Osram Opto Semiconductors goes further in its latest collaboration with Rinspeed for the Snap concept car
Today's automobiles often represent the most sophisticated technological advances. Virtually all aspects of the modern automobile are high-tech, and use the latest generation materials and solutions, and for this reason, they have become a good showcase for technological evolution. Last February, the main car manufacturers unveiled prototype cars that had one thing in common: the future. Vehicles allow us to observe the progress of technology in a wide variety of aspects. We tend to think of improvements in engine efficiency and reduced emissions, but some of the areas that have seen the most growth in recent years are improving safety behind the wheel and comfort for both passengers and driver.
The use of visible and invisible forms of light form the basis for the implementation of many solutions that support these improvements, which can be driver assistance systems, such as (semi)automatic driving or information transmission, infotainment, or even interior lighting to improve attention or help relaxation at the right time. Rinspeed, the visionary Swiss car manufacturer, creates a prototype vehicle every year, showing how technological advances could be implemented in the cars of the future. This year they have called it Snap. After the successful collaboration with Osram Opto Semiconductors last year, Osram was once again chosen as a key partner for visible and invisible light applications, as a recognized driver of innovation in the automotive industry.
The company has successfully established itself as the number one supplier in the world ranking in the fields of automotive application, infrared component application and projection, fields that were taken into account when designing Snap. For an effective collaboration with Rinspeed, Osram Opto Semiconductors deployed all its knowledge and experience in highly innovative semiconductor components and even LED modular solutions. This partnership has allowed Rinspeed to achieve its goals thanks to lighting technology and to show the possibilities of the cars of today and tomorrow. Snap not only bolsters light-based safety features, but also showcases a whole new field of options for vehicles and transition time, especially in the passenger cabin.
As metropolitan areas experience the rapid development of their infrastructures, we will see the growth of carsharing, which will allow the multipurpose use of semi-autonomous vehicles: as the Snap demonstrates. This new vehicle comes with two cab options and can therefore be used, for example, for the transport of goods or for the transport of passengers with the cab option with a saloon interior during the day, using the same chassis. Using Osram Opto Semiconductors technology, the Snap can be used as a means of transportation, a mobile office or a living room, and can be fully customized to suit the user's needs. Iris scanning and facial recognition, for example, can be used to securely access vehicles and for passenger identification to automatically adjust car settings, including lighting preferences or history information. or entertainment and favorites. Additionally, UV light disinfection is designed to reduce health risks, such as the spread of viruses and bacteria, often associated with other forms of public transportation.
Human-Centric Lighting (HCL) inside the vehicle adapts light to the passenger's biorhythm and can connect with personal devices such as smartwatches or fitness trackers to select more personalized options. Another important feature is the projection systems based on LED or laser technology, which can be used in different vehicle applications. Images can be projected onto car windows and in this way branding and advertising color schemes can be tailored to suit the user. Ad-hoc messages for road users projected on the glass contribute to road safety. Another example is the option to project information on the ground, for example, “Attention, cargo area. Please keep this space clear." Partnering with Rinspeed to create Snap fuels future car innovation, creating an enhanced driving experience that provides greater safety for both passengers and driver. As vehicles continue to develop, the use of visible and invisible light will be crucial to the success of the industry, and Osram Opto Semiconductors' innovations position the company at the forefront of the industry. For more information about Snap, visit: automotive application.
