Vehicle Head-Up Display Optical System Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head-up display systems for vehicles face challenges in downsizing while maintaining the ability to project clear, large-screen virtual images without interference from vehicle structures, and in effectively managing external light to prevent glare for the driver.
Innovation Solution
The head-up display system is configured with a combination of first and second display elements and optical systems, including mirrors and a combiner, which project images onto the windshield, allowing for the separation of display regions and the use of vehicle-specific structures to minimize size and prevent external light interference, enabling downsizing and optimal image placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the head-up display uses a conventional compact configuration, then the device size is reduced, but the ability to project large-screen virtual images without interference from vehicle structures is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vehicle's windshield as a projection surface, transitioning from a traditional front-projection geometry to a windshield-integrated display architecture. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the optical system to leverage the existing windshield structure as both a structural component and a display medium, enabling large-screen virtual images without requiring additional projection space that would interfere with vehicle structures
Solution Approach 2:
The windshield serves dual functions: as a structural component of the vehicle and as a projection surface for the head-up display. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate projection screens or additional optical paths that would increase device size or interfere with vehicle structures, while maintaining reliable image projection quality
2Volume of moving object
If the head-up display uses a compact configuration, then the device size is reduced, but external light interference causing driver glare increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical system with mirrors and a combiner as intermediary elements between the display source and the windshield projection surface. This intermediary optical path allows precise control over light direction and timing, enabling the system to manage external light interference effectively while maintaining a compact form factor
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is configured to pre-direct and condition the display light before it reaches the windshield, using mirrors and combiners to establish optimal light paths in advance. This preliminary optical conditioning allows the compact display to project images with controlled timing and direction, reducing susceptibility to external light glare that would affect driver visibility
3Volume of moving object
If the head-up display uses a compact configuration, then the device size is reduced, but the complexity of assembly and mounting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the head-up display optical system with the vehicle's existing windshield structure, integrating the projection functionality into the vehicle's primary glass component. This merging eliminates the need for separate mounting structures, projection screens, or additional optical components that would complicate assembly, while the modular optical elements (mirrors and combiners) can be pre-assembled and installed as a unified compact unit
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 configuration allows for a compact head-up display that can project large-screen virtual images with adjustable display distances and sizes, while effectively managing external light to reduce glare and enhance assembly and mounting properties.
Implementation Method 1
a combiner having translucency and configured to reflect the image displayed by the first display element and project the image onto an observer
Implementation Method 2
a first optical system configured to reflect the image displayed by the first display element and project the image onto the combiner
Implementation Method 3
a second optical system configured to reflect the image displayed by the second display element and project the image onto the windshield
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A head-up display includes a first display device having a first display element and a combiner; a second display device including a second display element and a second optical system having a first mirror and a second mirror; and a housing having an opening. The first display element is disposed at a back of a vehicle relative to the opening, and the second mirror is disposed at a front of the vehicle relative to the opening.