Showing papers on "Dashboard published in 1999"

Vehicle computer system with wireless internet connectivity

Abstract: A vehicle computer system has a housing sized to be mounted in a vehicle dashboard or other appropriate location. A computer is mounted within the housing and executes an open platform, multi-tasking operating system. The computer runs multiple applications on the operating system, including both vehicle-related applications (e.g., vehicle security application, vehicle diagnostics application, communications application, etc.) and non-vehicle-related applications (e.g., entertainment application, word processing, etc.). The computer system has an Internet wireless link to provide access to the Internet. One or more of the applications may utilize the link to access content on the Internet.

Vehicle computer system with open platform architecture

Abstract: A vehicle computer system has a housing sized to be mounted in a vehicle dashboard or other appropriate location. A computer is mounted within the housing and executes an open platform, multi-tasking operating system. The computer runs multiple applications on the operating system, including both vehicle-related applications (e.g., vehicle security application, vehicle diagnostics application, communications application, etc.) and non-vehicle-related applications (e.g., entertainment application, word processing, etc.). The applications may be supplied by the vehicle manufacturer and/or by the vehicle user.

Releasable mount for an electronic device

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for removably mounting an electronic device to the dashboard of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a mount securable to the electronic device and a cradle fixed to the vehicle for receipt of the mount. The mount includes a plate for attachment to the electronic device and at least one flexible locking arm extending from said plate. The outwardly biased arm engages the cradle when the mount is secured to the cradle. The arm is deflected inwardly to allow the electronic device to be quickly and easily removed from the dashboard of the vehicle in a single motion.

Software upgradable dashboard

Abstract: A dashboard for a vehicle, comprising a monitor which displays graphical images depicting dashboard instruments. In one embodiment, the monitor is a general purpose LCD graphics display coupled to a graphics generator. The graphics generator is a processor which executes a virtual dashboard software application. The processor receives vehicle information such as speed, fuel level, mileage and battery charge, and processes this information using the virtual dashboard software application to generate graphics signals which are transmitted to the monitor for display to the driver. The images displayed to the driver are determined by the virtual dashboard application, and not by the monitor itself. The displayed images are user-selectable so that they can be varied to suit the preferences of different drivers. The driver may alternately select different groups of images to view on the monitor using touch screens or speech commands.

Apparatus and method for verifying seatbelt use in a motor vehicle

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for monitoring the usage of individual vehicular seat belts. Each belt is equipped with a local indicator which is adapted to indicate when a seatbelt is not properly fastened. A second display, preferable near the vehicle's dashboard and readily visible to the driver shows the status of each of the vehicle's seatbelts. Finally, a third display located near the rear the rear window of the vehicle displays the status of all vehicle seatbelts in a fashion readily observable by a following motorist such as a law enforcement official. An optional seat occupancy sensor may also be used to render the system more intelligent and minimize indications of unbuckled seatbelts for unoccupied seats.

Dashboard mounted fan apparatus with pivotally mounted fans

Abstract: A fan apparatus 10 for use on the dashboard 101 of a vehicle 100 includes a housing member 20 having a fixed Louver element 22 for introducing ambient air into the interior of the housing member 20. The air will be heated by a heating coil member 30 and the heated air will be forced through at least one downwardly angled hinged Louver panel 25 by at least one fan member 40. Wherein, the angular orientation of the fan member 40 can be altered by the manipulation of an elongated stem element 43 which projects through an enlarged opening 26 in the housing member 20.

Reactive seat system

Abstract: An apparatus configured to move a vehicle seat away from a vehicle dashboard during or immediately prior to a collision. The apparatus comprises a vehicle seat coupled to a slideable platform. A vehicle collision detector communicates with the slideable platform so that when a vehicle collision condition is detected the slideable platform is triggered to move the vehicle seat.

Control of dashboard display brightness in a vehicle by use of video cameras (with one pointing in the direction of travel) that provide a signal proportional to outside brightness that is used by a controller to adjust brightness

Abstract: Procedure uses a light sensitive video camera (3, 5) arranged on a vehicle windscreen pointing forward to determine the surrounding light intensity. The signals from the video cameras are used to control how brightly light emitting diodes (LEDs) shine in dashboard displays. An Independent claim is made for a device for controlling display brightness comprising video-cameras (3, 5) and one or more control units for controlling the brightness of dashboard displays. One of the cameras (3) is directed forwards in the direction of motion of the vehicle.

Device for determination of the characteristics of a person occupying a vehicle seat by use of capacitor sensors

Abstract: Device has a first capacitor sensor arranged in the dashboard, the capacitance of which generates a signal used in determining a first distance. A second capacitor sensor is arranged on a second side of the seat and has a capacitance that is used to determine a second distance. The distances are used to determine characteristics of the seat occupant. An Independent claim is made for a process for determination of the characteristics of a vehicle occupant.

Car dashboard support centering device

Abstract: The centering guide for dashboard support alignment consists of an externally threaded holding bolt onto which the guide piece (10) is screwed and so pre-tensioned to the car body or support wall. The holding bolt (3) passes through a suitable diameter hole in the wall (1) to bear against this on the far side with a collar (4). The tip (13) of the guide (10) is adapted for tool engagement.

Protection device for the driver of a vehicle

Abstract: A protection device for the driver of a vehicle equipped with a dashboard and a steering wheel, in order to provide, on impact, a displacement of the steering wheel towards the dashboard, said steering wheel being mounted on a steering column passing under an instrument-carrying zone situated with regard to the steering wheel and connected to, but distinct from, the dashboard, said protection device comprising means for displacement of the instrument-carrying zone, the displacement means being adapted to move the instrument-carrying zone, on impact, in one of an upward vertical direction and in a direction having a vertical upward component, wherein the means for displacement of the instrument-carrying zone connect the steering column directly to said instrument-carrying zone, so that, on impact, said displacement of the steering column results in the displacement of the instrument-carrying zone along said direction.

Automobile dashboard instrument display has discrete tachometer or tachometer display in fixed position and freely-programmed display region for digital and/or pictogram information

Abstract: The dashboard instrument display (1) has an analogue discrete tachometer (2), or an analogue tachometer provided by a freely-programmed display region of the instrument display of fixed size and position, with a further freely-programmed display region (5) used for providing digital and/or pictogram display information, e.g. using 2 separate display screens.

Motor vehicle interior with a central jet mounted in a dashboard

Abstract: A motor vehicle interior is provided with a central jet located in a dashboard. An air state sensor located in the vehicle interior is subjected to the flow of air blown out of the central jet in the dashboard. The horizontal and vertical air guide systems are connected to one another by mechanical forced guidance to limit their movement possibilities so that they sweep a maximum blowing-out area that avoids the roof area provided with the air state sensor.

Dashboard for motor vehicle equipped with integrally connected airbag flap

Abstract: The dashboard has a plastic front panel(14), and a plastic flap(12) to enclose an uninflated airbag. The flap is connected to the front panel by a designed break point(16), and allows deployment of the airbag. A hinge(22) with at least one plastic part joins the flap to the front panel and ensures that the flap does not become detached from the front panel when the airbag deploys. The hinge may have a number of spaced apart plastic sections which connect the front panel to the flap.

Horizontal control strip with control elements on motor vehicle dashboard extends over entire dashboard width at about half height, is continued into adjacent vehicle doors at same height

Abstract: The control strip (2) extends over the entire dashboard width at about half the height of the dashboard and is continued into the adjacent vehicle doors. at about the same height. The strip has a holding device for control elements (4) over its entire length enables control elements to be fitted as per vehicle-specific requirements.

Arrangement for a vehicle dashboard

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for a dashboard (2) in a vehicle (1) comprising a steering mechanism with a steering wheel (3) and a main shaft (5) which are adapted to be dispaceable towards the dashboard (2), essentially along a direction which coincides with the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (1), in case of a collision-like condition occurring in the vehicle (1). The invention is characterized in that the dashboard (2) comprises at least one section (10) which is movably arranged in relation to the rest of the vehicle (1) and which is connected with a removal member (11) for influence by said section (10) in a direction away from the steering wheel (3) during said collision-like condition. By means of the invention, an improved arrangement for a dashboard is obtained, said arrangement providing an effective energy-absorption in the vehicle's steering mechanism in the event of a collision.

Glove box for motor vehicle dashboard has two compartments selectively connected by pivoting panel

Abstract: The glove box assembly for a motor vehicle has two receptacles (14,16) accessible via two respective openings (18,20). The openings are defined by a common panel (32) movably mounted in the dashboard between a separating position for the receptacles and a communicating position. The panel selectively closes a connecting opening (34) between the receptacle and is pivotally mounted on the dashboard.

A detection system for determining the proximity of an object relative to an airbag

Abstract: In airbag deployment systems in motor vehicle it is necessary and desirable to know the position of an object such as an occupant (16) relative to the steering wheel or dashboard (14). Depending on which of two zones (20, 22) the occupant is located, the deployment systems may be modified as to the force of the deployment of the airbag.

Speech control systems for handling of route guidance, radio and telephone in cars: results of a field experiment

Abstract: Manual control of driver information and support systems carries risks in terms of traffic safety. The manual control of all these systems leads to problems: firstly, manual control cannot be performed 'blind', i.e. without visual distraction from the traffic and secondly, appropriate manual control panels are not available or cannot be installed in a car. An alphanumeric keyboard is difficult to implement in the dashboard and the use of such a device chile driving is obviously risky. Speech recognition systems have progressed to a stage where useful applications exist. This paper investigates the benefit of speech recognition systems in cars. Three different control strategies were compared: manual, speech, and a human assistant. Three systems were examined: route guidance, car telephone and car radio with CD player. The mean number of visual glances per task varied with the experimental conditions. Manual control required the most glances. Only in the condition of speech control were no check glances observed, and it was found that older drivers in particular would gain a great deal from speech control. Keywords: Driver distraction;

Vehicle glove box lid

Abstract: A glove box (2) in a vehicle dashboard or door compartment is closed by a lid (3) which turns about a pivot (4). The lid is used to carry controls (5) which are mounted on a printed circuit (8). The printed circuit (8) is connected to the vehicle electrical system by wires (9) which are grouped as a flat layer and pass through the pivot (4).

Manufacturing motor vehicle fitting, e.g. door module/dashboard, involves strengthening wall with rear structure, shaping, attaching functional elements, attaching to bearer part of chassis

Abstract: The method involves making a one-piece part (18) from a rear strengthening structure of a first material and a wall (23) with a shaped outer structure and an inner surface joined to the strengthening structure, whereby the wall is of a second material. The material is made into a decorative shape of the outer surface of the wall; joining the structured wall to at least one mechanical, electrical or electronic functional element (5a,5b,7,9) on its structured side; and finally attaching the wall to a bearer part (3) associated with the vehicle chassis. An Independent claim is also included for an interior fitting for a motor vehicle.

Dashboard for motor vehicle equipped with glove compartment has join between dashboard edge and glove compartment flap edge located so that line of vision of person sitting in front of dashboard does not extend into join

Abstract: The join(7) between the edge(5) of the dashboard(1) and glove compartment flap edge(6) is located at least partially so that the line of vision of a person sitting in front of the dashboard does not extend into the join. The upper edge of the dashboard opening in relation to the upper glove compartment and/or upper edge of the closed glove compartment flap(4) protrudes into the interior of the vehicle in step form. The glove compartment flap in the closed position lies upon a rubber buffer(14) and retained by an operable lock.

Automobile dashboard strut comprises transverse beam and projecting support for steering column located under beam

Abstract: The dashboard strut (1) comprises a transverse beam (2) and a support (7) which projects from the beam The support which supports a steering column is located under the beam so that the steering column passes under the beam

Cover plate or film for combined instrument cluster for vehicle dashboard display

Abstract: Uses cover plate of different light transmission. The plate may cover, under the film, areas with illuminated indicators and areas which are not illuminated. Different thicknesses of film may allow differing degrees of light transmission. Alternatively, differently colored substances may be used for the covering film. Speed, engine revolutions and fuel may be indicated on regions of the display.

Airbag fixture for vehicles

Abstract: The airbag housing (5) is mounted in an opening in the dashboard (1) and is held by means of an attachment (9) by the steering support element (11). The fixture comprises an entry-slot for reaching into a support (12) on the steering support element. A curved part fits into the opening and is positioned at the lower end of the airbag attachment. A screw (16) fixes the airbag attachment to the support. A shock absorber (8) is attached to the airbag attachment.

Electronic apparatus for vehicle

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To accomplish reduction in a mounting space and easy connection by connecting a part, of a plurality of electrical equipment units to the first control means freely removably via a connector and arranging the unit on the vehicle body side of the connector. SOLUTION: In installation of a center module to a dashboard, an assembly (center module) constructed of an operation panel unit and a control unit 60 is inserted into a predetermined opening part, in the dashboard so as to be guided by means of a guide 9, and consequently, a module side connector 5 and an adjusting connector 4 are fitted to each other, and at the same time, a fixing pin 107 is inserted into a fitting hole formed in a mounting stay 2. In this condition, the fixing pin 107 is fixed to the mounting stay 2 by means of a bolt-nut and the like, while the upper end and the lower end of the operation panel unit are fixed to a flange part 1a in the dashboard 1 by means of machine screws, so that the center module assembly is fixed in the predetermined position of the dashboard 1.

Common instrument display for vehicle dashboard instrument panel includes bottom of dial fixed in place before support using connector piece

Abstract: Panel has support (3) on which is disposed, on one part, electrical and electronic components corresponding to different functions of vehicle, and on the other part indicator lights (7) or pivoting needle indicators (6) on dials (9) on which there are markers relative to parameters indicated. Bottom of dial is composed of an independent component, fixed in place before support, using connector piece (11) for connecting with instrument panel (2) thus constituting sub-assembly on which instrumentation support is built up, using fixing members not included in dial.

Protective structures around airbag deployment door.

Abstract: An air-bag arrangement comprises a housing 1 mounted in front of the vehicle occupants and containing an air-bag, the housing being associated with a door 4 adapted to open when the air-bag is inflated. Structural members are provided on opposed sides of the door forming protecting elements 6,7 extending towards the occupants and defining a channel 8 extending to either side of the door 4 to permit lateral expansion of the air-bag if an obstruction lies close to the protective elements. The protecting elements 6,7 have such an extent that the door, as it opens, does not extend forwardly of the forward-most parts of the protecting elements. The arrangement may be part of a dashboard or steering wheel (Fig. 4).

Operating part structure of working machine

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To mount a panel cover for covering the periphery of a steering wheel, and a dashboard with high finishing accuracy in assembling and with sufficient supporting strength SOLUTION: In a tractor, a panel cover 9 for covering a peripheral part (b) of a steering wheel of a driving part is provided, and a dashboard 10 is arranged on the panel cover 9 part The dashboard 10 is fixed to a machine frame 17 through a stay 18 in the upper part of the steering wheel peripheral part (b), and an opening 9a through which a display part 10a of the dashboard 10 can be seen is formed on the panel cover 9 The panel cover 9 is detachably mounted to the steering wheel peripheral part (b) by combining bolts 39 with engaging parts (c) so that a state where the display surface 10a is positioned on the opening 9a and the panel cover 9 is mounted on the steering wheel peripheral part (b) and a state where the panel cover is removed from the steering wheel peripheral part (b) may be freely realized

Driver's seat rotating mechanism

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow a driver to operate a personal computer in comfortable posture during parking. SOLUTION: A driver's rotary seat 1 is rotated to the side of an assistant driver's seat in accordance with an instruction of rotating the driver's rotary seat 1. A steering wheel 2 is pulled into a dashboard in association with the rotation of the rotary seat 1 and a personal computer is drawn out of dashboard. Thus, a driver can operates the personal computer in comfortable posture during parking. After the operation, the rotary seat 1 is rotated to the front side of a vehicle in accordance with a instruction of return. The steering wheel 2 is pulled out of the dashboard in association with the returning rotation of the rotary seat 1 and the personal computer is stored in the dashboard. COPYRIGHT: (C)2001,JPO