Composed of a transparent LCD panel and a camera coupled with facial analysis software, the virtual sunshade developed by Bosch is capable of protecting the driver from dazzling rays which hamper driving while not obstructing his field of vision.
Of the many innovations that have multiplied in recent years in the automobile , the sun visor is undoubtedly the big forgotten. Whether concept cars or the most sophisticated production models, all have in common the use of a classic and banal blackout panel to help the driver mask a blinding sun hitting the windshield. Bosch decided to look into this equipment to completely rethink it. And the result is quite spectacular.
The German company is taking advantage of the Consumer Electronics Show to present its 21 st century sun visor which has nothing to do with the accessory we know. It is a completely transparent LCD panel associated with a camera which films the driver. A software analysis to detect facial shadows caused by sunlight and not darken the part of the screen through which the light hits the eyes of the driver.
A significant safety gain
The rest of the field of vision therefore remains completely transparent and clear. According to Bosch , such an innovation could significantly improve safety, especially at dawn and dusk. The equipment manufacturer cites studies conducted in the United States, one of which estimates that the risk of a car accident is 16% higher in direct sunlight than in normal times due to the temporary blindness experienced by motorists.
This virtual sun visor is only at the conceptual stage and its introduction in series vehicles is not yet topical.