Multi-layer Vehicle Instrument Cluster Display with Dynamic Transparency Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vehicle electronic instrument clusters face challenges in dynamically adjusting the light intensity and transparency of display layers to optimize visibility in varying ambient conditions, which can affect the readability of critical operational information.

Innovation Solution

A display system with a backlight and multiple layers, where a first processing unit adjusts the light intensity based on input signals from vehicle components, and a second processing unit controls the transparency of a second layer to optimize the display of content and indicators, ensuring visibility and readability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If the light intensity of the backlight is increased to improve visibility of display content, then the readability of critical operational information is improved, but the energy consumption increases and the visibility of indicators may be compromised due to excessive brightness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight intensityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The display system is divided into multiple independent layers (first layer for content, second layer for indicators, third layer for additional information) that can be controlled separately. Each layer can have its light intensity and transparency adjusted independently, allowing the system to optimize energy consumption by activating only the necessary layers based on driving conditions while maintaining visibility of critical information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the light intensity and transparency of different layers in real-time based on ambient light conditions, vehicle speed, and other operational parameters. The processing unit receives input signals from vehicle components and automatically modifies display characteristics to optimize both visibility and energy efficiency under varying conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple layers with adjustable transparency are implemented to optimize display visibility, then the adaptability to different lighting conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to lighting conditionsVSAvoiddisplay structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex display system is divided into modular layers that can be controlled independently. Each layer has a specific function and can be adjusted separately, which simplifies the control logic despite the increased number of components. The processing unit manages each layer based on its specific requirements rather than controlling the entire display as a single unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The multiple layers serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide background content display, overlay information, critical indicators, and adaptive brightness control. This multi-functionality justifies the increased structural complexity by delivering enhanced adaptability to various driving conditions and information display requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 adjusts light intensity and transparency to enhance the visibility of critical operational information, improving readability and user experience in different lighting conditions.

Implementation Method 1

A display system with a backlight and multiple layers, where a first processing unit adjusts the light intensity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission from backlight: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

a second layer adjustable between at least a light permeable state and a light impermeable state

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission through transparent/impermeable layer: Electrochromism

Data Source

PatentEP3696004B1Display arrangement for an instrument cluster
Publication Date: 2023.08.02 VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • EP3696004B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3696004B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3696004B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A system and method for adjusting the display of light-based content of a display system includes a display unit. The display unit includes a first layer cooperating with a backlight, a second layer disposed proximate the first layer and a third layer disposed proximate the second layer. At least one microcontroller in communication with the display unit includes a first processing unit configured to receive a dimming level value and a second processing unit. The second processing unit evaluates the dimming level value against a threshold value and adjusts one or more properties of the display unit in response to the measured values.