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The DuPont(TM) Wedge(TM) for Head-up Display Illuminates Safety, Navigation and Handling Features; Available on GM Vehicles
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A head-up display (HUD) technology from Asahi Glass, Nippon Seiki and DuPont Automotive is available as an option on several GM vehicles including the Pontiac Grand Prix, Cadillac STS and Chevrolet Corvette. It comes standard on the Cadillac XLR and the new 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, launching in the fourth quarter of 2005.
The distortion-free, head-up display (HUD) communicates driver-selected
information, such as navigation, performance features as well as vehicle speed
to the driver. This year, the HUD incorporates a new Track Mode setting that
presents real-time information on lateral acceleration -- better known as G-
Force. In Street Mode, driver-selectable settings include vehicle and engine
speed, direction, turn signals, gear position, audio settings and even turn-
by-turn directions on vehicles equipped with a navigation system.
At the center of the HUD technology is a precisely engineered "interlayer"
of DuPont(TM) Butacite(R) PVB that acts as the screen onto which the HUD
information is projected. This interlayer is called the DuPont(TM) Wedge(TM)
because of its angular cross-section.
Laminated between two layers of glass, the Wedge(TM) is transparent to
allow distortion-free forward vision, but also is able to reflect the HUD
projection for viewing by the driver. The virtual image appears to float in
the driver's line of sight near the front of the car, minimizing refocus time.
Virtual image location and brightness can be adjusted to the driver's
preference. Together, these features help to reduce driver distraction,
enhancing safety.
The Wedge(TM) angle is critical, and was developed through close
cooperation with the GM engineering team, windshield supplier Asahi Glass Co.
and Nippon Seiki, which supplies the HUD projector and served as package
integrator.
"This is a great example of suppliers working together to add value to the
OEM," said Jeff Dickson, general manager, sales, for Nippon Seiki
International Ltd. "As we were adding great new features, such as a wide
array of user-selectable displays, it was important that the image be as crisp
and clear as possible. The laminate is a critical factor in achieving that
goal." The Wedge(TM) is manufactured from DuPont(TM) Butacite(R) PVB polymers
to exacting tolerances.
GM was the first automaker to make HUD commercially available on vehicles,
and DuPont is the industry leader in this technology, with a large majority of
market share. DuPont Automotive also serves as a development partner for Tier
One suppliers, providing world-class manufacturing and technical service
support through every step of the process.
"More and more, automakers are incorporating HUD technology in new
vehicles," said David Lee, marketing manager for DuPont Automotive Glass
Laminating Solutions (GLS) Americas. "Automakers tell us consumers appreciate
the benefit of seeing critical information without having to look away from
the road, primarily because the information can help reduce distraction and
reaction times."
DuPont is a science company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work
by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life
for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a
wide range of innovative products and services for markets including
agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection,
home and construction, transportation and apparel.
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June 7th, 2005
Source: Prnewswire.com |
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