Switchable Vehicle Window Projection for In-Cab and External Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for providing information to drivers and operators of heavy-duty vehicles, such as head-up displays and additional screen devices, do not effectively utilize the vehicle's window space for displaying critical information, limiting the operator's field of view and failing to provide information to external observers.
Innovation Solution
A projection system integrated into the vehicle's window using a switchable foil or film with controllable transparency, combined with projectors and a controller to display information, allowing for adjustable transparency and brightness, and the ability to project different information on separate sections of the window.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If head-up displays or additional screen devices are used to provide information to drivers, then information delivery is improved, but the operator's field of view is limited and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window serves multiple functions: it acts as both a transparent viewing element and a display screen. The switchable foil transforms the window from a simple transparent barrier into a multifunctional device that can display information while maintaining its primary function as a window, eliminating the need for separate head-up displays or additional screens.
Solution Approach 2:
The display function is merged with the window structure itself. Instead of adding separate display devices, the invention integrates the screen functionality directly into the window by incorporating a switchable foil that can be controlled to display information on the window surface.
2Area of stationary object
If traditional display devices are used in the vehicle, then information is provided to the operator, but the display area is limited and does not provide information to external observers
Solution Approach 1:
The window is divided into different sections with different transparency states. The switchable foil can be controlled to make different portions of the window transparent or opaque, allowing specific areas to display information while other areas remain transparent for viewing. This enables localized information display without compromising the overall window function.
Solution Approach 2:
The window display system serves dual audiences: internal operators and external observers. By making the window itself the display medium, the system naturally provides information to both groups simultaneously, as the window is inherently visible from both inside and outside the vehicle.
3Area of stationary object
If the window is used as a display screen, then the display area is expanded, but the transparency control and viewing quality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The window's transparency is made dynamic through the switchable foil technology. The foil can switch between transparent and opaque states, or intermediate states, allowing the window to adapt its transparency level based on whether it needs to display information or provide clear viewing. This dynamic control maintains viewing quality while enabling display functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical properties of the window are changed by controlling the transparency parameter of the switchable foil. By adjusting the transparency parameter, the system optimizes the balance between display visibility and viewing quality, allowing the window to function effectively as both a display screen and a transparent barrier.
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 operator's view by providing a larger display area directly in their line of sight while also conveying important information, such as vehicle status and camera views, to both the operator and external observers, improving safety and visibility.
Implementation Method 1
the switchable foil or film comprises liquid crystals (LC) or a suspended particle device (SPD)
Implementation Method 2
a degree of transparency of the switchable foil or film is controllable by an applied voltage
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A projection system for a vehicle, especially a working vehicle, comprising: - a switchable foil or film on or in at least parts of a window of the vehicle, wherein a degree of transparency of the switchable foil or film is controllable by an applied voltage, - at least one projector, which is able and arranged to display information on the switchable foil or film and - a controller, which is able and adapted to control the degree of transparency and to control the at least one projector.