Apparatus and system for providing a virtual display for a vehicle

(56) References cited:

(72)

Inventors:

CROY, Jean-Luc 94450 Limeil Brévannes (FR)

EP-A-0 824 216 GB-A-2 348 858 US-A- 5 748 346 US-A1-2005 024 490

FR-A- 2 559 278 US-A- 5 457 575 US-A1-2002 012 173

ΕΡ 2 097 782 Β1

Note: Within nine months ofthe publication ofthe mention ofthe grant ofthe European patent in the European Patent Bulletin, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to that patent, in accordance with the Implementing Regulations. Notice of opposition shall nőt be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention).

Printed by Jouve, 75001 PARIS (FR)

EP 2 097 782 Β1

Description

BACKGROUND [0001] The present application relates generally to the field of display units fór vehicles. Specifically, the application relates to a system fór providing a Virtual image, the Virtual image displaying information such as bút nőt limited to vehicle operating information (e.g., vehicle speed, engine speed, fuel levels and/or warnings). [0002] Vehicles have utilized a display unit, sometimes called a head-up display unit (HŰD), to provide a Virtual image in a driver’s field of Vision. Displays generally include a projector that provides an image onto a semireflective surface. The semi-reflective surface can be a windshield or a semi-reflective member (e.g., mirror, glass, etc.) disposed in front of the windshield. The reflection of the image is seen by a driver and is perceived as existing at somé point beyond the semi-reflective surface, generally outside the vehicle. Displays that provide a Virtual image are desirable because information is at a focal length more consistent within the driver’s field of Vision and the driver does nőt have to look down to access the information aswith a conventional instrumentcluster. [0003] It would be desirable to provide a display unit with a semi-reflective surface that is configured to be retracted and generally hidden within the dashboard when nőt in use. It would alsó be desirable fór the display unit to be asimple and robust system that is driven by a single motor. It would alsó be desirable to provide a display unit that is less susceptible to vibration, temperature changes, and/or heat dissipation.

[0004] What is needed is a system and/or method that satisfies one or more of these needs or provides other advantageous features. Other features and advantages will be made apparentfrom the present specification. The teachings disclosed extend to those embodiments that fali within the scope ofthe claims, regardless ofwhether they accomplish one or more of the aforementioned needs.

[0005] Document US 2002/0012173 A1 disclosesaretractable display unit fór vehicles.

SUMMARY [0006] One embodiment relates to a display unit fór mounting in a vehicle as defined in claim 1.

[0007] Another embodiment relates to a method of using a Virtual display as defined in claim 9.

[0008] Other embodiments relate to features and combinations of features as recited in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0009] The application will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals referto like elements, in which:

FIGURE 1 is a schematic isometric view drawing of a vehicle with a display unit according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 2 is a schematic side elevation view drawing of a vehicle having a display unit according to an exemplary embodiment; FIGURE 2 alsó shows an exemplary piacement of a Virtual image.

FIGURES 3A-3D are schematic isometric view drawings of a display unit in closed, intermediate, and operational positions according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 4A-4D are schematic isometric view drawings of the display unit in the positions of FIGURES 3A-3D, further showing the display unit 20 with a portion ofthe housing removed.

FIGURES 5A-5D are side elevation view drawings of the display unit in the closed, intermediate, and operational positions of FIGURES. 4A-4D according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 6 is a perspective view drawing of a traveling portion of a drive system of the display unit in FIGURES 4A-4D, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 7 is a schematic sectional view drawing of the portion ofthe drive assembly shown in FIGURE 6, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 8 is a side elevation view drawing of the display unit of FIGURES. 3A-3D in a closed position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 9 is a perspective view drawing ofthe display unit of FIGURE 3D in an intermediate position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 10 is a schematic side elevation view drawing ofthe display unitof FIGURE 8, in an intermediate position, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIGURE 11 is a schematic side elevation view drawing ofthe display unit in FIGURE 3D in an operational position; according to an exemplary embodiment. FIGURE 12 is a schematic side elevation view drawing ofrollersforguiding movementof a screen ofthe display unit in FIGURES 3-5 according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 13 is a top view drawing ofthe display unit in FIGURE 3A, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 14 is a cross-sectional view drawing cut across section 14 ofthe display unit in FIGURE 13, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view drawing cut across section 15 ofthe display unit in FIGURE 13, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view drawing cut across section 16 ofthe display unit in FIGURE 14 according toan exemplary embodiment. FIGURE 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view drawing cut across section 17 ofthe display unit in FIGURE 14 according toan exemplary embodiment.

EP 2 097 782 Β1

FIGURE 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view drawing cut across section 18 ofthe display unit in FIGURE 15 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIGURE 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view drawing cut across section 19 ofthe display unit in FIGURE 14 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIGURE 20 is a perspective view a display unit in a closed position, according to an alternative exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 21 is a perspective view ofthe display unit of FIGURE 20, in a first intermediate position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 22 is a perspective view ofthe display unit of FIGURE 20, in a second intermediate position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 23 is a perspective view ofthe display unit of FIGURE 20, in an operational or open position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 24 is a side elevation view drawing ofthe display unit of FIGURE 20, in a closed position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 25 is a partial side elevation view of the display unit of FIGURE 20, in a closed position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 26 is a partial cutaway side elevation view ofthe display unit of FIGURE 20, in a closed position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 27 is a partial side elevation view of the display unit of FIGURE 20, the semi-reflective memberisshown in an intermediate position, transitioning from a closed position to an open position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 28 is a partial side elevation view drawing of the display unit of FIGURE 20 in an open or operational position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS [0010] Before turning to the figures which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the application is nőt limited to the details or methodology set forth in the following description or illustrated in the figures. It should alsó be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is fór the purpose of description only and should nőt be regarded as limiting.

[0011] Fór purposes of this disclosure, the term coupled means thejoining oftwo members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in natúré or moveable in natúré. Such joining may be achieved with the two members orthe two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members orthe two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in natúré or alternatively may be removable or releasable in natúré.

[0012] Referring to FIGURE 1, a vehicle 10 is shown with a display unit 20 according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIGURE 2, the display unit 20 is mounted in the dashboard ofthe vehicle 10 generally in line with the driver and above thesteering wheel. Display unit 20 (or portions thereof) can be situated on a top surface of the dashboard or below the top surface of the dashboard. In a preferred embodiment, display unit 20 is formed to a singe unitary piece of equipment, display unit 20 having a top surface flush with the surface of the dashboard when in a non-operational position and having amirrorextending above the dashboard in an operational position.

[0013] Display unit 20 includes a semi-reflective member (e.g., screen, mirror, combiner, glass piece, plastic piece, etc.) 30 and an image generátor 40 (e.g., display, source, projector, etc.) that are selectively deployed or revealed when display unit20moves from a first or closed position to a second or operational position. Image generátor 40 is generally a projector of any suitable pást, present, orfuture technology capableofcasting an image on semi-reflective member 30. Image generátor 40 is generally configured to project an image onto one face of semi-reflective member 30. Generátor 40 can use lenses to project the image or might operate without the use of lenses. Semi-reflective member 30 reflects and focuses the image generally at the eyes ofthe driver (e.g., at the head ofthe driver, above the vehicle’s dash, above the steering wheel, at the headrests, at a passenger location, etc.) and creates a Virtual display 90 at somé point on the opposite side ofthe semi-reflective member from the driver. Virtual display 90 allows Information (e.g., vehicle speed, engine RPM, fuel level, navigation Information, point of interest Information, map Information, hands-free call Information, music Information, HVAC information, direction Information, etc.) to be displayed in the driver’s field of Vision (e.g. out the windshield of the vehicle), allowing thedrivertosee the Information without looking down at a conventional gauge cluster.

[0014] FIGURE 2 shows one exemplary location of Virtual display 90, generally along the hood ofthe vehicle and approximately 2 meters from the driver. According to other exemplary embodiments, display unit 20 may be used to display other informationorimages. Fór example, the display unit may display imagesfrom camerasor other sources (e.g., an image ofthe area behind the vehicle) or may display images that enhance the area seen by the driver out the windshield (e.g., a night Vision overlay, a road line overlay, road sign enhancement, road detail enhancement, navigational aides, map Information, point of interest Information, etc.).

[0015] Referring to FIGURES 3A-3D and 4A-4D, when in a first or closed configuration, display unit 20 presents a generally continuous contourwith (or within) the dashboard of vehicle 10. Display unit 20 includes a housing or casing 22, afirstdoororflap (e.g., horizontal door, top door, etc.) 42, and a second door or flap (e.g., vertical

ΕΡ 2 097 782 Β1 door, front door, etc.) 50. The casing includes features 24 (shown as outwardly extending protrusions)(e.g., brackets) that are configured to allow the display unit 20 to be coupled to the vehicle 10. When display unit 20 moves toward a second or operational position, the first door 42 pivots downward to reveal image generátor 40 (shown in FIGURES 3B-3D and 4B-4D) and the second door 50 rotates upward to allow semi-reflective member 30 to deploy from inside housing 22 (shown in FIGURES 3B-3D). The semi-reflective member 30 is deployed out of the housing 22 and pivots to a generally vertical orientation in the operational position (shown in FIGURES 3D and 4D). Data cables from the vehicle (e.g., vehicle média system, vehicle control system, vehicle ECU, vehicle data bús, etc.) are coupled to the back ofthe display unitto transfer vehicle Information to the display unit (and the image generátor in particular).

[0016] According to an exemplary embodiment, semireflective member 30 is a semi-reflective matériái (or has been treated orformed so that it is semi-reflective). Semireflective member 30 might be a one piece member, or might be made of multiple layers, pieces, or sections. Semi-reflective member 30 is shown as having a generally parabolic body. Semi-reflective member 30 may be shaped and/or have matériái properties such that it is configured to reflect an image while still maintaining at least partial transparency. A parabolic shape of semireflective member 30 may be configured to focus the image projected from image generátor 40 (and reflected back atthe eyes ofthe driver). According to various other exemplary embodiments, semi-reflective member 30 may be of any shape, size, or matériái or materials suitable fór reflecting an image from image generátor 40. [0017] Referring to FIGURES 3A-D, 4A-D, and 5A-D, display unit 20 is shown in various positions. FIGURES 3A-D show display unit 20 with the housing 22 in piacé and FIGURES 4A-5D show the display unit 20 with a portion ofthe housing 22 removed. FIGURES 3A, 4A and 5A show the display unit 20 in a closed configuration where semi-reflective member 30 is enclosed within housing 22 and/or wherein semi-reflective member is földed down. FIGURES 3B, 4B, and 5B show display unit 20 with the first door 42 and the second door 50 in an operational position or rotated up and/or out of the way so that semi-reflective member 30 may pass through the opening created. FIGURES 3C, 4C, and 5C show the display unit in an intermediate position with semi-reflective member 30 partially emerged from housing 22. FIGURES 3D, 4D, and 5D show the display unit 20 in an operational position where semi-reflective member 30 is fully emerged from housing 22 to a position where image generátor 40 can display an image on semi-reflective member 30.

[0018] Referring especially to FIGURES 4A-4D and 5A-5D, image generátor 40 is shown in greater detail. According to an exemplary embodiment, image generátor 40 is a backlit liquid crystal display, bút could be of any suitable pást, present or future technology (e.g.,

DLP, ÖLED, plasma, LED, etc.). The backlighting may be provided by a plurality of light emitting diodes such as super bright white LEDS producing illumination of approximately 6000 candelas/m². According to other exemplary embodiments the backlighting could be provided by another lighting technology of the pást, present, or future (e.g., a cathode ray tűbe, organic LEDs, florescent lamp etc.).

[0019] Referring generally to FIGS. 3D-19, semi-reflective member 30 is coupled to a holder 32 (e.g., blade, base, etc.). Holder 32 is pivotably coupled to a drive system 60 (shown in FIGURE 4D) with a shaft or axle 56 and pivotably coupled to one or more trolleys 72 (shown in detail in FIGURE 12), each trolley including aframeor body 74 and at least one roller 76, 78 which ride along rails 80 provided on either sídé of the semi-reflective member 30. According to an exemplary embodiment, rails 80 are metál members and are configured to help stabilize holder 32 and semi-reflective member 30 as they move from a closed position (i.e., non-operational position) to an operational position and during use when semi-reflective member 30 is in the operational position. [0020] FIGURES 3A, 4A, and 5A more specifically shows display unit 20 in a closed configuration in which semi-reflective member 30 is retracted within housing 22 and first 42 and second 50 doors are closed to provide a generally smooth continuous contour with the housing 22. First door 42 is pivotably coupled to housing 22 at pivot points 46disposed away from the projector40. First door 42 is held in the closed position by a protrusion 34 extending outward from holder 32 which contacts a flange 44 extending outward from first door 42. On either sídé, second door 50 is coupled to arm or link 48 extending from first door 42 at pivot point 54 and to rails 80 at pivot point 52. The relatíve movement of pivot point 52 relatíve to pivot points 54 rotates second door 50 around pivot points 54. When first door 42 is in a closed position, the second door 50 is in a closed position and when the first door 42 is in an operational position, second door 50 is in an operational position.

[0021] Drive system 60, shown in FIGURES 6 and 7 in detail, is configured to facilitate travel of semi-reflective member 30 between a closed position (non-operational position) and a deployed position (operational position). Drive system 60 includes a motor 62, a threaded rod (e.g., lead screw, bolt) 64, two threaded members (e.g., nuts, thread receiving devices) 68, a spring 69 retained by a housing 70, and a bearing 66. According to an exemplary embodiment, motor 62 is mounted to housing 22 and turns threaded rod 64. According to an exemplary embodiment, motor 62 is a DC motor. According to other exemplary embodiments motor 62 may be a stepper motor or any other suitable source fór providing motive force to the system. According to an exemplary embodiment, motor 62 is stationary, and the stationary piacement or natúré of motor 62 prevents the need fór trailing wires or cables that would be needed to provide power to a motor that moved with holder 32 and semi-reflective member

EP 2 097 782 Β1

30. Threaded rod 64 is coupled on one end to motor 62 and on another end to a bearing 66. According to an exemplary embodiment, motor 62 is disposed on the same end of display unit 20 as image generátor 40. According to various other exemplary embodiments, the motor is disposed on the opposite end ofthe display unit. Threaded members 68 are threadably engaged with threaded rod 64. According to an exemplary embodiment, threaded members 68 are at least partially surrounded by housing 70.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment, threaded rod 64 passes through a spring 69 provided between threaded members 68. Spring 69 is configured to provide a biasing force to threaded members 68 to ensure that at least one of threaded members 68 remains in contact with threaded rod 64, or, fór example, to adjust thegap between one of threaded members 68 if threaded rod 64 begins rotation in a direction opposite of its recent movement. Housing 70 is coupled to holder 32 (via rod 56 or otherwise) and may alsó prevent threaded members 68 from turning with threaded rod 64. As motor 62 turns threaded rod 64, threaded members 68 and housing 70 travel longitudinally along threaded rod 64. [0023] FIGURES 4A-4D and 5A-5D more specifically show display unit 20 (and the semi-reflective member) moving from a closed or non-operational position to an operational position. Motor 62 turns threaded rod 64, causing holder 32 and semi-reflective member 30 to translate longitudinally along threaded rod 64 via drive system 60. As holder 32 is moved away from a closed position, protrusion 34 and flange 44 on first door 42 are disengaged, allowingfirstdoor42to pivotdownwardfrom a non-operational position to an operational position, exposing image generátor 40. Flange 44 and protrusion 34 each included ramped surfaces to allowfora smooth and gradual transition. According to an exemplary embodiment, first door 42 is biased towards the operational position (or, in other exemplary embodiments, towards the non-operational position) with a biasing member. The biasing member can be a spring, elastic element, or other means fór providing a force. According to other exemplary embodiments, a biasing member may nőt be used and first door 42 may rely on gravity to move it from a closed position to a operational position. As first door 42 pivots downward, arms 48 cause second door 50 to rotate upward, creating an opening in the housing 22 fór the semi-reflective member 30 to extend through.

[0024] As shown in FIGURES 3B, 4B, and 5B, when protrusion 34 on holder 32, and flange 44 on first door 42, are completely disengaged, first door 42 and second door 50 are in the operational position and the semi-reflective member 30 is still within the housing 22.

[0025] Referring to FIGURE 4C and 5C, semi-reflective member 30 is shown translated along threaded rod 64 by housing 70 and threaded members 68 in a position intermediate between the non-operational position (e.g., closed position, földed down position, etc.) and the operational position (e.g., open position). Each of trolieys have rollers 76 that ride in a groove 82 (shown in FIGURE 12 as agenerally v-shaped groove) on the upper surface of a rail 80 and a third roller 78 that rides along the bottom surface ofthe rail 80. Groove 82 substantially prevents trolley 72 from moving laterally relatíve to rail 80 while third roller 78 prevents trolley 72 from lifting off rail 80. Groove 82 and third roller 78 ürge trolley 72 to be in contact with rail 80 through the entire rangé of motion of display unit 20. Rail 80 has a contour or profile such that rail 80 is closer to threaded rod 64 on the end proximate to image generátor 40 and further away (vertically) from threaded rod 64 on the end opposite of image generator40 (theend near bearing 66). Becauseofthis, pivot points 36 at which holder 32 is coupled to trolley 72 rise relatíve to pivot points 38 at which holder 32 is coupled to housing 70 with shaft 56, causing holder 32 and semireflective member30 to rotate upward as they move away from image generátor 40 and out of housing 22.

[0026] Referring to FIGURES 3D, 4D, and 5D, display unit 20 is shown in the operational position with semireflective member 30 alsó in an operational position (e.g., a position whereby semi-reflective member 30 is generally perpendicular to its orientation when display unit 20 is in the non-operational position). One or more rails 80 further include a protrusion (or protrusions) 84 that acts as a mechanical stop fór trolleys 72 at the operational position. According to an exemplary embodiment, semireflective member 30 faces image generátor 40 when in an operational position.

[0027] When display unit 20 is opening or moving to an operational position, motor 62 is rotating threaded rod 64 in a first direction. When display unit 20 is returning to a closed configuration (e.g., semi-reflective member 30 returns to a non-operational position), motor 62 rotates in the opposite direction, turning threaded rod 64 in the opposite direction and causes housing 70 to move toward image generátor 40. This movement retracts semi-reflective member 30 and holder 32 back intő housing 22. When holder 32 is retracted to the position (e.g., the non-operational position) shown in FIGURES 4Aand 5A, protrusion 34 contacts flange 44 extending from first door 42 and pushes first door 42 upward, concealing image generátor 40. The movement of first door 42 further rotates second door 50 back intő a closed position. [0028] While display unit 20 is shown having an image generátor 40 that projects an image directly onto semireflective member 30, it should be understood that many other variations are possible. Fór instance, according to other exemplary embodiments, image generátor 40 may be oriented differently relatíve to semi-reflective member 30 and the image may be reflected off one or more intermediate mirrors between image generátor 40 and semireflective member 30. According to other exemplary embodiments, the image may be magnified, shrunk, transformed, or otherwise distorted by intermediate lenses or mirrors between image generátor 40 and semi-reflective member 30.

[0029] Referring to FIGURES 7-11, greater detail of

EP 2 097 782 Β1 rollers 76 and 78 of trolleys 72 and their interaction with rails 80 of display unit 20 is shown. As housing 70 travels along threaded rod 64, holder 32 pivots about housing 70 by way of pivot 38 and alsó pivots about trolley 72 with pivot 36. Trolley body 74 travels along rail 80 on each sídé of semi-reflective member 30 via rollers 76 and 78 positioned above and below rail 80, respectively. Holder 32 and semi-reflective member 30 both move laterally in the same direction as housing 70 while rotating about an axis perpendicular to housing 70, thus deploying semi-reflective member 30 from a closed position to an operational position at which point projector 40 may project an image onto semi-reflective member 30. Similarly, when housing travels back towards motor 62, holder 32 and semi-reflective member 30 move laterally with housing 70 while rotating about trolley 72 as rollers 76 and 78 travel along rail 80, thus storing semi-reflective member 30 in a closed position from an operational position.

[0030] Referring to FIGURE. 13, on overhead view of display unit 20 illustratesexemplary pointsat which housing 22 of display unit 20 may be fixed to vehicle 10, fór example with screws; rivets, pins, stand-offs, nails, welding, an adhesive, or any other fastenerorfastening technique. The figure alsó illustrates lines along which the cross-sectional views of FIGURES 14 and 15 are taken. Housing 22 and/or door 42 may be shaped or sízed differently, according to other various embodiments. [0031] Referring to FIGURES 14 and 15, further exemplary features are shown of the embodiments of display unit 20 illustrated in FIGURES 3-12. FIGURES 14 and 15 alsó illustrate the lines along which the crosssectional views of FIGURES 16-19 are taken.

[0032] Referring to FIGURES 16-19, furtherexemplary characterizations are shown ofthe embodiments of display unit 20 illustrated in FIGURES 3-12. FIGURES 16-19 more specifically illustrate the relationship and proportions of a stored semi-reflective member 30 (when display unit 20 is in a closed position) as it relates to projector 40 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Further, a mounting apparátus 90 configured to support the weight of and secure projector 40 to housing 22 while shielding projector 40 from motor 62. In this exemplary embodiment, apparátus 90 includes a plate 92 coupled to two shafts 94 that are fastened to projector40. [0033] Referring to FIGURES 20-23, perspective views of display unit 120 are shown, according to an alternative embodiment. Alsó referring to FIGURES 24-28, partial sídé elevation views of display unit 120 are shown. Housing 122 at least partially surrounds semi-reflective member 130 in a non-operational (e.g., closed) position. According to yet other embodiments, housing 122 is nőt integrally provided ordirectly coupled to display unit 120, bút rather is provided by structures ofthe vehicle (e.g., vehicle dashboard or another vehicle part).

[0034] Display unit 120 is shown to include brackets 124 extendingfrom frame 126. Frame 126 maygenerally extend the length of display unit 120, provide structural rigidity, and/or provide a base fór mounting to other components of display unit 120. Brackets 124 may be generally configured to couple to a structure of the vehicle. In embodiments where housing is nőt integrál with the display unit, frame 126 may couple to a vehicle provided housing structure via bracket 124.

[0035] Image generátor 140 is shown coupled to display unit 120. Image generátor 140 is generally configured to project imagesfrom nearonedistal end of display unit 120 to another distal end of display unit 120. As shown, image generátor 140 is raised off frame 126. Image generátor 140 may be held perpendicular to the length of frame 126, or may be held at somé angle by one or more coupling elements provided between frame 126 and image generátor 140. Image generátor 140 may be coupled to a Circuit board 141 (e.g., PCB, etc.). [0036] Carriage 170 may generally be defined by or as the structure or structures that couple semi-reflective member 130 to threaded rod 164 fór movement. Carriage 170 is shown to include a holder 132, a threaded member 168, a housing, a biasing member, a pivot 136, a roller 176, and a stabilizing member 172.

[0037] Carriage 170 is generally configured to travel from a first distal end of display unit 120 (the end near image generátor 140 and/or motor 162) to a second distal end of display unit 120 (the end near bearing 166). FIGURES 20 and 24-26 show carriage 170 at the first distal end (semi-reflective member 130 is in a non-operational position). FIGURES 21,22 and 27 show carriage 170 at an intermediate position. FIGURES 23 and 28 show carriage 170 at the second distal end (semi-reflective member 130 is in an operational position).

[0038] Motor 162 is functionally coupled to threaded rod 164 such that threaded rod rotates when motor 162 is actuated. A threaded member 168 of carriage 170 is configured to operate with threaded rod 164 such that when threaded rod 164 rotates, threaded member 168 causes carriage 170 to move along threaded rod 164 (as threaded member 168 is configured nőt to rotate relatíve to carriage 170) in one direction or another. Biasing member 169 (e.g., a spring) may be provided to carriage 170 so that the position of threaded member 168 may be slightly adjusted relatíve to carriage 170 (and/or another threaded member).

[0039] At least one rail 180 is provided to display 120. Rail 180 may be coupled to a part ofthe vehicle and/or may extend from frame 126. Rail 180 is shown to extend diagonally relatíve to the threaded rod 164 and/or frame 126. Rail 180 is shown to ramp upward from frame 126. It is importantto note that different rail orientations and/or shapes may be provided than those shown herein. [0040] Carriage 170 and/or semi-reflective member 130 may include roller 176 configured to roll along and up and/or down rail 180. Roller 176 may be located at pivot 136 or otherwise. As carriage 170 is caused to move from the display end near image generátor 140 to the display end near bearing 166, roller 176 causes semireflective member 130 to rotate from a closed or non6

EP 2 097 782 Β1 operatíve position (e.g., semi-reflective member 130 is nearflat relatíve to frame 126 and/or rail 180) to an open or operatíve position (shown in FIGURE 24)(e.g., semireflective member 130 is near parallel to the image providing surface of image generátor 140).

[0041] One or more stabilizing elements 172 may be provided to extend from semi-reflective member 130, pivot 136, and/or carriage 170 to prevent carriage 170 and/or semi-reflective member 130 from moving too far in one direction (e.g., opening too far, traveling too near bearing 166). Stabilizing element 172 (e.g., hook, holder, etc.) may be configured tojóin, catch, meet, or latch to one or more elements 184 (e.g., pin, protrusion, etc.) when semi-reflective member 130 is moved to the operational position. When semi-reflective member 130 is nőt in an operational position (e.g., a closed position, an intermediate position), a biasing member 138 and/orgravity may hold stabilizing element 172 down and/or in a position so that stabilizing element 172 catches pin 184. When carriage 170 is moved from the operational position (e.g., the open position) back to a non-operational position (e.g., an intermediate position, a closed position), stabilizing element 172 pivots away from element 184 such that stabilizing element 172 is no longer hooked or held to element 184.

[0042] It is important to note that rods 128 shown in FIGURES 20-23 (e.g., guide members, etc.) may be provided to display unit 120. Rods 128 may be threaded and/or smooth and may provide stabilization to carriage 170. FIGURES 20 and 21 show biasing member 142. Biasing member 142 may function to hold holder 132 and/or semi-reflective member 130 down in a closed or non-operational position. Alternatively, biasing member 142 may be configured to assist with the upward movement or movement to an operational position.

[0043] While the exemplary embodiments i11ustrated in the figures and described herein are presently preferred, it should be understood that these embodiments are offered by way of example only. Accordingly, the present application is nőt limited to a particular embodiment, bút extends to various modifications that nevertheless fali within the scope ofthe appended claims.

[0044] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement ofthe display unit as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present inventions have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the artwhoreview this disclosure will readilyappreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the növel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. Fór example, the typeof information displayed is nőt disclosed in a limiting fashion. Fór example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the natúré or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope ofthe present invention as defined in the appended claims. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to coverthe structures described herein as performing the recited function and nőt only structural equivalents bút alsó equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement ofthe exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present inventions as expressed in the appended claims.