Head-Up Display Viewpoint Detection Using Cabin Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head-up display systems require dedicated infrared light sources for detecting a driver's viewpoint, increasing cost and complexity without optimal efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A head-up display apparatus uses existing interior light or light sources within the vehicle to detect a driver's viewpoint without additional infrared light, employing a driver's viewpoint detector to adjust virtual projection images using visible light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dedicated infrared light source and infrared camera are installed for viewpoint detection, then the viewpoint detection accuracy is improved, but the apparatus cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the existing interior light device and visible light camera to perform dual functions: the interior light serves both as cabin illumination and as the illumination source for viewpoint detection, while the visible light camera performs both general monitoring and specific viewpoint detection. This eliminates the need for dedicated infrared light sources and infrared cameras, thereby reducing apparatus cost and device complexity while maintaining viewpoint detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by utilizing resources already present in the vehicle (interior light device and visible light camera) for viewpoint detection purposes. The interior light device automatically serves as the illumination source when activated, and the visible light camera automatically captures images for viewpoint analysis, eliminating the need for separate dedicated detection systems
2Device complexity
If the HUD light source is activated for viewpoint detection, then the viewpoint detection can be performed without additional light sources, but unnecessary white light generation occurs which may cause visual glare
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by controlling the interior light device to be activated only during the specific period when viewpoint detection is required (when the camera captures the driver's face image). The light is turned off when not needed, thereby avoiding continuous white light generation and potential visual glare while ensuring adequate illumination for viewpoint detection when required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by directing the interior light specifically toward the driver's face area for viewpoint detection, rather than activating the full HUD projection system which would generate unnecessary white light across the entire field of view. This localized illumination approach minimizes visual glare while providing sufficient light for accurate viewpoint detection
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 approach provides a practical and economical solution that reliably detects a driver's viewpoint and controls virtual projection images effectively, even in low-light conditions, reducing the need for additional light sources and minimizing visual glare.
Implementation Method 1
the driver's viewpoint detector detects the viewpoint of the driver by irradiating a face of the driver with light of the interior light device or light of the light source of the image display unit as illumination light
Data Source
AI summary
A head-up display apparatus configured to project an image on a windshield to display a virtual image to a driver includes an image display unit including a light source and a display element and configured to form the image. A display device is configured to project and reflect image light onto the windshield to display the virtual image in front of the windshield. A driver's viewpoint detector is configured to detect a viewpoint of the driver; and a movement mechanism is configured to move a position of the virtual image based on information of the viewpoint of the driver detected by the driver's viewpoint detector. The driver's viewpoint detector detects the viewpoint of the driver by irradiating the face of the driver with the interior light or light of the light source of the image display unit as illumination light at night.