Visteon’s new Horizon cockpit concept combines advanced technologies

A new automotive cockpit concept from Visteon Corporation demonstrates that futuristic-sounding advancements such as 3-D gesture recognition are closer to reality than one might imagine.
The Horizon cockpit concept, which Visteon has been demonstrating to global vehicle manufacturers, blends three emerging technologies to transform the way a driver controls features such as interior temperature, audio and navigation.

Gesture control – An advanced camera system maps the user’s hand to replicate a virtual hand on the centre stack. Horizon drivers can then easily operate certain vehicle controls simply by moving their hand or just a finger, without making contact with the instrument cluster. For example, radio volume can be adjusted by making a turning motion with one’s hand. 

Virtual touch screen – By integrating a pressure-sensitive touch pad, drivers can operate centre stack controls without having to physically reach for them. The touch pad recognises the amount of pressure applied for improved responses. The touch pad can be implemented with any soft material, such as leather or cloth, allowing flexibility for its location.

Dual-layered display – High-resolution graphics present information on two separate planes, bringing only those controls with which the driver is interacting to the forefront. The driver can virtually ‘push’ through the graphics on the first pane to access the second.

The supplier has incorporated these technologies through its expertise in human-machine interface (HMI). “The Horizon cockpit concept shows possibilities for combining real-time rendered 3-D graphics with advanced display technologies,” said Shadi Mere, innovation manager at Visteon. “By weaving together multiple emerging HMI input technologies, we’re able to deliver a distinctive cockpit system that delivers an intuitive and enjoyable driving experience.”
Visteon says that prior to unveiling the Horizon cockpit for its customers, the concept was showcased to consumers during a research clinic. Seventy percent of participating consumers showed a strong interest in a virtual volume knob in their next vehicle, stating that it is easier and more convenient than searching for a traditional volume knob.

See the Horizon cockpit concept  in the video below : -