Bidirectional System for Vehicles

Abstract

An interactive system for a vehicle is provided that uses the windshield for a display. [Solution] An interactive system for a vehicle using a display unit integrated into a windshield is disclosed. The system receives user input and controls the display unit based on the user input. The system includes a display unit present in the vehicle's windshield, rear window glazing, side window glazing, or roof glazing. The display unit includes one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate of a glass assembly. The display unit is configured to display patterns, pictograms, and other symbols at various intensities, frequencies, and colors. The system further includes a sensor unit having multiple sensors that monitor the vehicle's status and condition. The processing unit is configured to control the display unit based on user actions and data received from the data acquisition unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to displays provided on laminated glass of a windshield, and more particularly to a bidirectional system using a vehicle windshield.

Background Art

[0002] The background description may contain information that is useful in understanding the present disclosure. This is not an admission that any of the information provided in this description is prior art or relevant to the claimed invention, nor is it an admission that any of the specifically or implicitly referenced documents are prior art.

[0003] Automotive laminated glass having two sheets of rigid material, such as glass sheets, is already known. The glass sheets are joined together by a thermoplastic interlayer sheet that typically contains polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Automotive laminated glass can be used in windshields, rear windows, side windows, opening and non-opening roofs, rearview mirrors, or protective glass for headlamps.

[0004] Automotive glazing is designed, in particular, to provide the driver with a view of the front area of the vehicle during driving and a view of the rear area of the vehicle during reverse and other maneuvers. More recently, automotive laminated glass has shown a tendency to incorporate functional elements such as LEDs and ELs as lighting units, indicator lights, etc. into the laminated glass. Typically, the insertion of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) into automotive laminated glass has been limited to light indicators and interior lighting functions. Existing LED-based displays are not bidirectional and do not respond to vehicle control systems and other remote control devices.

[0005] There exists a laminated glazing incorporating an electroluminescent device, which has a relatively long operating life and diffusive lighting characteristics. WO 2007 / 122426 provides one example of such automotive glazing. This document discloses a laminated glazing in the form of a roof window having an electrical device in the form of an electroluminescent lamp integrated into a laminated structure. Further, US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0159282 provides a plurality of rectangular organic electroluminescent displays laminated on laminated glass. However, the electroluminescent devices integrated into the laminated glazings referred to in the above prior art are limited to lighting and / or aesthetic purposes. Further, the above prior art does not disclose details of the electroluminescent devices. However, using such ordinary electroluminescent devices does not provide features such as safety, electrical insulation, and mechanical integrity in case of damage.

[0006] Indian Patent Application 201741007887 discloses a method of integrating an electroluminescent layer into an intermediate layer of a laminated glazing by printing or deposition, thereby providing safety and electrical insulation. However, this patent application does not teach a two-way system that communicates with the vehicle's engine control unit and serves to display real-time situations on the windshield.

[0007] Typically, a user views vehicle-related situations and warning messages on the dashboard. There may be a desire for the user to update the situation in real time on the windshield. Current display units or display devices do not enable such a two-way display on the windshield. There is no system that provides a two-way display for providing real-time updates and notifications on the inner and / or outer side of the windshield.

[0008] Existing high-performance vehicles have a control system (also known as an engine control unit) and an automation system. The automatic control system provides convenience to the occupants and ensures efficiency when operating the vehicle components. However, the existing control systems of vehicles have many drawbacks. For example, the control system lacks the ability to communicate with the vehicle's windshield and display real-time values and user-preferred settings. Furthermore, the control system display does not communicate with a remote control device, such as a mobile phone or a smart key (high-performance key), to provide warnings on the vehicle's windshield. Therefore, there is a need for a two-way system that provides seamless (smooth) communication with all the devices (including ECU, sensor units, and remote control units) in the vehicle to update the real-time status of the devices on the windshield.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] Therefore, there is a desire to provide a two-way system that incorporates a display device into the laminated glazing for displaying information on the outside and inside of the vehicle. Furthermore, it is necessary to propose a two-way system that provides seamless (smooth) communication with all the devices (including ECU, sensor units, and remote control units) in the vehicle to update the real-time status of the devices on the windshield. Additionally, there is also a need for a two-way device that allows the user to set warnings / notifications on the windshield.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a bidirectional system for a vehicle that uses a windshield for display. Another object of the present invention is to provide a windshield that communicates with the engine control unit (ECU) of a vehicle. The bidirectional system communicates with one or more sensors present in the vehicle to display the status of one or more sensors on the windshield. Another object of the present invention is to provide a bidirectional system that receives input from a user and displays a warning corresponding to the input on the windshield. The bidirectional system also receives data from a remote control device and operates the display on the windshield.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] A bidirectional display system for a vehicle using laminated glass, comprising: A display unit 102, the display unit 102 having one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate of the laminated glass; A processing unit 108 incorporated in the vehicle and communicably connected to the display unit, the processing unit being configured to receive user input from an input device; A data acquisition unit 106 communicably connected to the processing unit, the data acquisition unit being configured to receive sensor output from a sensor unit 104 present in the vehicle, characterized in that the processing unit generates a command signal for bidirectionally controlling the display unit in response to at least user input and the output data; A server system 114 communicably connected to the processing unit via a network, the server system being configured to receive the command signal from the processing unit.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

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Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 5A

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Figure 8

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a two-way system for a vehicle using a display unit integrated on a windshield. The system receives user input and controls the display unit based on the user input. The system includes a display unit present on the vehicle's windshield. The display unit is composed of one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate of a laminated glazing. The display unit is configured to display patterns and emojis in various illuminances, frequencies, and colors. The system further includes a sensor unit having a plurality of sensors for monitoring the state and situation of the vehicle. The system further includes a data acquisition unit configured to receive data from one or more sensors present in the vehicle. The data acquisition unit further converts analog data received from one or more sensors into digital data.

[0014] The output from the data acquisition unit is sent to the processing unit. The processing unit receives data from at least one of the sensor unit, the data acquisition unit, and a remote control device. The processing unit is configured to control the display unit based on user actions and the data received from the data acquisition unit.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for providing a two-way display for a vehicle using a display unit is disclosed. Output data from a sensor unit present in the vehicle is received by a data acquisition unit. The output data from the data acquisition unit is processed and sent to a processing unit. The processing unit receives user input from an input device. The user input includes voice, touch, gesture, etc. A command signal is generated in response to the output data. The command signal further controls the display unit to display patterns and emojis at least outside or inside the vehicle, or both.

[0016] Subsequently, the remote control device establishes communication with the processing unit and controls the display unit. When the remote control device operates, it starts / stops the display unit. The remote control device also communicates with the display unit to modify the illuminance of the display unit based on its proximity. The display unit is also actuated by an input device that sends an input signal to the processing unit. The input signal includes voice commands, touch inputs, keyboard inputs, gesture inputs, and the like. Subsequently, in response to at least some of the command signals generated by the processing unit, the status of the user is determined and displayed on the display unit. Also, the status of the user is communicated with the server to provide a social feed to the networking site.

[0017] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

[0018] The embodiments are shown by way of example and are not limited to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] Those skilled in the art will understand that the elements in the figures are depicted for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, some dimensions of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to assist in improving the understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Here, the present disclosure will be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings of this application. In the accompanying drawings, like and / or corresponding elements are referred to by like reference numerals.

[0021] Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. The present disclosure provides an improved laminated glass for vehicles that incorporates other functions in addition to normal functions. The present disclosure further provides a simple and low-cost manufacturing and construction method for an improved laminated glass for a vehicle windshield having new functions. The present disclosure also relates to a laminated glass as an anchor for a display lighting device housed in a laminate for a vehicle windshield, backlight, or side light.

[0022] The drawbacks discussed in the background are overcome by a two-way system for vehicles that uses the windshield as a display. The two-way system provides a windshield that communicates with an engine control unit (ECU) (which forms part of the processing unit) of the vehicle. The two-way system communicates with one or more sensors present in the vehicle to display the status of one or more sensors on the windshield. The two-way system also receives input from the user and displays a warning corresponding to the input on the windshield. The two-way system may also be activated / operated by a remote control device and / or an input device. Further, the two-way system communicates with a server and sends the output from the processing unit to the server.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a bidirectional system for a vehicle using a glass assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The bidirectional system, referred to hereinafter as the system, is implemented within the vehicle and communicates with automotive components and sensors present within the vehicle and displays the information received therefrom on a display unit present within the windshield. The system also receives user input and controls the display unit based on the user input. The system includes a display unit 102 present on the vehicle's windshield. The display unit 102 is composed of one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate of laminated glazing. The display unit 102 is configured to display patterns, emojis in various illuminances, frequencies, and colors. The display unit is transparent, opaque, or translucent and is disposed on the visible area of the windshield or behind the ceramic area of the windshield. Further, the display unit 102 is disposed on the visible area of the windshield including zone "A", zone "B", and zone "C". In another embodiment, the display unit is disposed behind the ceramic area of the windshield.

[0024] The system further comprises a sensor unit 104 with a plurality of sensors for monitoring the state and situation of the vehicle. The plurality of sensors are attached to appropriate parts and / or mechanisms of the vehicle. The sensors are attached either outside or inside the vehicle. The sensors are designed to be responsive to environmental conditions or stimuli outside the vehicle, and these are attached to appropriate parts outside the vehicle, while sensors responsive to stimuli inside the vehicle, such as a taximeter, are attached to normal appropriate parts inside the vehicle. According to one embodiment, a display unit integrated into the windshield is configured to display the states detected by the sensor unit 104. One or more sensors are designed for functions including, but not limited to, temperature, relative air humidity, Wi-Fi strength, position, breath analyzer (alcohol testing device), light emission, acoustics, and voice recognition. Further, the sensors may be incorporated to perform functions including occupancy level detection, air quality sensors, fuel tank indicators, passenger seat belt displays, pedal sensors, and others. The sensor unit 104 includes a microphone for voice recognition. Also, the sensor unit 104 includes a touch sensor for receiving touchless responses from the user.

[0025] Accordingly, when the display unit receives the output from the sensor unit 104, it shows the values of temperature, relative humidity, Wi-Fi strength, position, alcohol level, illuminance, noise level, and air quality on the windshield. The system further includes a data acquisition unit 106 configured to receive data from one or more sensors present in the vehicle. The data acquisition unit 106 further converts the analog data received from one or more sensors into digital data.

[0026] The output from the data acquisition unit 106 is sent to the processing unit 108. The processing unit 108 receives data from at least one of the sensor unit 104, the data acquisition unit 106, and the remote control device 110. The processing unit 108 is configured to control the display unit based on user actions (user actions) and the data received from the data acquisition unit 106. The processing unit includes a microprocessor, a memory (storage device), a power converter, an engine control unit, a lighting control unit, and a wireless communication module. The processing unit is configured to selectively control at least one or more lighting devices in the display unit by supplying a command signal (command signal) to the power converter. Based on the command signal, the display unit is configured to selectively display data regarding the vehicle's fuel indicator, temperature data, seat belt indicator, and thermal comfort data, as well as combinations thereof. Examples of thermal comfort data include noise level, lighting level, operating temperature, PPD, and PMV.

[0027] In one embodiment, the processing unit communicates with the remote control device 110 using a wireless communication protocol. Examples of wireless communication protocols include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (trademark), NFC, ZIGBEE (trademark), etc. In one embodiment, communication between various components such as the remote control device, the processing unit, and the server is established by the communication network 120. Examples of the communication network 106 include, but are not limited to, the Internet, a cloud network, a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) network, a Local Area Network (LAN), and / or a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN). The power unit 112 is a DC battery source that supplies power to the components within the vehicle. The server is one of an application server, a data server, or a cloud-based server. The input device 116 communicates with the processing unit 108 via a wired or wireless communication protocol. Examples of the input device 116 include a microphone, a touch screen, a barcode reader, and a gesture unit.

[0028] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an exemplary processing unit for a bidirectional system. The processing unit 104 includes an engine control unit, a communication module, a lighting control unit, and a power converter. The power converter receives an electrical output from a power unit. The electrical output is an AC output or a DC output. The engine control unit includes a processor and a memory. The processor may be any conventional processor, such as a commercially available CPU or a hardware-based processor. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the processor, computer, or memory may actually include a plurality of processors, computers, or memories that may or may not be housed within the same physical enclosure.

[0029] In various aspects described herein, the processor may be located away from the vehicle and may further communicate wirelessly with the vehicle. In other aspects, some of the processes described herein are executed on a processor located within the vehicle and other processes are executed by a remote processor. The memory is configured to store instructions accessible by the processor. Further, the memory includes data to be executed by the processor. The memory is any storage device, such as a computer-readable medium or another medium that stores data readable with the aid of an electronic device, e.g., a hard drive, a memory card, ROM, RAM, and writable or read-only memory. In one example, the data stored in the memory includes detailed map information and traffic pattern model information that can be read, stored, or modified by the processor according to instructions.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the power conversion device further includes a power supply unit and a power management unit. The power supply may be an AC supply or a DC supply. Further, the power management unit can convert AC to DC power.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present invention, communication between a processor, a memory, and other components within a processing unit is established by a CAN bus. A Controller Area Network (CAN bus) is a robust vehicle bus standard designed to enable microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other in an application without a host computer. An ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is any embedded system in vehicle electronics that controls one or more of a vehicle's electrical systems or subsystems.

[0032] The processing unit 104 also includes a communication module with an antenna for sending and receiving signals. As an example, a Bluetooth (trademark) / Wi-Fi module is used for online data acquisition and management. The communication module is enabled to establish communication with a server via a communication network.

[0033] The lighting control unit is configured to generate a command signal based on the power output received from the power conversion device and the ECU. The lighting control unit is configured to display one or more patterns, emojis, and selectively modify the lighting in one or more lighting devices of the display unit. Further, the command signal is configured to selectively activate or deactivate one or more lighting devices within the display unit. Also, the lighting control unit is configured to adjust the power output to the display unit, thereby modifying the duration of the lighting, the frequency of the lighting, and the brightness of the lighting.

[0034] In another example, the command signal is used to control the display unit to selectively display sensor data selected from the following group: fuel indicator, temperature data, seat belt indicator, damage indicator, vehicle lights, airbag indicator, door open / closed state, speed alert, heater / frost remover (defroster), thermal comfort level, in-vehicle air quality display, direction indicator, EV battery charge indicator, and combinations thereof.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an exemplary scenario for implementing a two-way system for locking or unlocking a vehicle using a remote control device.

[0036] The system includes a remote control device 110 and an authentication unit 116 communicatively connected thereto. The remote control device 110 is at least one of a mobile phone, a laptop, a tablet, a radio frequency reader, and a computing device. The remote control device 110 is communicatively connected to a processing unit and controls locking and unlocking of the vehicle. The remote control device 110 includes a transmitter antenna. The remote control device 110 is wirelessly connected to the processing unit using a communication protocol such as Bluetooth (trademark), Wi-Fi, etc. In response to the remote control device 110 establishing communication with the processing unit 108 within the vehicle, a lighting control signal is generated by the processing unit 108. The lighting control signal is sent to a display unit for lighting. The processing unit estimates the distance of the remote control device from the vehicle based on the strength of the communication signal. Based on the estimated distance, the processing unit 108 controls a power converter to modify the voltage of the lighting control signal and thereby change the lighting of the display unit. The lighting control signal can be configured to vary the brightness, frequency, and duration of the display unit. In one example, the lighting control signal activates the display unit within the bezel to glow in a custom-defined pattern at a specific illuminance level. A predetermined distance is set so that the display unit activates in response to a signal received from the remote control device 110.

[0037] In another embodiment, the remote control device 110 can be used to establish communication with the processing unit 108 inside the vehicle via the communication network 120. Examples of the communication network 120 include, but are not limited to, the Internet, cloud network, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) network, Local Area Network (LAN), and / or Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), Long Term Evolution (LTE), General Packet Radio Service (2G, 3G, 4G), and Light Fidelity (Li-Fi). The remote control device 110 located at a remote location can be used to control the display unit and generate warnings. The remote control device 110 is authenticated by the authentication unit 116 before establishing communication with the processing unit 108. The authentication unit 116 verifies the user credentials associated with the remote control device 110.

[0038] In another embodiment, the remote control device 110 may be activated to control the display unit (display device). The remote control device 110 may be activated during events such as theft, engine ON / OFF, adverse weather conditions, vehicle tracking, etc.

[0039] Figure 4A is a block diagram showing an exemplary scenario for the implementation of a bidirectional system that receives responses from an input device. Examples of the input device include a microphone, touch screen, barcode reader, and gesture unit. In one example, when the input device is a microphone, the voice command is received in analog form and further converted to digital form. The voice command is sent to the processing unit. The processing unit maps the voice command to a predefined emoji or pattern and subsequently displays the mapped emoji or pattern on the display unit. In this way, the bidirectional display system (bidirectional display system) is activated by the input from the user. Also, the display unit is configured to display alphanumeric symbols, letters, numbers, patterns, symbols, etc.

[0040] Figure 4B is a block diagram showing an exemplary scenario for the implementation of a bidirectional system that receives responses from a remote device or a vehicle's sensor unit. Sensor unit 402 includes one or more sensors connected to the bidirectional display system via wires or wirelessly. Sensor unit 402 determines the state and parameters of the vehicle and provides sensor outputs to processing unit 108, which are further displayed on display unit 102.

[0041] According to one example, a bidirectional system can be used to display an unsound state of driving. In an unsound driving state, the transmission from the engine may stop shifting, shift loosely or excessively, and may also cause a complete transmission malfunction and deterioration / crash of engine performance. The transmission is monitored by using a pedal sensor / brake switch that measures the position of the brake pedal to monitor hard braking / brake frequency. Warning limits are preset in the processing unit regarding hard braking or brake frequency within a specific time. Further, data received from a transmission fluid sensor and a coolant sensor are used to monitor the engine temperature. When the engine temperature falls below the threshold value, a command signal is transmitted from processing unit 108 to display unit 102. The display unit turns "ON". Processing unit 108 can transmit a command signal to activate the display unit under one of the following conditions: (1) Use of gear, clutch, acceleration (2) Mass air flow limit (3) Throttle position limit (4) Tire pressure limit (5) Intake air temperature limit (6) Overdrive switch that monitors engagement / disengagement of cruise control (7) Speed limit (8) Air conditioning limit that affects engine revolutions per minute (engine RPM) (9) Transmission gear value determined by a transmission position sensor

[0042] The foregoing conditions are determined by one or more sensors within the sensor unit. The processing unit maps the sensor output to a predetermined emoji or pattern, and subsequently displays the mapped emoji or pattern on the display unit. In this way, the bidirectional display system is actuated by the input from the sensor unit. Further, the display unit is configured to display alphanumeric symbols, letters, numbers, patterns, symbols, etc.

[0043] According to an example, the bidirectional system can be used to display the input received by the remote control device 110. When the driver approaches the vehicle, the remote control device 110 incorporating a temperature sensor senses the temperature and displays the weather conditions on the display unit on the windshield. This can be seen from outside the vehicle. Further, the remote control device 110 can wirelessly communicate with the display unit inside the vehicle to activate the lighting on the display unit. Thus, this lighting helps the user to easily track their vehicle in a crowded / dark place.

[0044] The remote control device can also activate an authentication notification on the display unit on the glazing. The remote control device includes a fingerprint sensor that communicates with the bidirectional system to display a warning signal on the glazing. In another example, the remote control device can also activate a "standby" notification on the display unit on the glazing.

[0045] FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an exemplary arrangement of a display unit in a laminated glass of a windshield. The laminated glass 502 includes a first substrate 502a composed of an outer surface and an inner surface having a ceramic mask 104 (not shown), one or more intermediate layers 502c disposed on the inner surface of the first substrate 502a, and a second substrate 502b disposed on the intermediate layer 502c. Further, the laminated glass 502 includes a lighting device 516, such as an electroluminescent strip, disposed in at least one of the first substrate 502a, the second substrate 502b, or the intermediate layer 502c, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the laminated glass 502 includes one or more lighting devices 516 disposed therein.

[0046] The inner surface of the first substrate 502a is masked only along the peripheral portion with a ceramic 104 (not shown). The laminated glass 502 described herein can be used for glazing such as windshields, windows, sunroofs, backlights or side lights in a vehicle, such as an automobile. In another embodiment, the electroluminescent device 516 is disposed on the inner surface of the first substrate 502a having the ceramic mask 104 (not shown) to eliminate performance degradation due to UV exposure.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first substrate 502a, the second substrate 502b, or both the first and second substrates 502a, 502b may be glass or a polymer. The polymer is polycarbonate (PC) or polypropylene (PP). Optionally, at least the first substrate 502a, the second substrate 502b, or both the first and second substrates 502a, 502b may be chemically or thermally strengthened. The first substrate 502a, the second substrate 502b, or both the first and second substrates 502a, 502b can have a thickness of at least 0.5 mm.

[0048] In one embodiment, one or more intermediate layers 502c comprise a polymer. The intermediate layer 502c comprises a polymer selected from polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polycarbonate, acoustic PVB, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), ionomer, thermoplastic materials, and combinations thereof. The intermediate layer can have a thickness of at least 0.38 mm. Optionally, the intermediate layer 502c is modified to accommodate one or more electroluminescent devices 516. Generally, the intermediate layer 502c is modified to assemble relatively thick electroluminescent devices 516 in the laminated curved article 502. In some examples, the intermediate layer 502c is modified to accommodate two electroluminescent devices 516 arranged on top of each other for display on both sides of the laminated curved article 502. The intermediate layer 502c can be modified by heating. In this regard, the electroluminescent device 516 is placed in the intermediate layer 502c by a hot stamping tool that stamps by physical pressure and at a defined temperature. In some examples, the modification of the intermediate layer 502c by the heating method is also performed by providing an adhesive backing within the electroluminescent device 516 together with hot stamping, thereby ensuring a much higher bond between the intermediate layer 502c and the electroluminescent layer 516.

[0049] In one embodiment, the electroluminescent device 516 is disposed between the first substrate 502a and the second substrate 502b, or integrated into one or both of the first substrate 502a and the second substrate 502b, or disposed between one or more intermediate layers 502c, or integrated into one or more intermediate layers 502c. The electroluminescent device 516 is optically transparent, opaque, or translucent. The electroluminescent device 516 comprises a material selected from the group consisting of organic or inorganic materials. The electroluminescent device 516 has a luminescence value of at least 1 Cd / m 2 . The electroluminescent device 516 is integrated into the laminated glass 502 by printing, deposition, or patching.

[0050] In one embodiment, the electroluminescent device 516 can be printed directly by screen printing in multiple layers laminated on top of each other on the first or second substrate 502a, 502b or the intermediate layer. In another embodiment, the electroluminescent device 516 may be deposited directly across the first or second substrate 502a, 502b by either physical vapor deposition coating or chemical vapor deposition coating. In some cases, the electroluminescent device 516 may be a separate thin film patch, which can be fixed to either the first or second substrate 502a, 502b or on the intermediate layer 502c by an adhesive. The electroluminescent device 516 has a thickness of at least 5% of the thickness of the intermediate layer 102c. The electroluminescent device 516 has a thickness of at least 50 μm to 500 μm. In one example, one or more electroluminescent devices 516 of different colors can be integrated into laminated glass.

[0051] In some cases, there may be two or more protective layers and / or insulating layers covering the intermediate layer. The number of layers is selected based on the amount of insulation required to maintain the electrical and mechanical integrity required for the lighting device.

[0052] FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an exemplary arrangement of a display unit for use in a backlight or a side light. In another embodiment of the present invention, the display unit is composed of a glass substrate 510. The glass substrate 510 is tempered glass or coated glass, or a combination thereof. Then, the lighting device 516 is printed on the glass substrate 510 to form the display unit. In another example, the lighting device 516 is attached to the glass substrate 510 by a deposition technique or by using an adhesive. Additionally, the lighting device 516 is further coated with a protective layer. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the laminated glass 502 having the lighting device 516 is encapsulated as a sub-component on the glass substrate 510 constituting the backlight.

[0053] Figure 6 shows a display unit for a vehicle windshield 602 that displays one or more states presented in the form of a pattern, design, or other display 606. The display unit 602 receives a signal from a processing unit and selectively activates one or more lighting devices to display a pattern, design, or other displays 606a - 606j. The display unit can be activated by a remote control device, an input device, or a sensor unit within the vehicle. The processing unit within the vehicle receives a signal from at least the remote control device, the input device, or the sensor unit, or a combination thereof. Subsequently, in response to the received signal, the processing unit selectively activates, in real - time, one or more lighting devices present within the windshield. One or more sensors within the sensor unit detect one or more states within the vehicle. The one or more sensors are specialized for their intended functions, namely, sensors responsive to an ambient temperature sensor, a relative air humidity sensor, Wi - fi strength, position, a breath analyzer (alcohol testing device), a light - emitting sensor, an acoustic sensor, a sensor for the function of a taximeter, an occupancy level sensor, an air quality sensor, etc. In one example, the laminated glass 602 shows one or more states detected by one or more sensors, and one or more electroluminescent devices 516 (shown in FIG. 5) are caused to display characters or designs indicating temperature 606a, relative humidity 606b, Wi - fi strength 606c, position 606d, alcohol level 606e, illuminance 606f, noise level 606g, taximeter 606h, occupancy number 606i, and air quality 606j.

[0054] In another example, the processing unit is configured to control the power output to the display unit, thereby modifying the duration, frequency, and brightness of the illumination within the windshield. Further, the processing unit displays a predetermined icon / emoji on the display unit in response to a user action (user movement). Examples of user actions include, but are not limited to, acceleration, braking, gear change, and voice commands. The processing unit identifies the operation of the brake and generates, for example, a command signal to display a smiling face on the display unit.

[0055] In one embodiment, optionally, before bending, one or more electroluminescent devices can first be disposed on the first substrate, the second substrate, or one or more intermediate layers. Optionally, in some cases, one or more intermediate layers can be modified to accommodate one or more electroluminescent devices.

[0056] According to the basic structure described above, the display system and the laminated curved article or laminated glass of the present invention can undergo changes in materials, dimensions, structural details, and / or functional and / or decorative configurations without departing from the scope of the claimed protection.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an exemplary method for operating a display unit to display emojis and patterns. This method includes receiving data (701) from a sensor unit present within the vehicle by a data acquisition unit. The output data from the data acquisition unit is transmitted to the processing unit. The processing unit receives a user input from an input device (702). The user input includes voice, touch, gesture, etc. In response to the output data, a command signal is generated. The command signal further controls the display unit to display patterns, emojis on at least the outside or inside of the vehicle, or both (703).

[0058] Subsequently, the remote control device establishes communication with the processing unit and controls the display unit (704). When activated, the remote control device starts / stops the display unit. Also, the remote control device communicates with the display unit and modifies the illuminance of the display unit based on its proximity. Further, when the input device transmits an input signal to the processing unit, the display unit is activated. The input signal includes voice commands, touch inputs, keyboard inputs, gesture inputs, etc. Subsequently, in response to at least some of the command signals generated by the processing unit, the user's state is determined and conveyed on the display unit. Also, the user's status (situation) is communicated with the server to provide a social feed to the networking site (705).

[0059] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an exemplary arrangement of a display unit for use as a light guide of a vehicle. According to this example, the display unit 102 provides an alert / notification based on inputs received from one or more sensors, vehicle sensor 804 and displacement sensor 802. The one or more sensors 804, 802 monitor obstacles adjacent to the vehicle and the driver's seating position. The processing unit 108 receives inputs from the one or more vehicle sensors. The inputs include obstacle detection, driver's seating position, distance from the obstacle, etc. The processing unit 108 processes the inputs to determine the proximity of the front of the vehicle to the obstacle. If the processing unit 108 does not detect an obstacle, a first command signal is sent to the display unit. The first command signal includes a color indicator, a display indicator, and a display position indicator. The processing unit 108 also analyzes the seat position of the driver's seat to determine the position of the display on the windshield. Depending on the driver's seating position, the display position is determined so that the display is within the driver's line of sight. The first command signal provides a blue warning on the display unit 102. The blue warning on the display clearly conveys the position of the vehicle on the road and even the distance between the end of the vehicle and the obstacle ahead by changing its color gradient. In another case, when the processing unit 108 detects an obstacle, a second command signal is sent to the display unit. The second command signal provides a red warning on the display unit 102. The display unit 102 has one or more types of EL with different colors embedded between the gradings to enable display in "red", "orange", "blue", "green" colors.

[0060] According to one example, the display for the light guide includes one or more inverted "L"-shaped thin hairline structures that substantially represent the left and right ends from the driver's perspective. One or more sensors are calibrated with a pre-measured distance of the front of the vehicle from the windshield. The processing unit is defined by a threshold value regarding the obstacle distance. Also, optimal values regarding the distance of the seat from the windshield, the height of the seat, and the position within the range of the eye height are defined in the processing unit. The value of the measurement result generates data for projecting / illuminating an "L-shaped" guideline on the display unit, and is automatically adjusted when the seat position is changed.

[0061] The display area of the illumination is automatically adjusted and calibrated according to the position of the seat distance from the steering wheel and the height of the seat. In this way, accurate information regarding the front end is determined, whereby the driver can easily drive, overtake, turn, and park without confusion. The display area is very minimal and does not obstruct the view on the road.

[0062] In another example, when the vehicle detects a nearby obstacle and the information is communicated to the setup, the color of the blue line gradually changes according to the position and distance of the obstacle, and changes to green, yellow, and red according to the proximity of the obstacle. Here, blue is very far, green is safe, yellow is close, and red is very close. When the obstacle is located on the left side, only the left-side guideline changes its color. The same applies to the right side. This ensures that the display unit 802 enables the driver to drive comfortably without the dilemma of the vehicle hitting an obstacle during turning, overtaking, or parking.

[0063] In another example, the driving status is displayed on a social networking platform, such as a Facebook / Twitter post, indicating that user "A" is driving from work to home and frowning at the number of times they have to stop at intersections. User actions, such as braking, are monitored by sensors and calculated to estimate the user's situation based on pre-defined criteria settings. For example, speed is associated with a predetermined criterion for reckless driving, and a corresponding warning indicator is generated by the processing unit.

[0064] Experiment According to one embodiment, the proposed disclosure provides a processing unit configured to control the power output to the display unit, thereby modifying the duration of illumination, the frequency of illumination, and the brightness of illumination. An experiment was conducted to correlate the output power from the processing unit with the lux value in the display unit. A laminated glass with a display unit of dimensions 370 mm × 70 mm was measured with respect to the lux value. Tables 1 and 2 show various values of the lux value of the display unit at different values of the voltage and frequency supplied from the power unit.

[0065] [Table 1]

[0066] [Table 2]

[0067] It was observed that the lux value increased proportionally with an increase in the voltage supplied to the display unit. Further, the processing unit can control the voltage signal supplied to the display unit to vary the brightness and illuminance in the display unit.

[0068] Note that not all of the activities described above are required in a general description or an example, and some of the specific activities may not be required, and one or more additional activities may be performed in addition to those described. Further, the order in which the activities are listed is not necessarily the order in which they are performed.

[0069] Regarding specific embodiments, advantages, other benefits, and ways to address problems have been described above. However, none of these benefits, advantages, problem-solving methods, and any features that may give rise to or make more prominent any benefit, advantage, or solution are to be construed as essential, necessary, or important features of any or all of the claims.

[0070] The specification and examples of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure in various aspects. The specification and examples are not intended to serve as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of all elements and features of the apparatus and systems that use the structures or methods described herein. Specific features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may be provided in combination in a single embodiment for clarity. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment for brevity may be provided separately or in combination. Further, references to values described in ranges include all values within that range. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art only after reading this specification. Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, other embodiments may be used and derived from the present disclosure, and thus structural substitutions, logical substitutions, or other changes may be made. Therefore, the present disclosure should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0071] The description in combination with the drawings is provided to assist in understanding the teachings disclosed herein, to assist in the description of the teachings, and should not be construed as a limitation on the scope or availability of the teachings. However, other teachings may certainly be used in this application.

[0072] As used herein, the terms "comprise," "comprising," "include," "including," "have," "having" or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited to only those features, but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" as used herein means an inclusive "or" and not an exclusive "or". For example, a condition A or B is satisfied if any one of the following is true: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present), or both A and B are true (or present).

[0073] Also, the use of "a" or "an" is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one and, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, also the plural and vice versa. For example, if a single item is described herein, two or more items may be used instead of the single item. Similarly, if two or more items are described herein, a single item may be used instead of the two or more items.

[0074] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. Where specific details regarding particular materials and processing acts are not described, such details may include conventional approaches found in references and other sources of information within the scope of manufacturing techniques.

[0075] While aspects of the present disclosure have been particularly shown and described with reference to the above embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be contemplated by modification of the disclosed machines, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of what has been disclosed. Such embodiments are to be understood as being within the technical scope of the present disclosure as determined in accordance with the claims and any equivalents thereof. The present disclosure includes the following aspects of the invention: <Aspect 1> A bidirectional display system for a vehicle using laminated glass, comprising: A display unit 102 having one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate of the laminated glass; A processing unit 108 incorporated in the vehicle and communicably connected to the display unit, the processing unit being configured to receive user input from an input device; A data acquisition unit 106 communicably connected to the processing unit, the data acquisition unit being configured to receive sensor output from a sensor unit 104 present in the vehicle, characterized in that the processing unit generates a command signal for bidirectionally controlling the display unit at least in response to user input and the output data; A server system 114 communicably connected to the processing unit via a network, the server system being configured to receive the command signal from the processing unit. <Aspect 2> The system according to Aspect 1, wherein the command signal is used to control the display unit, thereby displaying one or more patterns, emojis, and selectively modifying the lighting in the one or more lighting devices. <Aspect 3> The system according to Aspect 1, wherein the command signal is configured to selectively activate or deactivate the one or more lighting devices in the display unit. <Aspect 4> Using the command signal to control the display unit, thereby selectively displaying sensor data received from the sensor unit, wherein the sensor data is selected from the group consisting of a fuel indicator, temperature data, a seat belt indicator, a noise level, a lighting level, an operating temperature, a thermal comfort level, air quality, a direction indicator, a heater, a defroster, a door opening / closing status indicator, a heating lamp indicator, an EV battery indicator, and combinations thereof, The system according to Aspect 1. <Aspect 5> The system according to Aspect 1, wherein the sensor unit 104 is disposed in the glazing. <Aspect 6> The system has a remote control device 110 communicably connected to the processing unit, The processing unit controls the illumination of the display unit based on the proximity of the remote control device to the vehicle. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 7> The remote control device 110 is communicably connected to the display unit, thereby controlling the illumination of the display unit 102. The system according to aspects 1 and 6. <Aspect 8> The remote control device 110 communicates with the processing unit using a wireless communication protocol. The system according to aspects 1 and 6. <Aspect 9> The system has an input device 116 that communicates with the processing unit, thereby starting and stopping the display unit 102. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 10> The input device 116 is a microphone, a touch sensor, and a gesture sensor. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 11> The processing unit 108 has an engine control unit, a memory, a power converter, an illumination control unit, and a wireless communication module. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 12> The processing unit 108 has a power converter, thereby correcting the voltage output in the command signal. The system according to aspects 1 and 5. <Aspect 13> The processing unit 108 is configured to control the power output to the display unit, thereby correcting the duration of illumination, the frequency of illumination, and the brightness of illumination. The system according to aspects 1 and 11. <Aspect 14> The processing unit 108 is configured to receive sensor output data from the sensor unit and display one or more pieces of sensor output data on the display unit. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 15> The lighting device is an OLED, an LED, an electroluminescent display, etc. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 16> One or more display units 102 are visible from at least the outside or the inside of the vehicle, or both. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 17> The display unit 102 is embedded in the windshield, rear window glazing, side window glazing, or roof glazing of the vehicle. The system according to aspect 1. <Aspect 18> The system according to aspect 1, wherein the display unit 102 is one of transparent, opaque, and translucent, is disposed in the visible area of the windshield, or is disposed behind the ceramic area of the windshield. <Aspect 19> The system according to aspect 1, wherein the processing unit 108 responds to a user action and causes the display unit to display a predetermined pattern, character, icon / emoji, and light guide. <Aspect 20> The system according to aspects 1 and 17, wherein the user actions include, but are not limited to, acceleration, braking, gear change, and voice commands. <Aspect 21> The system according to aspect 1, wherein the server system 114 determines a user's situation in response to the command signal and updates the situation on a social networking website linked to the user of the vehicle. <Aspect 22> The system according to aspects 1 and 20, wherein the processing unit 108 is configured to send data to the server system via a mobile application present in the remote control device. <Aspect 23> The system according to aspect 1, wherein the sensor unit has one or more sensors selected from the group including a temperature sensor, a relative air humidity sensor, an air quality sensor, a taximeter function sensor, a position sensor, a displacement sensor, an obstacle detection sensor, an accelerometer, an alcohol sensor, a Wi-Fi level sensor, a light emission sensor, an acoustic sensor, a proximity sensor, an occupancy level sensor, a drowsiness sensor, an imaging sensor, or a combination thereof. <Aspect 24> A method of operating a display unit in a vehicle's bidirectional display system, comprising: The display unit having one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate of a laminated glass; Receiving output data from a sensor unit present in the vehicle by a data acquisition unit; Sending the output data to a processing unit; Receiving a user input by the processing unit; Generating a command signal by the processing unit in response to the user input and the output data; Operating the display unit by the command signal, wherein the display unit is configured to display a pattern and an emoji at least on the outside or the inside of the vehicle, or both. Establish communication between the remote control device and the processing unit to control the display unit, and Establish communication between the processing unit and the server system via a mobile application to send output data from the processing unit to the server system, A method comprising <Aspect 25> The step of controlling the display unit includes controlling the magnitude of the power supplied to the display unit, thereby controlling the duration of illumination, the frequency of illumination, and the brightness of illumination in the display unit. The method according to Aspect 22. <Aspect 26> The system according to Aspect 1, wherein the command signal includes a variable voltage output, thereby correcting the luminance in the display unit.

Explanation of Symbols

[0076] 106 Data acquisition unit 108 Processing unit 104 Sensor unit 102 Display unit 106 Data acquisition unit 110 Remote control device 116 Input device 516 Electroluminescent device 502a First substrate 502b Second substrate 502c Intermediate layer 502 Laminated curved article 120 Communication network 804 Vehicle sensor 802 Displacement sensor

Claims

1. A bidirectional display system for a vehicle using laminated glass, comprising: A display unit 102, the display unit 102 having one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate of the laminated glass; A processing unit 108 incorporated in the vehicle and communicably connected to the display unit, the processing unit being configured to receive user input from an input device; A data acquisition unit 106 communicably connected to the processing unit 108, the data acquisition unit being configured to receive sensor output from a sensor unit 104 present in the vehicle, the processing unit 108 generating a lighting control signal for bidirectionally controlling the display unit in response to at least user input and the sensor output, the processing unit 108 being further configured to modify the voltage of the lighting control signal, a remote control device 110 being communicably connected to the processing unit 108, and the processing unit 108 controlling the lighting of the display unit 102 based on the proximity of the remote control device 110 to the vehicle; A server system 114 communicably connected to the processing unit 108 via a network, the server system being configured to receive the lighting control signal from the processing unit.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting control signal is used to control the display unit 102, thereby displaying one or more patterns and emojis and selectively modifying the lighting in the one or more lighting devices.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting control signal is configured to selectively activate or deactivate the one or more lighting devices in the display unit 102.

4. Using the lighting control signal to control the display unit 102, thereby selectively displaying sensor data received from the sensor unit 104, wherein the sensor data is selected from the group consisting of a fuel indicator, temperature data, a seat belt indicator, a noise level, a lighting level, an operating temperature, a thermal comfort level, air quality, a direction indicator, a heater, a defroster, a door opening / closing status indicator, a heating lamp indicator, an EV battery indicator, and combinations thereof. The system according to claim 1.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit 104 is disposed on the laminated glass.

6. The system according to claim 1 or 5, wherein the remote control device 110 is communicably connected to the display unit, thereby controlling the illumination of the display unit 102.

7. The system according to claim 1 or 5, wherein the remote control device 110 communicates with the processing unit 108 using a wireless communication protocol.

8. The system according to claim 1, comprising an input device 116 that communicates with the processing unit 108, thereby starting and stopping the display unit 102.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the input device 116 is a microphone, a touch sensor, and a gesture sensor.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit 108 includes an engine control unit, a memory, a power converter, an illumination control unit, and a wireless communication module.

11. The system according to claim 1 or 10, wherein the processing unit 108 is configured to control the power output to the display unit 102, thereby modifying the duration, frequency, and brightness of the illumination.

12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit 108 is configured to receive sensor output data from the sensor unit 104 and display one or more pieces of sensor output data on the display unit 102.

13. The system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device is an OLED, an LED, an electroluminescent display, or the like.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein one or more display units 102 are visible from at least outside or inside the vehicle, or both.

15. The system according to claim 1, wherein the display unit 102 is embedded in a windshield, a rear windshield glazing, a side window glazing, or a roof glazing of the vehicle.

16. The system according to claim 1, wherein the display unit 102 is one of transparent, opaque, and translucent, and is disposed in a visible region of the windshield of the vehicle or behind a ceramic region of the windshield of the vehicle.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit 108 displays a predetermined pattern, character, icon / emoji, and light guide on the display unit in response to one or more user actions.

18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the user actions include, but are not limited to, acceleration, braking, gear change, and voice commands.

19. The system according to claim 1, wherein the server system 114 determines a user's situation in response to the lighting control signal and updates the situation on a social networking website linked to the user of the vehicle.

20. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit 108 is configured to send data to the server system via a mobile application present in the remote control device.

21. The system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit 104 has one or more sensors selected from the group including a temperature sensor, a relative air humidity sensor, an air quality sensor, a taximeter function sensor, a position sensor, a displacement sensor, a fault detection sensor, an accelerometer, an alcohol sensor, a Wi-Fi level sensor, a light emission sensor, an acoustic sensor, a proximity sensor, an occupancy level sensor, a drowsiness sensor, an imaging sensor, or a combination thereof.

22. A method for operating a display unit in the vehicle's bidirectional display system according to claim 1, wherein the display unit has one or more lighting devices sandwiched between a first base material and a second base material of a laminated glass, receiving output data from a sensor unit present in the vehicle by a data acquisition unit (701), sending the output data to a processing unit, receiving a user input by the processing unit, generating a lighting control signal by the processing unit in response to the user input and the output data, operating the display unit by the lighting control signal, wherein the display unit is configured to display a pattern, an emoji at least on the outside or the inside of the vehicle, or both, establishing communication between a remote control device and the processing unit to control the display unit (704), and Establish communication between the processing unit and the server system via a mobile application and send output data from the processing unit to the server system (705). A method comprising the above. Claim 23 The method according to claim 22, wherein controlling the display unit includes controlling the magnitude of the power supplied to the display unit, thereby controlling the duration of illumination, the frequency of illumination, and the brightness of illumination in the display unit. Claim 24 The system according to claim 1, wherein the illumination control signal includes a variable voltage output, thereby correcting the luminance in the display unit.

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