Spatial Light Modulator Multiplexing for Multi-Image HUD
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional head-up displays require multiple image generation modules and adjustable lenses to display two images at different positions, leading to higher costs and limitations in displaying multiple images simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A head-up display utilizing a spatial light modulator with a multiplexing beam-splitting mechanism, such as angular or polarization multiplexing, to concurrently project different images at various positions using a single light source, allowing for three-dimensional displays and augmented reality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image generation modules are used to display images at different imaging positions, then the capability to display multiple images simultaneously is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple image generation functions into a single spatial light modulator. The SLM uses multiplexing beam-splitting mechanisms (polarization beam splitting, diffraction grating, or acousto-optic effect) to concurrently generate multiple images from one light beam, eliminating the need for multiple separate image generation modules and reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spatial light modulator is designed to perform multiple functions: it can modulate a single light beam to create multiple images at different imaging positions simultaneously. This multi-functional device replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Ease of operation
If an adjustable lens is used to change focal length for adjusting imaging position, then the imaging position adjustment capability is improved, but the ability to display multiple images at different positions simultaneously is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the modulated light beam into multiple separate beams using beam-splitting mechanisms. Each segmented beam can be directed to a different imaging position independently, allowing multiple images to be displayed simultaneously at different positions without requiring mechanical adjustment of a single lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of spatial multiplexing by using polarization states, diffraction orders, or acousto-optic beam separation to create multiple image paths from a single light source. This transforms the single-degree-of-freedom lens adjustment problem into a multi-dimensional beam routing solution where multiple images coexist at different positions.
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 cost-effective concurrent display of multiple images at different positions and distances, overcoming the limitations of conventional systems by using a single light source and spatial light modulator, achieving three-dimensional imaging and augmented reality without the need for multiple image generation modules.
Implementation Method 1
spatial light modulator with multiplexing beam-splitting mechanism
Implementation Method 2
polarization beam splitting
Implementation Method 3
The imaging screen group is configured to reflect the image lights of the first and second images to the visible range of the user
Data Source
AI summary
A head-up display including a light source module, a spatial light modulator, an imaging screen group and a control unit is provided. The light source module is configured to project a light beam. The spatial light modulator is configured to modulate the light beam as a first image and a second image and project respective image lights of the first and second images. The imaging screen group is configured to reflect the image lights of the first and second images to the visible range of the user, such that the user can view the first and second images. The control unit is coupled to the spatial light modulator to input at least two modulation signals to control the beam-splitting mechanism of the spatial light modulator.