Pillar Display System for Vehicle Blind Spot Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automobile pillars obstruct the driver's view, creating blind spots that existing solutions have not adequately addressed despite increased window area efforts.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a display system on the inner surface of pillars using organic LEDs linked to exterior cameras, with a camera control mechanism allowing manual adjustment via a toggle member and servo-motors, and proximity sensors for optimal viewing, including a default mode coordinating with interior décor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If pillars are made wider to provide structural support, then vehicle structural strength is improved, but driver's field of view deteriorates due to increased blind spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces display surfaces mounted on the pillars as an intermediary element. These displays capture images from cameras positioned on the pillars and present them to drivers, effectively mediating between the physical obstruction (pillar) and the visual information needed. The display surface acts as a mediator that transforms the blind spot problem into a solvable information presentation challenge.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates visual copies of the blind spot areas by using cameras to capture images of regions obscured by pillars and displaying these copies on the pillar surfaces. This allows drivers to see replicated views of areas they cannot directly observe, effectively copying the visual information that would otherwise be unavailable due to the pillar obstruction.
2Reliability
If display surfaces are added to pillar inner surfaces to eliminate blind spots, then driver's visibility is improved, but device complexity increases due to integration of cameras, displays, and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The pillar structure is given multiple functions: it maintains its primary structural support role while simultaneously serving as a mounting platform for cameras and display surfaces. The display surface itself serves dual purposes by both eliminating blind spots and potentially providing aesthetic customization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges several functions into integrated components: the camera is mounted on the pillar structure itself rather than being a separate vehicle component, the display surface is integrated onto the pillar's inner surface, and the control mechanism is unified to manage multiple cameras and displays. This merging approach reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate independent systems.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are installed on different pillars to cover all blind spots, then coverage area is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The blind spot elimination system is segmented into modular units, with each pillar equipped with its own camera and display surface combination. This segmentation allows for independent manufacturing, testing, and installation of each pillar unit, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to a fully integrated system. It also allows selective deployment based on specific vehicle configurations and budget constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements, such as adjustable display surfaces that can be positioned at different angles and heights, and cameras with adjustable fields of view. This dynamic capability allows a single camera-display unit to cover multiple areas, potentially reducing the total number of components needed while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
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 driver's visibility of obstructed areas by providing a continuous view of the external environment, improving safety by eliminating blind spots through adjustable and adaptive camera positioning.
Implementation Method 1
the display surface is an organic LED
Implementation Method 2
a servo-motor coupled to the camera for controlling movement thereof
Implementation Method 3
the proximity sensors are a series of lasers
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle safety system includes a vehicle having at least one pillar. The at least one pillar includes an inner surface covered with a display surface. An exterior focused camera linked to the display surface for displaying an image taken by the camera upon the display material, wherein the camera takes an image of the exterior area of the vehicle that a driver would otherwise see if the at least one pillar were not blocking the view of the driver. A camera control mechanism links a driver sitting within a driver seat of the vehicle to the camera such that the camera may be adjusted to optimize the view provided upon the display surface along the inner surface of the at least one pillar.