German automotive supplier Bosch says it is developing in-car 3D displays that will help with driver feedback and alertness.
Bosch says its new 3D displays products "use passive 3D technology to generate a realistic three-dimensional effect that allows visual information to be grasped faster than when displayed on conventional screens." In other words, the tech helps to grab the driver's attention in an emergency situation, such as when the front braking sensor detects a stationary object ahead. It also helps the driver properly gauge the distance to surrounding objects and vehicles – useful when setting adaptive cruise control on the highway or trying to park in a tight space.
“The display’s depth of field means drivers can grasp important visual information faster, whether from an assistance system or a traffic-jam alert,” explains Bosch's director of multimedia, Dr. Steffen Berns. “Alerts that seem to jump out of the display are much more obvious and urgent.”
The 3D dashboard displays are also helpful when navigating, as spatial depth of the map display helps to make it clear which building or landmark your next turn is located at. Ever miss a street because your navigation made the turn look further away than it was? Bosch's 3D displays hope to put an end to those errors.
“Displays are increasingly becoming interactive systems that can better anticipate drivers’ individual needs,” Berns added.
Bosch did not say when we may first see its 3D vehicle displays in production vehicles. The company is estimating the global vehicle display market will double from 13.4 billion euros (C$19.8 billion) to 26.7 billion euros (nearly C$40 billion) by 2025, though, so you can expect to see a ton of movement and growth in this sector over the next five years or so.
