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Virtual Cable™ is an augmented reality (AR) application for automotive navigation. The system presents a fully stereoscopic 3D wayfinding line visible right through the windshield; following the contours of the road, presenting the information as a natural part of the landscape.
Current GPS systems distract the driver's gaze from the road to animated two-dimensional maps, with a distinct lag as the brain interprets the map information and applies it to the route. Often several glances are required to resolve the differences between the "cartoon version" of the GPS data and the real world. Virtual Cable™, with its naturalistic perspective and foreshortening, appears to the driver as a solid overhead cable, showing turn-by-turn information before the driver needs to act on it.
This heads-up-display (HUD) approach to navigation is ideal for long haul trips and night-driving, reducing driver fatigue and distraction. The unique volumetric 3D display shows the cable as a solid, real object, above the street-level activity of traffic.
MVS has developed two working prototypes of the Virtual Cable™ system; one for laboratory testing, and the other for field research. The company is partnering with a number of automotive industry leaders for future factory implementation in upcoming product lines from major manufacturers.
Actual Field Test Video: Video was taken of a field test of the Virtual Cable™ prototype using a small digital camera mounted on the dashboard.Note that the flutter in the image is an artifact of the refresh-rate of the video camera, and is not apparent to the driver.
Simulation Videos: below are simulations of the Virtual Cable™ experience from the driver's point of view.
Simulation video 2. The Virtual Cable™ shows the driver where to turn next before the current turn is completed. The driver sees the correct lane in sufficient time and avoids dangerous maneuvers at the last moment.
Simulation video 3. Locating a small road off the highway (at night).