Variable Reflection Combiner for Seamless Head-Up Head-Down Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aircraft cockpits face ergonomic and economic challenges with separate 'Head-Up' and 'Head-Down' viewing devices, where image continuity is difficult due to distance discrepancies and the high cost and complexity of 'Head-Up' displays.
Innovation Solution
A single large viewing screen with a variable transmission combiner and a tilted optical plate forming a dihedron, allowing for both 'Head-Down' and 'Head-Up' viewing capabilities, using a poly-dispersed liquid crystal layer with adjustable reflection zones and an optional optical component for image positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate Head-Up and Head-Down viewing devices are used, then specific viewing functions are achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges Head-Up and Head-Down viewing devices into a single integrated display system. The combiner surface acts as both a reflective surface for Head-Up display and a transmissive surface for Head-Down display, eliminating the need for separate optical devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining both viewing functions
Solution Approach 2:
The combiner surface is designed to perform multiple functions: it reflects light for Head-Up viewing, transmits light for Head-Down viewing, and can dynamically adjust its optical properties. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized devices with a single universal component, reducing complexity and cost
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate Head-Up and Head-Down viewing devices are used, then specific viewing functions are achieved, but production and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining Head-Up and Head-Down viewing functions into a single integrated display system with a multi-functional combiner, the patent reduces the number of components that need to be manufactured, installed, and harmonized. This consolidation significantly reduces production and installation costs while eliminating the need for expensive separate Head-Up display devices
3Ease of operation
If image is displayed at finite distance on screens, then Head-Down viewing is achieved, but image continuity with Head-Up viewing is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a combiner with dynamically adjustable optical properties that can change its reflection and transmission characteristics. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain image continuity and consistent visual composition across different viewing positions (Head-Up and Head-Down) by adapting the optical path and image presentation based on the selected viewing mode
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 seamless image transition between viewing positions without accommodation adjustments and reduces costs by integrating functions into a single, adaptable display system with improved contrast and brightness optimization.
Implementation Method 1
the plate comprises a deposition of poly-dispersed liquid crystal whose reflection factor is variable as a function of an applied voltage
Implementation Method 2
the plate comprises a pluralities of zones, the system comprising means for adjusting the reflection coefficient of each zone so as to ensure the total reflection of a first part of the image displayed by the display and the partial reflection of a second part of the image
Data Source
AI summary
The general field of the invention is that of optical viewing systems comprising a display and a tilted optical plate arranged above this display and forming therewith substantially a dihedron. The system according to the invention comprises means for adjusting the reflection coefficient of the said tilted optical plate along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the dihedron and up to a variable height so as to ensure the total reflection of a first part of the image displayed by the display and the partial reflection of a second part of the image displayed by the display, complementary to the first part. The insertion of optical components between the display and the optical plate makes it possible to modify the distance of the display image reflected by the optical plate.