GM Files Patent That Could Introduce Augmented Reality to the Windshield

As the line between modern technology and science fiction gets blurrier and blurrier every day, a new patent filed by General Motors could introduce a futuristic feature into your car: augmented reality.

Originally filed on March 2nd, 2021, and published on September 8th, 2022, patent number US 2022/0283432 A1 describes a windshield display system that features selective light-blocking elements that include a liquid crystal array layer that contains liquid crystal pixels, and a separate transparent LED layer.

One function of this display system would be projecting visible safety alerts, navigation information, and text and images onto the windshield.

The LED pixels and darkened liquid crystal pixels could also work together to reduce glare from the sun and other light sources entering the car.

This same technology would not remain exclusive to vehicles. The patent notes that this same system could be offered as its own unit, or be implemented into the windows of a building.