Road Projection Control for 3D Hazard Shape Awareness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle light control technologies do not allow drivers to intuitively understand the solid shape of caution-required features, especially in low visibility conditions such as at night or in bad weather, which can hinder safe driving.
Innovation Solution
A projection control apparatus that includes a caution-required feature detector, an optical illusion image generator, and a projection controller to project optical illusion images onto the road surface, alerting the driver to the presence of caution-required features by simulating their solid shape, using sensors and a projector to enhance visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional headlamp or symbol projection technologies are used, then the driver is alerted to the existence of a caution-required feature, but the driver cannot intuitively understand the solid shape of the caution-required feature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the caution-required feature's solid shape and projects it onto the road surface. This virtual image replicates the three-dimensional form of obstacles like curbs or pedestrians, allowing drivers to intuitively grasp the shape and spatial characteristics of potential hazards without physically contacting them.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional symbol projection to three-dimensional shape representation by projecting optical illusion images that convey depth, height, and spatial extent. This dimensional enhancement enables drivers to perceive the solid shape of caution-required features more naturally and accurately.
2Device complexity
If simple symbol projection is used, then the system complexity is low, but the driver's ability to understand the solid shape of caution-required features is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical 3D display mechanisms with optical projection technology. By using light to create virtual images of solid shapes on the road surface, the system achieves three-dimensional shape communication without requiring moving parts, mechanical depth indicators, or complex physical structures.
3Illumination intensity
If no shape-recalling projection is used, then the projection system remains simple, but the driver's visual recognition of caution-required features is insufficient, particularly at night or in bad weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color variations in the projected optical illusion images to represent different aspects of the caution-required feature's solid shape. By using distinct colors for different portions or characteristics of the object, the system enhances visual recognition and conveys three-dimensional information through chromatic differentiation.
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 system effectively alerts drivers to caution-required features while enabling them to intuitively understand their shape, improving safety by enhancing visibility in challenging conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a projection controller to cause a projector to project the optical illusion image
Data Source
AI summary
A caution-required feature detector in a projection control apparatus detects a caution-required feature that is a feature with a solid shape that impacts on traveling of a subject vehicle. An optical illusion image generating unit generates an optical illusion image that recalls the solid shape of the caution-required feature. An alert determination unit determines whether alerting the caution-required feature is necessary. A projection controller causes a projector to project the optical illusion image at a position corresponding to a position of the caution-required feature determined as requiring the alert.