The booth professionals from Samsung make a hard pitch for applications in the automotive sector, with uses in heads up displays or GPS systems overlaid on the windshield. We suspect the OLED technology would need further development to deal with the harsh requirements of the automotive environment, but the idea is intriguing.

Imagine a richly animated high-definition set of gauges instead of the reflected aqua-colored HUD units in cars today. Then imagine popping those gauges over to a GPS screen. Very George Jetson. As a side note, we think the choice of cleavage bearing aerobics babe as the canned video is pretty hilarious.

The system is different from a Heads Up Display or existing night vision systems in that it works over a much larger area of the windscreen and serves to highlight, not obscure vision. A system of grille-mounted cameras operating outside the visible spectrum scan the road ahead while more sensors inside determine the location of the drivers head and eyes. Invisible lasers then light up the specially coated windscreen, which reacts to their beams, highlighting things like lane markings, traffic signs, pedestrians and other vehicles. While the system is intended for older drivers, it could end up being useful to anyone who has to drive through heavy fog or rain.

The technology is still in the experimental phase, but is growing increasingly valuable as the proportion of older drivers in the world's biggest markets continues to increase rapidly. GM foresees demand from these customers for technology that will enable them to remain independent later in life while remaining safe.

Jalopnik Snap Judgement: We like toys. We especially like toys that make us safer. So if this works, and doesn't add too much to the cost or weight of the vehicle, we very well may like it too.

[via Car Central]