Scanning AR Windshield Projection for Wide Aircraft Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aircraft image display systems, such as head-up displays, are limited in their ability to provide augmented reality images over a wide field of view and require complex optics, making them costly and restrictive in terms of viewing angles.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses processing circuitry to receive data on the location of a target external to the vehicle, determine the line-of-sight to the target based on the operator's viewing position and orientation, and control a scanning projector to display an augmented reality image on a viewable surface along this line-of-sight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If conventional head-up display systems are used, then augmented reality images can be displayed, but the field of view is limited and complex optics are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional optical HUD systems with a scanning projector system that uses electronic scanning (electromagnetic fields) to display images. The scanning projector sweeps a laser beam across the windshield in a raster pattern, eliminating the need for complex optical components like combiners and collimators, thereby expanding the field of view while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fundamental parameter of image display from static optical projection to dynamic scanning projection. By controlling the scanning speed, beam position, and intensity, the system can display augmented reality images across a much wider field of view on the windshield without requiring complex optics
2Reliability
If conventional head-up display systems are used, then augmented reality images can be displayed, but the system becomes costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a scanning projector with a laser source that is significantly less expensive than conventional HUD optical systems. The scanning approach allows the use of simpler, more cost-effective components while maintaining reliable information display through electronic control and processing circuitry
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing expensive optical components with an electronically-controlled scanning projector, the system achieves the same information display reliability at a lower cost, eliminating the need for precision optical alignment and complex optical paths
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional head-up display systems are used, then augmented reality images can be displayed, but viewing angles are restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning projector dynamically adjusts the beam position and scanning pattern based on the operator's viewing position and orientation. The processing circuitry determines the line-of-sight to the target and controls the scanner to display the AR image along this line-of-sight, allowing the system to adapt to different viewing angles without complex optics
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback from sensors that monitor the operator's head position and orientation. This feedback is processed to adjust the scanning pattern and beam direction in real-time, enabling the AR image to remain properly positioned across a wide range of viewing angles
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables the display of augmented reality images over a wider field of view without the need for complex optics, reducing costs and enhancing the pilot's ability to view critical information without the limitations of traditional HUD systems.
Implementation Method 1
control a scanning projector to display the AR image on a location of the viewable surface that is located substantially along the line-of-sight
Implementation Method 2
the scanning projector comprises one or more microelectromechanical system (MEMS) scanning mirrors configured to reflect light from the laser
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a system of displaying an augmented reality (AR) image on a viewable surface of a vehicle, the system comprising a processing circuitry configured to: receive data indicative of a location of a target external to the vehicle; determine a line-of-sight to the target in accordance with, at least, an operator viewing position and an operator viewing orientation; and control a scanning projector to display the AR image on a location of the viewable surface that is located substantially along the line-of-sight.