Image-Partitioned HUD Using Refractive Prism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Head Up Display (HUD) systems require significant space and cost due to their single optical path design, which increases with the number of optical modules needed to display multiple images, leading to inefficiencies in reducing volume and cost without compromising optical device count.

Innovation Solution

An image-partitioned display device utilizing a refractive element, such as a prism, to partition images into sub-images, which are then combined by a virtual image generation module using a relay lens and concave mirror to generate a large area virtual image, reducing the volume and cost of the optical module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical modules are used to display multiple sets of images, then the display information capability is improved, but the space occupation and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay information capabilityVSAvoidspace occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing a single image into multiple sub-images using a beam splitter, then directing each sub-image to different optical paths. This allows one optical module to perform the function of multiple modules, reducing space occupation while maintaining the capability to display multiple sets of images simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple optical paths into a single optical module by using a beam splitter to combine the light paths from one image source. This consolidation allows multiple display functions to be achieved within a single module, reducing both space and cost compared to using separate modules for each display function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical modules are used to display multiple sets of images, then the display information capability is improved, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay information capabilityVSAvoidcost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting a single image into multiple sub-images that can be directed to different display areas, the system achieves multi-functionality from a single optical module, reducing the number of components needed and thereby lowering manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes a single optical module universal by enabling it to display multiple sets of images through the beam splitter configuration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized modules, reducing overall system cost while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If reflection optical elements are used to partition images from a single image source, then the image partitioning is achieved, but the volume of optical devices increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage partitioning capabilityVSAvoidvolume of optical devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from using reflection optical elements that require large physical space to a beam splitter configuration that achieves image partitioning in a more compact arrangement. This dimensional optimization reduces the volume of optical devices while maintaining the image partitioning capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 solution effectively reduces the volume of the virtual image generation module by approximately 53.8% compared to traditional HUD systems, while providing multiple sets of display information, thereby addressing the inefficiencies in space and cost.

Implementation Method 1

a refractive element refracting and partitioning the image into a plurality of sub-images

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

a virtual image generation module receiving lights of the sub-images to generate a large area virtual image or a plurality of enlarged virtual images

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight transmission and image formation: Light

Data Source

PatentUS9164282B2Image-partitioned display device for virtual image

Publication Date: 2015.10.20 AUTOMOTIVE RES & TESTING CENT

AI summary

An image-partitioned display device for virtual image is disclosed. The display device comprises an image display unit, a refractive element, and a virtual image generation module. The refractive element is disposed between the image display unit and the virtual image generation module. Firstly, the image display unit generates at least one image, and then the refractive element refracts and partitions the image into a plurality of sub-images. Finally, the virtual image generation module receives lights of the sub-images to generate a large area virtual image or a plurality of enlarged virtual images. A volume of the virtual image generation module is reduced and all kinds of display information are provided by the image-partitioned technology.