Windshield HUD Projection Path Obstruction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional head up displays (HUDs) lack the ability to detect obstructions or damage that may obstruct the HUD graphical user interface (GUI) projection, potentially leading to misinformation for the driver due to blocked information.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a camera with object detection software in the HUD system to detect obstructions and windshield damage, ensuring proper HUD GUI display and notifying the driver through in-vehicle systems if an obstruction is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a camera and object detection software are integrated into the HUD system to detect obstructions and windshield damage, then the reliability of HUD GUI display is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a camera and object detection software into the existing HUD system, merging multiple functions (display, detection, analysis) into a single integrated unit. This allows the HUD to simultaneously project graphical elements and monitor the projection path for obstructions or windshield damage, resolving the contradiction by combining detection capabilities with the display system rather than adding separate independent systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously capturing images with the integrated camera, analyzing them through object detection software to identify obstructions or damage, and then alerting the driver through the HUD display or audible warnings. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures reliable detection and response while keeping the system integrated within the existing HUD architecture
2Loss of information
If the HUD system continuously monitors the projection path and analyzes captured images to detect obstructions, then the loss of information is reduced, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera captures images along the projection path at periodic intervals rather than continuously, and the object detection software analyzes these periodic frames to detect obstructions or windshield damage. This periodic monitoring approach ensures that information about display blockages is detected while reducing energy consumption compared to continuous real-time analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing HUD projection light and integrated camera resources to perform self-diagnosis of the display path. The object detection software automatically analyzes captured images without requiring external monitoring equipment, allowing the system to self-verify that graphical elements are being displayed correctly while minimizing additional energy requirements
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 safety by ensuring critical information is displayed correctly, allowing the system to notify the driver of any HUD GUI issues and dynamically adjust settings for improved visibility.
Implementation Method 1
A head up display emits light that reflects from the front windshield to be seen by the driver
Data Source
AI summary
A head up display arrangement for a motor vehicle includes a picture generation unit emitting a light field along a projection path. At least one mirror is positioned to reflect the light field emitted by the picture generation unit such that the reflected light field is again reflected by a windshield of the motor vehicle so as to be visible by a human driver of the motor vehicle as a virtual image. A camera is positioned to capture images along the projection path. An electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the camera and analyzes the images captured by the camera to thereby determine whether there is an obstruction in the projection path. The electronic processor notifies the human driver of the obstruction if it is determined that there is an obstruction in the projection path.