Ambient Light Reflection Analysis Using Dimensional Modeling Tools to Predict Windshield View Obscuration and Improve Safety

Ambient light reflecting off internal components of the car, specifically the Head-Up Display (HUD), creates unwanted reflections on the Windshield. These reflections can obscure the driver's field of view, potentially compromising safety and reducing visual comfort. The extent of this obscuration is influenced by geometrical factors such as the angle of the HUD and the curvature of the Windshield, which need to be analyzed and managed. The primary motivation is to improve driver safety and visual comfort. This is driven by the need to address the negative impact of ambient light reflecting off Head-Up Displays (HUDs), which can impair visibility through the Windshield. There is a need for tools and methods to address this issue proactively during the vehicle design phase. This study employs a tool-based modeling method to trace the pathways of ambient light from its source, reflecting off the HUD, and onto the Windshield using a dimensional modeling tool. It focuses on: Geometrical surfaces (specifically HUD angle and Windshield curvature) Modeling the pathways of ambient light from its source, reflecting off the HUD, and onto the Windshield using the dimensional modeling tool Measuring and analyzing the resulting areas of reflection caused within the driver's field of view. The method aims to evaluate the extent of disruption or obscuration within the driver's field of view caused by the reflections in millions of vehicles.