Windshield Display Cover Detection Using Test Image Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
In reflection display systems for motor vehicles, foreign objects on the display surface can conceal safety-relevant information, making it difficult to distinguish between non-display and obstruction, especially when the display unit is arranged in a depression on the dashboard.
Innovation Solution
A reflection display system with a detection sensor system and a control unit that activates the display unit to output a test image, acquires the image using a detection sensor, and signals a disturbance if the test image is not properly displayed, indicating a foreign object on the display surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the display unit is arranged in a depression on the dashboard, then direct view of the display surface is prevented (avoiding blinding), but foreign objects on the display surface become not readily visible and can conceal display information
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection by capturing an image of the display surface with a detection camera before normal display operation. This allows foreign objects to be detected in advance, and the system can issue warnings or adjust display content before critical information is concealed
Solution Approach 2:
The detection camera continuously monitors the display surface and provides feedback to the control unit. When a foreign object is detected, the system provides visual feedback to the driver through warning indicators, creating a closed-loop monitoring system that maintains display integrity
2Reliability
If a cover pane is used in the reflection display system, then foreign objects are prevented from contacting the display surface, but new reflections of ambient light arise that impair perceptibility
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a physical cover pane that blocks light, the patent uses a detection camera as an intermediary to optically monitor the display surface. The camera captures images through the same optical path as the driver's view, allowing foreign object detection without introducing additional reflections or blocking light
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cover pane solution with an optical detection system. Instead of physically protecting the display surface with a cover that causes reflections, the system uses electronic image processing and detection algorithms to identify foreign objects, substituting mechanical protection with optical sensing
3Quantity of substance
If foreign objects rest on the display surface, then parts of the display are concealed, but the absence of display symbols is not noticed since they are not permanently displayed
Solution Approach 1:
The detection camera continuously captures images of the display surface in advance, creating a record of what should be visible. By comparing this captured image with the expected display content, the system can detect concealed areas before they become critical safety issues
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses visual contrast and color analysis in the captured images to detect foreign objects. By analyzing differences in reflectivity, color, and pattern between the display surface and potential foreign objects, the detection algorithm can identify concealed areas through optical property changes
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
Enables automated detection and signaling of foreign objects obstructing the display, ensuring that safety-relevant information remains visible and that the system can differentiate between non-display and obstruction.
Implementation Method 1
displaying a display image for a vehicle occupant of a motor vehicle by reflection of the display image on a windshield
Data Source
AI summary
A reflection display system for displaying a display image for a vehicle occupant of a motor vehicle by reflecting the display image on a windshield is provided. The system includes a display unit which is designed to display the display image on a display surface, a detection sensor system for detecting the displayed display image on the display surface, and a control unit which is designed to actuate the display unit for displaying purposes, ascertain detection information on the basis of the detected displayed display image, ascertain the presence of a foreign object on the display surface of the display unit on the basis of the displayed display image and on the basis of the detection information, and signal a disruption of the display if the presence of a foreign object on the display surface of the display unit has been ascertained.