Smart surface

ams OSRAM leading-edge illumination, sensing and controls/drivers enable the automotive smart surfaces with outstanding user experience and functional flexibility while reducing system cost and complexity.

Smart surfaces – a revolution in the car-human interface

Smart surfaces/functional surfaces/shytech surfaces

car manufacturers today need to bring increasing functional complexity in the car interior into lean design, while at the same time allowing greater flexibility to enable over-the-air (OTA) updates of the so-called ‘smartphone on wheels.’ For that reason, display areas are expanding, while the user experience, complexity, cost and weight of interfaces based on physical buttons, knobs and rotary switches seem ever more outdated. However, displays are limited to certain surfaces. They suffer from reflections, do not allow freeform geometries, and the cost is not optimal for areas with a dedicated set of functions.
So, a new HMI – so-called smart surfaces – is revolutionizing interaction in middle console, center stack, overhead consoles or door panels. Shytech buttons and interactive, decorative backside illuminated animations can appear when the user looks at it or moves their hand nearby. Three-dimensional surfaces allow blind controllability where taking the eyes off the street would be too dangerous.

ams OSRAM offering

ams OSRAM has a leading-edge portfolio – from RGB modules and LEDs to sensors and intelligent controllers to support our customers in this evolving market.

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Surface smart suface itelligent surface display interior RGB invisible haptic touch ambient lighting HMI

Featured Products

ams AS8579 Capacitive Sensor

The AS8579 is a capacitive sensor that detects the change of capacity in different applications. The capacitive sensor measures the impedance that originates between a conducting surface (metallic object) and a human being. The IC captures the current of a metal object and applies algorithms to determine the capacitive and resistive information. The outcome information can be read through a SPI Interface that can be also used for IC configuration. This high precision performance sensor also supports a multitude of diagnostic features that meet standard functional safety requirements. The capacitive sensing IC is specifically designed to function in an electro-magnetic environment (EMC) with high magnetic disturbances. This allows the sensor to distinguish in a hands-on application if the driver‘s hand is on the steering wheel or not. The AS8579 is available in an SSOP24 package and operates at a supply voltage of 5V.

Datasheet Infos