• BHTC unveils their vision of next generation glasses-free 3D displays at the IAA autoshow
  • New display technologies are the result of Dimenco’s developments in Simulated Reality
  • Glasses-free, full 3D instrument cluster uses patented switchable 2D/3D lens technology
  • Big step in the design of human-technology interaction in the automotive industry

Lippstadt, 06.09.2019 BHTC will demonstrate its vision to revolutionize the way displays
assist the driver in a true natural 3D driver experience at the IAA 2019 in Frankfurt
Germany. This will set the benchmark for in-car 3D HMI displays. Using a new generation
of immersive display technologies that combine a full look-around 3D content with mid-air
haptics, known collectively as Simulated Reality, BHTC will showcase a new generation of
a fully natural, interactive center console for automotive vehicles.

Extra dimension of safety

3D displays are one of the biggest developments for automotive displays and this experience
will use the latest Lightfield display technology with a lenticular array for horizontal
parallax. The display’s depth of field means drivers will be made aware of important visual
information faster, improving the overall experience for who’s behind the wheel.
Alerts visually jump out of the display and are much clearer and harder to overlook
compared to the current in-car HUD, adding that extra dimension of safety.

Switchable 2D/3D lens technology

The new display brings 3D of the highest quality into automotive vehicles using innovative
lenticular lens technology, which delivers the driver an unprecedented high resolution
12.3 inch Center Information Display (CID). This solution provides the vehicle
manufacturer the possibility to enhance the driver experience for their customers and
to differentiate themselves from competitors thanks to the patented switchable 2D/3D
lens technology supported that includes the latest eye tracking developments.

The future of human-vehicle interaction

Alexander Waldeyer, Head of Technical Marketing & Technology Scouting at BHTC: “We
are always searching for new technologies, startups and partners that have the potential
to revolutionize the future interior of tomorrows vehicles together with BHTC as a
system integrator and technology expert. Combining Dimencos, Ultrahaptics and
BHTCs knowledge in a multimodal approach - to address multiple senses in an HMI -
makes traveling safe, comfortable, relaxing and fun. Driving becomes an experience.”

Maarten Tobias, CEO at Dimenco, said: “Once you have driven a vehicle equipped with
Simulated Reality, you immediately ‘get it’. This will delight all drivers as it delivers the
first taste of the future of human-vehicle interaction. Creating an experience that is
close to the real world by using no wearables, that is how we envision Simulated Reality.
The joint effort by BHTC, Ultrahaptics and Dimenco is a great first showcase in the
automotive sector.”

Ultrahaptics’ haptic technology makes it possible to touch the 3D visuals or controls
in mid-air. By having this technology combined with the glasses-free, 3D instrument
cluster means that this will be the first introduction of Simulated Reality into automotive
vehicles. Charlie Alexander, Director, Automotive Product at Ultrahaptics, said: “This is
a great example of how new technologies can be combined to revolutionize in-car HMI.
The partnership with BHTC and Dimenco will truly demonstrate the full potential of
spatial interaction in this space. It’s a really exciting time to be involved in the future of
this industry.”

 
 

About BHTC (Behr-Hella Thermocontrol)

BHTC is the world market leader in climate operating / control units and the specialist
for outstanding HMI (Human Machine Interface) system solutions in which the user takes
center stage. We provide comfort to all vehicle passengers in every driving situation.
This includes first-class and comfortable climate conditions and the intuitive-ergonomic
operation of our HMI systems. As an innovative and agile company, BHTC is a valued
partner to the automotive industry. Together with our customers, we introduce
pioneering technologies to new vehicle generations all over the world.

Innovation is the motor that drives us. Our technology teams are revolutionizing the
vehicle interior through new HMI and display approaches, tactile feedback, force sense,
and various other technologies. A customized and comfortable climate for all car
passengers combined with exceptional HMI technology turns travel into an experience.

 
 

About Dimenco

With origins in Royal Philips Electronics, Dimenco has been leading the spatial visualization
market since 2010. Our mission is to push the boundaries to achieve the dream of
simulated reality – one of the world’s biggest developments in 3D.
We unite hardware, software and technology to deliver fast, rich and natural three-dimensional
experiences – no wearables required. Our open approach to the possibilities
of spatial computing will result in totally new ways of interacting with your display that
exceeds the expectations of the industry.

 
 

About Ultrahaptics

Ultrahaptics is the world’s leading mid-air haptics company. The company’s unique
technology enables users to receive tactile feedback without the need for keyboards,
controllers or touchscreens. The technology uses ultrasound to project sensations through
the air and directly onto the user’s hands, enabling users to ‘feel’ virtual buttons,
get tactile feedback for mid-air gestures, or interact with virtual objects.

Ultrahaptics and Leap Motion’s combined expertise creates the world’s leading spatial
interaction company, enabling the creation of next generation user interfaces and driving
new forms of contactless interactive products.