Multi-depth HUD via Light Structuring Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional head-up displays (HUDs) in vehicles are limited by their fixed image depth, leading to cluttered information presentation and reduced efficiency, as well as space and cost constraints in installation.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for generating multi-depth virtual images using an image realization device with a light structuring device simulating multiple lenses of different focal lengths, allowing images to be projected at various depths on a transparent screen, such as a windscreen, enhancing flexibility and reducing clutter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a fixed depth image is projected onto the windscreen, then the image is clearly visible to the user, but all information is given equally prominence leading to cluttered display and reduced efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces depth as an additional dimension for information presentation. By projecting images at multiple apparent depths (different virtual image distances from the windscreen), the system creates a three-dimensional display effect on the two-dimensional windscreen surface. This allows information to be organized in depth layers, with critical information at certain depths and secondary information at other depths, reducing clutter while maintaining visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the display information into multiple depth layers. Different regions of the light structuring device correspond to different apparent depths, allowing the system to divide information content into distinct depth planes. This segmentation enables selective emphasis of important information while de-emphasizing less critical information through depth positioning.
2Area of stationary object
If the HUD size is limited to fit vehicle space constraints, then installation is feasible, but the display area becomes cluttered and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the depth dimension to expand the effective display capacity within the constrained physical area. By arranging information elements at different apparent depths rather than only on the two-dimensional windscreen surface, the system increases the organizational capacity without requiring additional physical space. This allows more information to be displayed in a compact footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lenses with different focal lengths are used to create multi-depth images, then information can be displayed at different depths, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lens functions into a single integrated light structuring device. Rather than using separate physical lenses for each focal length, the device integrates multiple focal length regions in one component, achieving multi-depth capability while reducing overall system complexity. This merging approach maintains adaptability while simplifying the optical path.
Solution Approach 2:
The light structuring device is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both the light guide and the focal length control element. Different regions of the same device provide different focal lengths, making the single component universal for creating multiple depth planes. This eliminates the need for separate lenses and reduces system complexity.
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 the decoupling of information content by displaying it at required 3D coordinates, enhancing the driving experience by presenting information at different depths, reducing clutter, and allowing for dynamic depth changes, thereby improving the effectiveness of HUDs compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
the light structuring device is configured to simulate a first lens having a first focal length on the first region of the surface... the light structuring device is further configured to simulate a second lens on the second region of the surface, said second lens having a second focal length
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system includes an image realisation device, and projection optics for rendering a display image on a display screen. The image realisation device includes an image realisation surface and a light structuring device having a surface with a first and second region. The light structuring device simulates a first lens on the first region of the surface. A first source image formed on a first region of the image realisation surface and projected through the projection optics renders a first display image on the display screen at a first apparent depth. The light structuring device simulates a second lens on the second region of the surface. A second source image formed on a second region of the image realisation surface and projected through the projection optics renders a second display image on the display screen at a second apparent depth. The first and second lens are independently configurable.