Patent attributes
The present invention relates to indication systems providing augmented visual support for the operator of a motor vehicle, vessel or an aircraft. The indication system is positioned in the location of a traditional vehicular gauge dashboard. The indication system consists of an image formulator and an optical collimator system with two visual channels. Lower channel is used for direct visual tracking of all virtual gauge readings while the upper channel is used to track updates “on the windshield” of a vehicle with the background of the surrounding environment. The lower channel displays virtual collimator imaging of the traditional analog or digital gauges as well as navigational system data. The upper channel is reflected onto the exterior background of the windshield and displays collimator imaged critical data that is required for the safe operation of a vehicle. To provide the switching functionality between the two channels, the indication system utilizes a lightproof partition. The side of the partition facing the image formulator is designed as a flat reflective mirror. In order to engage the lower channel, the partition is placed away from the optical systems for the lower channel. To provide viewing of the upper channel, the partition is positioned along the optical axis of the upper collimator lens at a given angle. To provide the function of automatic switching between the channels, the multifunctional collimator indicator is equipped with an eye position tracking system which tracks real-time position of the eye's pupil.
