Showing papers on "Dashboard published in 1996"

System for minimizing automobile collision damage

Abstract: A system for minimizing automobile collision damage using radiant energy detectors and externally deployed air bags for aiding in damage reduction of automobile collisions. This system includes radiant energy detectors, such as radars, with transmitters and receivers, a computer, and energy absorbing inflation devices, air bags. Optionally, the system may be adapted to provide warnings and control vehicle functions, such as braking and disengaging the drive train. A dashboard link allows the computer to determine speed, steering and other conditions of the automobile, while the radiant energy detectors provide the computer with information of the object (e.g., another vehicle, pedestrian, or inanimate item) of imminent collision. The computer, using the information provided will determine at what time a ensuing collision will occur, and establish a minimal allowable time window to deploy the inflation device. The inflation device or air bag provides an energy absorbing and diverting buffer between the automobile and the object of imminent collision. The computer uses minimal allowable time window to deploy the air bag automatically, allowing the control of the automobile to remain with the driver such that necessary evasive measures can be taken. Once the imminent collision reaches the minimal allowable time window, the computer initiates a control signal deploying the external air bag. Once deployed, the external air bag reduces the amount of physical damage to the automobile, resulting in less injury, and repair costs.

Motor vehicle with a position-adjustable steering wheel and a position-adjustable dashboard

Abstract: To facilitate the joint raising and lowering and pivoting of the steering wheel (2) or steering column (1) and the dashboard (4) of a motor vehicle, it is proposed to construct a unit consisting of the steering column (1) and the dashboard (4) which can be fitted ready for use in a motor vehicle by means of a suitable bracket (7). The dashboard (4) is fitted with a stablilising device (18) consisting of a sliding guiding device (40/41 and 37) combined with a toothed wheel/ratchet connection (35/36 and 33/34) on widely spaced guide rails (19/20).

Anti-theft device for electronic apparatuses

Abstract: An anti-theft device for electronic equipment mounted in a vehicle, such as audio systems, includes a housing for storing electronic component of the audio system and a detachable control panel that can be removed when the operator leaves the vehicle. A replacement detachable panel can be mounted on the housing to enable a locking of the housing to the vehicle dashboard. The second detachable panel can include an alarm, an ultrasonic sensing device, and a self-contained power source so that a security alarm system can be activated by the installation of the second detachable panel as a further deterrent to theft.

Dashboard for vehicle

Abstract: The pre-assembled dashboard is supported by rigid air ducts (4,5) and has at least some of the fittings attached before assembly into the vehicle. Fittings include the air conditioning unit (2), airbags (11), instruments and control. Different parts of the moulded construction have materials of different hardness to match the required support and to provide impact protection for the occupants eg. impact absorbing mountings for foot pedals and steering wheel. Fibre reinforced plastics mouldings are used, strengthened by ribbing where necessary. The design incorporates adjustments to cover tolerance ranges in the vehicle shell. Different parts of the construction, as well as the fittings, can be removed for replacement/repair.

Diffuse ventilation system for passenger vehicles and method for making same

Abstract: A system is provided for the diffuse ventilation of a vehicle interior in a dashboard area which, for avoiding manufacturing problems and for the purpose of an advantageous mounting, has an insert which is composed of a top and bottom part and which is inserted into the dashboard flush with its top side. In the bottom part, a plurality of separate channels are formed which extend in parallel to one another, are open toward the top, extend in the longitudinal direction of the insert and are covered directly by the top part.

Dashboard for a vehicle, such as, in particular, a motor vehicle

Abstract: A dashboard for a vehicle which is capable of permitting the integration of items, such as accessories and/or interior fittings of the vehicle. The dashboard is composed of a base framework which is predetermined to the type of the vehicle, an intermediate framework having a configuration that is semi-permanent as a function of the fittings of the vehicle and is secured to the base framework, and a variable trim capable of covering the base framework and the intermediate framework in such a way so as to assure the aesthetic finish of the dashboard. The base framework is secured to the body of the vehicle.

Vehicle dash storage box assembly

Abstract: A dashboard and glove box assembly for mounting within a vehicle includes a dashboard having an opening formed therein for providing access to an area interiorly of said dashboard. A glove box is removably insertable into the opening, and a connection system forms a releasable connection between the glove box and the opening whereby the glove box may be conveniently removed for providing access to the area interiorly of the dashboard. A latch is used to secure the glove box assembly in a closed condition. A connection joint is detachable to allow complete removability of the glove box and attached door to provide increased serviceability.

Fluorescent automotive display panel

Abstract: An automobile dashboard display device including a panel that includes indicator numerals and letters that are printed with an acrylic resin bound phosphor pigment wherein the display is illuminated with ultraviolet light.

Decorative lighting device for vehicle

Abstract: A lighting device for mounting on a vehicles exterior door or other metal parts by means of magnetic strip. The lighting device includes a plastic coated light strip that is attached to magnets. The device includes a male power connector on one end for plugging to the vehicle's lighter socket and a female connector for multiple lighting devices to be mounted on the vehicle. Power cord holders installed along the dashboard will prevent the power cord from interfering with the vehicle's operation. The lighting device can be molded into any shape, design or words or can be left as straight strips.

Method and apparatus for mounting an instrument

Abstract: An evenly-lit instrument assembly adapted to be front-mounted in an opening in a vehicle's dashboard is provided. The mounting of the instrument assembly is concealed. The instrument assembly includes a housing and a circuit assembly fitted inside the housing. The circuit assembly controls a pointer. A dial is located above the circuit assembly, and is secured inside of the housing. A light pipe is further included inside the housing and positioned just above the circuit assembly for evenly disbursing light provided by a light-emitting source across the dial.

Method of making an invisible instrument panel or dashboard airbag cover door

Abstract: An invisible cover door for an inflatable passive passenger restraint is provided in an interior trim structure of an automotive vehicle for deployment of an airbag therethrough. The low pressure insert injection molding of the cover door into the interior trim structure, such as an instrument panel or dashboard or door panel structure, produces an invisible cover door with tear propagation lines that are undetectable to a vehicle occupant and that do not "show" or mar or otherwise affect the aesthetic appearance of the outer trim surface of the instrument panel or dashboard. Such invisible doors which require only two tear propagation lines can be provided.

Vehicle anti-theft device

Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device for attachment to a vehicle wheel or vehicle steering wheel is disclosed. The device has a first rod segment attached to a second rod segment wherein the second rod segment is designed for insertion through openings in a wheel or steering wheel in use. The first rod segment is elongated to prevent rotation of a vehicle wheel or steering wheel by contacting vehicle components, such as a vehicle undercarriage or dashboard. The device also has first and second flanges designed to be positioned in contact with opposing sides of a vehicle wheel or steering wheel when installed. The first flange may be securely attached to the first rod segment and the second flange may be of a design that is easily secured to or removed from the second rod segment. In the preferred embodiment, the flanges are of substantially triangular shape and may be angled or otherwise configured in a complementary manner to conform substantially to the anticipated shape of opposing sides of a vehicle wheel/tire combination and/or a vehicle steering wheel.

Add-on ancillary display unit for automobile dashboard

Abstract: The display unit (3) includes a screen (7), off/on indicator (8) and functional and setting controls (9) A slot (10) is provided for a smart card (11) The unit, adjustably mounted (5) on a support (4) secured to the steering column head casing by a plastic strap (6), can be folded back when not required A power connection 12,13) from the dashboard is plugged into the support-opt the unit The driver operates the unit via eg an infra-red link from a controller (15) on a bracelet (17) fastened by eg Velcro (RTM) round a steering wheel spoke

Motor vehicle dashboard for covering instrument panel

Abstract: The dashboard has an instrument panel mounted in a recess (2) in the dashboard. A shutter (7, 8) which is flush with the dashboard covers the recess designed so that it can be moved into a position which provides a clear view of the instrument panel. The shutter can be pivoted upwards to expose the instrument panel and the recess can be formed by a tunnel contiguous with a lower section of the windscreen. The instrument panel can be a part of a multi-functional instrument or part of a projection surface on to which information is projected.

Dashboard for motor vehicle

Abstract: The dashboard has apertures in a front plate for the ventilation and defrosting system, channels (4-7) to the underside, and inlets (8,9). It also has at least one recess (13) in which the holding device (19) for the dashboard can be fitted. This recess may go through to the underside of the dashboard. The underside of the dashboard is made to fit the top side of a casing (26) in which there are at least two air outlets (24,25) fitted opposite the inlets of the first channels, and sealed to them. The casing thus forms at least part of the ventilation system.

Hydraulic jack for vehicle

Abstract: A new and improved hydraulic jack system operable from the dashboard of an automobile. The system is for use in raising the front right, front left, rear right or rear left portions of an automobile by way of the front or rear axles. The system achieves this through the use of four separate hydraulic jacks, two positioned at either end of the front axle and two positioned at either end of the rear axle. With the system of the present invention a user can raise a single portion of the automobile (eg the front right or front left) or all portions simultaneously.

Positioning device for a mobile phone

Abstract: The invention relates to an installation device (1) for installing a mobile phone onto the dashboard (8) of a vehicle. The installation device (1) comprises a fastening part (2, 3) attached or to be attached to the rack (9) of a radio (10) in the dashboard (8) of the vehicle and a supporting part (4) connected to the fastening part (2, 3) for holding the mobile phone.

Mounting device for motor vehicle dashboard assembly

Abstract: The mounting device has a rigid carrier (1) attached to the vehicle structure in an approximately horizontal position and able to act as a support for the dashboard. The carrier has walls bounding a hollow chamber (5) which accepts electrical cables which can be connected to devices (9) or control panels. The walls of the carrier consist of a lower wall and at least two side walls (2-1,2-2). Both side walls are connected to an upper wall to form a U-shaped profile which is inversely mounted to form a downward facing open side which can be closed by an attached lower plate forming the lower wall of the carrier.

Extruded airbag retainer

Abstract: An extruded metallic housing or retainer for containing and supporting an inflatable airbag behind the dashboard of a vehicle The curved retainer has ends or legs, adjacent the dashboard, at least one of which is weakened along a narrow transverse area by heat treatment and/or reduced wall thickness Occupant impact against said leg is cushioned by the bending or flexing of the leg along the weakened area

Optical representation for car dashboard display elements

Abstract: The method uses an illumination sequence for altering the optical representation provided by at least one of the display elements (2,3,5) of the instrumentation display (1) for a vehicle dashboard. A specific illumination sequence is initiated before operation of the vehicle ignition, via a switch signal provided by operation of a door contact upon opening the vehicle door, or by a contact incorporated in the driver seat when the driver sits down.

Odometer for motor vehicle, reset by signal from fuel gauge

Abstract: The dashboard-mounted distance recorder (1) receives signals from a wheel revolution counter (2), and can be reset to zero either manually, or automatically at a set time of day or whenever the fuel tank is topped up. The choice is set by a selector switch (3) or from a menu in a dashboard computer. In the manual mode the recorder is zeroed by operation of a push button (4). In the automatic modes the resetting signal is given either by a clock (5) on the dashboard, or by a fuel level gauge (6) in the tank which resets the recorder whenever a rise in level is sensed.

Dashboard for motor vehicle

Abstract: The dashboard fascia panel (3) which encloses the steering column is fixedly connectable with the dashboard (1) through fasteners (4,5) on the lower (16) and upper edges (11). These fasteners each include an ideal break point such as notches (13,18) formed on the upper edge in the transition between a retaining arm (12) and the edge (11) of the panel and on the lower edge (16) in the fastener itself. In the event of a crash the ideal break points break and the fascia panel and steering column can project into the dash board in the travel direction (F)

Dashboard attachment kit

Abstract: A dashboard attachment kit including an attachment member having nuts secured to one side of the attachment member with the attachment member including openings therein for securing a rivet fastener to the body of a vehicle and the attachment member with the method of attaching a dashboard to a vehicle body comprising the steps of placing the attachment member adjacent a portion of the vehicle and than drilling holes through the vehicle body using the holes in the attachment member as a guide In the next step the fastener is extended through the vehicle body and through the attachment member to secure the attachment member to the vehicle body After securing the attachment member to the vehicle body the replacement dashboard is placed adjacent the vehicle body and further fasteners are extended through the dashboard and vehicle body into a member secured to the attachment member

Control system for electrically powered boats

Abstract: An on-board control system for an electrically powered boat having a dashboard module 10 and a control module 12 interconnectable by a cable 14, the control module having terminals 50,72 for connection of a remote D.C. motor and a battery bank, and terminals for connection of the battery bank to an on-shore charger, while motor speed and drive direction are controlled by a single lever 18 on the dashboard module.

Arrangement for connecting the dashboard and the center console

Abstract: An arrangement connecting the dashboard and the center console. On both sides of the rearward face end of the dashboard, dovetail guides are provided which are formed by the detachable mounting of at least one dovetail connection element, are accessible from above and extend essentially in a downward widening manner. On the forward face end of the center console, dovetail guides are provided which are molded on both sides, are closed in the upward direction, extend in the downward direction in a widening manner and interact in a form-locking fashion with the respective assigned dovetail guide on the dashboard. As a result, an easily mountable, reliable connection of the center console and the dashboard is implemented at low expenditures.

Portable personal computer support console mounted in automobile

Abstract: The support console is mounted in the vehicle between the dashboard and the driver seat (10) and has a horizontal support surface (24) attached to a tubular bracket (32).The support surface has a safety edge (26) for retaining the personal computer and a rear support edge for the computer cover (28) incorporating the monitor screen (28). Pref. the bracket is secured to the seat inside edge.

A new scientific instrument for vision in vehicle research

Abstract: The development of a new eyetracking system specially designed for vehicle applications is reported The system was developed by the Dornier Company, Germany and was initiated and supported by the central research section of Daimler Benz, Berlin, who contributed their application expertise in the dedicated requirements for vision in vehicle investigations The basic idea of the new development was to create a system to measure a car driver's visual behaviour under real ambient conditions and as far as possible undistorted by the physical and psychological experimental conditions The new system is a no-contact, headfree device The pickup unit is integrated in the car's dashboard leaving the driver's environment as far as possible identical to the standard car The measurement range covers all the driver's views through the windscreen, at the instruments and at the driver's rear mirrors The ambient light conditions may vary from darkness up to full sunlight (A) For the covering abstract, see IRRD 892069

An automobile radio apparatus having a detachable face panel with integrated personal portable radio receiver and/or personal security device

Abstract: An automobile radio (10) is provided with a detachable face panel (11) such that the automobile radio controls may be removed from the portion (16) of the radio which remains installed in the auto dashboard. The face panel (11) includes a personal portable radio receiver and/or a personal security device such that the face panel when detached from the in-dash automobile radio may be used to receive and listen to broadcast radio signals and/or may be used to emit an audible alarm to scare off an attacker or otherwise summon assistance.

Vehicle log-book generation method

Abstract: The method involves producing a milestone data record with date, time of day, mileage status, by registering deadlines like garage appointment, filling, oil change, MOT, etc., assigning bills to these deadlines, and registering of other, variable vehicle costs. The logbooks can be separately kept according to drivers or other criteria. An operating panel with only 6 keys is preferably used separate from a recording device, for the entry of all necessary data. The operating panel can be very small and is preferably fastened directly to the dashboard. The recording device is preferably arranged in the trunk to be better protected against theft.