Vehicle Projection Light Sequencing for Flowing Road Indications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projection systems for vehicles face limitations in creating a visual effect by projecting sequential images due to restrictions on the number of image divisions, cost, and size, making it difficult to effectively alert pedestrians and drivers to the vehicle's direction changes.
Innovation Solution
A projection apparatus with multiple light sources and a control unit that sequentially projects individual images onto a road surface within a predetermined period, starting and ending the projection in a controlled manner to create a flowing visual effect.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If sequential projection of multiple individual images is implemented to create a flowing visual effect, then the visual effect is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase due to requiring multiple light sources and precise timing control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a complete directional indication image into multiple individual images (first, second, and third images) that are projected sequentially in time. This segmentation allows the creation of a flowing visual effect through temporal separation rather than spatial complexity, reducing the need for complex multi-element projection systems while achieving the desired visual impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic projection of individual images with specific timing intervals between them. The control unit projects each individual image in sequence with predetermined time intervals, creating a rhythmic visual pattern that enhances the flowing effect. This periodic action achieves complex visual dynamics through simple temporal control rather than complex hardware.
2Illumination intensity
If the number of image divisions is increased to improve the flowing visual effect, then the visual quality is improved, but the road surface area required for projection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the directional indication into multiple individual images projected sequentially at the same or overlapping spatial locations on the road surface. This temporal segmentation allows multiple images to occupy the same spatial footprint, creating a flowing visual effect without proportionally increasing the required road surface area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from spatial differentiation of multiple images to temporal differentiation. Instead of placing multiple images side-by-side in space, the system projects them one after another in time, adding a temporal dimension to the visualization. This dimensional shift allows the creation of complex visual effects without expanding the spatial footprint on the road surface.
3Illumination intensity
If sequential projection with precise timing control is implemented, then the visual effect is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic projection of individual images with predetermined time intervals controlled by a control unit. This periodic control creates a rhythmic visual pattern that enhances the flowing effect while using simple timing logic rather than complex control algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is pre-programmed with predetermined time intervals for projecting each individual image in sequence. This preliminary setup of timing parameters simplifies the control logic, as the system follows a predetermined schedule rather than requiring real-time complex decision-making, reducing operational control system complexity.
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
The solution allows for an effective visual presentation of directional changes even with limited image divisions, enhancing visibility and alertness to surrounding drivers and pedestrians.
Implementation Method 1
a projection unit which has at least M (M represents a natural number of 2 or more) light sources and projects at least N (N represents a natural number of 2 or more) individual images onto a road surface along a predetermined direction based on the lighting of the at least M light sources
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention addresses the problem that the road surface area allowed for projecting an image is limited, there is a restriction on the number of parts into which the image can be divided, and it is hard to achieve an intended visual effect even if individual images are sequentially projected. A control unit (31) controls three light sources (21a to 21c) so that, among three individual images (5a to 5c), projection of an image (5b) to be projected second is started at a time point (t4) later than a time point (t3) at which a period of 250/3 milliseconds has elapsed from a projection start time point (t1) for an image (5a) to be projected first. Consequently, the visual effect of sequential projection of individual images is more easily achieved than when the projection of the second individual image (5b) is started at the time (t3).