Head-Up Display Optical Layout for Dual-Depth Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current augmented reality head-up display devices for vehicles require multiple picture generation units, leading to increased volume, power consumption, and cost due to their dual-image projection architecture.
Innovation Solution
A head-up display device that uses a single display unit to generate two image beams, employing a first optical module with multiple reflective surfaces and a second optical module with a freeform mirror to project images at different depths, adjusting the deflection angle based on eye position for clear image presentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two picture generation units are used to generate images with different image distances, then the display can show both fixed driving information and road condition information at different depths, but the system volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two picture generation units into a single display unit. The first and second effective imaging areas on one display unit generate first and second image beams respectively, which are then directed through different optical paths to create virtual images at different depths. This consolidation reduces system volume while maintaining the capability to display multiple types of information at different distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the imaging areas on the display unit into distinct first and second effective imaging areas. These segmented areas generate separate image beams that are processed differently by the optical modules, allowing different types of information to be displayed at different depths using a single unified display device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two picture generation units are used to generate images with different image distances, then the display can show both fixed driving information and road condition information at different depths, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power consumption burden of two separate picture generation units into a single display unit. By generating both the first image beam for fixed driving information and the second image beam for road condition information from one display unit, the system reduces overall power consumption while maintaining dual-depth display functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two picture generation units are used to generate images with different image distances, then the display can show both fixed driving information and road condition information at different depths, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the requirements for two separate picture generation units into a single display unit configuration. This reduction in component count directly lowers manufacturing costs, including fewer display units, fewer optical modules, and simpler system integration, while still achieving the capability to display fixed driving information and road condition information at different virtual depths.
4Measurement precision
If optical paths are adjusted to create different virtual image depths, then clear image presentation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable reflective surface that can adjust its position or angle dynamically. This dynamic adjustment allows the optical system to vary the optical path length for the first image beam relative to the second image beam, thereby controlling the depth positioning of virtual images. The dynamic capability enables clear image presentation at different depths without requiring multiple fixed optical systems.
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
The design achieves a smaller device size, reduced power consumption, and lower costs while maintaining clear image presentation of multiple virtual images at different depths.
Implementation Method 1
The freeform mirror is adapted to receive the first image beam and the second image beam from the first optical module. The first image beam and the second image beam are respectively reflected by the second optical module out of the head-up display device
Implementation Method 2
The first optical module receives the first image beam and the second image beam from the display unit, and transmits the first image beam and the second image beam to the second optical module
Implementation Method 3
The display unit has a first effective imaging area and a second effective imaging area that are disposed adjacently to respectively generate the first image beam and the second image beam
Data Source
AI summary
A head-up display device adapted to project a first image beam and a second image beam onto a target element is provided. The head-up display device includes a display unit, a first optical module, and a second optical module. The first and the second image beams from the display unit are sequentially transmitted the first and the second optical modules. The first image beam and the second image beam are respectively reflected by the second optical module out of the head-up display, and then transmitted to the target element to form a first virtual image and a second virtual image. Through the first optical module, the optical path length of the first image beam from the display unit to the position of the first virtual image is greater than the optical path length of the second image beam from the display unit to the position of the second virtual image.