the third point of the second mirror is displayed as a third AR image in the third area of ​​the windshield, The third point of the second mirror is positioned closest to the user in the vehicle, A vehicle imaging device, wherein the first region, the second region, and the third region of the windshield correspond to the lower, center, and upper portions of the windshield.

Images