Vehicle Display Seamless Surface Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display devices in vehicles are not effectively integrated into surfaces, as they remain visible even when switched off, lacking a seamless transition with their surroundings, and fail to appear as part of the surface in both switched-off and switched-on states.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an electrical tint film and a cover surface with adjustable optical properties, where the tint film changes from nontransparent to transparent based on voltage application, and the cover surface's optical properties gradient from transparent to nontransparent, creating a seamless visual integration with the surrounding surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a display device is integrated into a surface, then the display can be positioned on various surfaces, but the display device remains visible and distinct from its surroundings when switched off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a color-changing effect to the display device's housing or frame, allowing it to change appearance between a first state (visible/distinct from surroundings) and a second state (blended with surroundings). This is achieved through electrochromic glass or similar materials that can transition between transparent and opaque states, enabling the display to adapt its visual characteristics to match the surrounding surface when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device incorporates dynamic optical properties that can change in real-time. The housing or frame includes materials with variable transparency or reflectivity that respond to electrical signals, allowing the display to dynamically adjust its appearance based on operational state. This dynamic adaptation enables seamless integration into surfaces during non-operational periods while maintaining visibility when active.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the display device is made transparent to blend with surroundings, then seamless integration is achieved, but the structural integrity and protection of internal components are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material structures, particularly electrochromic glass or multi-layer panels combining transparent and opaque materials. These composite structures provide both the desired optical transparency for blending with surroundings and the necessary mechanical strength for structural integrity. The multi-layer construction allows light transmission when needed while maintaining rigidity and protective functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device utilizes a nested structure where multiple functional layers are integrated within each other. The housing contains nested components including display elements, electrochromic layers, and structural supports. This nesting allows the transparent electrochromic glass to be embedded within a protective framework, achieving both optical blending and structural protection simultaneously.
3Strength
If a frame is added to the display device, then structural support and component protection are improved, but the seamless integration with surrounding surfaces is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The frame or housing of the display device incorporates color-changing materials that allow it to adapt its appearance. The frame can transition between a visible state (providing structural definition) and a blended state (matching surrounding surfaces). This is achieved through electrochromic coatings or materials that change transparency or color based on electrical activation, eliminating the visual disruption of a permanent frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing or frame structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, protects internal components, and acts as an optical element for blending with surroundings. The frame is not merely a structural component but also functions as an active optical element that can change its appearance properties, combining mechanical and optical functions in a single integrated structure.
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 display device appears as a seamless extension of the surface in both switched-off and switched-on states, providing a unified visual impression and allowing for flexible integration into various vehicle surfaces, such as dashboards, without a visible frame or border.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical tint film 6, which, depending on whether voltage is applied or not, has different optical properties
Implementation Method 2
the optical properties of which, starting from a midpoint of the cover surface 2, change toward the border of the cover surface 2
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure, which relates to a display device is created so that it can be integrated in a surface, providing in particular a seamless extension and an integrated appearance between the surface surrounding the display device and the display device itself and thus appears to the viewer of the display device as being part of a surface.