According to a patent recently registered with the World Intellectual Property Office, the technology involves a new type of projector puddle lights that vary their angle and breadth of eminence based on surrounding light conditions. Currently, the BMW iX's puddle lighting system forms a dynamic light carpet on the floor alongside the car, but it only works effectively when there is low ambient lighting. The projection to the floor is not strong enough for clear images to be visible in broad daylight. BMW's new system will include an actuator that varies how far the light would shine and use a light or rain sensor to determine the ambient lighting conditions.
The patent document reveals that this technology is not limited to adjacent puddle lighting and could be used on any part of the car, potentially projecting information backward or forward. Interestingly, BMW notes that the system may take note of traffic signs to determine light levels, which suggests that it would be put into practice while the car is on the move as well as when stationary.
The difference between BMW's new technology and similar ideas presented by Ford, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Volkswagen is that BMW's invention could allow images and information to be visible in nearly all light conditions. This technology is expected to have a wide range of applications, including projecting the manufacturer's logo, which could be especially useful in an age where light signatures are arguably more important than badges.
Souce: CarBuzz
