WO2023142568A1

WO2023142568A1 - Display apparatus and vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2023142568A1
Application number: PCT/CN2022/128650
Authority: WO
Inventors: 许志高; 毛磊
Original assignee: 华为技术有限公司
Priority date: 2022-01-30
Filing date: 2022-10-31
Publication date: 2023-08-03
Also published as: CN115629475A; CN116560083A

Abstract

A display apparatus and a vehicle, which belong to the technical field of displays. The display apparatus comprises a picture generation unit (110), an imaging unit (120) and a polarization transmission unit (130). The picture generation unit (110) is used for providing a light beam, wherein the light beam carries picture information and is linearly polarized light having a first polarization direction. The imaging unit (120) is used for converting at least part of the light beam into linearly polarized light having a second polarization direction, and for forming a virtual picture on the basis of the linearly polarized light having the second polarization direction, the second polarization direction intersecting the first polarization direction. The polarization transmission unit (130) is located on a viewing path of the virtual picture, and the polarization transmission unit (130) is configured to transmit at least part of the linearly polarized light having the second polarization direction, and to block the linearly polarized light having the first polarization direction. A user can be prevented from viewing two display pictures at the same time, thereby improving a display effect.

Description

Displays and Vehicles

This application claims priority to a Chinese patent application with application number 202210114724.3 and application title "display device and vehicle" filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on January 30, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference .

technical field

The present application relates to the field of display technology, in particular to a display device and a vehicle.

Background technique

With the development of display technology, there are more and more applications of display devices for displaying virtual images.

In the related art, a display device includes an image generating unit and an imaging unit. The image generating unit provides a light beam carrying image information, and the imaging unit forms a virtual image based on the light beam. The virtual image can be seen by the user at the appropriate location.

When the display device displays the virtual image, the user can simultaneously watch the virtual image and the image provided by the image generating unit, which affects the display effect.

Contents of the invention

The present application provides a display device and a vehicle, which can prevent a user from seeing two display images at the same time and improve the display effect.

In one aspect, the present application provides a display device, which includes an image generation unit, an imaging unit, and a polarization transmission unit. The image generating unit is used for providing a light beam, the light beam carries image information and the light beam is linearly polarized light with a first polarization direction. The imaging unit is configured to convert at least part of the light beam into linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction, and form a virtual image based on the linearly polarized light with the second polarization direction, the second polarization direction being different from the first polarization direction A polarization direction intersects. The polarization transmission unit is located on a viewing path of the virtual image. The polarization transmission unit is configured to transmit at least part of the linearly polarized light of the second polarization direction and block the linearly polarized light of the first polarization direction.

When the image generating unit emits a light beam carrying image information, since the light beam is linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction, it will be blocked by the polarization transmission unit. When the user watches the virtual image, the light beam provided by the image generating unit will not be incident on human eyes, so that the user will not see the image displayed by the image generating unit. The virtual image formed after the light beam provided by the image generation unit passes through the imaging unit corresponds to the linearly polarized light with the second polarization direction, and the linearly polarized light with the second polarization direction can at least partially pass through the polarization transmission unit, so that the user can Virtual images are seen through polarized transmission elements. Therefore, when viewing the virtual image, the user will not see the image formed by the image generating unit and the virtual image formed by the imaging unit at the same time, and the image formed by the image generating unit will not interfere with the virtual image, which improves the display effect of the display device.

In the embodiment of the present application, the polarized transmission unit is located on one side of the image generation unit and the imaging unit, and is located on both sides of the imaging unit with the virtual image. In this way, the polarized transmission unit can be arranged on the viewing path of the virtual image, and can be used to block the light emitted by the image generating unit.

In the embodiment of the present application, the manner of blocking the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction includes but is not limited to absorbing the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction or filtering out the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction.

In some examples, the first polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction. For example, linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction is p-light, and linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction is s-light. For another example, linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction is s-light, and linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction is p-light. In this way, the polarization transmission unit can basically allow all linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction to pass through, thereby improving light utilization. In some other examples, the angle between the first polarization direction and the second direction may also be non-90 degrees, so that the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction can partially pass through the polarization transmission unit.

Moreover, in the case where the first polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction, when the image generating unit is not working (that is, does not emit light), the ambient light of the environment where the display device is located enters the inside of the display device through the polarization transmission unit, due to the polarization The transmission unit is configured to transmit the linearly polarized light of the second polarization direction and filter the linearly polarized light of the first polarization direction, therefore, the light incident into the display device is the linearly polarized light of the second polarization direction. The linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction passes through the imaging unit, and part of it is directly reflected by the imaging unit to the polarization transmission unit. However, due to weak light intensity, it is not easily perceived by the user. The other part is converted into linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction by the imaging unit, and then the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction is guided to the image generating unit. If the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction directly enters the polarization transmission unit, it will be blocked by the polarization projection unit. If the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction passes through the imaging unit again, it will be converted into linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction, and then exits from the polarization transmission unit. However, since the light intensity of this part of light is relatively weak, it is difficult for the user to feel it. Therefore, under the shielding of the polarization transmission unit, the user basically cannot see the image generation unit and the imaging unit behind the polarization transmission unit.

In a possible implementation manner, the imaging unit includes a plurality of mirrors, and the plurality of mirrors are sequentially arranged on the propagation path of the light beam. The plurality of mirrors are not only used to change the propagation direction of the light beam, but also used to change the polarization direction of the light beam. Moreover, on the propagation path of the light beam, one of the reflection mirrors closest to the polarization transmission unit is also used to form the virtual image. The imaging unit is composed of a plurality of reflecting mirrors, and the structure is simple and the cost is low.

In some examples, there is at least one first reflector and M second reflectors among the plurality of reflectors. Wherein, the M is an odd number. The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the first reflection mirror is the same as the polarization direction of the incident light of the first reflection mirror. The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the second reflection mirror is perpendicular to the polarization direction of the incident light of the second reflection mirror. On the propagation path of the light beam, one of the second mirrors closest to the polarization transmission unit is used to form the virtual image. By rationally arranging the positions of multiple reflectors, the spatial optical path can be used to realize the conversion of the polarization direction of the light beam and the design of the propagation path of the light beam, and the degree of light attenuation is small, which is conducive to improving the utilization rate of light.

In some examples, the propagation direction of the light emitted by the second reflector is perpendicular to the incident surface of the reflector located in front of the second reflector on the propagation path of the light beam. In this way, the polarization direction of the incident light of the second reflecting mirror is perpendicular to the polarization direction of the outgoing light of the second reflecting mirror. Here, the reflective mirror located before the second reflective mirror on the propagation path of the light beam may be the first reflective mirror or the second reflective mirror.

In some examples, there is a first reflecting mirror among the plurality of reflecting mirrors, and the first reflecting mirror is used to reflect the light beam from the image generating unit to the second reflecting mirror.

In some other examples, there are at least two first reflectors among the plurality of reflectors. A first reflecting mirror is located behind the image generating unit, and is used for reflecting the light beam from the image generating unit to a second reflecting mirror adjacent to the first reflecting mirror. The other first reflector is located between two adjacent second reflectors, and is used to reflect the light beam from the previous second reflector in the two adjacent first reflectors to the adjacent two first reflectors A second reflector in the middle. For the other first reflectors herein, the propagation direction of the light emitted by the first reflector is parallel to the incident surface of the reflector located in front of the first reflector on the propagation path of the light beam. Here, the reflective mirror located before the second reflective mirror on the propagation path of the light beam may be the first reflective mirror or the second reflective mirror.

In some examples, the imaging unit includes the first mirror and the second mirror. The first reflective mirror and the second reflective mirror are sequentially located on the propagation path of the light beam provided by the image generating unit. The first reflective mirror is used to reflect the light beam provided by the image generating unit to the second reflective mirror. The second reflector is used to reflect the light beam from the first reflector to the polarization transmission unit, and the second reflector is used to form the virtual image, and the output of the second reflector The propagating direction of the incident light is perpendicular to the incident surface of the first reflector. The conversion of the polarization direction and the formation of the virtual image are realized simultaneously by the two reflection mirrors, the structure is simple, and it is beneficial to reduce the volume of the display device and further reduce the cost.

In some examples, both the first reflector and the image generating unit are located on the light exit side of the second reflector (that is, the side facing the polarized transmission unit), and are perpendicular to the second reflector. In any direction of the light emitting direction, the first reflecting mirror is at least partially opposite to the image generating unit. The off-axis degree of the second reflector and the first reflector is small, which is beneficial to increase the viewing angle of the display device.

In another possible implementation manner, the imaging unit includes: a polarization direction conversion structure and an imaging structure. The polarization direction conversion structure is used to convert the light beam into linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction. The imaging structure is used to form a virtual image based on the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction emitted by the polarization direction conversion structure.

In some examples, the polarization direction switching structure includes a plurality of mirrors. The plurality of mirrors are sequentially arranged on the propagation path of the light beam. There is at least one first reflector and M second reflectors among the plurality of reflectors, wherein M is an odd number. The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the first reflection mirror is the same as the polarization direction of the incident light of the first reflection mirror. The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the second reflection mirror is perpendicular to the polarization direction of the incident light of the second reflection mirror. By rationally arranging the positions of multiple reflectors, the spatial optical path can be used to realize the conversion of the polarization direction of the light beam and the design of the propagation path of the light beam, and the degree of light attenuation is small, which is conducive to improving the utilization rate of light.

In some other examples, the polarization direction conversion structure includes a polarization conversion device configured to transmit linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction and convert linearly polarized light in a third polarization direction into the The linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction is emitted together with the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction. The third polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction.

In some examples, the imaging structure is a reflective imaging element, such as a curved mirror or the like. In some other examples, the imaging structure is a transmission imaging element, such as a lens or a lens group composed of multiple lenses. When the imaging structure adopts a transmission imaging element, the display device is a virtual reality (virtual reality, VR) device, and when the imaging structure adopts a lens, the display device is an augmented reality (augmented reality, AR) device.

In some examples, the polarization transmission unit includes a polarizer (also called a polarizer), and a polarization direction of the polarizer is perpendicular to the first polarization direction. The polarized transmission unit is realized by a polarizer, which is beneficial to simplify the structure and reduce the cost.

In some other examples, the polarization transmission unit includes a liquid crystal panel configured to transmit at least part of the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction and absorb the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction.

Optionally, the virtual image is a three-dimensional image or a two-dimensional image. When the virtual image is a three-dimensional image, the light beam provided by the image generation unit is three-dimensional image light. When the virtual image is a two-dimensional image, the light beam provided by the image generation unit is two-dimensional image light.

Optionally, the display device further includes a housing. The casing has an observation window, and the polarization transmission unit is disposed on the observation window, for example, covers the observation window. Both the image generating unit and the imaging unit are located in the housing. The casing can protect each unit, and the various units are integrated through the casing, so as to facilitate the overall movement of the display device.

Optionally, the display device further includes a main processor. The main processor is configured to send image data to the image generation unit for providing image light based on the received image data.

In some examples, the display device further includes a power supply for powering the main processor and the image generating unit.

In some examples, the display device is a desktop display device, such as a monitor and a television.

In yet another aspect, the present application provides a vehicle, which includes any one of the aforementioned display devices. The display device is mounted on the vehicle. Exemplarily, vehicles include but are not limited to automobiles, airplanes, trains, or ships.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a display device in use according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of another display device in use according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of another display device in use according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a display device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 5 is a schematic structural diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

Fig. 6 is a structural schematic diagram of another angle of the display device shown in Fig. 5;

Fig. 7 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

Fig. 8 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 9 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

Fig. 10 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

Fig. 11 is a schematic structural diagram of a polarization direction conversion device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

Fig. 12 is a functional schematic diagram of a vehicle provided by an embodiment of the present application.

Detailed ways

The display device provided by the embodiment of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The display device can be used as an ordinary display (such as shown by 100a in FIG. 1 ) for office use, and can also be used as a TV (such as shown by 100b in FIG. 2 ) for home entertainment (as a TV), or can be used for vehicle display ( For example, as shown by 100c in FIG. 3, the display device is installed on the seat of the vehicle). The physical size, display size, and resolution of the display device can be adjusted according to usage scenarios. In this application, the display device may also be referred to as a display system or a virtual image display device.

FIG. 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a display device provided by an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 4 , the display device includes: an image generation unit 110 , an imaging unit 120 and a polarization transmission unit 130 . The image generation unit 110 is used to provide a light beam, which carries image information and is a linearly polarized light having a first polarization direction (may be referred to as image light). The imaging unit 120 is used for converting at least part of the light beam into linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction, and forming a virtual image based on the linearly polarized light with the second polarization direction intersecting with the first polarization direction. The polarization transmission unit 130 is located on the viewing path of the virtual image. The polarization transmission unit 130 is configured to transmit at least part of the linearly polarized light of the second polarization direction and block the linearly polarized light of the first polarization direction.

In the embodiment of the present application, the image generating unit 110 may also be called an image source, and is configured to generate a real image. The imaging unit 120 performs imaging according to the received real image to generate an enlarged virtual image.

In the embodiment of the present application, the manner of blocking the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction by the polarization transmitting unit 130 includes but is not limited to absorbing and/or filtering out the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction.

When the image generating unit emits a light beam carrying image information, since the light beam is linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction, it will be blocked by the polarization transmission unit 130 . When the user views the virtual image, the light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 will not directly enter human eyes, so the user will not see the image displayed by the image generating unit 110 . The virtual image formed by the light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 passing through the imaging unit 120 corresponds to linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction, and the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction can at least partially pass through the polarization transmission unit 130, Thus, a user can see a virtual image through the polarization transmission unit 130 . Therefore, when the user watches the virtual image, he will not see the image formed by the image generating unit 110 and the virtual image formed by the imaging unit 120 at the same time, and the image formed by the image generating unit 110 will not interfere with the virtual image, which improves the display performance of the display device. Effect.

In some examples, the first polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction. In this way, the polarization transmission unit 130 can basically allow all linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction to pass through, thereby improving light utilization. For example, linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction is p-light, and linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction is s-light. For another example, linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction is s-light, and linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction is p-light. In some other examples, the angle between the first polarization direction and the second direction may also be non-90 degrees, for example, an angle of 80 degrees, so that the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction can partially pass through (transmit) the polarization transmission unit 130.

Moreover, in the case where the first polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction, when the image generating unit 110 is not working (that is, does not emit light), the ambient light of the environment where the display device is located enters the inside of the display device through the polarization transmission unit, because The polarization transmission unit 130 is configured to transmit the linearly polarized light of the second polarization direction and block the linearly polarized light of the first polarization direction, therefore, the light incident into the display device is the linearly polarized light of the second polarization direction. The linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction passes through the imaging unit 120 , and part of it is directly reflected by the imaging unit 120 to the polarization transmission unit 130 , but the light intensity is relatively weak, so it is not easily perceived by the user. The other part is converted into linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction by the imaging unit 120 , and then guides the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction to the image generating unit 110 . The image generation unit 110 reflects the received linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction, and if the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction directly enters the polarization transmission unit 130 , it will be blocked by the polarization projection unit 130 . If the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction passes through the imaging unit 120 again, it will be converted into linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction, and then exits from the polarization transmission unit 130 . However, since the light intensity of this part of light is relatively weak, it is difficult for the user to feel it. Therefore, under the shielding of the polarization transmission unit 130 , the user basically cannot see the image generation unit 110 and the imaging unit 120 behind the polarization transmission unit 130 .

FIG. 5 is a schematic structural diagram of a display device provided by an embodiment of the present application. FIG. 6 is a structural schematic diagram of another angle of the display device shown in FIG. 5 . As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the display device includes: an image generating unit 110 , an imaging unit 120 , a polarization transmission unit 130 , and a housing (casing) 140 . The image generation unit 110 is configured to provide (generate) a light beam, the light beam carries image information and the light beam is linearly polarized light B1 with a first polarization direction. The imaging unit 120 is used for converting the light beam into linearly polarized light B2 with a second polarization direction, and forming a virtual image based on the linearly polarized light B2 with the second polarization direction intersecting with the first polarization direction. The polarization transmission unit 130 is located on the viewing path of the virtual image. The polarization transmission unit 130 is configured to transmit at least part of the linearly polarized light B2 of the second polarization direction and block the linearly polarized light B1 of the first polarization direction.

The casing 140 has an observation window, which is opposite to the user's eyes, for the user to watch the virtual image. The polarization transmission unit 130 is disposed in the observation window, and the image generation unit 110 and the imaging unit 120 are both located in the casing 140 . In this way, both the image generation unit 110 and the imaging unit 120 are located on the same side of the polarization transmission unit 130, and the polarization transmission unit 130 and the virtual image are respectively located on both sides of the imaging unit 120, so that the polarization transmission unit 130 is arranged on the viewing path of the virtual image.

The housing 140 can protect each unit, and integrate each unit through the housing 140 to facilitate the overall movement of the display device. It should be noted that the shape of the housing 140 in FIG. 5 is only an example, and the present disclosure does not limit it. Moreover, when the display device is integrated into a certain large-scale product, for example, when integrated into a seat of a vehicle, the seat can be used to provide an accommodating cavity, and the image generating unit 110 and the imaging unit 120 are directly arranged in the accommodating cavity , the polarization transmitting unit 130 is disposed at the opening of the receiving cavity, so that the housing 140 can be omitted.

The present application does not limit the structure of the image generating unit 110 as long as it can provide the aforementioned linearly polarized light beam carrying image information and having the first polarization direction. Exemplarily, the image generation unit 110 includes an optical machine (also called an image generation unit (picture generation unit, PGU)). The light machine includes a light source and a light modulator. The light source is used to generate light beams, and the light modulator is used to modulate the light beams to form image light.

In some examples, the light machine adopts a light source emitting linearly polarized light, and accordingly, the light beam output by the light modulator is also linearly polarized light. In this case, the light beam output by the optical machine is the light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 . In some other examples, the light emitted by the light source of the optical machine is non-linearly polarized light (such as unpolarized light, elliptically polarized light, or circularly polarized light, etc.), in this case, the image generating unit 110 also includes a polarization conversion device for It is used to convert the light beam output by the optical machine into linearly polarized light.

Optionally, in some examples, the image generating unit 110 includes a diffusion screen (not shown). The diffusion screen is used to receive the light beam output by the optical machine, and diffuse the received light beam (for example, diffusely reflect the received light beam), so as to improve the imaging quality.

Optionally, when the light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 is a two-dimensional image light, the virtual image seen by the user is a two-dimensional image. Alternatively, when the light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 is a three-dimensional image light, the virtual image seen by the user is a three-dimensional image.

In the embodiment of the present application, the first polarization direction and the second polarization direction are perpendicular to each other. In this way, the polarization transmission unit 130 can basically allow all linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction to pass through, thereby improving light utilization.

In this embodiment, the imaging unit 120 includes two mirrors. The two reflectors are respectively a first reflector 121 and a second reflector 122 . The first mirror 121 and the second mirror 122 are sequentially located on the propagation path of the light beam provided by the image generating unit 120 . Wherein, the first mirror 121 is used to reflect the light beam provided by the image generating unit 120 to the second mirror 122 . The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the first reflection mirror 121 is the same as the polarization direction of the incident light of the first reflection mirror 121, that is, when the first reflection mirror 121 reflects the received light beam, the polarization direction of the light beam is not changed. . The second mirror 122 is used to reflect the light beam from the first mirror 121 to the polarization transmission unit 130, and the second mirror 122 is used to form a virtual image. The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the second reflection mirror 122 is perpendicular to the polarization direction of the incident light of the second reflection mirror 122, that is, when the second reflection mirror 122 reflects the received light beam, it will change the polarization direction of the light beam to Turn 90 degrees.

As shown in Figure 5, the propagation direction of the outgoing light of the second reflector 122 is perpendicular to the incident surface of the first reflector 121 (the plane formed by the normal line between the incident light and the interface of the medium), so that the received first polarized The linearly polarized light in one direction is converted into linearly polarized light B1 in the second polarization direction B2, and enters the polarization transmission unit 130, and enters the user's eyes after passing through the polarization transmission unit 130, thereby forming a virtual image. Here, the incident surface of the first reflector 121 is the optical surface where the incident light of the first reflector 121 and the normal line corresponding to the incident light (that is, the normal line at the intersection of the main optical axis of the incident light and the first reflector 121) are located. noodle. The incident surface of the first reflector 121 is coplanar with the optical surface where the incident light and reflected light of the first reflector 121 are located. Therefore, the propagation direction of the emitted light of the second reflector 122 is perpendicular to the optical surface where the incident light and reflected light of the first reflector 121 are located.

In this embodiment, the conversion of the polarization direction and the formation of the virtual image are realized simultaneously by two mirrors, the number of components of the imaging unit 120 is small, and the structure is simple, which is beneficial to reduce the volume of the display device and further reduce the cost.

Wherein, in the embodiments of the present application, the propagation direction of the light beam refers to the direction of the main optical axis of the light beam.

Exemplarily, as shown in FIG. 6 , the first mirror 121 and the image generating unit 110 are located on a side of the second mirror 122 facing the polarization projection unit 130 . Moreover, in any direction perpendicular to the light emitting direction of the second reflective mirror 122 , the first reflective mirror 121 is at least partially opposite to the image generating unit 110 . For example, assuming that the light emitting direction of the second reflector 122 is perpendicular to the paper surface, the first reflector 121 and the second reflector 122 are arranged opposite to each other left and right. In this way, the off-axis degree of the second reflector 122 and the first reflector 121 is small, which is beneficial to increase the field of view (field of view, FOV) of the display device. Moreover, it is beneficial to reduce the size of the display device in the light emitting direction of the second reflector 122 .

In some examples, the orthographic projection of the first reflector 121 on the plane where the light-emitting surface of the image generating unit 110 is located coincides at least partially with the image generating unit 110 , for example, the orthographic projection includes the light-emitting surface.

Wherein, when the second reflector 121 is an axisymmetric structure, the light emitting direction of the second reflector 122 is the normal direction where the center of the reflective surface of the second reflector 122 is located.

Exemplarily, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 , the first reflector 121 is a plane reflector. The second reflector 122 is a curved reflector, such as a concave reflector, to form a magnified virtual image. Here, the concave reflector may be a free-form reflector.

In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the normal of the first reflecting mirror 121 forms an included angle of 45 degrees with the light emitting direction of the image generating unit 110 , so that the propagating direction of the incident light of the first reflecting mirror 121 and the direction of the first reflecting mirror 121 The propagation direction of the outgoing light is vertical. For example, the propagation direction of the incident light of the first reflector 121 is the x direction, the propagation direction of the outgoing light of the first reflector 121 (that is, the propagation direction of the incident light of the second reflector 122) is the y direction, and the x direction and The y direction is vertical. Here, the propagation direction of the emitted light from the second mirror 122 is the z direction. The x direction, y direction and z direction are perpendicular to each other.

Exemplarily, the polarization transmission unit 130 includes a polarizer (also called a polarizer). The polarization direction (also known as the vibration transmission direction) of the polarizer is perpendicular to the first polarization direction. For a polarizer, it transmits light parallel to its own polarization direction and absorbs light perpendicular to its own polarization direction. Therefore, using a polarizer whose polarization direction is perpendicular to the first polarization direction can transmit the second polarization direction linearly polarized light and blocks linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction. The polarized transmission unit is realized by a polarizer, which is beneficial to simplify the structure and reduce the cost.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, the polarization transmission unit 130 includes a liquid crystal panel configured to transmit at least part of linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction and absorb linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction. By controlling the operating voltage of the liquid crystal panel, the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal panel is deflected, thereby controlling the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light transmitted by the liquid crystal layer.

The following briefly describes the working process of the display device shown in FIG. 5 . It is assumed that the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction is S light, and the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction is P light. The polarization transmission unit 130 is configured to allow transmission of the P light and not allow transmission of the S light. The light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 is S light, and the light emitted after being reflected by the first reflector 121 is still S light. The outgoing light of the first reflecting mirror 121 is incident to the second reflecting mirror 122, and since the propagation direction of the outgoing light of the second reflecting mirror 122 is perpendicular to the incident surface of the first reflecting mirror 121, the outgoing light of the second reflecting mirror 122 is P Light. The light emitted from the second mirror 122 passes through the polarized transmission unit 130 and enters the human eye, thereby forming a virtual image.

When the image generating unit 110 emits a light beam carrying image information, since the light beam is linearly polarized light with the first polarization direction, it will be blocked by the polarization transmission unit 130 . When the user watches the virtual image, the light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 will not be incident on human eyes, so that the user will not see the image displayed by the image generating unit 110 . The virtual image formed by the light beam provided by the image generating unit 110 passing through the imaging unit 120 corresponds to linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction, and the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction can at least partially pass through the polarization transmission unit 130, Thus, a user can see a virtual image through the polarization transmission unit 130 . Therefore, when viewing the virtual image, the user will not see the image formed by the image generating unit 110 and the virtual image formed by the imaging unit 120 at the same time, and will not interfere with the virtual image, which improves the display effect of the display device.

Moreover, when the first polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction, when the image generating unit 110 is not working (that is, does not emit light), the user will not see the polarization transmission unit 130 under the shield of the polarization transmission unit 130 The image generating unit 110 and the imaging unit 120 afterward. In addition, the conversion of the polarization direction and the formation of the virtual image are realized simultaneously through the two mirrors, and the structure is simple, which is beneficial to reducing the volume of the display device and further reducing the cost.

FIG. 7 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application. The difference between the display device shown in FIG. 7 and the display device shown in FIG. 5 lies in the type of the first reflector. And for ease of illustration, the housing 140 is not shown in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7 , the first reflector 121 is a spherical reflector. The main optical axis of the spherical reflector forms an included angle of 45 degrees with the light output direction of the image generating unit 110 , so that the propagation direction of the incident light of the first reflector 121 is perpendicular to the propagation direction of the output light of the first reflector 121 .

FIG. 8 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application. The difference between the display device shown in FIG. 8 and the display device shown in FIG. 5 lies in the type of the first reflector. And for ease of illustration, the housing 140 is not shown in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8 , the first reflector 121 is a curved reflector. For example, concave mirrors. The main optical axis of the concave reflector forms an included angle of 45 degrees with the light output direction of the image generating unit 110 , so that the propagation direction of the incident light of the first reflector 121 is perpendicular to the propagation direction of the output light of the first reflector 121 .

The working process and principle of the display device shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are similar to those of the display device shown in FIG. 4 , and the detailed description is omitted here.

FIG. 9 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application. The difference between the display device shown in FIG. 9 and the display device shown in FIG. 5 lies in the structure of the imaging unit 120 . And for ease of illustration, the casing 140 is not shown. As shown in FIG. 9 , the imaging unit 120 includes: a polarization direction conversion structure 120a and an imaging structure 120b. The polarization direction conversion structure 120a is used to convert the linearly polarized light B1 with the first polarization direction into the linearly polarized light B2 with the second polarization direction. The imaging structure 120b is used for forming a virtual image based on the linearly polarized light B2 in the second polarization direction emitted by the polarization direction conversion structure 120a.

As shown in FIG. 9 , the polarization direction conversion structure 120 a includes five mirrors, which are sequentially located on the propagation path of the light beam provided by the image generating unit 120 . There are two

first mirrors

121, 123 and three

second mirrors

122, 124, and 125 among the five mirrors. The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the first

reflective mirrors

121 and 123 is the same as the polarization direction of the incident light of the first

reflective mirrors

121 and 123 . The polarization direction of the outgoing light from the

second mirrors

122 , 124 and 125 is perpendicular to the polarization direction of the incident light from the

second mirrors

122 , 124 and 125 .

After the light beam (linearly polarized light B1 in the first polarization direction) exits the image generating unit 110, it is reflected by a first reflector 121 to the first second reflector 122, and then reflected by the first second reflector 122 The linearly polarized light B2 with the second polarization direction is emitted to another first reflector 123 , and the first reflector 123 emits the linearly polarized light B2 with the second polarization direction. The linearly polarized light B2 in the second polarization direction is incident on the second second mirror 124 . After being reflected by the second second reflecting mirror 124, the linearly polarized light B1 in the first polarization direction is emitted. Subsequently, the linearly polarized light B1 in the first polarization direction is incident on the third second mirror 125 . The linearly polarized light B1 in the first polarization direction is reflected by the third second mirror 125 , becomes the linearly polarized light B2 in the second polarization direction, and then exits to the imaging structure 120 b.

In some examples, the reflector before the first reflector on the propagation path of the light beam may be the second reflector, for example, in FIG. 9 , the reflector before the first reflector 123 is the second reflector 122 . In some other examples, the reflective mirror located before the first reflective mirror on the propagation path of the light beam may be the first reflective mirror.

The reflector located before the second reflector on the propagation path of the light beam may be the first reflector or the second reflector. For example, it can be seen from FIG. 9 that the reflector before the second reflector 122 is the first reflector 121 , and the reflector before the second reflector 125 is the second reflector 124 .

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the light emitted by the third second reflector 125 is directly transmitted to the imaging structure 120b. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the light emitted by the second reflector 125 can also be reflected by other means. The mirror is reflected to the imaging structure 120b, as long as the other mirrors do not change the polarization direction of the light emitted by the second mirror 125 . In the embodiment of the present application, whether other reflective mirrors are provided depends on the relative positions of the imaging structure 120 b , the polarization transmission unit 130 and the third second reflective mirror 125 .

The imaging structure 120b includes a curved mirror. The propagation direction of the outgoing light of the curved surface reflector is located in the same optical plane as the incident surface of the third second reflector 125, therefore, the curved surface reflector does not change the polarization direction of the received linearly polarized light, and the received second The linearly polarized light B2 in the polarization direction is directly reflected to the polarization transmission unit (not shown in FIG. 9 ), and transmitted to human eyes through the polarization transmission unit.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, the third second reflector 125 in FIG. 9 can also be reused to form a virtual image, and the independent imaging structure can be removed, as long as the output of the third second reflector 125 is ensured. The propagation direction of the light only needs to exit from the polarization transmission unit. Exemplarily, when the third second reflector 125 is multiplexed to form a virtual image, the third second reflector 125 may be a curved reflector.

It should be noted that the number of the second mirrors in the polarization direction conversion structure 120a of the embodiment of the present application can be set according to actual needs, as long as it is an odd number, and the present application does not limit this. For example, the number of second mirrors 122 in FIG. 9 is three, while in FIG. 10 the number of second mirrors 122 is one. Here, the number of the second reflecting mirror is set to an odd number to ensure that after multiple polarization direction conversions, the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light finally emitted by the polarization direction conversion structure 120a is the same as that of the linearly polarized light received by the polarization direction conversion structure 120a. The polarization direction is vertical.

FIG. 10 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another display device provided by an embodiment of the present application. The difference between the display device shown in FIG. 10 and the display device shown in FIG. 9 lies in the structure of the polarization direction conversion structure. As shown in FIG. 10, the polarization conversion structure 120a includes two mirrors. The two reflectors include a first reflector 121 and a second reflector 122 . After the light beam (linearly polarized light B1 in the first polarization direction) emerges from the image generating unit 110, it is reflected by the first reflector 121 to the second reflector 122, and then becomes the light in the second polarization direction after being reflected by the second reflector 122. The linearly polarized light B2 is emitted to the imaging structure 120b.

Alternatively, in addition to using mirrors as the polarization direction conversion structure, in some other examples, the polarization direction conversion structure may use a polarization direction conversion device. Fig. 11 is a schematic structural diagram of a polarization direction conversion device provided by an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 11 , the polarization direction conversion device includes a plurality of polarization separation films 221 and a plurality of 1/2 wave plates 222 . A plurality of polarization separation films 221 are arranged in parallel, and form an included angle of 45° with the direction of the optical axis of the polarization direction conversion device. A plurality of 1/2 wave plates 222 are arranged at intervals on the same plane, and the extension direction of the main optical axis of the 1/2 wave plate 222 is the same as the direction of the optical axis of the polarization direction conversion device.

Here, the polarization separation film 221 transmits the linearly polarized light of the first polarization direction, and reflects the linearly polarized light of the second polarization direction. Here, the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction is P light, and the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction is S light. In this way, the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction provided by the image generating unit 110 is transmitted through the polarization separation film 221 , and after passing through the corresponding 1/2 wave plate 222 , it becomes the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction and exits. The linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction provided by the image generating unit 110 is reflected by the corresponding polarization separation film 221 to the adjacent polarization separation film 221, and then reflected again by the adjacent polarization separation film 221, and exits from the polarization conversion device. . In this way, the polarization conversion device converts the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction into the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction before emitting it.

In some examples, the imaging structure 120b is a reflective imaging element, such as a curved mirror or the like. In some other examples, the imaging structure 120b is a transmission imaging element, such as a lens or a lens group composed of multiple lenses. When the imaging structure 120b adopts a transmission imaging element, the display device is a VR display device, and when the imaging structure 120b adopts a lens, the display device is an AR display device.

Optionally, the display device may further include a main processor. The main processor is used to send image data to the image generating unit.

Optionally, the display device further includes a power supply for supplying power to the main processor and the image generating unit.

An embodiment of the present application also provides a vehicle, which includes any one of the aforementioned display devices. Means of transportation include but are not limited to cars, planes, trains or ships.

Please refer to FIG. 12 . FIG. 12 is a functional schematic diagram of a vehicle provided by an embodiment of the present application.

A vehicle may include various subsystems, such as shown sensor system 21, control system 22, one or more peripheral devices 23 (one shown as an example), power supply 24, computer system 25 and display system 26, the above Each subsystem can communicate with each other. The display system 22 may include the display device provided in the embodiment of the present application. The vehicle may also include other functional systems, such as an engine system providing power for the vehicle, a cockpit, etc., which are not limited in this application.

Among them, the sensor system 21 may include several detection devices, which can sense the measured information and convert the sensed information into electrical signals or other required forms of information output according to certain rules. As shown in Figure 12, these detection devices may include a global positioning system (Global Positioning System, GPS), a vehicle speed sensor, an inertial measurement unit (Inertial Measurement Unit, IMU), a radar unit, a laser rangefinder, a camera, a wheel speed sensor , a steering sensor, a gear sensor, or other components used for automatic detection, etc., are not limited in this application.

The control system 22 may include several elements, such as the illustrated steering unit, braking unit, lighting system, automatic driving system, map navigation system, network time synchronization system and obstacle avoidance system. The control system 22 can receive information (such as vehicle speed, vehicle distance, etc.) sent by the sensor system 21 to realize functions such as automatic driving and map navigation.

Optionally, the control system 14 may also include elements such as an accelerator controller and an engine controller for controlling the driving speed of the vehicle, which are not limited in this application.

Peripherals 23 may include several elements such as a communication system, a touch screen, a user interface, a microphone, and speakers, among others. Among them, the communication system is used to realize the network communication between the vehicle and other devices except the vehicle. In practical applications, the communication system can use wireless communication technology or wired communication technology to realize network communication between vehicles and other devices. The wired communication technology may refer to communication between the vehicle and other devices through network cables or optical fibers.

Power source 24 represents a system that provides electrical power or energy to the vehicle, which may include, but is not limited to, a rechargeable lithium or lead-acid battery, or the like. In practical applications, one or more battery components in the power supply are used to provide electric energy or energy for starting the vehicle, and the type and material of the power supply are not limited in this application.

Several functions of the vehicle can be controlled by the computer system 25 . Computer system 25 may include one or more processors 2501 (one processor is shown as an example) and memory 2502 (also referred to as a storage device). In practical applications, the memory 2502 is also inside the computer system 25, or outside the computer system 25, for example, as a buffer in a vehicle, which is not limited in this application.

Wherein, the processor 2501 may include one or more general-purpose processors, such as a graphics processing unit (graphic processing unit, GPU). The processor 2501 can be used to execute related programs stored in the memory 2502 or instructions corresponding to the programs, so as to realize corresponding functions of the vehicle.

Memory 2502 can comprise volatile memory (volatile memory), such as RAM; Memory also can comprise non-volatile memory (non-vlatile memory), such as ROM, flash memory (flash memory), HDD or solid state disk SSD; 2502 may also include combinations of the above types of memory. The memory 2502 can be used to store a set of program codes or instructions corresponding to the program codes, so that the processor 2501 can invoke the program codes or instructions stored in the memory 2502 to realize corresponding functions of the vehicle. In this application, a set of program codes for vehicle control can be stored in the memory 2502, and the processor 2501 calls the program codes to control the safe driving of the vehicle. How to realize the safe driving of the vehicle will be described in detail below in this application.

Optionally, in addition to storing program codes or instructions, the memory 2502 can also store information such as road maps, driving routes, and sensor data. The computer system 25 can combine other components in the vehicle functional framework diagram, such as sensors in the sensor system, GPS, etc., to realize related functions of the vehicle. For example, the computer system 25 can control the driving direction or driving speed of the vehicle based on the data input from the sensor system 21 , which is not limited in this application.

The display system 26 can interact with other systems in the vehicle, for example, it can display the navigation information sent by the control system 22 , or play the video sent by the computer system 25 and the peripheral device 23 . For the specific structure of the display system 26 , refer to the above-mentioned embodiment of the display device, which will not be repeated here.

Wherein, the four subsystems shown in this embodiment, the sensor system 21 , the control system 22 , the computer system 25 and the display system 26 are only examples and do not constitute limitations. In practical applications, vehicles can combine several components in the vehicle according to different functions, so as to obtain subsystems with corresponding different functions. In practical application, the vehicle may include more or less subsystems or elements, which is not limited in this application.

The vehicles in the embodiments of the present application may be known vehicles such as automobiles, airplanes, ships, and rockets, and may also be new vehicles that will appear in the future. The car can be an electric car, a fuel car or a hybrid car, for example, a pure electric car, an extended-range electric car, a hybrid electric car, a fuel cell car, a new energy car, etc., which is not specifically limited in this application.

Unless otherwise defined, the technical terms or scientific terms used herein shall have the usual meanings understood by those having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. "First", "second", "third" and similar words used in the specification and claims of this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity or importance, but are only used to distinguish different components . Likewise, words like "a" or "one" do not denote a limitation in quantity, but indicate that there is at least one. Words such as "comprises" or "comprising" and similar terms mean that the elements or items listed before "comprising" or "comprising" include the elements or items listed after "comprising" or "comprising" and their equivalents, and do not exclude other component or object. "A and/or B" means that the following three situations exist: A, B, and A and B.

The above is only an embodiment of the present application, and is not intended to limit the present application. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made on the basis of the present application shall be included within the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

A display device, characterized by comprising: an image generation unit, an imaging unit, and a polarization transmission unit;

The image generation unit is used to provide a light beam, the light beam carries image information and the light beam is linearly polarized light having a first polarization direction;

The imaging unit is configured to convert at least part of the light beam into linearly polarized light with a second polarization direction, and form a virtual image based on the linearly polarized light with the second polarization direction, the second polarization direction being different from the first polarization direction A polarization direction intersects;

The polarization transmission unit is located on a viewing path of the virtual image, the polarization transmission unit is configured to transmit at least part of the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction and block the linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction.
The display device according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit includes a plurality of mirrors, the plurality of mirrors are sequentially arranged on the propagation path of the light beam, and among the plurality of mirrors there is at least One first reflector and M second reflectors, wherein M is an odd number;

The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the first reflector is the same as the polarization direction of the incident light of the first reflector;

The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the second reflector is perpendicular to the polarization direction of the incident light of the second reflector;

On the propagation path of the light beam, one of the second mirrors closest to the polarization transmission unit is used to form the virtual image.
The display device according to claim 2, wherein the propagation direction of the light emitted by the second reflecting mirror is perpendicular to the incident surface of the reflecting mirror located in front of the second reflecting mirror on the propagation path of the light beam. .
The display device according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit comprises a first mirror and a second mirror;

The first mirror is used to reflect the light beam provided by the image generating unit to the second mirror;

The second reflector is used to reflect the light beam from the first reflector to the polarization transmission unit, and the second reflector is used to form the virtual image, and the output of the second reflector The propagating direction of the incident light is perpendicular to the incident surface of the first reflector.
The display device according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit comprises: a polarization direction conversion structure and an imaging structure;

The polarization direction conversion structure is used to convert the light beam into linearly polarized light having a second polarization direction;

The imaging structure is used to form the virtual image based on the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction emitted by the polarization direction conversion structure.
The display device according to claim 5, wherein the polarization direction conversion structure comprises a plurality of reflectors, and the plurality of reflectors are sequentially arranged on the propagation path of the light beam, and among the plurality of reflectors There is at least one first reflector and M second reflectors, wherein M is an odd number;

The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the first reflector is the same as the polarization direction of the incident light of the first reflector;

The polarization direction of the outgoing light of the second reflection mirror is perpendicular to the polarization direction of the incident light of the second reflection mirror.
The display device according to claim 5, wherein the polarization direction conversion structure comprises: a polarization conversion device configured to transmit linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction, and convert the third The linearly polarized light in the polarization direction is converted into the linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction and passes through, and the third polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction.
The display device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the imaging structure comprises a curved mirror.
The display device according to any one of claims 2 to 4 and claim 6, wherein the first reflector is any one of a spherical reflector, a curved reflector and a plane reflector;

The second reflector is any one of a spherical reflector, a curved reflector and a plane reflector.
The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the polarized transmission unit comprises a polarizer, and a polarization direction of the polarizer is perpendicular to the first polarization direction;

Alternatively, the polarization transmission unit includes a liquid crystal panel configured to transmit at least part of linearly polarized light in the second polarization direction and absorb linearly polarized light in the first polarization direction.
The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the display device further comprises: a casing; the casing has an observation window, and the polarized transmission unit is arranged on the observation window; Both the image generating unit and the imaging unit are located in the casing.
The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the virtual image is a three-dimensional image or a two-dimensional image.
The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first polarization direction is perpendicular to the second polarization direction.
A vehicle, characterized by comprising the display device according to any one of claims 1-13, the display device being installed on the vehicle.