Vehicle Meter Display Pattern Control for Steering Wheel Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle instrument designs do not effectively improve the visibility of on-board meter panels, particularly when the steering wheel obstructs the driver's line of sight to the speedometer.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that acquires traveling information and adjusts the display pattern of the on-board meter panel, including the speedometer, to optimize visibility based on changes in vehicle information and the driver's line of sight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the steering wheel is positioned in front of the driver, then the driver can control the vehicle, but the steering wheel obstructs the driver's line of sight to the speedometer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spatial dimension of the speedometer display by moving it from a fixed position on the meter panel to a head-up display projected on the windshield. This dimensional transition allows the speedometer to be viewed from above the steering wheel, eliminating the obstruction problem while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a head-up display system as an intermediary between the driver and the speedometer information. This intermediary projects the speedometer reading onto the windshield, creating a virtual image that the driver can see without moving their head or adjusting the steering wheel position.
2Device complexity
If the speedometer is displayed on a fixed meter panel, then the display structure is simple, but the visibility is poor when the steering wheel obstructs the view
Solution Approach 1:
The speedometer is relocated from the two-dimensional plane of the meter panel to the three-dimensional space above the windshield through head-up display projection. This allows the display to be positioned in a location that is not obstructed by the steering wheel, improving visibility without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/optical display system on the meter panel with an electronic head-up display system that uses image projection. This substitution enables dynamic positioning and viewing angle adjustment, improving visibility while the underlying system remains relatively simple.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the driver adjusts their head position or steering to see the speedometer, then the line of sight to the speedometer is improved, but the driver's attention is diverted from the road
Solution Approach 1:
The head-up display pre-positions the speedometer information in the driver's natural field of view on the windshield. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for subsequent head movements or steering adjustments, allowing the driver to maintain focus on the road while continuously accessing speed information.
Solution Approach 2:
The head-up display acts as an intermediary that delivers speedometer information directly to the driver's line of sight without requiring physical adjustment. This intermediary system ensures that the driver can obtain speed information while maintaining a steady gaze on the road, thereby preserving driving safety.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus, a vehicle, and an information processing method each for improving the visibility of an on-board meter panel. Information processing apparatus includes information acquirer that acquires traveling information on traveling of a vehicle including an on-board meter panel; and display pattern changer—that changes a display pattern of the on-board meter panel in accordance with change in the traveling information.