System of a motor vehicle for displaying image content on a surface

Abstract

A motor vehicle system (10) for displaying static and / or dynamic image content (12) on a surface (14), comprising: at least one projection device (16) for projecting image content (12) within a projection plane (18) onto the surface (14), wherein the projection of the projection plane (18) is oblique to the surface of the surface (14), and wherein the projection of the image content (12) onto the surface (14) includes a distortion of the image content (12) that depends on the angle of incidence; a control unit coupled to the projection device (16) for dynamically calculating the image content (12) to be projected;wherein the control unit is configured to generate a basic image plane (20) and at least one dynamic image plane (22), wherein the basic image plane (20) extends over the entire projection plane (18) and can be at least partially superimposed by at least one dynamic image plane (22), wherein the control unit is configured to compensate for the distortion of the image content (12) by means of transformation algorithms and / or predefined distortion matrices, and wherein the control unit is configured to prioritize individual dynamic image planes (22) from a plurality of dynamic image planes (22).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a system for a motor vehicle for displaying static and / or dynamic image content on a surface, with the aid of which vehicle-specific information can be displayed optically. The invention further relates to a method for displaying static and / or dynamic image content on a surface and to a motor vehicle.

[0002] Floor projections for static logos or as entrance lighting are already familiar. These systems usually offer only limited customization options for different projection levels or interactive content.

[0003] There is a constant need for optimized projection technology for motor vehicles that enables a clear and adaptive display of image content on different surfaces.

[0004] DE 10 2021 134 193 A1 discloses a system for a motor vehicle for displaying image content on a surface, comprising at least one projection device for projecting image content within a projection plane onto the surface. The at least one projection device is mounted on a fender of the motor vehicle, the projection of the projection plane is oblique to the surface of the surface, and the image content of the projection plane is distorted by the arrangement and angle of incidence of the projection device relative to the surface. The system further comprises a control unit coupled to the projection device for calculating the image content to be projected.

[0005] DE 10 2021 211 052 A1 discloses a system of a motor vehicle for displaying image content on a surface with at least one projection device mounted in a rearview mirror or underbody for projecting image content.

[0006] DE 10 2020 124 152 A1 and DE 10 2021 214 581 A1 each disclose devices for light projection in the interior of a motor vehicle.

[0007] Based on this situation, the present task is to provide a system for a motor vehicle to display static and / or dynamic image content on a surface, a method for projecting image content using such a system, and a motor vehicle with such a system that enables a flexible, dynamic, and adaptable display, compensating for distortions caused by the installation position of the projection device, efficiently utilizing computing capacity, and improving the visibility of the projection under different lighting and environmental conditions.

[0008] The present problem is solved by the features of an independent claim.

[0009] Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Where technically feasible, the teachings of the dependent claims can be combined arbitrarily with those of the main and dependent claims.

[0010] The system according to the invention for a motor vehicle for displaying static and / or dynamic image content on a substrate has the following features: - at least one projection device for projecting image content within a projection plane onto the substrate, wherein the projection of the projection plane is oblique to the surface of the substrate, and wherein the projection of the image content onto the substrate includes a distortion of the image content that depends on the angle of incidence; - a control unit coupled to the projection device for the dynamic calculation of the image content to be projected; wherein the control unit is configured to generate a basic image plane and at least one dynamic image plane, wherein the basic image plane extends over the entire projection plane and can be at least partially superimposed by at least one dynamic image plane, wherein the control unit is designed to compensate for the distortion of the image content by means of transformation algorithms and / or predefined distortion matrices, and the control unit is designed to prioritize individual dynamic image planes from a multitude of dynamic image planes.

[0011] The system comprises the projection device, which projects image content, particularly in the immediate vicinity of a motor vehicle, onto the surface. The projection is oblique to the surface of the substrate, necessitating adjustment of the image content to account for perspective distortions. The control unit processes the image content to be projected and enables a combination of a basic image plane and at least one dynamic image plane. This allows for flexible and context-dependent display of image content, for example, for showing vehicle information or warning messages.

[0012] The following sections explain advantageous aspects and subsequently describe preferred modified embodiments. Explanations, particularly regarding advantages and definitions of features, are essentially descriptive and preferred, but not limiting, examples. If an explanation is limiting, this will be explicitly stated.

[0013] It is preferred that the sequence of process steps can be varied, unless a specific sequence is technically required. However, the aforementioned sequence of process steps is particularly preferred.

[0014] Where ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., are used, for example to designate a component, an element, a process step, or a process action, these ordinal numbers are solely for differentiation in the designation and do not indicate any dependencies or sequences. This means, in particular, that a device does not need to have a "first component" to have a "second component." A device can also have a "first component" and a "third component" without necessarily having a "second component." Multiple units with the same ordinal number are also possible, for example, multiple "first components."

[0015] A projection device is a technical device used to project optical content onto a surface, such as a road or a wall. It can utilize various technologies to make images, symbols, or text visible. Projection devices can be designed specifically as DLP (Digital Light Processing) projectors, laser projectors, LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) projectors, MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical System) scanner projectors, or LED projectors. Regardless of the chosen technology, the projection device can be equipped with additional functions to adapt the projection to different conditions. For example, automatic focus adjustment can be integrated to ensure that the image sharpness remains constant regardless of the distance to the projection surface. Furthermore, brightness control can ensure that the projection remains clearly visible even under changing ambient light conditions.Additionally, distortion correction can be implemented to adjust the image accordingly and ensure an undistorted representation of the image content.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, the projection plane may have a first projection section and a second projection section adjacent to the first projection section. In particular, the projection plane may have a third projection section adjacent to the second projection section. In particular, the first projection section may be located closer to the projection device than the second and / or third projection sections. In particular, the first projection section may have a higher resolution than the second and / or third projection sections. In particular, the second projection section may have a higher resolution than the third projection section.In particular, it is provided that the base image plane in the area of ​​the first projection section can be at least partially superimposed by at least one dynamic image plane. The projection plane is divided into several projection sections, which differ in their distance from the projection device and their resolution. This ensures that high-resolution content is selectively displayed with better image quality in the relevant projection sections, while less relevant projection sections can have a lower resolution. This optimizes the use of available computing power and ensures effective image reproduction.

[0017] The first projection section extends up to 1 meter along the longitudinal axis of the projection plane. The second projection section extends up to 0.5 meters along the longitudinal axis of the projection plane, and the third projection section extends up to 1.3 meters along the longitudinal axis of the projection plane. These exact meter measurements are for illustrative purposes only and may vary depending on the optics used and the mounting position.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that pictograms, symbols, animated content, and / or measured values ​​can be displayed on the projection plane, particularly in the at least one dynamic image plane. Specifically, the control unit is designed to adapt the image content of the at least one dynamic image plane as a result of predetermined events, vehicle states, or user input. Specifically, it is provided that vehicle data, in particular the driver's name, battery status, driving range, estimated distance or travel time to the destination, and / or the like, can be displayed. The dynamic image plane enables the display of variable content such as pictograms, symbols, animated elements, or measured values. The control unit adapts this content depending on vehicle states or user input.This offers the advantage that the projection can be used interactively, for example to display battery status, range or driving route information.

[0019] The projection of the image content onto the surface involves a distortion of the image content that depends on the angle of incidence. This distortion can be compensated for by the control unit using transformation algorithms and / or predefined distortion matrices. Since the image content is projected at an oblique angle of incidence, this leads to distortions on the projection surface. These distortions are compensated for by the control unit using transformation algorithms or predefined distortion matrices.

[0020] This ensures that the image content is displayed in a clear and easily readable form, regardless of the angle of incidence.

[0021] The control unit is designed to prioritize individual dynamic image layers from a multitude of dynamic image layers. Specifically, the prioritization of individual dynamic image layers is achieved using predefined rules and / or algorithms. Furthermore, the prioritization of individual dynamic image layers results in a time-dependent projection of these layers. The control unit is capable of prioritizing one or more dynamic image layers to ensure an organized and clear presentation of information. Predefined rules or algorithms can determine in advance which image layer should be displayed in specific situations. This prevents an overloaded or confusing projection and ensures targeted information display.For example, a dynamic image layer that displays the charge level of the vehicle's battery can be replaced, after the vehicle has been locked by a user, with a dynamic image layer featuring a lock to display the vehicle's locking status for a predetermined time.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may be configured to calculate the image content of the projection plane, in particular the base image plane and / or the at least one dynamic image plane, using a blend mode. Specifically, it is provided that the image content of the base image plane and the image content of the at least one dynamic image plane can interact with each other and / or be combined and displayed within the projection plane through the application of the blend mode. Specifically, it is provided that the blend mode performs addition, subtraction, multiplication, difference, overlay, screen, and / or divide operations on the image content, particularly of the dynamic image planes. The control unit uses blend modes to calculate the image content of the projection plane. This allows different planes to be combined to enable a visually appealing and functional display.

[0023] Blend modes such as addition, subtraction, or multiplication allow for targeted adjustment of image content to different display scenarios.

[0024] A blend mode is a method used to determine how two or more image elements or layers are combined in an image editing or rendering system. It involves mathematically calculating the pixel information of one layer against the pixel information of another to produce a specific visual result. The pixel values ​​of the two layers can be added, making the image brighter. Conversely, the pixel values ​​of one layer can be subtracted from those of another, making the image darker. The pixel values ​​of the layers can also be multiplied, often resulting in darker images. By calculating absolute differences in pixel values, contrast can be created. The term "overlay" is a combination of "multiply" and "screen," where bright areas are rendered brighter and dark areas darker.The term "Screen" refers to a reverse multiply mode that brightens the image. In a divide mode, the pixel values ​​of one layer are divided by the pixel values ​​of another layer. This can improve the readability, aesthetics, or dynamics of the projection.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, the system can be designed so that the base image plane and / or at least one dynamic image plane can be adapted to environmental conditions such as lighting conditions, surface properties of the substrate, and / or the movement of the vehicle. The system is capable of adapting the base image plane and the dynamic image planes to various environmental conditions. This allows the projection to be clearly visible and understandable on the substrate under different conditions.

[0026] Alternatively or additionally, the projection device can be mounted in a sill of a motor vehicle. The image content of the projection plane is distorted by the arrangement and angle of incidence of the projection device relative to the surface, and the resolution of the projection plane decreases with increasing distance from the projection device. The projection device is mounted in a sill of the motor vehicle, which determines the angle of incidence of the projection. This leads to a perspective distortion of the image content, which is compensated for by the system. Furthermore, the resolution decreases with increasing distance from the projection device, which is taken into account during image processing. This enables optimal use of computing resources.

[0027] The inventive method for displaying static and / or dynamic image content on a substrate of an inventive system comprises the following steps: - Generating a basic image plane by means of a control unit coupled to a projection device, wherein the basic image plane extends over the entire projection plane; - Generating at least one dynamic image plane, which is configured and calculated situationally by the control unit; - Overlaying the basic image plane at least partially with the at least one dynamic image plane, wherein in particular the at least one dynamic image plane is arranged in a first projection section of the projection plane; - Compensating for distortions of the image content in the projection plane caused by the angle of incidence of the projection, by the control unit, in particular by means of transformation algorithms and / or predefined distortion matrices; - Projecting the overlapping image content onto the surface using the projection device.

[0028] The process describes the steps for displaying static and dynamic image content on a surface. It includes generating a base image plane and at least one dynamic image plane, as well as superimposing them. The control unit compensates for distortions caused by the angle of incidence of the projection and projects the final image content onto the surface. This enables an efficient and clear display of vehicle information or optical signals.

[0029] The motor vehicle according to the invention has a system according to the invention for displaying static and / or dynamic image content on a substrate.

[0030] The vehicle is equipped with the described system, integrating projection technology functionality into the vehicle. This offers advantages in user interaction by allowing visual content to be projected directly onto the ground, for example, to assist with parking or to display charging status in electric vehicles.

[0031] A preferred technical solution is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. The term "figure" is abbreviated as "Fig." in the drawings.

[0032] The drawings show Fig. 1 a side view of a motor vehicle with a system for displaying static and / or dynamic image content on a background; Fig. 2 a projection plane of the system according to Fig. 1; Fig. 3. a superimposition of a base image plane with a multitude of dynamic image planes; and Fig. 4. A superimposition of the base image layer with a dynamic image layer containing a multitude of image contents.

[0033] The described embodiments are merely examples that can be modified and / or supplemented in various ways within the scope of the claims. Each feature described for a particular embodiment can be used independently or in combination with other features in any other embodiment. Each feature described for an embodiment of a particular claim category can also be used accordingly in an embodiment of a different claim category.

[0034] Fig. Figure 1 shows a side view of a motor vehicle 10 with a system for displaying static and / or dynamic image content 12 onto a surface 14, wherein the projection device 16 is arranged laterally on the motor vehicle 10 and projects a projection plane 18 obliquely onto the surface of the surface 14. The system further comprises a control unit coupled to the projection device 16 for dynamically calculating the image content 12 to be projected, wherein the control unit is configured to generate a base image plane 20 and at least one dynamic image plane 22, the base image plane 20 extending over the entire projection plane 18 and being at least partially superimposed by at least one dynamic image plane 22. The control unit thus processes the image content to be projected and enables a combination of a base image plane 20 and at least one dynamic image plane 22.This allows for a flexible and context-dependent display of image content, for example to display vehicle information or warnings.

[0035] Fig. Figure 2 shows a projection plane 18 of the system according to Fig. 1, where the projection plane 18 has a first projection section 24, a second projection section 26 adjacent to the first projection section 24, and a third projection section 28 adjacent to the second projection section 26. The first projection section 24 has the shortest distance to the projection device 16 and thus the highest resolution of all projection sections. The projection plane 18 is therefore divided into several projection sections, which differ from each other in terms of their distance to the projection device 16 and their resolution. This allows high-resolution content to be displayed with better image quality in the relevant sections, while less relevant sections can have a lower resolution. This optimizes the use of the available computing power and ensures effective image reproduction.

[0036] Fig. Figure 3 shows a superposition of a basic image plane 20 with a plurality of dynamic image planes 22, wherein the control unit combines the dynamic image planes 22 with each other or individually and / or successively superimposes the basic image plane 20 in the first projection section 24 to form a new projection plane 18.

[0037] Fig. Figure 4 shows a superimposition of the base image plane 20 with a dynamic image plane 22 containing a multitude of image contents 14, where the image contents 14 display information about the battery's state of charge (SoC) and the current range of the vehicle 10. This information is displayed in the first projection section 24. This allows the information to be projected legibly onto the background 14 with comparatively little computing power.

Claims

[1] System of a motor vehicle (10) for displaying static and / or dynamic image content (12) on a substrate (14), comprising: at least one projection device (16) for projecting image content (12) within a projection plane (18) onto the substrate (14), wherein the projection of the projection plane (18) is oblique to the surface of the substrate (14), wherein the projection of the image content (12) onto the substrate (14) includes a distortion of the image content (12) that depends on the angle of incidence; a control unit coupled to the projection device (16) for dynamically calculating the image content (12) to be projected; wherein the control unit is configured to generate a basic image plane (20) and at least one dynamic image plane (22), wherein the basic image plane (20) extends over the entire projection plane (18) and can be at least partially superimposed by the at least one dynamic image plane (22), wherein the control unit is designed to compensate for the distortion of the image content (12) by means of transformation algorithms and / or predefined distortion matrices; and wherein the control unit is configured to prioritize individual dynamic image planes (22) from a plurality of dynamic image planes (22). [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the projection plane (18) has a first projection section (24) and a second projection section (26) adjacent to the first projection section (24). [3] System according to claim 2, wherein the projection plane (18) has a third projection section (28) adjacent to the second projection section (26), wherein the first projection section (24) is located at a smaller distance to the projection device (16) than the second projection section (26) and / or third projection section (28), where the second projection section (26) has a higher resolution than the third projection section (28), where the second projection section (26) has a higher resolution than the third projection section (28), wherein the basic image plane (20) in the area of ​​the first projection section (24) can be at least partially superimposed by the at least one dynamic image plane (22). [4] System according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein pictograms, symbols, animated content and / or measured values ​​can be displayed on the projection plane (18) in which at least one dynamic image plane (22) can be displayed; wherein the control unit is configured to adapt the image content of the at least one dynamic image plane (22) as a result of predetermined events, vehicle states or user inputs, wherein data of the motor vehicle (10), in particular the name of the driver, the battery status, the driving range, the estimated distance or time to the destination and / or the like, can be displayed. [5] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the prioritization of individual dynamic image planes (22) is carried out by means of a predefined rule and / or algorithms, wherein the prioritization of individual dynamic image planes (22) results in a time-dependent projection of the dynamic image planes (22). [6] System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured to calculate the image contents (12) of the projection plane (18), namely the basic image plane (20) and / or the at least one dynamic image plane (22), by means of a blend mode. wherein the image contents (12) of the basic image plane (20) and the image contents (12) of the at least one dynamic image plane (22) can interact with each other and / or with each other by applying the blend mode and / or be represented in combination with each other within the projection plane (18), the blend mode performs an addition, subtraction, multiplication, difference, overlay, screen and / or divide of the image contents (12), namely the dynamic image planes (22). [7] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the basic image plane (20) and / or the at least one dynamic image plane (22) is / are adaptable to environmental conditions such as lighting conditions, surface texture of the substrate (14) and / or movement of the motor vehicle (10). [8] System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the projection device (16) is mounted in a sill of a motor vehicle (10), wherein the image content (12) of the projection plane (18) is distorted by the arrangement and angle of incidence of the projection device (16) to the background (14) and the resolution of the projection plane (18) decreases with increasing distance from the projection device (16). [9] Method for displaying static and / or dynamic image content (12) on a substrate (14) using a system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the following steps: Generating a basic image plane (20) by means of a control unit coupled to a projection device (16), wherein the basic image plane (20) extends over the entire projection plane (18); Generating at least one dynamic image plane (22) which is configured and calculated situationally by the control unit; Overlaying the basic image plane (20) at least partially with the at least one dynamic image plane (22), wherein the at least one dynamic image plane (22) is arranged in a first projection section (24) of the projection plane (18); Compensating for distortions of the image content (12) in the projection plane (18) caused by the angle of incidence of the projection, by the control unit, using transformation algorithms and / or predefined distortion matrices; Projecting the overlapping image content (12) onto the surface (14) using the projection device (16). [10] Motor vehicle with a system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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