Modular Projection Device for Vehicle Windshield and External Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projection devices for motor vehicles face design challenges when transitioning from in-vehicle use to external use, as they require different optical properties and configurations to maintain image quality and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modular projection device comprising a detachable sub-device with an image generation unit and a fixed sub-device with optical elements, where the first optical element is optimized for external use and the second optical element compensates for its effects to ensure undistorted image projection on both flat surfaces and vehicle windshields, using keystone correction and other methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the projection device uses optical elements optimized for head-up display in vehicles, then image quality on windshield is improved, but the device cannot function as an external projector
Solution Approach 1:
The projection device is divided into a first partial device (detachable, contains image generation device and first optical element) and a second partial device (fixed to vehicle, contains second optical element). This segmentation allows the first partial device to be removed and used independently as an external projector, while the second partial device provides compensation optics when mounted in the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The first partial device is designed to serve dual purposes: as an external projector when removed from the vehicle, and as part of the head-up display system when mounted in the vehicle. The image generation device and first optical element are configured to function in both contexts, with the second optical element providing additional compensation only when needed for vehicle application.
2Manufacturing precision
If the first optical element is designed for external projection with undistorted images on flat surfaces, then external projection quality is improved, but image distortion occurs when projected onto vehicle windshield
Solution Approach 1:
The first optical element is designed with optical properties optimized for external projection applications, creating undistorted images on flat surfaces. The second optical element is specifically designed to compensate for the optical effects of the first element when projecting onto the curved windshield surface, adapting the image to the specific geometric requirements of the vehicle application.
Solution Approach 2:
The second optical element acts as an intermediary that receives light from the first optical element and adapts it to the requirements of the vehicle windshield. It compensates for optical effects such as keystone distortion and other aberrations introduced by the first element, ensuring proper image geometry on the curved surface.
3Reliability
If the projection device is designed as a fixed integrated system, then optical performance is optimized, but it cannot be removed for external use
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into detachable first partial device and fixed second partial device. The first partial device containing the image generation device can be removed from the vehicle for external use, while the second partial device remains fixed and provides optical compensation when the first device is mounted in the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the first and second partial devices is designed to be changeable from a connected state (when mounted in vehicle) to a detached state (for external use). This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt between two operational modes while maintaining optical reliability in each mode through the respective optical elements.
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
Enables a cost-effective, versatile projection device that functions both as a head-up display in vehicles and as an external projector, maintaining image quality and adaptability between applications.
Implementation Method 1
an image generation device (8, 9) for generating light beams containing the optical information
Implementation Method 2
at least one second optical element, which influences the beam path of the light beams in the overall device
Data Source
AI summary
A projection device for information for motor vehicle driver (1) comprises an image generator (8,9), at least one optical element (4,5,6,7) and the vehicle windshield (2), functioning as a combiner. The projection device is a total device consisting of a first, removable, part-device (10) joined to the vehicle, and a second part-device (3) fixed in vehicle. The first part-device at least includes the image generator (8,9) of the total device and a first optical element (7), and the second part-device (3) at least has a second optical element (6).