Compile/VR Gyro
During this week's CES 2022 conference, Panasonic Automotive Systems released a 2.0 version of its AR HUD device, which includes a new patented Eye Tracking System (ETS) that enhances the AR experience.
Ar HUD 2.0 is powered by Panasonic's SkipGen2, the company's eCockpit infotainment controller, which adds an eye tracking system with patented technology and enhances the AR experience with Panasonic's optical technology. The patent was made possible by an infrared camera with an AR HUD projector and an optical system, which, according to Panasonic, eliminates the need for a standalone driver-oriented camera. ETS can recognize the driver's line of sight and optimize the clarity and accuracy of AR images to create a more intuitive and enjoyable experience.
Image source: Panasonic
Andrew Poliak, Chief Technology Officer, Panasonic Automotive Systems, said: "Panasonic AR HUD 2.0 continues the trend of upward integration of display domains such as clusters and HUDs into central infotainment computing modules. By integrating our proprietary eye tracking technology into an AR HUD, we can understand where the driver is looking, and then more accurately match and focus the AR image with the real world, improving the fidelity of the image in the driver's field of view. "
Specifically, ETS technology can identify the height of the individual driver and the movement of the head behind the wheels, and dynamically adjust and compensate for the image in the "eye mask". Drivers will constantly change their heads and change their line of sight while driving, but through the synergy of parallax alignment and dynamic autofocus, Panasonic says that by using its system, drivers will only see high-resolution overlays and icons that are accurately positioned. The driver's experience is provided by AI navigation software that matches changing environments to AR overlays and icons, helping to provide a more intuitive perception of the situation and surroundings.
Panasonic AR HUD 2.5D features include:
AI-powered navigation software with 3D AR overlays, icons and maps;
DLP provides clear, high-resolution images and icons;
Simulate 3D using a sloping dual image plane to deliver 3D effects at a cost of 2D.
In addition, the company's patented, the new Eye Tracking System (ETS), is able to automatically adjust the driver's height and compensate for parallax (correct alignment of ar icons in the driver's optical path). The system also enables dynamic autofocus (taking into account changes in the driver's eye positioning) and to identify and monitor the driver's status.
Panasonic said that by placing infrared cameras inside ar HUDs, it is possible to reduce the use of one camera that monitors the driver. Infrared cameras also support driver identification and other driver monitoring functions such as detecting fatigue status, injuries, and distractions.
Panasonic unveiled its AR HUD for the first time at CES 2021. Prior to that, the company announced a partnership with Phiar Technologies, developer of space AI technology and automotive AR navigation platforms, to expand driver safety and navigation support in its automotive solutions.
Source: auganix.org