Microstructured head-up display screen for automotive applications

Abstract

A novel see-through screen is developed for automobiles which reduces the size of the head-up display (HUD) unit considerably. The screen is illuminated by a laser scanning pico-projector and a real image is formed on the screen. The screen has thousands of hexagonally packed microlenses that are partially reflective and embedded in an index matched medium which provides very good see-through capability. Light reflected from the microlenses expand and form a hexagon shaped viewing window. This system is called a direct projection HUD system as the pico projector projects directly onto the screen and forms a real image on it. The system is very compact and does not require any space under the dashboard, which saves on space for the car manufacturers, or allows it to be used immediately as an aftermarket HUD installed in any car.