Navigation Aid System Using Linear Lighting Zone for Directional Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Navigation aid systems face challenges with GPS signal precision and real-time accuracy, leading to confusion during complex driving situations like lane changes and roundabouts, especially when GPS signals are lost or degraded, and current display solutions increase cognitive load on drivers.
Innovation Solution
A navigation aid system that continuously calculates and visually indicates the next direction using a target angle calculation device, a visual restitution device with a zone of linear lighting, and odometric information to activate the system only when necessary, minimizing distractions and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS signal is used for navigation indication, then navigation information can be provided to the driver, but the accuracy is insufficient (5 to 10 meters) leading to confusion in complex lane changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary visual indicator system that translates imprecise GPS data into clear directional guidance. The system uses a directional indicator that points toward the target direction rather than displaying raw GPS coordinates, thereby mediating between the imprecise satellite signals and the driver's need for clear navigation instructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified visual copy of the navigation intent rather than displaying the complex raw GPS data. The directional indicator copies the essential navigation information (target direction) in a visually intuitive format that is easier to interpret than numerical coordinate data.
2Speed
If navigation system processes GPS signals in real-time, then current position can be displayed, but there is a time lag between receiving signals and displaying position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares navigation indicators in advance based on predicted vehicle position and pre-calculated target directions. By pre-computing the directional indicators before the vehicle actually reaches the turn point, the system eliminates processing delays during critical moments and provides seamless navigation guidance.
3Reliability
If GPS signals are received in degraded conditions (reflections, tunnels), then navigation can continue, but position calculation uses extrapolation reducing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent buffers navigation calculations by using pre-stored map data and pre-calculated target directions that are valid over extended periods. This cushioning approach allows the system to maintain accurate directional guidance even when real-time position data is degraded or unavailable, as the pre-computed indicators remain valid during GPS outages.
4Ease of operation
If navigation display is placed on center console, then information can be shown, but driver must take eyes off screen increasing cognitive load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the navigation display from a 2D screen on the center console to a 3D spatial visual indicator integrated into the vehicle's forward view. By projecting directional information into the driver's natural field of view rather than requiring lateral glances at a screen, the system adds a spatial dimension to information presentation that eliminates the need for eye movements.
Data Source
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Figure 2b~3
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AI summary
System for aiding navigation (1) during a change of direction from a first direction (7) to a second direction (8), characterized in that it comprises a device for calculating a target angle (2) comprising at least one terrestrial mapping (3), an orientation sensor (4) and a calculator (5) able to calculate a target angle (αTarget) between the instantaneous position of the vehicle (7) and a fixed point (P3) of the terrestrial mapping (3) situated in the second direction (8), said system comprising furthermore a visual restitution device (6), receiving the target angle (αTarget) and comprising a substantially linear lighting zone (9) situated within the vehicle in the principal or peripheral field of vision (10) of the driver, the visual information produced by the lighting zone (9) being adapted to indicate continuously the direction towards said fixed point (P3) as a function of the value of the target angle (αTarget).