Transparent Steering Wheel Symbol Display Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The visibility and positioning of symbols in partially transparent operating units of a motor vehicle steering wheel are adversely affected by varying light intensities and viewer distances/angles, leading to misplacement and obscuration of symbols.
Innovation Solution
A method to determine the position of a symbol display in a transparent operating unit by calculating an average eye point, considering viewer distances and angles, and accounting for refractive effects to ensure symbols are accurately positioned for optimal visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If symbol displays are arranged in different layers to enable selective illumination, then multiple functions can be displayed, but the symbols appear at different depths and positions causing visualization shifts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional surface display to a three-dimensional layered display structure. Multiple symbol displays are arranged in different layers along the depth dimension, allowing selective illumination of specific layers to indicate different functions. This dimensional addition enables versatile function display while the patent compensates for position shifts through optical design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transparent operating unit as an intermediary element between the symbol displays and the user. This transparent structure with specific refractive properties acts as an optical mediator that compensates for the depth-related position shifts. By carefully designing the refractive index and thickness of this intermediary layer, the patent ensures that symbols from different layers appear aligned at the same visual position despite their physical depth differences.
2Illumination intensity
If the operating unit is made transparent to improve visibility, then the steering wheel design is enhanced, but symbol positioning becomes sensitive to viewing angle and distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes specific physical parameters of the transparent operating unit, including its thickness, refractive index, and the precise positioning of symbol displays within it. By carefully selecting and adjusting these parameters, the patent creates a design where symbols remain properly positioned across a range of viewing angles and distances. The transparent material properties are specifically chosen to minimize optical distortion and maintain consistent symbol appearance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If symbols are displayed in different layers with selective illumination, then light intensity can be controlled, but visibility is adversely affected by depth perception and position shifts
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent operating unit serves as an optical intermediary that compensates for the depth-related visibility issues. Its specific refractive properties and thickness are designed to ensure that light from symbols in different layers emerges at consistent angles, making the symbols appear aligned and clearly visible regardless of their physical depth position. This intermediary structure maintains reliable visibility while preserving the energy-efficient selective illumination capability.
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 symbol readability and reliability of operation by minimizing misplacement and obscuration, thereby improving road safety through correct symbol positioning.
Implementation Method 1
determining a position of a symbol display in an at least partially transparent operating unit... determining a distance and a viewing angle of the average eye point relative to the symbol display unit... determining a position of the symbol display in the symbol display unit such that the visualization of the symbol... takes place at the target position
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are provided for determining a position of a symbol display in an at least partially transparent operating unit for a steering wheel of a motor vehicle. A position of a symbol display unit is determined. A target position is determined for a visualization of a symbol using the symbol display relative to the symbol display unit. An average eye point when using the steering wheel relative to the symbol display unit is determined. A distance and a viewing angle of the average eye point relative to the symbol display unit is determined. A position of the symbol display in the symbol display unit is determined such that the visualization of the symbol by means of the symbol display, when viewed from the determined distance and the determined viewing angle from the average eye point, takes place at the target position for the visualization of the symbol.