Japanese plastics manufacturer Sekisui Chemicals has introduced an updated version of the company’s plastic film which can display vehicle data and information onto the car windscreen.
A new version of an existing product, the film is intended as a replacement for the small mini screens used by a series of OEM carmakers to show head up displays.
The material has a crystalline structure within the plastic material which captures light at certain wavelengths and represents that as visible icons.
The film supports representation of data in a graphic format across the windscreen. This includes vehicle status information for the driver and local interest information for the front-seat passenger.
Displays on fixed glass screens are known to have a narrow viewing angle. The film from Sekisui delivers a viewing angle of up to 180 degrees.
The plastic film is located within the laminated structure of the glass. The data is said to deliver faster information displays and more rapid driver response times.
Any information can be displayed on the windscreen. Further driver information can be displayed on that side of the car, passenger data can be added on the opposite side.
A representative of Sekisuki said: “The film incorporates materials which pick up on the [camera] images based on wavelength.” That portion of the visible light is then represented visually on the screen.
According to company representatives, the film has been type-approved for use in cars manufactured in the EU. The company is now negotiating with various OEMs about usage in new vehicles.