Automated Windshield Glare Elimination via Pixel Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield glare elimination methods require manual adjustment, leading to driver distraction and increased risk of accidents due to the inability to automatically mitigate glare from natural and artificial light sources.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented system that determines the position of light sources based on vehicle location and time, using a processor to identify pixels on the windshield and modify their properties to block glare, thereby automatically shielding the driver from glare without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual visors are used to block glare, then glare protection is provided, but driver distraction and response time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The windshield pixels automatically detect and respond to glare conditions without driver intervention. The system monitors light sources, calculates their positions, and adjusts pixel transparency autonomously, eliminating the need for manual visor adjustment and reducing driver distraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical visor system with an electronic pixel-based system. Instead of manually moving physical visors, the system uses controllable pixels that can dynamically adjust their light-blocking properties through electrical signals, enabling faster and more precise glare mitigation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual visors are adjusted to block glare, then light shielding is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting glare conditions and modifying pixel properties without requiring driver action. The autonomous control system continuously monitors the environment and adapts the windshield's optical properties in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the optical parameters of the windshield pixels dynamically. By adjusting the transparency or light-blocking properties of individual pixels based on detected glare conditions, the system adapts the windshield's characteristics to optimize both glare protection and driver visibility.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If mechanical visors are positioned to block glare, then glare elimination is provided, but device complexity increases compared to simple windshields
Solution Approach 1:
The windshield serves multiple functions: it provides structural protection, maintains aerodynamics, and now also performs dynamic glare mitigation through integrated pixels. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanical visor systems into the existing windshield structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes changes in the optical properties of pixel materials to achieve glare blocking. By controlling the light-absorbing or light-blocking characteristics of pixel materials, the system can dynamically adjust the windshield's optical appearance without adding mechanical moving parts.
4Productivity
If automated pixel adjustment is implemented, then productivity in glare response is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processors
Solution Approach 1:
Existing vehicle sensors (cameras, light detectors) are repurposed for glare detection in addition to their primary functions. The processor that handles general vehicle operations is also utilized for calculating glare positions and controlling pixel adjustment, maximizing the use of existing system resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The glare detection and response system is merged with the existing vehicle electronic architecture. By integrating the pixel control system with the vehicle's existing sensor network and processing units, the patent achieves automated glare response without requiring completely separate dedicated hardware systems.
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 provides increased safety and comfort by automatically and quickly reducing glare, minimizing driver distraction and the risk of accidents through automated adjustment of windshield pixels to block glare from various light sources.
Implementation Method 1
one or more physical properties of the pixel(s) in the line of sight are modified
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system and computer program product for shielding an operator of a vehicle from light, including determining a position of a light source based on the location of the vehicle and the current date and time. A line of sight between the light source and the eyes of the operator is determined, where the line of sight goes through a windshield of the vehicle that includes a plurality of pixels. One or more pixels in the line of sight are identified; and, one or more physical properties of the pixel(s) in the line of sight are modified.