Innovative Head-Up-Display and New Display Interface 'Delphi Haptics' Represent a Technological Breakthrough in Human Machine Interface Systems

Unveiled at Geneva Motor Show on Franco Sbarro concept car 'Orbital Hybrid', new intuitive technologies can help make driving more informative, convenient and secure

New Head-Up-Display generation using a laser-based technology demonstrates that high technology and economy can go together

New Haptic display, a single mechatronics module, offers simple, intuitive and attractive human machine interface design

Release Date: March 03, 2009

Geneva, Switzerland—As a leading global supplier of mobile electronics and transportation systems, Delphi Corp. (PINKSHEETS: DPHIQ) is well positioned to help in the development of "Human Machine Interface" (HMI) devices between the driver and the vehicle that helps provide consumers information, convenience and protection. Within this area, Delphi is committed to simplifying the driver's environment by implementing intuitive systems that help to address the critical issue of driver inattention. Delphi leverages its expertise in designing, engineering and integrating information displays into the car, to deliver products that touch and connect the driver to the vehicle. Engineers from Delphi's technical centre in Illkirch, France, participated in the creation of famous car designer Franco Sbarro's "Orbital Hybrid" concept car by developing two innovative products: a new Head-Up-Display which represents a technological breakthrough and Delphi Haptics, a haptic display characterized by a new 3D graphical and dynamic interface.

Delphi's new head-up display: where innovative technology merges with economy

The head-up display projects driver information onto the vehicle windshield. Directly oriented into the driver's primary range of vision, it assists the driver to become aware of information quickly and easily. While the head-up display is not an innovation in itself, as Delphi experts integrated the first unit in a vehicle in 1988, the technology used in this generation represents a complete breakthrough from today's reflective head-up display technology. The new Delphi head-up display utilizes laser- and micro-structure-based technologies to generate a virtual image. This technology is completely new. Today's heads-up-displays reflect information on mirrors. The benefits of the new technology translate into a smaller package, flexibility in integration (roof module, dash board...), adaptation to different car sizes, higher luminance (up to 5000cd/m2) at small level of electrical consumption, multicolour design, the ability to adapt the position of the virtual image in the real scene and, last but not least, lower cost. Cost reduction is especially important as it is the direct advantage of the laser-based technology and opens possibilities to expand availability of this product beyond luxury cars. The ultimate goal is to make this device a mass market product. "We are extremely proud that we have played a key role in making driving more informative, convenient, secure and enjoyable for millions of motorists through the years. Today, we are even prouder as we introduce products such as our new head-up display. Its cost-effective technology will allow a broader consumer base to have access to the popular feature" says Laurent Tupinier, controls and security technology development manager at Delphi.

Delphi's haptic display—Delphi Haptics: where simplicity meets intuitive design

New Haptic display from Delphi, a single mechatronics module, offers simple, intuitive and attractive human machine interface design

While Delphi's new head-up display allows the driver to view critical information projected on the windshield without looking away from the road, the Delphi Haptics instrument control display provides additional critical information in a user-friendly manner.

Delphi Haptics fitted on "Orbital Hybrid" concept car combines display and force feedback technology which allows multiple functions to be controlled by a single device, eliminating buttons while providing more features and functions. This Delphi innovation replaces separate HVAC, radio, entertainment, communications and vehicle dynamics settings with a single mechatronics module. Delphi Haptics design offers a simple, intuitive and attractive HMI (Human Machine Interface). This is a good example of Delphi's focus on innovation and up-integration to help its customers offer vehicles that are more attractive to consumers.

It provides easy access to information thanks to its simplified menus, clear graphics and symbols, shortcuts to access menus and wheels to make selection. Sensors will anticipate the user's intentions and automatically provide the proper menu.

Delphi and Franco Sbarro, the passion of innovation

Unveiled at Geneva Motor Show on Franco Sbarro concept car "Orbital Hybrid", new intuitive technologies from Delphi can help making driving more informative, convenient and secure

When Delphi and Franco Sbarro met to discuss a partnership they knew they were sharing one common point: their passion of innovation.

Franco Sbarro, the famous international concept car designer has been designing unique models for more than 30 years. This year, at the Geneva Motor Show, he is unveiling its Orbital Hybrid concept car. The name of the concept car refers to the revolutionary invention Sbarro presented in 1989: the orbital wheel or hubless wheel. The car, fitted with orbital wheels, is powered by a hybrid engine and features a Delphi new generation Head-Up-Display and Delphi Haptics—the haptic display.

SOURCE:  DELPHI