Dual-focal-plane augmented reality head-up display using a single picture generation unit and a single freeform...

Area of Science:

• Optical Engineering
• Automotive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Augmented reality head-up displays (AR HUDs) typically require multiple focal planes for presenting diverse driving information.
• Existing multi-focal plane AR HUDs often utilize two separate picture generation units (PGUs) and optics, leading to increased cost, reduced reliability, and larger device volume.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a compact and cost-effective AR HUD solution with two distinct focal planes using a single PGU.
• To achieve high image quality across a wide eyebox for both near and far virtual images.

Main Methods:

• A single PGU was designed with two logically separated regions.
• Optical relay and a single freeform mirror were employed to create two focal planes from the single PGU.
• Optical and mechanical design optimization was performed to ensure image quality and a specific eyebox size.

Main Results:

• The proposed design successfully created two focal planes using a single PGU and a single freeform mirror.
• High image quality was achieved within a large eyebox (120 mm by 60 mm).
• Simultaneous display of a far image (9 m, 10°x3°) and a near image (2.5 m, 6°x2°) was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• A single PGU and freeform mirror approach is viable for creating dual focal plane AR HUDs.
• The developed AR HUD prototype achieved a compact volume of 8.5 L.
• This technology offers a promising solution for advanced automotive displays with reduced complexity and size.