Apparatus and system for providing a virtual display for a vehicle
Abstract
This record has no abstract on file.
Term
1.2 yearsto projected expiry
Projected expiry 20 November 2027, counted from filing; an application has no term until it is granted.
- Priority
- Filed
- Published
- Today
- Projected expiry
19 claims: 8 independent, 11 dependent
- 1Zastrzeżenia patentowe 1. Wyświetlacz (20) do zamontowania w pojeździe, zawierający:- generator (40) obrazu;i - półrefleksyjny element 30, skonfigurowany do przemieszczania z położenia nie-roboczego do położenia roboczego, przy czym element półrefleksyjny jest ustawiony tak, aby odbijać światło z generatora obrazu w położeniu roboczym, znamienny przez - gwintowany pręt (64) do obracania przez silnik (62);- karetkę (170), mającą gwintowany element, przy czym karetka jest obrotowo połączona półrefleksyjnym elementem i karetka przemieszczania wzdłuż drugie urządzenie jeżdżenia wzdłuż jest skonfigurowania do gwintowanego pręta przez obracanie gwintowanego pręta;- ramę zawierająca pierwszą szynę (80) i drugą szynę (80), które pozostają stacjonarne, kiedy przemieszcza się półrefleksyjny element;- pierwsze urządzenie wózkowe (72), skonfigurowane do jeżdżenia wzdłuż pierwszej szyny i wózkowe (72), skonfigurowane do drugiej szyny, przy czym urządzenia wózkowe, pierwsze i drugie, są obrotowo połączone z półrefleksyjnym elementem;przy czym, kiedy karetka jeździ wzdłuż gwintowanego pręta i urządzenia wózkowe, pierwsze i drugie, jeżdżą wzdłuż szyn, pierwszej i drugiej, obrotowe połączenia karetki i wózków z półrefleksyjnym elementem są skonfigurowane tak, aby spowodować wzdłużne i obrotowe przemieszczanie półrefleksyjnego elementu do położenia roboczego.
- 2Wyświetlacz według zastrzeżenia 1, w którym półrefleksyjny element jest przemieszczany obrotowo i wzdłużnie, kiedy półrefleksyjny element jest przemieszczany od położenia roboczego do położenia nie-roboczego.
- 3Wyświetlacz według zastrzeżenia 1, w którym obudowa zawiera pierwsze drzwiczki (50) i drugie drzwiczki (42), przy czym pierwsze drzwiczki zakrywają dalszy koniec półrefleksyjnego elementu kiedy jest w położeniu nieroboczym.
- 4Wyświetlacz według zastrzeżenia 1, w którym obudowa zawiera pierwsze drzwiczki i drugie drzwiczki, przy czym drugie drzwiczki zakrywają generator obrazu.
- 5Wyświetlacz według zastrzeżenia 1, w którym pierwsze drzwiczki zakrywają dalszy koniec elementu, kiedy element jest w położeniu nie-roboczym, przy czym drugie drzwiczki zakrywają generator obrazu.
- 6Wyświetlacz według zastrzeżenia 1, zawierający ponadto obudowę (22), która pozostaje nieruchoma, kiedy półrefleksyjny element przemieszcza się od położenia nieroboczego do położenia roboczego, przy czym silnik pozostaje nieruchomy względem obudowy.
- 7Wyświetlacz według zastrzeżenia 3, w którym drzwiczki są obrotowo połączone z co najmniej jednym spośród wózków i półrefleksyjnym elementem i w którym drzwiczki są skonfigurowane tak, że otwierają się, przy użyciu połączeń obrotowych, kiedy półrefleksyjny element przemieszcza się do położenia roboczego.
- 8Wyświetlacz według zastrzeżenia 1, w którym gwintowany pręt obraca się względem obudowy, ale nie zmienia poziomego lub pionowego położenia względem obudowy;i w którym gwintowany pręt jest w zasadzie równoległy do półrefleksyjnego elementu, kiedy półrefleksyjny element jest w położeniu nie-roboczym i w którym gwintowany pręt jest w zasadzie prostopadły do półrefleksyjnego elementu, kiedy półrefleksyjny element jest w położeniu roboczym.
- 9Sposób używania wirtualnego urządzenia wyświetlającego, zawierającego półrefleksyjny element (30) i wyświetlacz (40) obrazu, który to sposób obejmuje:przemieszczanie półrefleksyjnego elementu od położenia nie-roboczego do położenia roboczego, znamienny przez obracanie gwintowanego wału (64) przez silnik (62), powodując w ten sposób jeżdżenie karetki (170) wzdłuż gwintowanego pręta i powodując jeżdżenie urządzeń wózkowych (72), pierwszego i drugiego, wzdłuż szyn (80), pierwszej i drugiej, wirtualnego urządzenia wyświetlającego;przy czym, kiedy karetka jeździ wzdłuż gwintowanego pręta i urządzenia wózkowe, pierwsze i drugie, jeżdzą wzdłuż szyn, pierwszej i drugiej, obrotowe połączenia karetki i wózków z półrefleksyjnym elementem powodują, że półrefleksyjny element jest przemieszczany wzdłużnie i obrotowo do poł o ż enia roboczego;i ponadto obejmuje: - wyś wietlanie wirtualnego obrazu przez projekcję obrazu z wyświetlacza obrazu na półrefleksyjny element.
- 10Sposób według zastrzeżenia 9, obejmujący ponadto:otwieranie co najmniej jednych drzwiczek (50) w obudowie;i otwieranie co najmniej drugich drzwiczek (42), blokujących drogę optyczną pomiędzy półrefleksyjnym elementem a wyświetlaczem obrazu.
- 11Sposób według zastrzeżenia 10, w którym otwarcie drugich drzwiczek powoduje otwarcie co najmniej jednych drzwiczek.
- 12Sposób według zastrzeżenia 9, w którym półrefleksyjny element i co najmniej jedne drzwiczki są przemieszczane w wyniku ruchu jednego silnika, skonfigurowanego do obracania gwintowanego pręta.
- 13Sposób według zastrzeżenia 9, w którym ruch karetki i półprzezroczystego elementu powoduje otwarcie co najmniej jednych drzwiczek na obudowie i co najmniej drugich drzwiczek. Johnson Controls Technology Company Pełnomocnik:ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl 1/19 ^~10 72P35187PL00 EP 2 097 782 Bl 2/19 FIG..3B 72P35187PL00 EP 2 097 782 Bl 3/19 FIG. 3D 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl 4/19 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl 5/19 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl 6/19 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 Ο·*!*» Β1 7/19 nP3 5l87TL»° 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl 9/19 72P35187PL00 EP 2 097 782 Bl 10/19 72P35187PL00 EP 2 097 782 Bl 11/19 r rO LL 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl 12/19 72P35187PL00 13/19 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl
- 1414/19 72P35187PL00 EP 2 097 782 Bl
- 1515/14) 72P35187PL00 EP 2 097 782 Bl
- 1616/19 120 72P35187PL00 EP 2 097 782 Bl
- 1717/19 FIG. 25 162 72P35187PL00 ΕΡ 2 097 782 Bl
- 1818/19 120 72P35187PL00 Ef2097 782 Bl
- 1919/ 19 72P3s1S7 ploo
Independent claims19
80 paragraphs in 1 section, as filed
[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of vehicle displays. In particular, the notification refers to a system for providing a virtual image, the virtual image displaying information such as, but not limited to, vehicle performance (e.g. vehicle speed, engine speed, fuel level and / or warning) .
[0002] Vehicles use a head-up display (HUD) to provide a virtual image in the driver's field of view. The displays generally include a projector that delivers the image to a semi-reflective surface.
the surface can be a windshield, semi-reflective (e.g. mirror, glass, etc. in front of the windshield. The reflection of the image is seen by the driver and is perceived as existing at some point outside the semi-reflective surface, generally outside the vehicle. Displays that provide a virtual image are desirable because the information is at a focal length, which is more consistent with the driver's field of view, and the driver does not need to look down to get the right information, as is the case with a traditional set of instruments. [0003] It would be desirable to provide a display with a semi-reflective surface that is adapted to hide and generally hide inside the dashboard when not in use. It would also be advisable for the display to be a simple and robust system that is powered by one engine. It would also be advisable to provide a display that is less sensitive to vibration, temperature changes and / or heat dissipation.
[0004] A system and / or method is needed which satisfies one or more of said needs or provides other advantageous features. Other features and benefits will become apparent through this description. The disclosed disclosure extends to those embodiments that fall within the scope of the claims, regardless of whether they fulfill one or more of said needs.
[0005] Document US 2002/0012173 A1 describes a retractable vehicle display.
SUMMARY [0006] One embodiment relates to a display intended to be mounted on 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 set out in the dependent claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0009] The application will become clearer thanks to the following detailed description and accompanying figures in which these similar reference numerals refer to the same elements, wherein:
Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of a perspective view of a vehicle with a display according to an embodiment.
Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of a side view of a vehicle having a display according to an embodiment;
Figure 2 also shows an exemplary location of the virtual image.
Figures 3A-3D are schematic drawings of perspective views of the display in closed, intermediate and operating positions according to an embodiment.
Figures 4A-4D are schematic drawings of perspective views of the display in the positions of Figures 3A-3D, further showing the display 20 with the housing portion removed. Figures 5A-5D are drawings of the side views of the display in the closed, intermediate and operating positions of Figures 4A-4D according to an embodiment.
Figure 6 is a drawing of a perspective view of a moving part of the display drive system of Figures 4A-4D according to an embodiment.
Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional drawing of a portion of the drive assembly shown in Figure 6 according to an embodiment.
Figure 8 is a drawing of a side view of the display of Figures 3A-3D in a closed position, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 9 is a drawing of a perspective view of the display of Figure 3D in an intermediate position, according to an embodiment.
Figure 10 is a schematic drawing of a side view of the display of Figure 8 in an intermediate position according to an embodiment.
Figure 11 is a schematic drawing of a side view of the Figure 3D display in an operational position, according to an embodiment.
Figure 12 is a schematic drawing of a side view of the rollers for directing the movement of the display screen of Figures 3-5 according to an embodiment.
Figure 13 is a drawing of a top view of the display of Figure 3A according to an embodiment.
Figure 14 is a cross-sectional drawing along the line "14" of the display of Figure 13 according to an embodiment.
Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional drawing along the line "15" of the display of Figure 13, according to an embodiment.
Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional drawing along the line "16" of the display of Figure 14 according to an embodiment.
Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional drawing along the line "17" of the display of Figure 14 according to an embodiment.
Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional drawing along the line "18" of the display of Figure 15 according to an embodiment.
Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional drawing along the line "19" of the display of Figure 14 according to an embodiment. Figure 20 in the position of embodiment. Figure 21 Figures 20 embodiments. Figure 22 Figures 20 embodiments. Figure 23 Figures 20 embodiments. Figure 24 Figures 20 Fig. 25 Fig. 20 shows a perspective view of the display in a closed position, according to an alternative example shows a perspective view of the display in a first intermediate position, according to the example shows a perspective view of the display in a second intermediate position, according to the example shows a perspective view of the display in a working position or open, according to an example is shown the drawing of the side view of the display in closed position according to the embodiment. shows a partial side view of the display in closed position according to an embodiment.
Figure 26 is a side view, partly in section, of the display of Figure 20 in a closed position, according to an embodiment.
Figure 27 is a partial side view of the display of Figure 20, with the semi-reflective element being shown in an intermediate position, moving from a closed position to an open position, according to an embodiment.
Figure 28 is a drawing of a partial side view of the display of Figure 20 in an open or operative position, according to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EXAMPLES [0010] Before analyzing the figures, which illustrate the embodiments in detail, it is to be noted that the application is not limited to the details or methodology provided in the description below or illustrated in the figures. It should also be noted that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.
[0011] For the purposes of this specification, the term "combined" means connecting two elements directly or indirectly with each other. Such a connection can be stationary or mobile. Such a connection can be obtained using two elements, or two elements and any additional intermediate elements, integrally formed as one body with each other, or using two elements or two elements and any additional intermediate elements attached to each other. Such a connection may be permanent or, alternatively, it may be removable or detachable.
[0012] Referring to Figure 1, a vehicle 10 with a display 20 according to an embodiment is shown. Referring to Figure 2, the display 20 is mounted on the vehicle dashboard 10, generally in line with the driver and above the steering wheel. The display 20 (or parts thereof) may be located on the upper surface of the dashboard or below the upper surface of the dashboard. In a preferred embodiment, the display 20 is formed as a single unitary piece of equipment, the display 20 having an upper surface leveled with the surface of the dashboard when it is in a non-operating position and has a mirror protruding above the dashboard in the operating position.
locations, [0013] The display 20 includes a semi-reflective element (e.g.
screen, mirror, connecting element, glass element, plastic element, etc.) and image generator 40 (e.g. display, source, projector, etc.) that are selectively spaced or exposed when the display 20 passes from the first or closed position to second or working position. The image generator 40 is generally a projector, made in any past, present or future technology, that can project an image onto a semi-reflective element 30. The image generator 40 is generally adapted to project an image onto one surface of the semi-reflective element 30. The generator 40 may use lenses for image projection, or may operate without using lenses. The semi-reflective element 30 reflects and focuses the image generally in the eyes of the driver (e.g. on the driver's head, above the vehicle's dashboard, above the steering wheel, on the headrest, in the passenger's seat, etc.) and creates a virtual display 90 at a certain point on the opposite side of the semi-reflective element relative to the driver. The virtual display 90 allows information (e.g. vehicle speed, engine speed, fuel level, navigation information, cartographic information, interesting information about hands-free phone calls, music information, HVAC information, direction information, etc.) were displayed in the driver's field of view ( e.g. outside the windscreen of the vehicle), thanks to which the driver can see information without looking down at the traditional instrument cluster.
[0014] Figure 2 shows one exemplary location of the virtual display 90, generally along the bonnet of the car and approximately 2 meters from the driver. According to other embodiments, the display 20 can be used to display other information or images. For example, the display may display images from cameras or other sources (e.g., an image of the region behind the vehicle), or may display images that expand the region seen by the driver behind the windshield (e.g. night vision overlay, road line overlay, image enhancement of road signs, image enhancement of road details, navigational aid, map, information on the location of interest, etc.).
[0015] In Figures 3A-3D and 4A-4D, in a first or closed configuration, the display 20 is generally a continuous profile from (or within) the vehicle's dashboard 10. The display 20 includes a housing or cover 22, a first door or flap (e.g. horizontal door, upper door, etc.) 42 and a second door or flap (e.g. vertical door, front door, etc.) 50. The housing includes elements 24 (shown as outwardly projecting lugs) (e.g. brackets) that are configured to allow the display 20 to be mounted on the vehicle 10. When the display 20 moves towards the second or working position, the first door 42 rotates downward to expose the image generator 40 (shown in Figures 3B-3D and 4B-4D), and the second door 50 is rotated upward to allow the semi-reflective element 30 to slide out of the housing 22 (shown in Figures 3B8
3D). The semi-reflective element 30 is extended from the housing 22 and is rotated to a generally vertical orientation in the operating position (shown in Figures 3D and 4D). Vehicle data cables (e.g. vehicle media system, vehicle control system, vehicle ECU, vehicle data rail, etc.) are attached to the back of the display to convey vehicle information to the display (in particular to the image generator).
[0016] According to an embodiment, the semi-reflective element is a semi-reflective material (or has been processed or molded to be semi-reflective). The semi-reflective element 30 may be a one-piece element, or it may be made of a plurality of layers, parts or sections. The semi-reflective element 30 shown has a generally parabolic body. The semi-reflective element 30 may have a shape and / or material properties such that it is adapted to reflect the image while still maintaining at least partial transparency. The parabolic shape of the translucent element 30 can be adapted to focus the image emitted from the image generator 40 (and reflected back towards the driver's eyes). According to various other embodiments, the semi-reflective element 30 may have any shape, size or material or materials suitable for reflecting an image from the image generator.
[0017] Referring to Figures 3A-D, 4A-4 and 5A-D, the display 20 is shown in various positions. Figures 3A-D show the display 20 with the housing 22 mounted, and Figures 4A-5D show the display 20 with the housing part 22 removed. Figures 3A, 4A and 5A show the display 20 in a closed configuration in which the semi-reflective element 30 is enclosed within the housing 22 and / or in which the semi-reflective element is complex. Figures 3B, 4B and 5B show the display 20 with the first door 42 and the second door 50 in the operational position, or turned upwards and / or offset from the road, so that the semi-reflective element 30 can pass through the formed opening. Figures 3C, 4C and 5C show the display in an intermediate position with the semi-reflective element 30 partially extended from the housing 22. Figures 3D, 4D and 5D show the display 20 in an operating position in which the semi-reflective element 30 is completely extended from the housing 22 to a position in which the image generator 40 can display the image on the semi-reflective element 30.
[0018] With reference in particular to Figures 4A-4D and 5A5D, the image generator 40 is shown in more detail. According to an embodiment, the image generator 40 is a backlit liquid crystal display, but can be made in any suitable ancient, modern or future technology (e.g. DLP, OLED, plasma, LED, etc.). Illumination can be provided by numerous light-emitting diodes, e.g. super bright white LEDs, emitting radiation at an intensity of approximately 6000 candelas / m<sup>2</sup>. According to other embodiments, the backlight can be provided by other past, modern or future lighting technology (e.g. cathode ray tube, organic LEDs, fluorescent lamps, etc.).
[0019] Referring generally to Figures 3D-19, the semi-reflective element 30 is connected to the handle 32 (e.g., blade, base, etc.). The handle 32 is rotatably connected to the drive system 60 (shown in Figure 4D) by means of a shaft or axis 56 and rotatably connected to one or more carriages 72 (shown in detail in Fig. 12), wherein each carriage comprises a frame or body 74 and at least one roller 76, 78, which travel along the rails 80 provided on each side of the semi-reflective element 30. According to an embodiment, the rails 80 are configured to be metal and are they help stabilize the handle 32 and the semi-reflective element 30 when they move from the closed position of the working position (i.e. non-working position) until and during operation when the semi-reflective element 30 is in the working position.
[0020] Figures 3A, 4A and 5A show in particular the display 20 in a closed configuration in which the semi-reflective element 30 is hidden in the housing 22 and the first 42 and the second door 50 are closed to obtain an overall smooth continuous contour with the housing 22. The first door 42 is pivotally connected to the housing 22 at points 46 of the articulation axis, located away from the projector
40. The first door 42 is held closed by the projection 34, protruding from the handle 32, which contacts the flange 44 protruding outwardly from the first door 42. On each side, the second door 50 is connected to the arm or connector 48, protruding from the first door 42 at point 54 of the pivot axis and with rails 80 at point 52 of the pivot axis. The relative movement of point 52 of the pivot axis relative to points 54 of the pivot axis rotates the second door 50 around points 54 of the pivot axis. When the first door 24 is in the closed position, the second door 50 is in the closed position, and when the first door 42 is in the operating position, the second door 50 is in the operating position. [0021] The drive system 60, shown in detail in Figures 6 and 7, is configured to facilitate the movement of the semi-reflective element in a closed position (non-working position) spaced out (working position). The drive system 60 includes a motor 62, a threaded rod (e.g., shaft, screw) 64, two threaded components (e.g., nuts, housing with thread) 68, a spring 69, supported by a housing 70 and a bearing 66 between and position. According to an embodiment, the motor 62 is attached to the housing 22 and rotates the threaded rod 64. According to an embodiment, the motor 62 is a DC motor. According to other embodiments, the motor 62 may be a stepper motor, or any other suitable source providing driving force to the system. According to an embodiment, the motor 62 is stationary and the stationary location or nature of the motor 62 avoids the need for trailing wires or cables that would be needed to supply energy to the displaced motor with the handle 32 and the semi-reflective element 30. The threaded rod 64 is connected to one end with engine 62 and the other end with bearing 66. According to an embodiment, the motor 62 is located at the same end of the display 20 as the image generator 40. According to various other embodiments, the engine is located at the opposite end of the display. Threaded elements 68 are threaded coupled to threaded rod 64. According to an embodiment, threaded elements 68 are at least partially surrounded by a housing 70.
[0022] According to an embodiment, the threaded rod 64 passes through a spring 69 applied between the threaded elements 68. The spring 69 is configured to provide pressure for the threaded elements 68 to ensure that at least one of the threaded elements 68 is in contact with the threaded rod 64, or, for example, to adjust the distance between the threaded elements 68 if threaded the rod 64 will start to rotate in the opposite direction to the current movement. Housing 70 is connected to handle 32 (using rod 56 or otherwise) and may also not allow threaded elements 68 to rotate with threaded rod 64. When motor 62 rotates threaded rod 64, threaded elements 68 and housing 70 move longitudinally along the threaded rod 64.
[0023] Figures 4A-4D and 5A-5D show in particular the display 20 (and semi-reflective element) moving from the closed or non-operating position to the operating position. The motor 62 rotates the threaded rod 64, causing the handle 32 and the semi-reflective element 30 to move along the threaded rod 64 through the drive system 60. When the handle 32 is moved away from the closed position, the projection 34 and the collar 44 on the first door 42 are disengaged, allowing the first door 42 to be rotated downward from the non-working position to the operating position, exposing the image generator 40. Both collar 44 and projection 34 have sloped surfaces, allowing smooth and gradual transition. According to an embodiment, the first door 42 is pivoted towards an operating position (or, in other embodiments, towards a non-working position) using a pivoting element. The biasing element may be a spring, elastic element, or other means for providing force. According to other embodiments, the biasing element may not be used and the first door 42 may use gravity to move from the closed position to the operating position. When the first door 42 is rotated downwards, the arms 48 cause the second door 50 to be rotated upward, forming an opening in the housing 22 to extend the semi-reflective element 30.
[0024] As shown in Figures 3B, 4B and 5B, when the projection 34 on the handle 32 and the collar 44 on the first door 42 are fully disengaged, the first door 42 and the second door 50 are in the operating position and the semi-reflective element 30 is still inside the housing 22 .
[0025] Referring to Figures 4C and 5C, the semi-reflective element 30 is shown displaced along the threaded rod 64 through the housing 70 and threaded elements 68 to an intermediate position between the non-working position (e.g. closed position, folded position, etc.) and position working (e.g. open position). Each of the carriages 72 has rollers 76 that ride in a groove 82 (shown in Figure 12 as a generally V-shaped groove) on the top surface of the rail 80 and a third roller 78 that rides along the bottom surface of the rail 80. The groove 82 basically does not allow that the carriage 72 moves transversely to the rail 80, while the third shaft 72 does not allow the carriage 72 to rise above the rail 80. The groove 82 and the third shaft 78 force the carriage 72 to contact the rail 80 throughout the display range 20. The rail 80 has such a contour or profile that the rail 80 is closer to the threaded rod 64 at the proximal end relative to the image generator 40 and distal (in the vertical direction) to the threaded rod 64 at the opposite end to the image generator 40 (the proximal end of bearing 66). In this regard, the pivot axis points 36 in which the handle 32 is connected to the carriage 72 rise relative to the pivot point 38 in which the handle 32 is connected to the housing 70 using shaft 56, causing the handle 32 and the semi-reflective element 30 they rotate upward as they move away from the image generator 40 and from the housing 22.
[0026] Referring to Figures 3D, 4D and 5D, the display 20 is shown in the operating position with the semi-reflective element 30 also in the operating position (e.g., in a position in which the semi-reflective element 30 is generally perpendicular to its orientation when the display 20 is in the non-working position). The one or more rails 80 further includes a projection (or projections) 84 that act as mechanical stops for the trolleys 72 in the operational position. According to an embodiment, the semi-reflective element 30 is facing the image generator 40 when set to the operating position.
[0027] When the display 20 is opened or moved to the operating position, the motor 62 rotates the threaded rod 64 in the first direction. When the display 20 is moved back to the closed configuration (e.g., the semi-reflective element 30 returns to the non-operating position), the motor 62 rotates in the opposite direction, rotating the threaded rod 64 in the opposite direction, and causes the housing 70 to move towards the image generator 40 . Said movement retracts the semi-reflective element 30 and the handle 32 back to the housing 22. When the handle 32 is retracted into the position (e.g., non-operating position) shown in Figures 4A and 5A, the projection 34 contacts the flange 44 extending from the first door 42 and pushes the first door 42 up, storing the image generator 40. The movement of the first door 42 further causes the second door 50 to rotate back to the closed position.
[0028] Although the display 20 is shown as comprising an image generator 40 that emits an image directly on the semi-reflective element 30, it should be noted that many other variations are possible. For example, according to other embodiments, the image generator 40 may be positioned differently relative to the semi-reflective element 30 and the image may be reflected from one or more intermediate mirrors between the image generator 40 and the semi-reflective element 30. According to other embodiments, the image may be enlarged, reduced, transformed, or otherwise distorted by intermediate lenses or mirrors between the image generator 40 and the semi-reflective element 30.
[0029] Figures 7-11 further show rollers 76 and carriages 72 and their interaction with display rails 80.
When the housing 70 moves along the threaded rod 64, the handle 32 is rotated around the housing 70 by means of a pivot axis 38 and also rotates around the carriage 72 by means of a pivot axis 36. The carriage body 74 moves along the rail 80 on each side of the semi-reflective element 30 using rollers 76 and 78 located above and below the rail 80, respectively. The handle 32 and the semi-reflective element 30 move transversely in the same direction as the housing 70, while rotating about an axis perpendicular to the housing 70, thereby sliding the semi-reflective element 30 from the closed position to the operating position in which the projector 40 can emit a semi-reflective image item 30. Similarly, when the housing moves back towards the motor 62, the handle 32 and the semi-reflective element 30 move transversely with the housing 70, rotating simultaneously around the carriage 72, when the rollers 76 and 78 move along the rail 80, thereby hiding the semi-reflective element 30 to the closed position from the operating position.
[0030] In Figure 13, the top view of the display 20 illustrates exemplary points at which the display housing 22 can be attached to the vehicle 10, for example using screws, rivets, bolts, spacers, nails, welding, gluing, or any other fastening or fastening techniques. The figure also illustrates the lines along which the cross-sections shown in Figures 14 and 15 are made. Housing 22 and / or door 42 may have other shapes or sizes according to other various embodiments.
[0031] Figures 14 and 15 show other exemplary features of embodiments of the display 20 illustrated in Figures 3-12. Figures 14 and 15 also illustrate the lines along which the cross-sections shown in Figures 16 19 have been made.
[0032] Figures 16-19 show further exemplary characteristics of the embodiments of the display 20 shown in Figures 3-12. Figures 16-19 illustrate in particular the relationships and proportions of the hidden semi-reflective element 30 (when the display 20 is in the closed position), when it relates to a projector 40 according to at least one embodiment. In addition, the mounting device 90, configured to support the weight and secure the projector 40 to the housing 22, while shielding the projector 40 relative to the motor 62. In this embodiment, the device 90 includes a plate 92, connected to two rollers 94, which are attached to projector 40.
[0033] Figures 20-23 are perspective views of the display 120 according to an alternative embodiment. Figures 24-28 also show partial side views of the display 120. The housing 122 at least partially surrounds the semi-reflective element 130 in a non-operative (e.g., closed) position. According to yet other embodiments, the housing 122 is not provided in an integrated manner or as directly connected to the display 120, but rather is provided by vehicle structures (e.g., vehicle dashboard, or other vehicle part).
[0034] The display 120 includes brackets 124 extending from the frame 126. The frame 126 may generally extend along the length of the display 120, provide structural rigidity and / or provide a basis for mounting other display components 120. The brackets 124 may be generally configured so to connect with the vehicle structure. In embodiments where the housing is not integrated with the display, the frame 126 may be connected to the housing structure provided by the vehicle using bracket 124.
[0035] The image generator 140 is connected to the display 120. The image generator 140 is generally configured to emit images from the vicinity of one distal end of the display 120 to the other distal end of the display 120. As shown, the image generator 140 is raised above frame 126. The image generator 140 may be held perpendicular to the length of the frame 126, or may be held at an angle by one or more connecting elements used between the frame 126 and the image generator 140. The image generator 140 may be connected to a printed circuit board 141 (e.g., PCB, etc.).
[0036] The carriage 170 may be generally defined by or as a structure or structures that connect the semi-reflective element 130 to the threaded rod 164 for movement. The carriage 170 includes a handle 132, a threaded element 168, a housing, a biasing element, a pivot axis 136, a shaft 176 and a stabilizing element 172.
[0037] The carriage 170 is generally configured to move from the first distal end of the display 120 (end adjacent to the image generator 140 and / or motor 162) to the second distal end of the display 120 (end adjacent to bearing 166). Figures 20 and 24-26 show the carriage 170 at the first distal end (the semi-reflective element 130 is in the non-operative position). Figures 21, 22 and 27 show the carriage 170 in an intermediate position. Figures 23 and 28 show the chassis 170 at the other distal end (semi-reflective element 130 in operating position).
[0038] The motor 162 is operably connected to the threaded rod 164 such that the threaded rod is rotated when the engine 162 is running. Threaded member 168 of carriage 170 is configured to mate with threaded rod 164 such that when threaded rod 164 is rotated, threaded element 168 causes carriage 170 to travel along threaded rod 164 (since threaded element 168 is configured so that rotates relative to carriage 170) in one direction or the other.
A biasing element 169 (e.g., a spring) may be used in the carriage 170 so that the position of the threaded element 168 can be adjusted slightly relative to the carriage 170 (and / or other threaded component).
[0039] At least one rail 180 is used in the display 120. Rail 180 may be connected to a part of the vehicle and / or extend from the frame 126. Rail 180 extends diagonally with respect to threaded rod 164 and / or frame 126. Rail 180 extends up from frame 126. Note that other rail settings and / or shapes than those shown here may be used.
[0040] The carriage 170 and / or semi-reflective element 130 may
<td>include</td><td>roller</td><td> 176,</td><td>configured</td><td>Yes,</td><td>that mo</td>
<td>along and</td><td colspan="3">up and / or down the rail</td><td> 180.</td><td>Shaft ek</td>
<td colspan="2">located on</td><td>axis</td><td colspan="2">136 joint or in</td><td>different</td>
<td>ambulance</td><td> 170</td><td>is</td><td>moved</td><td>from</td><td>end</td>
adjacent to the image generator 140 to the end of the display adjacent to the bearing 166, the shaft 176 causes the semi-reflective element 130 to rotate from a closed or non-operating position (e.g., the semi-reflective element 130 is almost flush with the frame 126 and / or rail 180) to the open or operating position (shown in Figure 24) (e.g., the semi-reflective element 130 is almost parallel to the image providing surface of the image generator 140). [0041] One or more stabilizing elements 172 may be used such that they extend from semi-reflective element 130, pivot axis 136 and / or carriage 170 to prevent movement of carriage 170 and / or semi-reflective element 130 too far in one direction (e.g. opening too large, displacement too close to bearing 166). Stabilizing element 172 (e.g. hook, handle, etc.) can be adapted to engage with, grip, meet, or snap onto one or more elements 184 (e.g., pin, protrusion, etc.) when the semi-reflective element 130 is moved to the operational position. When the semi-reflective element 130 is not in the operating position (e.g. closed position, intermediate position), the biasing element 138 and / or gravity can keep the stabilizing element 172 low and / or in a position such that the stabilizing element 172 catches the pin 184. When the carriage 170 is moved from the operating position (e.g., open position) from back to the non-working position (e.g. intermediate position, closed position), the stabilizing element 172 rotates away from the element 184 so that the stabilizing element 172 is not hooked or held by the element 184.
[0042] It should be noted that the rods 128 shown in Figures 20-23 (e.g., guide elements, etc.) can be used in the display 120. The rods 128 can be threaded and / or smooth and can provide carriage stabilization 170. Figures 20 and 21 show the biasing element 142. The biasing element
142 can keep handle 132 and / or semi-reflective element closed or inoperative.
biasing 142 may be configured to assist in upward movement or movement to the working position.
[0043] Although the embodiments illustrated in the figures and described herein are currently preferred, it should be noted that these embodiments are shown only
130 low in position. Alternatively, element as examples. Accordingly, the present application is not limited to a specific embodiment, but extends to various modifications, which nevertheless fall within the scope of the attached claims.
[0044] It should be noted that the display structure and arrangement, shown in various embodiments, are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who are analyzing this disclosure will readily recognize that many modifications are possible (e.g. variations of sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of various elements, parameter values, assembly systems, materials used, colors, settings, etc.) without a fundamental departure from the innovative representation and advantages of the object, cited in the claims. For example, the type of information displayed is not restrictive. For example, the elements shown as molded in an integrated manner may be constructed of a plurality of parts or elements, the positions of the elements may be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or number of separate elements or positions may be exchanged or changed. Accordingly, all such modifications are within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. The order or sequence of steps of any process or method may be changed, or reorganized into sequences according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any clause relating to measures and functions includes the structures described herein, performing the functions cited and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made to the construction, operating conditions and arrangement of embodiments without departing from the scope of the present claims.
of the invention as expressed in the attached
Johnson Controls Technology Company
Proxy:
EP 2 097 782 B1
12 members in 7 offices
Priority claims8
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 86014006 | United States of America | P | |
| 86014006 | United States of America | P | |
| 07840080 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A | |
| 2007024239 | United States of America | W | |
| 2007024239 | United States of America | W | |
| EP20070840080 | – | – | – |
| US20060860140P | – | – | – |
| WO2007US24239 | – | – | – |
Members12
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2008063632A2 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A2 | |
| WO2008063632A3 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A3 | |
| KR20090082259A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| EP2097782A2 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A2 | |
| CN101578547A | China | A | |
| US2010046082A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US8077396B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| CN101578547B | China | B | |
| EP2097782B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 | |
| KR101433407B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| PL2097782T3This record | Poland | T3 | |
| HUE024170T2 | Hungary | T2 |
Numbers
- Publication, DOCDB
- 2097782
- Publication, EPODOC
- PL2097782T
- Application
- 840080
- Application, DOCDB
- 07840080
- Application, EPODOC
- PL20070840080T
Titles2
- English
- APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING A VIRTUAL DISPLAY FOR A VEHICLE
- Polish
- Urządzenie i system dla zapewnienia wirtualnego wyświetlacza do samochodu
Classification
- CPC, 12
- G02B27/0149
- G02B27/01
- G02B2027/0156
- G03B21/10
- G03B21/28
- G03B21/30
- B60K2360/334
- B60K35/22
- B60K35/60
- B60K35/55
- B60K35/28
- B60K35/00
- IPC, 3
- G02B27 01
- B60K35 00
- G03B21 28