Dynamic Puddle Lamp Projection for Ridehail Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current puddle lamp systems in vehicles lack the ability to dynamically project information and advertisements to riders and pedestrians, limiting their utility in identifying ridehail vehicles and generating revenue through targeted advertising.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically programmable puddle lamp system that uses a controller connected to a central server via wireless communication, projecting still and animated images, advertisements, and ridehail information based on vehicle location, pedestrian proximity, and population density, utilizing LED projectors and sensors for effective message delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional puddle lamp systems are used to provide basic illumination, then the lighting function is reliable and simple, but the ability to dynamically project information and advertisements is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The puddle lamp system is transformed into a multi-functional device that combines traditional illumination with dynamic image projection capabilities. The projector unit can display various types of content including advertisements, ridehail information, and directional guidance, allowing a single system to serve multiple purposes from basic lighting to complex information communication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the traditional puddle lamp illumination function with a projector unit and control system. By combining these previously separate functions into an integrated system, the vehicle can simultaneously provide lighting and dynamic information projection without requiring completely separate systems
2Productivity
If puddle lamps are used for basic illumination only, then the system is simple and reliable, but revenue generation opportunities through advertising are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic control capabilities where the projector unit can autonomously determine when and what to display based on vehicle status, location data, and environmental conditions. This self-service approach reduces the need for manual intervention while enabling complex advertising and information display functions that generate revenue
Solution Approach 2:
The control system receives feedback from various sensors and data sources including vehicle location, pedestrian detection, and population density information. This feedback mechanism allows the system to dynamically adjust its display content and timing to maximize advertising effectiveness and revenue generation while managing system complexity through automated decision-making
3Adaptability or versatility
If puddle lamps display static information only, then the system is simple to control, but the ability to engage pedestrians with animated content is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static information display to dynamic animated content projection. The projector unit can display moving images, animations, and changing text content that adapts to real-time conditions such as vehicle movement, pedestrian presence, and environmental factors, making the display more engaging while maintaining automated control
4Reliability
If puddle lamps are activated continuously for maximum visibility, then vehicle identification is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The puddle lamp and projector system operates periodically rather than continuously, activating based on detected pedestrian presence, vehicle door status, and relevant environmental conditions. This periodic operation maintains vehicle identifiability and information delivery reliability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensor feedback to intelligently control activation timing, only projecting information and illuminating when pedestrians are detected nearby or when vehicle events occur. This feedback-driven activation strategy ensures reliable vehicle identification and information communication while minimizing energy consumption by operating only when necessary
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances the visibility of ridehail vehicles to potential passengers and generates revenue through targeted advertising, improving passenger experience and operational efficiency by dynamically displaying relevant messages and images.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing LED projectors and sensors for effective message delivery
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a puddle lamp control system configured to control a puddle lamp to display vehicle identification information, passenger information, advertisements, company logos, and other information on a ground surface proximate to the vehicle. The puddle lamp control system may communicate with a central server using high-speed wireless communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, Wi-max, or other protocols to select images and animations based on vehicle location and pedestrian activity nearby the vehicle. The system may also activate the vehicle puddle lamps based on vehicle sensor triggers associated with vehicle location, based on population and pedestrian density indicative of potential message viewers indicating when pedestrians are close enough to the vehicle to view the advertisement, and based on ridehail activity such as ridehail user information, and seat assignments. The messages and images may be customized using an interface device onboard the vehicle.