DEVICE FOR HEAD-UP PROJECTION, AND HELMET FOR THE ARRANGEMENT OF A HEAD-UP PROJECTION DEVICE

A heads-up projection device configured to be arranged on or in a helmet, for detecting and processing data and for reproducing the data in a virtual image within the view field of an eye of a user of the helmet. The device comprises a housing in which operating elements are arranged for detecting and processing data and/or reproducing the data in an imaged manner, and a combiner panel arranged on the housing. The housing is elongated and has a curved geometry such that the housing can be arranged substantially in the front region of the helmet above the eye(s) of the user, and the combiner panel can be positioned in front of the eye of the user. Also described is a helmet configured for arranging the heads-up projection device on or in the helmet.

The invention relates to a device for head-up projection from an image source, where at least one optical module of the device is connectable to a helmet, and a helmet for the arrangement of a head-up projection device.

Such a device is known from WO 2016/016445. By means of various mechanical fastening means, an optical module comprising a projector and an optical element fastened to the projector is fastened to a motorcycle helmet. The optical element is a transparent or semitransparent (prismatic) lens (combiner) arranged in extension of the projector in front of the eye of the helmet user, in such a way that the helmet user can look through the lens and a virtual image is projected onto the retina of the eye. Optionally, the optical module additionally has a front camera.

The control electronics of the optical module, the power supply and the means of communication with other peripheral devices (WLAN and Bluetooth communication interfaces) are contained in an external box, which e.g. is accommodated in a clothing pocket or fastened to the outside of the helmet.

A disadvantage of the device is that several non-transparent parts of the optical module (fastening means, projector with housing, front camera) are located in the user's field of view, and therefore disturbingly restrict the view, which consequently reduces the user's safety.

The proposed fastening possibilities for the device are unwieldy and impede the functioning of the helmet and helmet visor.

In addition, the optical module, fastened to a motorcycle helmet without a visor, can lead to increased ride wind turbulence while riding, which can impair the view and also have an unfavourable effect on the retina of the eye.

The necessary control electronics have to be carried externally or laboriously fastened to the outer skin of the helmet used, which firstly restricts the possibility of use and furthermore, in the case in particular of a motorcycle helmet, negatively affects its aerodynamics.

The problem underlying the invention is to provide a head-up projection device and a helmet for the arrangement of the head-up projection device which improves safety and comfort for the user of the head-up projection device.

Furthermore, the aerodynamic properties and the versatility of the head-up projection device are to be improved.

The problem is solved by a device for head-up projection with the features of claim1and by a helmet with the features of claim16.

The head-up projection device according to the invention has a housing, in which the operating means for the acquisition and processing of data and for the imaging reproduction of the data in an optical beam are arranged, and a combiner arranged on the housing, where the head-up projection device is designed in such a way that the housing is essentially arrangeable in a front region of the helmet above the user's eye(s) and the combiner is positionable in front of the user's eye.

The operating means for independent operation for the acquisition and processing of data and for the imaging reproduction of the data in an optical beam preferably comprise at least one optical module with optical elements which process the data in an imaging manner and generate an optical beam, a processor with control electronics for controlling the optical module, and a battery to supply power.

The combiner arranged on the housing is a transparent, light-transmissive plate positioned directly in front of the user's eye that serves to deflect and project the optical beam into the user's eye and ultimately causes the virtual image to appear in a field of view of the user.

The head-up projection device according to the invention has a flat, longitudinally extended housing designed with a curved geometry.

The housing is essentially designed longitudinally extended and with a curved geometry in such a way that it can be positioned in a front region (front side) of the helmet above the eye/eyes of the user of the helmet (helmet user), without impeding the use of the helmet, impairing the wearing characteristics or safety characteristics of the helmet, or obscuring the field of view of the eye/eyes of the helmet user.

With such a design and arrangement on or in the helmet, the housing can also be positioned in a narrow area above the user's eyes (in the forehead region of user's head) without impeding the user.

Only the combiner arranged on the housing is positioned in front of the eye in the helmet user's field of view during operation of the head-up projection device, but because of its transparent properties it does not impede the user's view.

This design and arrangement of the head-up projection device according to the invention significantly increases safety and comfort for the user of a helmet with this head-up projection device.

Furthermore, the arrangement in the forehead region or rather in the front region of the helmet is aerodynamically particularly favourable; in particular, the aerodynamic properties of the helmet are not impaired.

Preferably, the combiner is movably mounted on the housing. When the head-up projection device arranged on the helmet is not in use, the movable combiner, which is preferably flat, can be flipped away from the eye and folded flat against the housing, in such a way that it is then also located above the user's eye/eyes and therefore outside the field of view or the eye and outside the facial field of the helmet user.

The movable combiner therefore also improves accessibility in the facial field of the helmet user, e.g. to put on or take off glasses.

Since, moreover, all important operating means can be integrated in the housing, and do not have to be accommodated in external assemblies, in addition a compactness is achieved which has a very favourable impact on the versatility of the head-up projection device.

The curved geometry of the housing has in its curvature a radius or several different radii which are designed to match a radius or several different radii of a helmet shell, a helmet peak or a helmet shield of the helmet.

With this shaping of the housing, the housing can be positioned following a contour of the front region of the helmet or its components, in such a way that the head-up projection device can be arranged comfortably and space-savingly above the eyes of the user or rather in the front region of the helmet.

The components in the front region of the helmet can be, for example, a helmet shell, a helmet peak or a helmet shield.

Helmet shell refers to the shell structure of the protective helmet, which essentially consists of at least one outer hard shell. The outer hard shell gives the protective helmet its general outer shape and consists of a hard, largely bending-resistant and impact-resistant material, such as fibre-reinforced plastic.

Depending on the type of construction, the helmet shell can have an inner hard shell in addition to the outer hard shell. The inner hard shell is essentially shaped in such a way that it lies against the outer hard shell on the inside and moreover is approximately adapted to the shape of the head of a helmet wearer.

Such an inner hard shell can serve to absorb impact energy in the event of anticipated falls of the helmet wearer, where the inner hard shell is usually designed in such a way that it consists of a medium-hard material which is correspondingly suitable for absorbing the impact energy if the helmet wearer falls, such as a firm, dense foam, and has a relatively greater thickness compared to the outer hard shell. The inner hard shell can be covered with a fabric or leather.

Inside the helmet shell, there can be an interior trim in the form of protective padding, which is designed as a padded shell or individual padded sections essentially lining the outer or rather inner hard shell and largely ergonomically adapted to the shape of the helmet wearer's head. The protective padding can be made of a soft material, such as an elastic foam, which firstly is suitable for absorbing impacts. The protective padding can additionally have a textile cover. The shape and the material of the protective padding can in addition serve to improve the wearing comfort for the helmet wearer.

The helmet peak essentially refers to a frontal extension of the helmet shell, which can serve among other things to protect the face, in particular the eyes and nose.

The helmet shield refers to a helmet element that can be attached to a protective helmet or other stable headgear (e.g. cap, hat) and is made of hard, largely bending-resistant and impact-resistant material.

By means of appropriate fastening means, the head-up projection device can be fastened to a front side of helmets of any kind, protective helmets or other helmet-like headgear.

A protective helmet refers to a helmet that is primarily intended to protect the head of the helmet wearer from impacts and may provide further protection.

According to the invention, the shape and extension of the housing formed curved in such a way allows all components (operating means) of a head-up projection device, or at least the following components, to be compactly arranged in its cavity:optical module (optics) with optics housingelectronics with circuit boardone or more batteries to supply power.

As a result, no further attachment parts or parts to be carried—only the combiner which must necessarily be assigned directly to the eye—need to be carried outside the housing

According to an advantageous embodiment according to claim2, the housing is designed essentially longitudinally extended in the direction of a spatial axis X and curved at least in the direction of a second spatial axis Y, and according to a further advantageous embodiment according to claim3can additionally be curved in the direction of a third spatial axis Z.

The orientation of the spatial axis X is determined in relation to the helmet user essentially parallel to the frontal surface of the head of the helmet user in the direction of the left front side of the helmet user.

The orientation of the spatial axis Y is determined in relation to the helmet user essentially perpendicularly to the frontal surface of the head of the helmet user in the direction towards the frontal surface.

The orientation of the spatial axis Z is determined in relation to the helmet user essentially parallelly to the frontal surface of the head of the helmet user in the direction of the crown of the user's head.

In this way, the head-up protection device is essentially designed in such a way that it is arrangeable longitudinally extended parallel to the eyes along the frontal surface of the helmet user's head, in such a way that the head-up projection device can be arranged even more comfortably and aerodynamically advantageously on or in the helmet.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the housing is designed in several parts. That is, the housing of the head-up projection device can have two or more housing parts.

The housing preferably has a shell-shaped housing part and an essentially flat cover part.

In this way, assembly, accessibility and possibly maintenance of the operating means can be facilitated.

The multi-part nature of the housing can also be advantageous for optionally combining housing parts with different radii of curvature in adaptation to the situation on the helmet.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the optical elements of the optical module are arranged in a separate optics housing (optics casing).

The optics casing ensures a fixed placement of the optical elements at the correct/intended distances from each other to permanently ensure a clear and precise image reproduction of the virtual image, and permanently protects the optical elements from the ingress of dust and moisture.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the housing and/or the operating means are designed and arranged in such a way that an optical axis realised by the optical elements extends essentially in the direction of the spatial axis X.

The optical axis of the optical module extends along the optical beam generated by the optical module and essentially coincides with the spatial axis X.

For the realisation of the position of the optical axis, the housing can have, in addition to its curvature in the direction of the spatial axis Y and/or in the direction of the spatial axis Z, various bulges for receiving the optical module.

The optical module can be particularly short in its longitudinal extension.

With these designs, the optical module, despite the curved design of the housing in which it is arranged, can realise a straight optical axis and moreover in such a way that the optical beam points in or against the direction of the spatial axis X, and can be deflected at the end of the optical module approximately at right-angles (against the direction of the spatial axis Z) onto the combiner.

The design of the housing and arrangement of the optical module results in a further optimisation of the space requirements of the head-up projection device.

According to a preferred embodiment, an image source (display) is provided, which has OLEDs.

This use of OLEDs in the image source (display) is energy-saving and enables a reduction of the screen diagonal of the image source. Consequently, in a space-saving and weight-saving manner, the image source and the total installation space of the optical module can be reduced and the power source (battery) that has to be carried can be minimised.

Advantageously, the image source has multicoloured emitting OLEDs which emit light in several colours.

Displays with multicoloured emitting OLEDs which emit light in several colours offer wider application possibilities for image design means, in order for example to realise a better, differentiated perceptibility of warnings or other important information for the user that are to be emphasised (also for the user with colour deficiency).

In an alternative advantageous embodiment, an image source (display) is provided which has OLEDs that emit monochromatic light, preferably in a wavelength range of approximately 564 nm.

A monochromatic, preferably yellow light produces a particularly strong perception by the user.

Preferably the OLEDs have a luminous intensity of 12,000 cd/m2to 20,000 cd/m2, particularly preferably up to 25,000 cd/m2.

OLEDs with such a luminous intensity produce a very high luminance of the display, which realises a strong, low-loss optical beam in the passage through the optical elements and subsequently a virtual image of high sharpness and brightness.

A particularly advantageous embodiment comprises fastening means for the direct, detachable fastening of the housing on or in the helmet, where the fastening means have a base plate which is designed correspondingly to the geometry of the housing and is detachably connectable to the housing.

The base plate can be designed and arranged correspondingly to a housing wall or to several housing walls of the housing.

The geometry of the base plate is designed adapted to the shape of the housing wall/housing walls of the housing, with which the base plate corresponds to realise the connection.

As a result, a very space-saving and contour-conforming fastening of the head-up projection device on or in the helmet can be realised.

For the realisation of an easily handlable detachable connection between the base plate and the housing, the fastening means preferably have connecting elements of a hook-and-loop fastener connection, plug connection or magnetic connection, which are arranged on the base plate and on the housing.

Advantageously, the connecting elements are designed in such a way that an arrangement of the housing is laterally displaceable in relation to the base plate in the direction of the spatial axis X.

This enables greater flexibility of the fastening of the head-up projection device to the helmet, in particular the positioning of the housing and hence the position of the combiner in front of the user's eye can be precisely aligned so as to be able to achieve an exact virtual image.

Advantageous means for adjusting and fixing a position of the combiner—which is preferably rotatably mounted on the housing—with respect to the housing serve the easier adjustability and vibration-resistant alignment of the generated virtual image in the user's field of view.

The helmet according to the invention is designed to arrange a head-up protection device as described above on or in the helmet, preferably designed for the integrated arrangement of at least a part of the head-up projection device described above, on or in the helmet.

For example, the housing and/or—if provided for the indirect, detachable fastening of the housing on or in the helmet—a base plate can each be arranged partially integrated, e.g. in a space between a helmet shell and a protective padding.

According to an advantageous space-saving embodiment, a helmet shell of the helmet, preferably an inner hard shell of the helmet shell, has a recess A, in which the housing of the head-up projection device and/or a base plate is at least partially arrangeable.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the recess A is designed in such a way that the integrable base plate is arrangeable essentially flush with the helmet shell and/or the base plate lines the recess A in conformity with the contour.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the recess A and/or the integrable base plate has an indentation for an intervention to remove the housing from the recess or rather from the integrable base plate.

In the embodiments explained below, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the embodiment and in which specific embodiments in which the invention can be put into practice are shown for illustrative purposes.

Directional terminology contained therein, such as “top”, “bottom”, “in front”, “behind”, “forward”, “rear”, “front”, “back” etc. is used with reference to the orientation of the described figures in the illustrations, unless specified otherwise. Since components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used for illustrative purposes and is in no way restrictive.

It is to be understood that other embodiments can be used and structural or logical changes made without departing from the protective scope of the present invention. It is further to be understood that the characteristics of the various designs described herein can be combined with each other unless specified to the contrary. The following detailed description is therefore not to be understood in a restrictive sense, and the protective scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

Identical or similar elements are assigned identical reference symbols in the drawings where appropriate.

First of all, inFIG. 1the basic design, functioning and arrangement possibility of the HUPD1according to the invention and the corresponding advantages are clearly illustrated.

The housing2of the HUPD1has a flat and ergonomically arced design, which is adapted to a shape of a helmet (protective helmet)4or rather to the shape of the user's head. This flat, ergonomically arced shape of the housing2enables the installation or mounting of the HUPD1in or on any helmet (protective helmet).

The construction according to the invention also enables a complete integration into the helmet (protective helmet)4.

By means of a detachable fastening system (details seeFIGS. 5a, b,6a, b), the HUPD1can be easily fitted or removed.

The detachable fastening system of the HUPD1can have a base plate3and fastening means for the detachable connection of the housing2to the base plate3. The base plate3can be fixedly or likewise detachably connected to the helmet (protective helmet)4(indirect fastening).

As a result of the construction of the housing2and its fastening system according to the invention, the HUPD1is attachable and fixable in the region of the front side of the helmet (protective helmet)4above the position of the user's eyes46and therefore largely outside the user's facial field.

Only a transparent combiner5, which is rotatably attached to the housing2, is placeable in the field of view37, in order to make the desired information/data visually accessible to the user. This image data can contain e.g. information about the speed travelled, navigation, safety warnings or notifications from communication services, such as telephone and messaging services.

A special optics module20integrated into the housing2(details seeFIGS. 5a, b,6a, b) can, via the combiner5, generate e.g. a virtual image13at an apparent distance of approx. 10 m from the viewer.

A mechanism for retracting the combiner5(details seeFIGS. 13, 14) increases accessibility in the user's facial field if required, e.g. for putting on or taking off glasses.

In the housing2of the HUPD1, in addition to the optics module20, all other necessary functional elements, such as electronics module21, battery(-ies)22and communication interfaces are unitedly integrated (details seeFIGS. 5a, b,6a, b).

Data can be exchanged with an external smartphone, for example, by means of wireless data transmission. Via a mains connection (power supply socket)6, an external power supply unit for charging the battery22/the batteries22can be connected. The HUPD1can be operated by means of a switch/push-button18.

The housing2of the HUPD1can be designed in several parts for, among other things, the assembly of the integral components, for maintenance-friendly access to the integral components and, if necessary, for the realisation of different radii of curvature of the housing2.

For example, the multi-part housing2of the HUPD1can have two shell-shaped housing parts (shell parts) or one shell-shaped housing part (shell part) and an essentially flat housing part as a housing cover (cover part).

FIGS. 2.1a, b, cto4.1a, b, cshow details of an exemplary multi-part housing2of the head-up projection device1according to the invention for use in conjunction with a protective helmet4according to a first embodiment.

FIGS. 2.1a, b, cshow the housing2in two isometric views from below and one view from below (FIG. 2.1b)—in each case looking at an underside of the housing2.

FIGS. 3.1a, b, cshow the housing2in two side views and one front view, whereFIG. 3.1ashows a side view of the housing2from the right,FIG. 3.1ba rear view of the housing2andFIG. 3.1ca side view of the housing2from the left.

FIGS. 4.1a, b, cshow the housing2in two isometric views from above and one view from above (FIG. 4.1b)—in each case looking at an upper side of the housing2.

The housing2shown inFIGS. 2.1a, b, cto4.1a, b,which extends longitudinally in the direction of a defined spatial axis X, is narrow and curved in the direction of a defined spatial axis Y (lateral extension) relative to the longitudinal extension (uniaxially curved housing) and is very flat in the direction of a defined spatial axis Z (height extension) relative to the longitudinal extension (longitudinally extended, narrow, flat and uniaxially curved housing).

The housing2according to this embodiment has an approximate symmetry in its longitudinal extension (clearly shown inFIGS. 2.1b,4.1b).

As further shown inFIGS. 1, 2.1a, b, cto4.1a, b, c,on the underside of the housing2(lower cover part7) of the HUPD1a locally limited bulge with an opening12is formed and a flat, transparent, light-transmissive combiner5is arranged at the opening12(details seeFIGS. 5a, b).

The upper shell part8has at one end openings for the power supply socket6and for the switch/push-button18(details seeFIG. 5a).

In addition to the housing2, the HUPD1according to this embodiment also has a base plate3acompatible with and corresponding in shape to the housing2for the indirect fastening of the HUPD1to the protective helmet4.

However, the housing2can also be fastened to a protective helmet4without a base plate3a,depending on requirements (direct fastening).

The base plate3aaccording toFIG. 2.1a, b, cto4.1a, b, cconforms in shape to an essentially flat/planar upper housing wall9(seeFIG. 5b) of the upper shell part8, which faces the base plate3aand is connectable to it.

Accordingly, the corresponding base plate3ais formed essentially flat/planar with a crescent-shaped contour—corresponding to the outer contour of the upper shell part8of the curved housing2.

In the aforementioned figures, it is not shown that the housing2can also be formed curved with the opposite vector in the direction of the spatial axis—(minus) Y.

It is further not shown that the housing2can furthermore be formed curved in the direction of a spatial axis +/− (plus/minus) Z (biaxially curved housing).

The flat, longitudinally extended, narrow and curved housing2can be formed cross-sectionally tapered at one or both ends.

As a result, according to the embodiments shown inFIG. 1, 2.1a, b, cto4.1a, b, c,the flat housing2is formed to be crescent-shaped or banana-shaped, in such a way that it can be arranged and fastened in the region of the front side/front of protective helmet4, adapted to a curvature of the helmet shell10of the helmet4and/or to a curvature of the helmet peak11of the helmet4and/or to a curvature of a helmet shield, without impeding the user's field of view37, since an HUPD1arranged in such a manner can be positioned above the position of the user's eyes46(seeFIG. 1, 7 to 12, 15, 16).

The combiner5is movably fastened to the housing2by means of fastening means, at least pivotably around an axis of rotation41, in such a way that the combiner5can be flipped down from the housing2when required and folded against the housing2when not in use, where in the latter case the only component located outside the housing2can be laid flat against the underside of the flat housing2, thereby leaving sufficient space e.g. to put on and take off glasses.

Furthermore, the movable fastening of the combiner5also serves to adjust the location/position of the generated virtual image in the user's field of view37.

FIGS. 2.2a, b, cto4.2a, b, cshow an exemplary multi-part housing2of the HUPD1according to the invention for use in conjunction with a protective helmet4according to a second embodiment.

FIGS. 2.2a, b, cshow the housing2in two isometric views from below and one view from below (FIG. 2.2b)—in each case looking at an underside of the housing2.

FIGS. 3.2a, b, cshow the housing2in two side views and one front view, whereFIG. 3.2ashows a side view of the housing2from the right,FIG. 3.2ba rear view of the housing2andFIG. 3.2ca side view of the housing2from the left.

FIGS. 4.2a, b, cshow the housing2in two isometric views from above and one view from above (FIG. 4.2b)—in each case looking at an upper side of the housing2.

To avoid repetitions, only the differences and their advantages with respect to the preceding first embodiment of the multi-part housing2of the HUPD1according to the invention as shown inFIGS. 2.2a, b, cto4.2a, b, care described below, and in ail other respects reference is to be made to the above description toFIGS. 2.2a, b, cto4.2a, b, c.

Identical or similar elements are assigned identical reference symbols.

The lower shell part14has at one end in its lower, essentially planar housing wall a locally limited bulge with the opening12at which the combiner5is arranged (details seeFIGS. 6a, b). At the same end, the lower shell part14additionally has a locally limited widening in the forward, front curved housing wall.

At the other end of the lower, essentially flat housing wall of the lower shell part14, an opening is provided for the arrangement of the push-button18(details seeFIGS. 6a, b).

The flat base plate3a,which according toFIG. 2.2a, b, cto4.2a, b, cis also present, conforms in shape to the upper cover part15facing the base plate3a,and is connectable to it.

Accordingly, the base plate3aof the HUPD1according to this embodiment is formed essentially flat/planar with a crescent-shaped contour—corresponding to the outer contour of the cover part15of the curved housing2.

The base plate3aaccording toFIG. 2.2a, b, cto4.2a, b, chas two circular recesses, which are described in more detail inFIGS. 6a,6b.

In addition, the base plate3ahas several holes for the possible detachable fastening to a helmet shell10, a helmet peak11or a helmet shield by means of a screw fastening.

In further distinction to the embodiment according toFIG. 2.1a, b, cto4.1a, b, c,the housing2according toFIG. 2.2a, b, cto4.2a, b, cis furthermore formed shorter in its longitudinal extension in the direction of the spatial axis X and somewhat flatter in its lateral extension in the direction of the spatial axis Z.

Furthermore, the housing2according to this design is also symmetrical in its longitudinal extension.

The detailed construction of the exemplary head-up projection device1according to the first embodiment shown inFIG. 2.1a, b, cto4.1a, b, cwith a two-part, uniaxially curved housing2and a correspondingly shaped base plate3acan be seen in the exploded view according toFIGS. 5aand 5b(FIG. 5a:individual parts of the head-up projection device1as viewed from below,FIG. 5b:individual parts of the head-up projection device1as viewed from above).

In the two-part, curved housing2of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 5a, b,at least one optical module20, one circuit board21for the electronic control system and two batteries22are accommodated, which are arranged respectively to the right and left of the optical module20.

The optical module20integrated into the housing2of the head-up projection device1comprises several optical elements; in the order of enumeration/arrangement in the optical module20preferably an image source (display)23, an achromat24, a separate convex lens25and a prism26standing at the end, which are arranged together in a multi-part optics housing27(optics casing27) (seeFIGS. 5a, b).

The optics casing27according to this design is formed e.g. in three parts from three casing elements27a, b, cthat can be plugged together, where there is one intermediate casing element27band two end casing elements27a, c(FIG. 5b).

The shape of the casing elements27a, b, cand their interaction with the optical elements23,24,25,26to be accommodated enables a fixed placement of the optical elements23,24,25,26at the correctly intended intervals to guarantee a precise image reproduction.

After receiving the optical elements23,24,25,26, the optics casing27is preferably durably and impermeably bonded with the optical elements23,24,25,26to permanently ensure their precise placement while guaranteeing dust and moisture protection.

The optics casing27is arranged in the region of the bulge of the lower cover part7and is fixed and secured against slipping within the curved housing2by the bulging of the lower cover part7itself as well as by means of several retaining pins16of the upper shell part8.

The optical elements23,24,25,26and casing elements27a, b, cof the optics casing27of the optical module20are designed and arranged extending a short way along the curved housing2of the head-up projection device1(along the spatial axis X) in such a way that the optical module20, despite the housing2in which it is arranged being curved in the Y-direction, realises a straight optical axis28(seeFIGS. 5a, b).

The housing parts7,8of the multi-part housing2of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 5a, bare fixedly, but preferably detachably, connected to each other in the usage state of the head-up projection device1, and preferably by means of a seal in a watertight manner.

For the fixed connection, the housing parts7,8can be welded or glued together in such a way that the interior of the housing2is protected in a particularly dustproof and watertight manner.

For the detachable connection of the housing parts7,8, a screw fastening is suitable, for example. The detachable connection enables access to certain components of the HUPD1, such as the batteries22, for the purpose of maintenance or replacement.

The lower housing part7(lower cover part) of the housing2of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 5a, bhas in the region of its bulge the opening12for the purpose of passing an optical beam29generated by the integrated optical module20along an optical path to the combiner5movably fastened near the opening12(details see17,18,19).

Two openings on the side housing wall of the upper shell part8near the circuit board21of the optical module20serve firstly to receive the power supply socket6and secondly to receive the switch/push-button18, which is provided for operating the HUPD1, in particular for switching the controller on the circuit board21on and off to control the display23in the optical module20.

Furthermore, the opening present in the front housing wall of the upper shell part8serves to receive a light and brightness sensor32, in order to be able to detect the light rate or rather the brightness in the immediate front environment of the head-up projection device1.

In a small opening in the lower cover part7near the circuit board21, an LED is integrated which displays the charge state of the batteries22.

Depending on the intended application and fastening requirements of the head-up projection device1, the base plate3acan be detachably connected to one of the side walls (housing wall)9of a shell-shaped housing part8(shell part) of the housing2(as e.g. in the design according toFIGS. 5a, b) or alternatively to a cover part15(housing cover) (as e.g. in the design according toFIGS. 6a, b).

The base plate3aof the HUPD1according toFIGS. 5a, bcan for example be detachably connected to the upper shell part8of the housing2by means of a pluggable connection.

According toFIGS. 5a, b,between the base plate3aand the upper shell part8of the HUPD1such a form-fitting plug connection is provided, for example, which is formed by in each case one railed guidance30each in conjunction with a clip-snap fastener (snap part) (snap-in connection).

Two or more railed guidances30are arranged on a flat underside of the flat, crescent-shaped base plate3afacing the shell-shaped housing part8(upper shell part8) (visible inFIG. 5a) and two or more snap parts31are arranged on the flat housing wall9of the shell-shaped housing part8(upper shell part8) facing the base plate3a(visible inFIG. 5b).

Conversely, the railed guidances30can be arranged on the flat housing wall9of the shell-shaped housing part8(upper shell part8) and the snap parts31on the flat underside of the crescent-shaped base plate3a(not shown).

To establish the plug connection (snap-in connection), the respective snap part31of the upper shell part8slides under an initial tension sideways into the associated railed guidance30of the base plate3a,where in an end position the two hook-shaped ends of the snap part31engage in matching mouldings of the railed guidance30. To disengage the connection, by exerting a relatively strong tensile force on the snap part31via the housing2, the two hook-shaped ends of the snap-part31are released from the mouldings and pressed together, in such a way that the snap part31can be easily pulled out along the railed guidances30without further ado.

Thus the housing2of the HUPD1is easily displaceable and lockable and unlockable relative to the base plate3aof the HUPD1and parallel to the base plate plane.

If more than two railed guidances30and more than two snap parts31are provided for the plug connection (snap-in connection), the housing2of the HUPD1can if necessary alternatively be arranged laterally—in the direction of the spatial axis X—offset with respect to the base plate3a,thus enabling greater flexibility of the fastening to the helmet4, in particular to enable an even more precise positioning of the housing2and with it the combiner5in front of the user's eye46.

The detailed construction of the exemplary HUPD1according to the second embodiment shown inFIG. 2.2a, b, cto4.2a, b, cwith a two-part, uniaxially curved housing2and a correspondingly shaped base plate3acan be seen in the exploded view according toFIGS. 6aand 6b. (FIG. 6a: individual parts of the HUPD1as viewed from below,FIG. 6b: individual parts of the HUPD1as viewed from above).

To avoid repetitions, only the differences and their advantages with respect to the preceding embodiment of the HUPD1according to the invention as shown inFIGS. 5a, bare described below, and in all other respects reference is made to the above description toFIGS. 5a, b.

Identical or similar elements are assigned identical reference symbols.

In a difference to the design according toFIGS. 5a, b,the lower shell part14of the two-part, curved housing2of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 6a, bhas on its upper rim a circumferential integrated edge, on which the upper cover part15rests in the closed state of the housing2, in such a way that the cover part15lies flush with the rim of the lower shell part14(seeFIG. 6b). As a result, the housing2can be better sealed and designed to be particularly flat.

In further distinction to the design according toFIGS. 5a, b,a single compact battery22is provided in the two-part, curved housing2of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 6a, b,which is arranged between the optical module20and the circuit board21and results in a space and weight saving and therefore better wearing characteristics of the HUPD1.

In further distinction to the design according toFIGS. 5a, b,the optics casing27according toFIGS. 6a, bis formed in two parts, where in addition to the matching intermediate casing element27bonly one of the two end casing elements27ais provided. The single end casing part27ais designed longitudinally extended in such a way that it can at the same time receive and hold the prism26standing at the end. Thus the second end casing element27cof the optics casing27(as provided inFIGS. 5a, b) can be eliminated here, which results in a further space and weight saving. Moreover, smaller assembly tolerances are achieved with fewer casing elements, with the result that the precise placement of the optical elements23,24,25,26at the correctly intended intervals can be further simplified and the ensuring of dust and moisture protection can be improved.

Furthermore, a one-piece optics housing (one-piece optics casing) with these advantages is conceivable, which is closed on both sides respectively by the display23and the prism26standing at the end.

The optics casing27according to the design shown inFIGS. 6a, bis arranged in the region of the bulge and widening of the lower shell part14and is fixed and secured against slipping inside the curved housing2by the locally limited bulges of the lower, flat housing wall and the front curved housing wall of the lower shell part14as well as, in the closed state of the housing2, by a locating recess in the upper cover part15. In addition, fixing ribs in the lower shell part14(not shown) provide a further space saving compared to the retaining pins16according toFIGS. 5a, bwhile at the same time increasing the reliability and vibration resistance of the fixing.

The opening12in the bulge of the lower housing wall of the lower shell part14also serves to pass the optical beam29generated by the integrated optical module20along the optical path29to the combiner5movably fastened near the opening12(details seeFIGS. 17, 18, 19).

The opening for receiving the switch/push-button18for the purpose of operating the HUPD1, in particular for switching the controller on and off to control the display23in the optical module20is located in the lower housing wall of the lower shell part14near the circuit board21.

The opening for receiving the light and brightness sensor32is enlarged in cross-sectional area and is located in the front housing wall of the lower shell part14in a transition region (rounding of the housing) to the bottom housing wall, in order to be able thus even better to detect the light rate or rather the brightness in the immediate front environment more independently of the installation situation of the head-up projection device1in or on a helmet4.

At the same time, the opening is formed in such a way that the LED indicating the charge state of the battery22can also be provided there, so that the charge state can be monitored in a more visible manner.

The housing parts14,15of the multi-part housing2of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 6a, bin their usage state are fixedly connected to each other in a watertight manner by means for example of a circumferential welded joint.

According to the design of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 6a, b,a magnetic connection is provided for the detachable connection of the flat, crescent-shaped base plate3ato the upper, flat housing part15(housing cover).

For the realisation of the magnetic connection, at least one permanent magnet33(henceforth magnet33) is arranged and fastened on or in the base plate3a,and correspondingly at least one permanent magnet34with the oppositely directed polarity (henceforth opposing magnet34) is arranged and fastened on or in the upper cover part15.

Preferably two or more magnets33of the base plate3a,as shown inFIGS. 6a, b,are arranged in two recesses19in the base plate3a(positioning pockets19of the base plate3a), where the recesses19on the underside of the base plate3afacing the upper cover part15of the housing2form two or more protruding knobs35′, which are designed to correspond to two or more recessed knob receptacles35″ formed in the upper cover part15, in such a way that the knobs35′ in the connected state of the magnetic connection can engage in these knob receptacles35″. These recessed knob receptacles35″ in the upper cover part15are each designed on their underside facing the lower shell part14of the housing2with a circumferential rim36, in which the opposing magnets34of the upper cover part15are enclosed (positioning pockets36of the cover part15). Conversely, the positioning pockets36can be arranged on the planar underside of the crescent-shaped base plate3aand the positioning pockets19can be arranged on the cover part15(not shown).

When the magnetic connection is established, the positioning pockets19of the base plate3acan be easily centred in the positioning pockets36of the housing cover, where the magnets33of the base plate3aare held by the opposing magnets34of the housing cover15and thus fix the base plate3to the housing cover15.

Thus, in addition to an easily detachable, force-locked connection by the magnets33,34, a form-fitting connection is realised by the correspondingly shaped positioning pockets19,36of the base plate3aand of the housing cover15, which make it possible to quickly and precisely adjust and fix the connection between the base plate3aand housing2of the HUPD1in a simple manner.

If more than two positioning pockets19of the base plate3aand more than two positioning pockets36of the cover part15are provided, the housing2of the HUPD1can if necessary alternatively be arranged laterally—in the direction of the spatial axis X—offset with respect to the base plate3a,thus enabling greater flexibility of the fastening to the helmet4, in particular to enable an even more precise positioning of the housing2and with it the combiner5in front of the user's eye46.

To simplify the lateral displacement of the housing2with respect to the base plate3a,a guide mechanism, preferably a rail system, can be provided (not shown).

The magnetic connection according toFIGS. 6a, bcan also be formed between the planar, crescent-shaped base plate3aand the planar housing wall9of the upper shell part8of the housing2according toFIGS. 5a, b.

Similarly, the plug connection according toFIGS. 5a, bcan be formed between the planar, crescent-shaped base plate3aand the upper cover part15of the housing2according toFIGS. 6a, b.

Alternatively, a base plate3bof the HUPD1can be provided which is designed planarly curved (essentially curved in a strip shape)—corresponding to the arced outer contour of the side walls (front or rear housing wall) of a shell part8or14of the curved housing2of the HUPD1(see e.g.FIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, c,10,10a, b, c).

A detachable connection can then be formed—e.g. orthogonally to the designs shown inFIGS. 5a, bor ratherFIGS. 6a, b)—between a strip-shaped base plate3bwhich is curved/arced in its surface and a curved/arced housing wall, facing the base plate3b,of the shell-shaped housing part (shell part)8or14, where the curvature of the surface of the strip-shaped base plate3bis formed equally/correspondingly curved in adaptation to the curved wail surface of the housing wall of the shell-shaped housing part (shell part)8or14.

The mutually matched fastening means for the detachable connection can in this case be arranged on the curved wall surface of the housing wall of the shell-shaped housing part8or14and on the curved surface of the strip-shaped base plate3bfacing the curved wall surface of the housing wall of the shell-shaped housing part8or14(see e.g.FIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, c,10,10a, b, c).

Alternatively, furthermore, a base plate3cof the HUPD1can be provided, which is essentially curved in a tray shape—corresponding to the outer contour of all housing walls of the upper shell part8of a uniaxially curved housing2or corresponding to the outer contour of all side housing walls of the lower shell part14and of the upper cover part15of a uniaxially curved housing2of the HUPD1(details see e.g.FIGS. 8.2, 8.2a, b, c).

Furthermore, a base plate3dof the HUPD1can be provided, which is essentially curved in a crescent shape—corresponding to an outer contour of the housing wall9of the upper shell part8or corresponding to an outer contour of the upper cover part15of a biaxially curved housing2of the HUPD1(details see e.g.FIGS. 11, 12a, b, c).

The arced housing2of the HUPD1can be flexibly mounted in or on the helmet shell10, on the helmet peak11or on a helmet shield by means of the detachable base plate3a,3b,3c,3d(indirect fastening).

In this case, the side of the planar or curved base plate3a,3b,3c,3dopposite to the fastening means for the detachable connection to the housing2of the HUPD1can be connected to correspondingly available corresponding planar or curved surfaces of the helmet shell10/helmet peak11/helmet shield, which can preferably be done via a non-detachable adhesive bond or alternatively detachably by means of e.g. a hook-and-loop fastener connection or screw fastening.

The arced housing2of the head-up projection device1can alternatively also be mounted directly—without a detachable base plate3a,3b,3c,3d—in or on the helmet shell10, helmet peak11or helmet shield.

If, for example, the head-up projection device is to be mounted directly in this manner, a housing wail of the arced housing of the HUPD1—e.g. the housing wall9of the upper shell part8of the housing2of the design according toFIGS. 5a, b—can be directly connected to a correspondingly available corresponding planar or curved surface of the helmet shell10/helmet peak11/helmet shield, which can be done for example by means of a non-detachable adhesive bond or detachably by means of hook-and-loop fastener elements.

Using the listed fastening possibilities, the head-up projection device1can be firmly but easily detachably and therefore replaceably fastened to a front side of any type of helmet4, where the uniaxially or biaxially curvedly shaped housing2of the head-up projection device1is adapted to the corresponding helmet shape and therefore also ergonomically to the user's head shape and at the same time is arranged above the eyes46of the user. As a result, the necessary horizontal and vertical field of view37a, bof the user (seeFIGS. 15, 16) remains largely completely uncovered by housing parts, thus improving the unobstructed view and safety for the user compared to head-up devices known in the prior art.

FIGS. 7 to 12ashow exemplary arrangement and fastening possibilities for the head-up projection device1according to the invention on motorcycle helmets4a(e.g. full-visor full face helmets, jet helmets), on bicycle helmets4bor on industrial safety helmets4c.

The arrangement and fastening of the HUPD1according to the invention can be carried out on any type of hard-material helmets and caps, and are not limited to the examples described below.

FIGS. 7, 7a, bshow the fastening of a head-up projection device1to a helmet shell10of a motorcycle helmet4aas a full face helmet4afull visor39.

The helmet shell10in this embodiment comprises an outer hard shell10.1made of impact-resistant plastic and an inner hard shell10.2made of styrofoam. On the inside of the helmet shell10of the full-visor full face helmet4a,protective padding in the form of a padded shell is integrated (not shown). The helmet shell10of the full-visor full face helmet4ahas a circumferentially closed viewing window38on the front side.

The HUPD has an essentially uniaxially curved housing2made of plastic with an essentially planar (flat), crescent-shaped base plate3amade of plastic.

The shape of the housing2and of the base plate3aof the HUPD1can be formed according to the design shown inFIG. 2.1ato4.1c,5a, bor2.2ato4.2c,FIGS. 6a, b,where the detachable connection of the housing2to the base plate3acan be formed variably according to the design shown inFIGS. 5a, borFIGS. 6a, b.

In this embodiment, the detachable connection of the housing2to the base plate3ais carried out for example by means of a magnetic connection according to the description forFIGS. 6a, b.The described connecting elements of the magnetic connection (positioning pockets19with magnets33, positioning pockets36with magnets34) are on the one hand formed on the planar, crescent-shaped base plate3a(seeFIG. 7b) and on the other hand on the housing wall9of the upper shell part8of the housing2facing the base plate3aaccording toFIGS. 2.1ato4.1c,5a, b,or on the upper cover part15or the housing2racing the base plate3aaccording toFIGS. 2.2abis4.2c,6a, b(seeFIG. 7).

The base plate3ais fastened to an underside of the helmet shell10at the front in the region of the viewing window38of the full-visor full face helmet4a,e.g. by means of an adhesive bond or screw fastening.

Thus, in the mounted state, the HUPD1is placed in a flat and narrow manner along the upper edge of the viewing window38of the full-visor full face helmet4a.

The helmet shell10, preferably an inner hard shell (10.2) of the helmet shell10can in addition have a shallow recess, which is designed essentially correspondingly to the shape (contour and thickness) of the base plate3a(not shown). As a result, the base plate3acan be at least partially integrated within the helmet shell10, or rather within the inner hard shell10.2. The base plate3acan alternatively be arranged completely in the recess, approximately flush with the helmet shell10or even recessed in the recess.

In this way, in the mounted state, the HUPD1can be placed in an even flatter and narrower manner along the upper edge of the viewing window38of the full-visor full face helmet4a,because only the housing2or only a part of the housing2is placed in the viewing window38, without impeding the functioning of the magnetic connection.

For an adjustment of the position of the HUPD1in the direction of the spatial axis X along the upper edge of the viewing window38of the full-visor full face helmet4a,the magnetic connection between the base plate3aand housing2can be laterally offset by means of several pairs (e.g. three or four pairs) of available positioning pockets19with magnets33and positioning pockets36with magnets34to enable a more precise positioning of the housing2and therefore of the combiner5in front of the user's eye46.

The front housing wall arced in the direction of the spatial axis Y and the front edge of the base plate3ahave radii which correspond to the customary radii of the outside of the helmet shell10on the front side of the full-visor full face helmet4a,and are positioned essentially flush with the course of the outside of the helmet shell10on the front side of the full-visor full face helmet4a,in such a way that the visor39and, if present, a sun visor can be closed unimpeded.

The front housing wall arced in the direction of the spatial axis Y and the front edge of the base plate3acan alternatively be arranged somewhat set back relative to the outside of the helmet shell10on the front side of the full-visor full face helmet4aand thus be positioned essentially flush with the front course of the inner hard shell10.2or rather with the rear course of the outer hard shell10.1of the helmet shell10(seeFIG. 7b).

The outside of the helmet shell10of the full-visor full face helmet4aremains untouched in any case.

The rear housing wall arced in the direction of the axis Y and the rear edge of the base plate3ahave radii which correspond to the customary radii of the inside of the helmet shell10, in particular to the inside of the inner hard shell10.2on the front side of the full-visor full face helmet4a(seeFIG. 7b).

The base plate3aand housing2are furthermore designed essentially adapted to the customary thickness of the helmet shell10in their cross-sectional extension in the direction of the spatial axis Y. Thus, in the mounted state, the HUPD1essentially does not protrude beyond the inside of the helmet shell10(or rather the inside of the inner helmet shell10.2) and is furthermore arranged at a sufficient distance from the user's head corresponding to the thickness of the protective padding and therefore does not directly touch the user's head.

The arrangement of the HUPD1at the upper edge of the viewing window38allows a largely unimpeded field of view37for the user and also enables glasses wearers to use glasses conveniently.

FIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, cshow the fastening of a head-up projection device1in a recessed helmet shell10of a full-visor full face helmet4aaccording toFIGS. 7, 7a, bin a second manner of fastening.

To avoid repetitions, only the differences and their advantages with respect to the preceding embodiment of the HUPD1according to the invention as shown inFIGS. 7, 7a, bare described below.

Identical or similar elements are assigned identical reference symbols.

The helmet shell10of the full-visor full face helmet4aaccording to this embodiment has in particular in its inner hard shell10.2at the front and above the viewing window38a recess A essentially corresponding to the shape of the HUPD1(FIG. 8.1a). The recess A in the helmet shell10serves to at least partially receive the HUPD1inside the helmet shell10, or rather inside the inner hard shell10.2.

The HUPD1has an essentially uniaxially curved housing2and, in contrast to the design according toFIGS. 7, 7a, b,has a curved, essentially strip-shaped base plate3b.

The housing2of the HUPD1can be formed according to the design shown inFIG. 2.1ato4.1c,5a, borFIG. 2.2ato4.2c,6a, b,although here the design according toFIG. 6ahas been chosen by way of example.

The curved, strip-shaped base plate3bis formed correspondingly to a front curved housing wall, facing the base plate3b,of the lower shell part14of the housing according toFIGS. 2.2ato4.2c,6a, bof the HUPD1.

The curved, strip-shaped base plate3bis arranged along the likewise curved front surface of the recess A and fastened e.g. by means of an adhesive bond or screw fastening to the recessed helmet shell10.

In this embodiment, the detachable connection of the housing2of the HUPD1to the correspondingly curved, strip-shaped base plate3bis also made by means of a magnetic connection according to the description forFIGS. 6a, b,but in contrast to the design shown inFIGS. 7, 7a, bthe described connecting elements of the magnetic connection (positioning pockets19with magnets33, positioning pockets36with magnets34) are formed on the one hand on the curved plate surface of the strip-shaped base plate3b(seeFIG. 8.1b), and on the other hand on the front curved housing wall, facing the base plate3b,of the lower shell part14of the housing2according toFIGS. 2.2ato4.2c,6a, b(seeFIGS. 8.1b, c).

The recess A can have a finger-sized and -conforming indentation which enables an intervention to easily release the housing2from the recess A.

For an adjustment of the position of the HUPD1in the direction of the spatial axis X of the full-visor full face helmet4a,the recess A can be formed longer than the length of the housing2extending in the X-direction to enable variable displaceability of the magnetic connection between base plate3band housing2for the purpose of the more precise positioning of the housing2and therefore of the combiner5in front of the user's eye46.

In any case, the HUPD1in the mounted state is essentially placed outside the viewing window38of the full-visor full face helmet4a.Only the flip-out combiner5protrudes into the viewing window38in the operating case of the HUPD1.

The strip-shaped base plate3barced in the direction of the axis Y and the equally/correspondingly arced front housing wall of the housing2have radii which correspond to the radii of the correspondingly recessed helmet shell10(recess A of the inner hard shell10.2on the front side of the full-visor full face helmet4a.

Also in this embodiment of the placement of the HUPD1, the outside of the helmet shell10of the full-visor full face helmet4aremains unaffected. In particular, the visor39and, if present, a sun visor can be closed unimpeded.

In particular, the protective function of the outer hard shell10.1of the helmet shell is also not impaired by the recess A in the inner hard shell10.2.

The rear housing wall, arced in the direction of the axis Y, of the housing2has radii which essentially correspond to the customary radii of the inside of the helmet shell10(or rather the inside of the inner helmet shell10.2) on the front side of the full-visor full face helmet4a.

Base plate3band housing2are furthermore formed in their cross-sectional extension in the direction of the spatial axis Y essentially adapted to the thickness of the helmet shell10, in particular to the thickness of the inner hard shell10.2, in such a way that the HUPD1in the mounted state essentially does not protrude or only slightly protrudes beyond the inside of the helmet shell10(or rather the inside of the inner helmet shell10.2). The protective padding of the full-visor full face helmet4acovers the mounted HUPD1—essentially without deviating in its course along the inside of the helmet shell10.

If necessary, a recess can be provided in the protective padding to partially receive the HUPD1.

Therefore, in this embodiment also, the head-up projection device does not directly touch the user's head, and also with this manner of implementation and manner of mounting the HUPD1, where the protective padding covers the HUPD1on the rear side, the HUPD1does not cause any uncomfortable pressure on the user's head.

Since in this manner of implementation and manner of mounting, the HUPD1is arranged above the viewing window38of the helmet shell10, this design allows a completely unimpeded field of view37for the user and furthermore enables an even more convenient use of glasses for glasses wearers.

Alternatively, it is envisaged that in the recess A of the helmet shell10of the full face helmet4a,a design of the HUPD1according toFIGS. 7, 7a, bcan be integrated, where the planar, crescent-shaped base plate3ais arranged on and fastened to a wall delimiting the recess A in the direction of the spatial axis Z (not shown).

To avoid repetitions, only the differences and their advantages with respect to the preceding embodiment of the HUPD1according to the invention as shown inFIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, care described below.

Identical or similar elements are assigned identical reference symbols.

The HUPD1has an essentially uniaxially curved housing2in accordance with the design shown inFIGS. 2.2ato4.2c,6a, band in contrast to the design shown inFIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, chas a curved, tray-shaped base plate3c(see detail X,FIG. 8.2c).

This tray-shaped base plate3cis arranged accurately fittingly in the recess A of the helmet shell10, or rather in the recess A of the inner hard shell10.2, and fixed in e.g. by means of an adhesive bond (seeFIG. 8.2a). The base plate3cis designed in such a way that it fills the corresponding recess A of the inner hard shell10.2in conformity with the contour.

The tray-shaped base plate3ccan have a circumferential folded rim projecting beyond the recess A, which can be placed against the surface of the inner hard shell10.2in such a way that a rim surrounding the recess A is covered, and which is connectable to the outer hard shell10.1.

The tray-shaped base plate3cprovides improved stability of the recessed helmet shell10. It enables, on the one hand, in particular a retention of the shape of the recess in the inner hard shell10.2and, on the other hand, a protection of the material of the inner hard shell10.2in the region of the recess against premature wear due to the intended repeated detachable mounting of the housing2of the HUPD1in the full-face helmet4a.

In the mounted state of the HUPD1on the full-face helmet4a,the tray-shaped base plate3cencloses the curved housing2with the shell part14and the cover part15, except only for the underside of the lower shell part14of the housing2(seeFIGS. 8.2, 8.2c).

The detachable connection of the housing2to the base plate3cis made by means of a magnetic connection according to the description forFIGS. 6a, b,where the described connecting elements of the magnetic connection (positioning pockets19with magnets33, positioning pockets36with magnets34) are formed on the one hand on a substantially planar, crescent-shaped tray floor of the tray-shaped base plate3c(seeFIG. 8.2b) and on the other hand on the upper cover part15of the housing2(seeFIG. 8.2c).

Thus, here too, the HUPD1in the mounted state is essentially placed outside the viewing window38of the full-visor full face helmet4a.Only the flip-out combiner5protrudes into the viewing window38in the operating case of the HUPD1.

A finger-sized and -conforming indentation in the tray-shaped base plate3cenables an intervention to easily release the housing2from the tray-shaped base plate3c.

For an adjustment of the position of the HUPD1in the direction of the spatial axis X of the full-visor full face helmet4a,the recess A as well as the tray-shaped base plate3ccan be formed longer than the length of the housing2extending in the X-direction to enable variable displaceability of the magnetic connection between base plate3cand housing2for the purpose of the more precise positioning of the housing2and therefore of the combiner5in front of the user's eye46.

It is envisaged that the tray-shaped base plate3cextending longer in the X-direction has a guide mechanism, preferably a rail system, for the variable displacement of the housing2within the tray-shaped base plate3c(not shown).

FIGS. 9, 9a, bshow the fastening of a head-up projection device1to a helmet shell10of a motorcycle helmet4aas a jet helmet similar to the design shown inFIGS. 7, 7a, b.

To avoid repetitions, only the differences with respect to the fastening of the HUPD1according to the invention as shown inFIGS. 7, 7a, bare described below.

Identical or similar elements are assigned identical reference symbols.

In contrast to the helmet shell of the full-visor full face helmet4a,the helmet shell10of the jet helmet4ahas at the front a viewing window38that is open at the bottom (in the chin region). On the inside of the helmet shell10of the jet helmet4a,protective padding is provided (not shown).

The design of the housing2and of the base plate3aof the HUPD1as well as their arrangement and fastening are largely analogous to the embodiment according toFIGS. 7, 7a, b,with the result that in this regard reference can be made to the description forFIGS. 7, 7a, b.

The housing2of the HUPD1can be formed according to the design shown inFIG. 2.1ato4.1c,5a, borFIG. 2.2ato4.2c,6a, b,although here the design according toFIG. 6ahas been chosen by way of example.

In contrast to the design according toFIGS. 7, 7a, b,in this embodiment the detachable connection of the housing2of the HUPD1to the corresponding planar, crescent-shaped base plate3ais preferably made by means of a plug connection according to the description forFIGS. 5a, b,where the described connecting elements (railed guidance30, snap part31) are formed on the one hand on the planar, crescent-shaped base plate3a(seeFIG. 9b) and on the other hand on the housing wall9, facing the base plate3a,of the upper shell part8of the housing2according toFIGS. 2.1ato4.1c,5a, b(seeFIG. 9).

This allows the housing2of the HUPD1to be moved relative to the base plate3aof the HUPD1in or against the direction of the spatial axis Y for mounting or removal and to be locked and unlocked. Here the viewing window38of the jet helmet4a,which is open in the chin region, enables easy access.

If more than two railed guidances30and more than two snap parts31are provided for the plug connection (snap-in connection), the housing2of the HUPD1can if necessary be arranged laterally—in the direction of the spatial axis X—offset with respect to the base plate3a,and thus the combiner5can be positioned even more precisely in front of the user's eye46.

Here too, for space optimisation, the helmet shell10, preferably an inner hard shell (10.2) of the helmet shell10can have a shallow recess, which is designed essentially correspondingly to the shape (contour and thickness) of the base plate3a(not shown). The base plate3acan in particular be arranged completely in the recess, approximately flush with the helmet shell10, without impairing the slide mechanism of the plug connection.

FIGS. 10, 10a, b, cshow the fastening of a head-up projection device1to the helmet shell10of the jet helmet4aaccording toFIGS. 9, 9a, bin a second manner of fastening.

The design of the housing2and of the base plate3bof the HUPD1as well as their arrangement and fastening are largely implemented in combination of the embodiments according toFIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, cand9,9a, b,with the result that in this regard, reference can be made to the description forFIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, cand9,9a, b.

In contrast to the design according toFIGS. 8.1, 8.1a, b, cand9,9a, b,the detachable connection of the housing2of the HUPD1to a correspondingly curved, strip-shaped base plate3bis made by means of a plug connection according to the description forFIGS. 5a, b,where the described connecting elements (railed guidance30, snap part31) are formed on the one hand on the curved plate surface of the base plate3b(seeFIG. 10b) and on the other hand on the curved front housing wall, facing the base plate3b,of the upper shell part8of the housing2according toFIGS. 2.1ato4.1c,5a, b(seeFIG. 10c).

FIG. 11shows the fastening of a head-up projection device to a helmet peak11of a bicycle helmet4b.

The helmet peak11is essentially biaxially arced and arranged on the front side in extension of a helmet shell10of the bicycle helmet4b.

The helmet shell10in this embodiment comprises an outer and an inner hard shell10.1,10.2.

The outer hard shell10.1of the helmet shell10and of the helmet peak11are made of impact-resistant material, such as plastic. The inner hard shell10.2consists e.g. of styrofoam.

On the inside of the helmet shell10of the bicycle helmet4b,a protective padding made of padding sections (not shown) is fastened. The visible closure straps are attached to the helmet shell10and/or to the protective padding.

The HUPD1envisaged here has an essentially biaxially curved housing2with a curved/arced and crescent-shaped base plate3d.

The biaxially curved housing2of the HUPD1can be designed analogously to the design according toFIGS. 5a, borFIGS. 6a, band fastened to the base plate3d.The following description is limited only by way of example to a design analogous toFIGS. 5a, b.

The curved, crescent-shaped base plate3dis formed correspondingly to a housing wall9, curved in the direction of the spatial axis Z and facing the base plate3d,of the upper shell part8of the housing2according toFIGS. 5a, b.

The curved, crescent-shaped base plate3dis fastened to the underside of the arced helmet peak11of the bicycle helmet4bby means of e.g. an adhesive bond or screw fastening.

In this embodiment, the detachable connection of the biaxially curved housing2of the HUPD1to the correspondingly curved crescent-shaped base plate3dis made preferably by means of a plug connection according to the description forFIGS. 5a, b,where the described connecting elements (railed guidance30, snap part31) are formed on the one hand on the curved plate surface of the crescent-shaped base plate3dand on the other hand on the curved housing wall9, facing the base plate3d,of the upper shell part8.

The front housing wall, arced in the direction of the spatial axis Y, of the upper shell part8and the upper housing wall9, arced in the direction of the spatial axis Z, of the upper shell part8and the front contour of the base plate3d,which is equally/correspondingly arced in the direction of the axis Z, preferably have radii that correspond to the customary radii of the helmet peak11of the bicycle helmet4b,in such a way that the HUPD1essentially lies flush on the underside of the helmet peak11and does not protrude beyond its front contour.

Thus, in the mounted state, the HUPD1is placed flat along the underside of the arced helmet peak11, without the HUPD1impairing the protective function (impact protection, glare shield) of the helmet peak11.

Here too, for space optimisation, the helmet shell10, preferably an inner hard shell (10.2) of the helmet shell10can have a shallow recess, which is designed essentially corresponding to the shape (contour and thickness) of the base plate3d(not shown). The base plate3dcan in particular be arranged completely in the recess, approximately flush with the helmet shell10, without impairing the slide mechanism of the plug connection.

The rear housing wall, curved in the direction of axis Y, of the upper shell part8and the rear edge (rear contour) of the base plate3dpreferably have radii that correspond to the customary radii on the inside of the helmet, shell10, in particular on the inside of the inner hard shell10.1of the helmet shell10, on the front side of the bicycle helmet4b.In any case, the HUPD1is designed and arranged in the mounted state in such a way that it essentially does not protrude beyond the inner side of the helmet shell10and therefore is at a sufficient distance from the protective padding of the bicycle helmet4band from the user's head.

As a result, here too, the head-up projection device1does not make any contact with the user's head.

The arrangement of the HUPD1on the underside of the helmet peak11of the bicycle helmet4ballows a largely unimpeded field of view37for the user and also enables glasses wearers to use glasses conveniently.

FIGS. 12, 12ashow the fastening of a head-up projection device1to a helmet peak11of an industrial safety helmet4cor other technical protective helmet.

The helmet peak11is biaxially arced, and arranged on the front side on a helmet shell10of the industrial safety helmet4cor other technical safety helmet.

The helmet shell10in this embodiment comprises an outer hard shell10.1without an inner hard shell10.2.

Helmet shell10and helmet peak11are made of an impact-resistant material, such as plastic. On the inside of the helmet shell10, protective padding can be provided (not shown).

In principle, the design of the housing2in interaction with a base plate3dof the HUPD1and its arrangement and fastening on the biaxially arced helmet peak11of the industrial safety helmet4ccan be analogous to the embodiment according toFIG. 11(not explicitly shown), with the result that reference can be made to the description forFIG. 11in this regard.

The illustrations inFIGS. 12, 12ashow an alternative fastening of the head-up projection device1to the biaxially arced helmet peak11of the industrial safety helmet/protective helmet4cin a second advantageous manner of fastening.

In contrast to the design according toFIG. 11, the fastening of the head-up projection device1takes place above the arced helmet peak11of the industrial safety helmet/protective helmet4c.

The HUPD1has an essentially biaxially curved housing2and, in further distinction to the design according toFIG. 11, a curved/arced base plate3b,which is formed correspondingly to a contour of the front outer side of the helmet shell10and is fastened to the outside of helmet shell10of the industrial safety helmet/protective helmet4c.The base plate3bis fastened to the helmet shell10e.g. by means of an adhesive bond or screw fastening.

The biaxially curved housing2of the HUPD1can be designed and fastened analogously to the design according toFIGS. 5a, borFIGS. 6a, b.The following description is limited only by way of example to a design analogous toFIGS. 6a, b.

The curved base plate3bis furthermore formed correspondingly to a rear, curved housing wall, facing the base plate3b,of the lower shell part14of the housing2of the HUPD1.

In this embodiment, the detachable connection or the housing2to the base plate3bis made preferably by means of a magnetic connection33analogously to the description forFIGS. 6a, b.

The helmet peak11, depending on the placement of the HUPD1along the horizontal extension of the helmet peak11, can have an opening (opening cutout Ö) through which the combiner5passes and for the passage of the optical beam29. The opening cutout Ö in the helmet peak11is formed at least correspondingly to the size and arrangement of the combiner5, but can also be formed somewhat wider than the width of the combiner5, so that the housing2can be arranged in the direction of the spatial axis X at an offset to the base plate3band thus enable a degree of freedom in the lateral positioning of the combiner5in the opening cutout Ö and thus in front of the eye46(SeeFIG. 12a).

The front housing wall, arced in the direction of the spatial axis Y, of the shell part14and the lower housing wall, arced in the direction of the spatial axis5, of the shell part14or rather of the housing cover15, have radii that correspond to the customary radii of the helmet peak11of the industrial safety helmet/protective helmet4c,in such a way that the HUPD1essentially lies flush on the upper side of the helmet peak11and does not protrude beyond its front contour.

The protective function (impact protection, glare shield) of the helmet peak11is thus not impaired by the HUPD1.

The rear housing wall, arced in the direction of the axis Y, of the shell part14and the equally arced base plate3bpreferably have radii that correspond to the customary radii of the outside of the helmet shell10on the front side of the industrial safety helmet/protective helmet4c.

The arrangement of the HUPD1on the upper side of the helmet peak11of the industrial safety helmet/protective helmet4callows a largely unimpeded field of view37for the user and, of course, also enables an unimpeded use of glasses.

It is generally the case that the head-up projection device1according to the invention can furthermore also be used e.g. in ski helmets, sports hats/caps, full-visor protective helmets worn by firefighters or police officers, or on other protective helmets and protective hats.

The arrangement of the head-up projection device on or in the helmet shell10in the region of the front side of the helmet4a, b, cleaves the functionality of the helmet4a, b, clargely unaffected—both in respect of the homologation function (conformity with safety regulations) and in respect of the comfort function (no field of view restriction, use of shields, visors, glasses possible).

Especially in the case of motorcycle or bicycle helmets4a,4b,the arrangement of the head-up projection device1on or in the helmet shell10in the region of the front side furthermore minimises interference with the aerodynamics and aeroacoustics of the helmet4a,4b.

The housing parts2,7,8,14,15and where applicable the base plate3a, b, cof the HUPD1can be made of plastic individually, partially or as a whole.

It is conceivable to form certain parts, sections or regions of the curved housing2and where applicable of the base plate3a, b, cfrom particularly elastic material, such as silicone, in order to be able to make the housing2and the base plate3a, b, ceven more flexible and adaptable to the mounting situation and geometry of various helmets (protective helmets)4.

The curved housing2can have an articulation of mechanical nature or of material nature, with e.g an elastic intermediate part. An articulation, for example in approximately the middle of the longitudinal extension of the curved housing2enables a bending of the curved housing2and therefore a reduction or extension of the radius of curvature of the curved housing2in adaptation to different radii of the various helmet shells10.

FIG. 13shows a sectional isometric view of a section of the curved housing2of the head-up projection device1according toFIGS. 5a, bin a view of the underside of the housing2(lower cover part7).

The view according toFIG. 13illustrates the fastening means for the movable fastening of the combiner5on the lower housing part or housing cover (lower cover part7) in detail.

The fastening means have a pivot arm40rotatable mounted to the housing2(lower cover part7), to which the combiner5is fastened. The axis of rotation41of the pivot arm40is preferably arranged essentially in the direction of the spatial axis X, in such a way that the combiner5can pivot approximately about the X-axis.

The combiner5can alternatively be movably attached by means of a two-part hinge, as described inFIGS. 14, 14a, b,or by means of a ball joint (not shown).

The alternative fastening means described above for the movable fastening of the combiner5can in each case interact with an adjustment mechanism.

The adjustment mechanism serves to specifically adjust the inclination/position of the combiner5with respect to the housing2and thus adjust the beam angle of the optical beam29from the optical module20, in order to be able to optimally direct the optical beam29to the user's eye46(seeFIGS. 18, 19).

The adjustment mechanism, as shown inFIG. 13, can be of a multi-step locking design by means of a positioning member joined to the pivot arm40or formed on the pivot arm40, which engages in a corresponding toothed profile.

However, the adjustment mechanism can alternatively be designed to be steplessly adjustable, by means of a frictional connection between pivot arm40or rather positioning member of the pivot arm40and a friction partner fixed to the housing.

Thus the adjustment mechanism fixes the inclination position of the combiner5in such a way that it does not move out of its preset position even in the event of vibrations caused by the movement or rather by the ride of the user.

FIGS. 14, 14a, billustrate the alternative fastening and adjustment mechanism for the movable fastening of the combiner5to the lower shell part14of the curved housing2of the head-up projection device according toFIGS. 6a, b.

The fastening means comprise a combiner holder42with a first rotary bearing element43aextending essentially in the direction of the spatial axis X, where the combiner holder42can be detachably fastened to or in a housing wall of the lower shell part14, e.g. preferably by a snap-fit element on the housing wall of the lower shell part14for snapping the combiner holder42into place.

The relevant housing wall of the lower shell part14has a second rotary bearing element43bextending in the direction of the spatial axis X and corresponding to the first rotary bearing element43aof the combiner holder42. Both rotary bearing elements43a, bform a two-part rotary bearing43, in which a correspondingly formed, corresponding bearing axis of the combiner5is mounted, in such a way that the combiner5is held and arranged rotatably about an axis of rotation41, where the location of the axis of rotation41preferably corresponds approximately to the direction of the spatial axis X.

As a result, the combiner holder42as well as the combiner5itself are easily accessible and replaceable for maintenance and repair purposes.

By means of a clamping piece made of silicone within the rotary bearing43, which follows the outer contour of the bearing axis of the combiner5and the inner contour of the rotary bearing43(not shown), in the design according toFIG. 14a frictional connection between the rotary bearing43and bearing axis of the combiner5and thus a steplessly adjustable adjustment mechanism is formed. A stiction is thereby generated in such a way that the vibrations to be expected during the use of the HUPD1are absorbed by the elastic clamping piece without leading to any movement in the preset inclination angle of the combiner5.

An adjustment mechanism by means of a frictionally engaged ball joint (not shown) furthermore enables a multi-axis, stepless adjustment of the position of the combiner5relative to the housing2and therefore additional degrees of freedom in the positioning of the combiner5.

All of the adjustment mechanisms described above enable a convenient fine adjustment of the position of the combiner5and thus of the generated virtual image13for the user.

The respective adjustment mechanism can be electronically controlled by means of an actuated electric servo motor for a further increase in convenience.

The mountings (pivot arm40, combiner holder42) of the combiner5are each formed at the edge of the flip-out combiner5and are designed to be particularly slim, with the remaining parts of the fastening means and the adjustment mechanism being arranged in an integrated manner within the housing2.

As a result, only the combiner5of the head-up projection device1is arranged directly in front of the user's eye46, where the combiner5, which is designed to be fully transparent, does not impede the user's view.

The combiner5can in particular be made of transparent polycarbonate, which reduces the risk of injury to the user because of the stable and non-splintering properties of the material.

The side of the combiner5facing the eye46can have a, preferably 25%, reflective coating, which despite transparency realises such a sufficient reflective property of the combiner5for reflection/deflection of the light beam29that the light beam29can be imaged on the retina of the eye46with high image quality.

The side of the combiner5facing away from the eye46can have an anti-reflection coating/absorption coating, which prevents a double reflection/double mirroring and thus avoids the risk of generating images offset from each other.

Furthermore, this anti-reflection coating also prevents a possible disturbing reflection of light on the combiner5in the flipped-in state.

The optical beam29projected by the optical module20in the housing2onto the combiner5and directed into the user's eye46generates a virtual image13on the retina of the eye46, which appears to be in the horizontal and vertical field of view37a, bof the user (FIGS. 15, 16).

With appropriate arrangement of the optics of the optical module20and/or alignment of the combiner5, the virtual image13can be generated in such a way in relation to the user's horizontal and vertical field of view37a, bthat the virtual image13occupies in each case only a narrow sector of the horizontal and vertical field of view37a, b.This narrow sector (image sector44) reserved for the virtual image13can, for the purpose of keeping free certain critical regions of the field of view37, such as the field of view37of the traffic ahead and/or the oncoming traffic, be angularly offset, preferably with an offset angle of 5° to 10° in each case, laterally to the right or left and/or vertically upwards or downwards, with respect to the straight viewing axis45(seeFIGS. 15, 16).

FIG. 15shows a usual vertical field of view37b(FoV) of the user and, provided by way of example, a vertical image sector44b(field with bold outline), where in this example the inclination of the combiner5about an X-axis is adjusted in such a way that the vertical image sector44bis slightly shifted upwards, with an offset angle of approximately 5°, out of the straight viewing axis45of the eye (dash-dotted line).

FIG. 16shows a usual horizontal field of view37a(FoV) of the user with, provided by way of example, a horizontal image sector44a(field with bold outline), where the optics of the optical module20and the combiner5are arranged relative to each other in such a way that the horizontal image sector44ais slightly shifted to the right, with an offset angle of approximately 10°, out of the straight viewing axis45of the eye (dash-dotted line).

This arrangement of the viewing sector44a, baccording toFIGS. 15 and 16is particularly advantageous for a motorcyclist user who is driving in right-hand traffic.

For the motorcyclist user who is driving in left-hand traffic, by means of the alignment of the optics of the optical module20and the combiner5, the horizontal image sector44afor example can be shifted to the left, with an offset angle of approximately 10°, out of the straight viewing axis45of the eye (dash-dotted line).

This alignment of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44a, bcan be realised on the one hand by means of a corresponding arrangement and alignment of the combiner5in relation to the prism26standing at the end of the optical module20.

A vertical offset of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44bcan be achieved for example by means of the combiner5, which is rotationally adjustable about the X-axis, as shown inFIGS. 13 and 14, and can be adjusted as desired.

It is furthermore conceivable to generate an arbitrarily adjustable, horizontal offset of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44afor example by means of a combines5that is rotationally adjustable about the Z-axis.

FIG. 17shows a schematic representation of an arrangement of the optical module20within the housing2of the head-up device1according toFIGS. 2.1ato4.1c,5a, bin a relationship to the expected position of the user's eyes46, with which a horizontal offset of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44acan be predetermined by means of the device. The example shows the generation of a horizontal offset of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44awith an offset angle α of approximately 10° to the right of the straight viewing axis45of the right eye46of the user. For the sake of clarity, the helmet4on which the head-up device1is arranged in this case is not shown.

The layout of the envisaged position of the optical module20, in particular the position of the prism26standing at the end (and thus also that of the combiner5) is based on the one hand on an average interpupillary distance (eye distance DA) of 65 mm among various people as determined in scientific studies, and on the other hand on an average pupil position within in a stray field47(eyebox47).

In this embodiment, the head-up device1is designed and arranged on the helmet4in relation to the user's eyes46in such a way that a centre axis (reference axis)48of the housing2of the head-up device1, which in this example corresponds to the axis of symmetry of the housing2, is positioned centrally between the eyes46and thus approximately congruently with half the average eye distance DA. The correct positioning of the head-up device1or rather of the centre axis (reference axis)48of the housing2in relation to the helmet4or rather to the eyes46can be facilitated by a suitable marker M on the housing2, which e.g. marks the centre axis (reference axis)48.

The prism26standing at the end of the optical module20is offset to the right of the centre axis (reference axis)48of the housing2of the head-up device1to such an extent that the light beam29emerging from the exit surface of the prism26and deflected on the combiner5strikes the right eye46at an offset angle α of approximately 10° to the right of the straight viewing angle45within the eyebox47, in order to achieve a corresponding offset angle of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44arelative to the straight viewing axis45.

In this case, the centre of the reflection surface of the prism26is arranged offset by approximately 32.5 mm (half of the average eye distance DA) plus a further offset length LV45, which results from the angular relationship of the offset angle α to the distance ERof the right eye46from the prism26(centre of the reflection surface of the prism26), horizontally and at right angles to the centre axis (reference axis)48of the housing2of the head-up device1. (The offset length LV45of the light beam29at the centre of the reflection surface of the prism26with respect to the straight viewing axis45is calculated using the distance ERmultiplied by the sine of the offset angle α: LV=ER×sin α).

Assuming that the centre axis (reference axis)48of the head-up device1is positioned centrally to the eye position (half eye distance ½DA) and the distance ERof the right eye46from the prism26(centre of the reflection surface of the prism26) is preferably approx. 35 mm, the total horizontal offset of the centre of the prism26with respect to the centre axis (reference axis)48of the housing2of the head-up device1works out to be approximately LV48=38.6 (32.5+6.1) mm (offset length LV48of the light beam29at the centre of the reflection surface of the prism26with respect to the centre axis (reference axis)48).

FIG. 17ashows the schematic representation of the arrangement of the optical module20within the housing2of the head-up device1according toFIGS. 2.2ato 4.2c,6a, bin a relationship to the position of the user's eyes46, in order likewise to realise a horizontal offset of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44awith an offset angle α of approximately 10° to the right of the straight viewing axis45of the right eve46of the user in accordance with the design shown inFIG. 17.

In contrast to the design according toFIG. 17, the head-up device1in this embodiment designed and arranged on the helmet4in relation to the eyes46or rather to the right eye46of the user in such a way that a predetermined reference axis48of the asymmetrical housing2bof the head-up device1is positioned approximately congruently with the half eye distance DA(centrally between the eyes46).

In this embodiment, the location of the reference axis48of the housing2bdoes not correspond to half the housing length due to the lack of an axis of symmetry and must be determined separately.

The location of the reference axis48of the housing2bin relation to the optical module20is determined by the horizontal offset length LV48, which, starting from the centre of the reflection surface of the prism26is calculated using the imaginary half eye distance DAplus the offset length LV45of the centre of the reflection surface of the prism26with respect to the straight viewing axis45of the right eye46. The offset length LV45, to achieve an offset angle α of the virtual image13or rather of the image sector44aof approximately 10° from the straight viewing axis45is calculated according to the description forFIG. 17, to which reference is made.

The correct positioning of the head-up device1or rather of the reference axis48of the housing2bin relation to the helmet4or rather to the eves46can be facilitated by a suitable marker M on the housing2, which e.g. marks the determined reference axis48.

To realise the straight optical axis28in the curved housing2, the length of the optical path29from the exit of the light beam29from the image source (display)23to the exit of the light beam29from the prism26within the optical module20can be made particularly short through a corresponding design of the optics. Thus, as well as the convex lens25, the achromat24can additionally be designed to magnify the image to be projected which comes out of the image source23.

Also, instead of an achromat24and/or a convex lens25with a typically round circumference, to save space an achromat24and/or a convex lens25with polygonal circumference or with different circumferential radii over the circumference can be formed (seeFIGS. 5b, 6b).

The optical elements23,24,25,26of the optical module20and the combiner5are arranged relative to each other in such a way that the light beam29or rather the optical path29is deflected twice (black, thick line in the side view of the optical module20according toFIG. 18and in the 90° rotated view of the optical module20according toFIG. 19).

The first deflection of the optical path29, by approximately 90°, takes place at the end of the optical module20on the reflective plane/slanted face of the prism26in the direction of the combiner5arranged thereunder (FIG. 18).

The second deflection of the optical path29, by again approximately 90°, takes place in one direction of the eye46as a result of the particular arrangement of the reflective combiner5in relation to the prism26(FIG. 19).

Here, the plane of the combiner5is rotated by 90° relative to the reflective plane/slanted face of the prism26and additionally arranged inclined by approximately 45° with respect to the exit plane/surface of the prism26(FIGS. 18, 19).

By means of the above-mentioned designs, the advantageous arrangement of the head-up projection device1with a horizontally extending optical module20in the forehead region of the head above the eyes46or rather in the front region of the helmet4above the eyes46and thus outside the user's field of view37can be realised, while a virtual image generation can be realised directly in front of the user's eye46.

As the image source23, preferably a space-, weight- and energy-saving OLED display23is used. In this way, on the one hand the necessary size and weight of the battery(-ies)22carried in the curved housing2can be reduced, which improves the wearing comfort of the head-up projection device1.

In addition, the use of an OLED display23enables a space-saving reduction of the screen diagonal of the image source23, preferably to a screen diagonal of the display23of approx. 0.19″ (approx. 0.483 cm).

As a result, the paraxial region of the optics becomes narrower, which enables a smaller diameter of the subsequent optical elements (achromat24, convex lens25, prism26) of the optical module20, i.e. the optical module20is slimmer as a result and can be arranged even better inside the curved housing2of the head-up projection device1.

The small screen diagonal of the display23requires a greater magnification, which for example can be produced by a smaller radius and consequently a greater thickness of the optical elements (achromat24, convex lens25), where as a result of the associated lower focal length, the distance between the optical elements (achromat24, convex lens25) and between them and the image source23can be smaller, in such a way that ultimately the installation space or rather the total installation space length of the optical module20can be smaller.

Preferably an OLED display23is used which emits monochromatic yellow light, in a wavelength of approx. 564 nm and/or with a luminous intensity of 12,000 cd/m2, better still of 20,000 cd/m2, particularly preferably of 25,000 cd/m2. This light produces a very high luminance of the OLED display23, which realises a strong, low-loss optical beam through the optical elements and subsequently a virtual image of high sharpness and brightness.

However, it is just as advantageous to use a multicoloured OLED display23.

The optics or rather the optical path29of the optical module20is designed in such a way that a virtual image13can be generated in apparent size and distance, which allows a relaxing view for the user and does not require focusing alternately between close and distant vision. In this respect, such a design of the optics proves to be particularly favourable for the user's eye, with which design a virtual image13with an apparent screen image diagonal of 90″ (228.60 cm) and an apparent distance of more than 3 m, preferably approximately 10 m (optical infinity) is generated. In this constellation, the images to be captured by the eye (real image and virtual image13) are largely balanced with each other in respect of their distance and are therefore less tiring.

To realise the favourable virtual image13, the optics or rather the optical path29of the optical module20is designed in corresponding coordination of the materials and radii of the achromat24and of the convex lens25and thus in a certain magnification/focal length of the achromat24and of the convex lens25in relation to the distance/to the distances between the display23and the achromat24and between the achromat24and the convex lens25.

The optics or rather the optical path29of the optical module20for generating an advantageous virtual image13with an apparent image diagonal of 90″ (228.60 cm) and at an apparent distance of approximately 10 m can be formed starting from an OLED display23with a screen diagonal of 0.19″ (4.83 mm) for example according to the following illustration:

In this embodiment, the material of the achromat24, of the single convex lens,25and of the prism26consist of fine annealed glass with the following material designations:Biconcave lens of the achromat24: SF6Biconvex lens of the achromat24: N-LAK8Single convex lens25: N-BK7Prism26: N-BK7.

According to this embodiment, the advantageous virtual image13is achieved with a length of the optical path29of only 43.22 mm from the exit of the light beam29out of the image source (OLED display)23to the entry of the light beam29into the prism26.

The total installed length of the optical module20from the image source23(display) to the prism26including the surrounding multi-part optics casing27is here only 49.15 mm.

The stated dimensions are design values, to which the practical implementation of the optical module20is approximated as far as possible.

By varying the distance between display23and achromat24, the apparent distance can be varied. With the distance shown of 11.4979 mm, an apparent distance of the virtual image13of approximately 10 m is achieved. However, when the distance between display23and achromat24is changed, the distance between achromat and convex lens25must remain the same in order for the image to continue to appear sharp.

Alternatively, the material of the achromat24, of the single convex lens25and of the prism26can consist of fine annealed glass with the following material designations:Biconcave lens of the achromat24: H-ZF7LA.Biconvex lens of the achromat24: H-LAK7ASingle convex lens25: H-K9LPrism26: N-BK7.

With these materials of the optical elements24,25,26, a low-cost optical module20can be provided, with which the quality of the image reproduction of the virtual image13can be ensured to a still sufficient degree, i.e. without disadvantageously limiting the image quality for the user.

On the circuit board21, which is also located in the housing2of the head-up projection device1, essentially all the necessary electronic components of the head-up projection device1are arranged, such as microprocessor/microcontroller, data storage, data interface, an inertial measurement unit (9DoF IMU—9 Degrees of Freedom Inertial Measurement Unit) with several inertial sensors, such as 3-axis acceleration sensor, 3-axis position sensor (gyroscope) and 3-axis magnetometer (compass), and further electronic components, such as the light and brightness sensor32.

The block diagram inFIG. 20shows the functional scheme of the head-up projection device1in which the functional interrelationships of all components in the housing2of the head-up projection device1are shown.

The microprocessor/microcontroller controls all processes and evaluates the acquired data. In particular, the image source23(display) is controlled by the processor.

The microprocessor/microcontroller, via the data interface, acquires and processes data from different external host systems (central data processing systems), and furthermore data from the integrated inertial measurement unit and from the integrated sensors.

The data interface is used for wireless data exchange with at least one host system (preferably smartphone) via a wireless communication system such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. In addition, wireless data exchange with several other host systems (vehicle/motorcycle electronics, smartwatch, wearables, headset, video camera etc.) is possible.

The data interface receives all data not provided by the integrated sensors (e.g. speed, navigation instructions, time, notifications, warning messages and other information etc. from the host systems).

The inertial measurement unit is intended among other things for the geographical positioning of the head-up projection device1and thus of the helmet4, E.g. from the acquisition of acceleration values and the direction of travel via the position sensor, an improved speed display compared to GPS is available, including when passing through tunnels.

Possibly, through corresponding head movement, by means of the position sensor, via the microprocessor/microcontroller, a differentiated control of the head-up projection device1can take place.

The compass can be used to support off-road navigation.

By means of the right and brightness sensor32, the brightness of the display23can be controlled via the processor, in particular an automatic dimming of the brightness of the display23and thus an adaptation of the brightness of the virtual image13to the ambient conditions (e.g. when entering or exiting tunnels, changing between day/night mode etc.) can take place.

The battery(/-ies)22serve to supply power for the operation of the microcontroller, the inertial measurement unit, the image source23, the light sensor and the communication system (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) at different voltage levels. Preferably, lithium-ion batteries22are used, which because of their favourable power-to-size ratio and low weight can be arranged space-savingly and without significantly weighing down the head-up projection device1in the housing2of the head-up projection device1, which further improves the wearing comfort of the head-up projection device1. The batteries22can be charged via a connectable external power supply unit, with a usual charging protection circuit protecting the lithium-ion batteries22from destruction or catching fire.

These and further features arising from the patent claims, the description of the example embodiments and the drawings can in each case be realised by themselves or combination as advantageous embodiments of the invention for which protection is claimed here.

The term “and/or” used here, when used in a series of two or more elements, means that any of the listed elements may be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed elements may be used. For example, if a relationship is described that contains the components A, B and/or C, the relationship can contain the component A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B and C in combination.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

1Head-up projection device (HUPD)2Housing of the HUPD symmetrical a, asymmetrical b3Base plate of the HUPD flat, crescent-shaped a, curved strip-shaped b, curved tray-shaped c, curved, crescent-shaped d4Helmet, protective helmet, motorcycle helmet a, bicycle helmet b, industrial safety helmet c5Combiner6Power supply socket7Lower, flat housing part, lower cover part8Upper shell-shaped housing part, upper shell part9Housing wall of the upper shell part10Helmet shell, outer hard shell .1, inner hard shell .211Helmet peak12Opening in the lower cover part, opening in the lower shell part13Virtual image14Lower, shell shaped housing part, lower shell part15Upper, flat housing part, upper cover part16Retaining pins17Opening in the lower shell part18Switch, push-button19Recess, positioning pocket of the base plate20Optical module21Electronics module, circuit board22Battery23Optical element, image source, display24Optical element, achromat25Optical element, convex lens26Optical element, prism27Optics housing, optics casing, casing element a, b, c28Optical axis29Light beam, optical path of the light beam30Railed guidance31Snap part32Light and brightness sensor33(Permanent) magnet34(Permanent) opposing magnet35Knob′, knob receptacle″36Circumferential rim, positioning pocket of the upper cover part37Field of view, horizontal a, vertical b38Viewing window of the helmet shell39Visor, full visor40Pivot arm41Axis of rotation42Combiner holder43Two-part rotary bearing, first, second rotary bearing element a, b44Image sector, horizontal a, vertical b45Straight viewing axis46Eye47Eyebox48Centre axis/reference axis of the housing of the HUPDA Recess in the helmet shellÖ Opening cutout in the helmet peakα Offset angleDAAverage distance between the eyes (eye distance)ERDistance of the right eye from the prismLV74Offset length of the prism with respect to the straight viewing axis45of the eyeLV48Offset length of the prism with respect to the centre axis48of the housingM Marker