Head-Up Display Drive Mechanism Dead Space Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing head-up display apparatuses face challenges in downsizing due to limited space within vehicle instrument panels, which are occupied by structure members like reinforcing members and meters, making it difficult to secure a large storage space for the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
The head-up display apparatus is designed with a drive mechanism positioned in a dead space near the display, allowing the reflecting member to swing and adjust the display light's angle, while the drive mechanism is stored in a recess or hole part of the case's side wall, reducing the overall size and eliminating the need for additional storage cases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the drive mechanism is arranged on the side part of the reflecting member, then the reflecting member can be swung to adjust the reflection angle, but the apparatus size increases making it difficult to install in limited instrument panel space
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism is repositioned from the traditional side arrangement to a dead space location nearer to the display, utilizing the third dimension (depth along the optical path) rather than expanding in the lateral direction. This dimensional shift allows the mechanism to fit within the instrument panel's limited space while maintaining the swinging function of the reflecting member
Solution Approach 2:
The drive mechanism is nested within the dead space region that exists between the display and the reflecting member in the optical path. This nesting approach allows the drive mechanism to be accommodated within the existing apparatus boundaries without requiring additional external space, effectively utilizing previously wasted volume
2Volume of moving object
If the drive mechanism is positioned nearer to the display in the dead space, then the apparatus can be downsized for easy installation, but the transmission of drive force to the reflecting member becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A transmission arm serves as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between the drive mechanism (positioned in the dead space near the display) and the reflecting member. This transmission arm efficiently transmits the drive force over the distance without requiring complex direct coupling, simplifying the overall transmission structure while enabling the compact layout
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkages with a simpler transmission arm mechanism that utilizes the dead space geometry. Instead of traditional gear trains or belt systems that would occupy more space, the transmission arm provides a direct, space-efficient force transmission path from the drive mechanism to the reflecting member
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 enables effective use of space, allowing the apparatus to be downsized and easily installed in small storage spaces within vehicle instrument panels, while maintaining excellent virtual image formation without torsion issues.
Implementation Method 1
a reflecting member (13) supported swingably about a swing axis for reflecting the display light from the display toward the projection area
Data Source
AI summary
A head-up display apparatus stored in a storage space within an instrument panel of a vehicle for irradiating a display light into a projection area on an upper side of the instrument panel to form a virtual image, is provided. The apparatus includes a display for emitting the display light, a reflecting member supported swingably about a swing axis for reflecting the display light from the display toward the projection area, a drive mechanism arranged in the reflecting member for swinging the reflecting member, and a case storing the display, the reflecting member and the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism includes a drive part and a transmission part for transmitting a drive force of the drive part to the reflecting member. The drive mechanism is arranged at a position shifted from an optical path of the display light nearer the display than the reflecting member.