Showing papers on "Dashboard published in 2007"

Configurable control panel and/or dashboard display

Abstract: A control panel and/or dashboard display system which allows a user to selectively configure at least one of position and characteristic, items displayed on the control panel and/or dashboard display system. A system is provided and includes an interactive database of menu items that is accessible by the user for selecting the items to be displayed on the control panel and/or dashboard display system using touch screen technology or actuatable buttons to select the desired displayed items and the appearance of the displayed items. The user has the ability to save the customized configurations to memory and to lock out change. Further provides for applications wherein said control/panel and/or dashboard display systems are used in multiple locations.

Evaluation of Prototype Automotive Head-Up Display Interface: Testing Driver's Focusing Ability through a VR Simulation

Abstract: Contemporary automotive, navigation and infotainment requirements have evolved the traditional dashboard into a complex device that can often distract the driver. Head-Up Displays (HUDs) have recently attracted the attention in the field of automotive research, promoting the reduction of driver's reaction time and to improve spatial awareness. The aptitude of the proposed HUD interface lies within the driver's focusing ability to the HUD interface and the actual traffic. This paper analyses the performance behaviour through user-tests using different focal levels for the projection of a full-windshield HUD interface. For this purpose, a VR driving simulator has been developed to test the different depths of field configurations of a HUD while driving in various weather and traffic conditions with and without the HUD. Our simulation results reveal the users' preferences regarding the focal point of the superimposed interface and present a comparative evaluation of the different focal levels and their impact on drivers' behaviour and performance.

Electronic flight data display instrument

Abstract: An electronic display instrument configured to secure in a desired position over multiple pre-existing instrument holes in a dashboard of an aircraft in place of multiple conventional display instruments, each conventional instrument having a conventional readout. The instrument comprises a display screen having a plurality of readouts corresponding to the conventional readouts of the multiple conventional instruments that the electronic display instrument replaces. The instrument further includes a body having a front and a back opposite the front and a top and a bottom opposite the top. The body is positioned adjacent and connected to the display screen. The instrument also includes an electronics module protruding from the back of the body to position in one of the pre-existing instrument holes in the dashboard panel of the aircraft.

Means for accessing a vehicle in an emergency

Abstract: This invention relates to a means for facilitating access to a motor vehicle in an emergency to extricate the driver and/or passengers. In its simplest form the means is at least one removable pillar which ca be the A, B, C or D pillar of the vehicle. The pillar or pillars are equipped with handle actuated latches which enable the pillar or pillars to be removed without cutting equipment. The invention also provides for a removable seat or seats and a pivotable steering wheel or column and dashboard and all of which are aimed at removing occupants from a wrecked vehicle without having to wait for specialised cutting equipment. The invention also extends to a vehicle fitted with said means.

A portable electronic device holder, especially for a dashboard of a car

Abstract: A portable electronic device holder, especially to the dashboard of a car, provided with a mounting plate ( 7 ), which sits rotatably in the holder and to which a portable device ( 11 ) is mounted, characterized in that it has a base ( 1 ), which lower plate ( 2 ) has a shape adapted to the shape of the dashboard ( 3 ) of a car and is provided with a cavity ( 4 ), into which a console ( 5 ) is inserted, provided with a mounting plate ( 7 ), which sits rotatably in the console and a motor ( 28 ), whereas the portable electronic device ( 11 ) is mounted to the mounting plate ( 7 ) and the lower plate ( 2 ) of the base ( 1 ) is detachably glued to the dashboard ( 3 ) of a car.

Enhanced display for presenting tachometer information

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention are directed at an enhanced display for presenting tachometer information. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided that causes an electronic control unit associated with a dashboard display to present the current engine speed (e.g. RPM) relative to an optimal range in which fuel efficiency is maximized. More specifically, the method includes obtaining a set of tachometer data at the electronic control unit that defines the lower and upper limits of the optimal range in which fuel efficiency is maximized. Periodically, the current engine speed may be obtained by the electronic control unit associated with the dashboard display. Then, the method causes the current engine speed to be presented on the graphical display relative to the lower and upper limits of the optimal range.

Dashboard indicator module

Abstract: A dashboard indicator module including a rotating actuator including a hollow output shaft controlling movement of an indicator with a light conducting path, connected to a light source, diffusing a light at an angle, and a reduction gear set. The external diameter of the conducting path is between 2.6 and 5.5 millimeters.

USB power port in a vehicle dashboard

Abstract: A vehicle dashboard mounted USB port connected to the vehicle electrical power through a voltage conversion circuit for receiving standard vehicle operating voltage and converting it into standard USB voltage.

Instrument panel assembly for a vehicle

Abstract: The present invention provides for an instrument panel assembly for a vehicle. The instrument panel assembly includes a dashboard with an interior panel disposed proximal to the dashboard. A shift lever is pivotally attached to the interior panel and movable between a drive position for allowing movement of the vehicle and a park position for preventing movement of the vehicle. At least one wall extends inwardly from the interior panel to define a pocket complementary in configuration to a portion of the shift lever for receiving the shift lever when in the parked position and the shift lever spaced from the pocket when in the drive position.

Retrofit Automobile Radio for Older Automobiles

Abstract: A replacement or retrofit radio which can be used to replace a wide range of older automobile radios and fit into an almost unlimited number of dashboard configurations comprises a radio case or enclosure having a display sized to fit into most original automobile dashboard radio display openings. Separate control knob shafts and associated controls are provided electrically connected to the radio via relatively long cables. With separate control knob shafts, there is no limit to where the controls and shafts are placed with respect to the radio case and display. A selected set of brackets can be attached to the radio with the selected set of brackets providing adjustable physical mounting of the control knob shafts to the brackets and physical connection of the control knob shafts to the radio. This allows mounting of the radio in the dashboard of the automobile in the usual manner of tightening nuts onto threaded control knob shaft sleeves.

Motor vehicle dashboard cross-member

Abstract: A motor vehicle instrument panel cross-member ( 1 ) includes a beam ( 2 ) extending substantially along a longitudinal direction and elements ( 4 ) for fixing the beam ( 2 ) on the vehicle structure including at least one plate ( 6 ) provided with a fixing orifice ( 8 ). The plate ( 6 ) is integral with the beam ( 2 ).

A digital instrument system for a vehicle

Abstract: A driver-adaptive digital instrument system for a vehicle is provided to implement a dashboard application flexibly displaying information contents/type according to a vehicle state and driver selection based on a flat display panel and an embedded computer, and implement a GUI(Graphic User Interface) enabling the driver to select various kinds of display elements of a cluster with a mobile phone. Hardware comprises the embedded computer, the flat panel display displaying instrument information, and the mobile phone for controlling the cluster. Software is executed to process/operate a signal in the embedded computer, and comprises a cluster program displaying driving/additional information and a mobile GUI program controlling the information displayed to a dashboard by linking with the cluster program through a mobile network technology. The cluster program comprises an ignition module displaying a vehicle state to be checked before the vehicle is changed to a driving mode, a driving module displaying a speedometer, an odometer, a fuel gauge, a temperature gauge, and various alarm lamps, and an additional information module enabling the dashboard to integrally operate a telematics service.

Programmable engine-start system

Abstract: A programmable engine-start system which includes a controller for mounting on a dashboard and which includes an input device for inputting a start time, a clock for keeping accurate time, a safety circuit for shutting off the engine, a display panel for displaying engine start status, a first wiring between the controller and the ignition switch, and a second wiring between the controller and a battery source.

Accountability at a Glance

Abstract: This article describes how California is using the power of the Internet to provide transparency of management regarding a $3 billion program of transportation improvements. San Diego voters acted in 2004 to extend TransNet, an existing local sales tax, to finance highway, transit, and local road projects that are aimed at reducing traffic congestion in San Diego County. The $3 billion TransNet-funded Early Action Program includes 21 highway and transit projects along six major corridors. As trustees of the public's money, the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) developed the TransNet Dashboard, an Internet communications tool. The Dashboard's core function is to incorporate data from various sources and provide real-time information regarding budgets and expenditures, scheduling, and information related to project scope, risk, and cost estimates. By providing regular updates on a project's budget and schedule, the Dashboard enables the public, elected officials, other representatives of SANDAG member governments, and the Independent Taxpayer Oversight Committee to track the progress of the overall Early Action Program and its various components. The Dashboard also functions as a sophisticated program management tool by providing a single platform that SANDAG, Caltrans, and their partners can use to share data. The Dashboard made its online debut in August 2006. In its first 7 months, the site had approximately 127,000 hits, for an average of 18,142 per month.

On vehicle display screen turn-over device

Abstract: A vehicle display screen overturning device comprises a display screen (1) and a base supporter (12). The display screen (1) is connected fixedly to a rotary shaft (5) and coupled on the base supporter (12) by the rotary shaft (5). The base supporter (12) is provided with a motor (11) by a motor supporter (10). The motor (11) drives the rotary shaft (5) to rotate by a set of gear pair. The rotary shaft (5) is provided with a limiting sheet (3) that is engaged with a limiting sheet (2) correspondingly disposed on the base supporter (12). These two limiting sheets can control the rotation angle of the display screen by means of locked contact. By setting reciprocating movement mechanism of the gear pair, the display screen can be reciprocating turned up and down. The base supporter is fixed on a vehicle dashboard. The display screen has a shell compatible to the panel of vehicle dashboard, providing a stylish appearance. The display screen is embedded to reduce the risk of damage due to long-term exposure. The utility model has simple structure, low cost, and easy operation, and is suitable for the use in vehicle and other transportation facilities.

Utility tray assembly for a motor vehicle

Abstract: A utility tray assembly 20 for a motor vehicle is disclosed that has a utility tray 21 moveably mounted to a dashboard 10 of the motor vehicle so as to permit the utility tray 21 to be moved between a stowed position in which it is located in a cavity in the dashboard 10 and a deployed position in which it projects out from the dashboard 10. The tray may be rotated in the deployed position.

A dashboard assembly for a motor vehicule provided with a connector for connecting a portable electronic device

Abstract: A dashboard assembly (1) of a motor vehicle includes a dashboard (2) and a connector (5), which is set in a hole of the dashboard (2) and defines a seat (7) which is accessible by opening a hatch (10); the connector has an electrical contact for the 12-V or 24-V electrical supply and at least one electrical contact for transmission of data and is provided with at least one retention hole (22) for withholding a support (14) of a portable electronic device engaging in the seat (7); also provided is a reinforcement system around at least part of the seat (7) for withstanding vibrations and forces exerted, in use, by the support (14).

A Customizable Human/Vehicle Interface for Enhanced Operator Performance

Abstract: The emergence of cost effective electronics and actuators within the transportation industry allows the presentation of increased driver feedback for greater situational awareness. The operator feedback channels can be broadly divided into visual, audio, and haptic. To date, the automotive community has primarily relied on instrument panel lamps and buzzer/chime sounds to notify the driver of important information while the vehicle’s interaction with the road is mechanically communicated through the steering wheel “feel” and the driver seat motion. However, an opportunity exists to integrate the visual, audio, and haptic feedback channels in a more effective manner to increase driver safety. For instance, the driver may receive haptic driving information through high frequency and low amplitude steering wheel vibrations. Visual feedback may be presented in the form of LED lights on the dashboard and instrument cluster. Similarly, audio messages that are recognized through a different cognitive process than visual and haptic signals may be integrated into the cockpit. In this paper, a comprehensive approach is proposed for driver communication through visual, audio, and haptic feedback. Laboratory tests have been conducted with human subjects using a custom driving simulator to evaluate driver notification strategies. The effectiveness of each feedback channel is evaluated and the results demonstrate that the coordinated presentation of vehicle operational data through targeted feedback channels increase the operator’s overall safety.Copyright © 2007 by ASME

Steering column support structure

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To alleviate vertical vibration generated while idling, and forward-backward vibration generated while traveling. SOLUTION: A steering column support structure comprises a steering column stay 5 to connect a steering hanger 2 extended in the car body width direction for supporting a steering column to a dashboard lower panel 4 ahead of it. At a forward end of a main body part 31 of the steering column stay, a mounting part 22 to a dashboard panel is formed through a bent plate part 27 having a roughly L-shaped cross section. The bent plate part is deformable in the plate thickness direction to allow relative rotation between the mounting part and the main body part to follow forward-backward vibration of the dashboard panel. COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

On-vehicle device fixing device

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an on-vehicle device fixing device fixing an on-vehicle device to an adequate position on a dashboard in a fitting state, adequately obtaining the fix-bonding strength, and free from any problem of damages or fouling of a dashboard surface. SOLUTION: A sheet member 1 is formed of a flexible material. One surface side to be affixed to a mounting surface 30 of an on-vehicle equipment 10 forms a face related to the bonding by depositing a thin film of an adhesive only on a predetermined area part 3. A back surface side to be affixed to a surface of a dashboard 2 forms a face related to the bonding by depositing a thin film of an adhesive over the entire area. The adhesive force is strong on the mounting face 30 side having a narrow face related to the bonding while the adhesive force is not relatively strong on the dashboard 2 side having a wide face related to the bonding. The dashboard 2 side can be bonded in a fit state along the curvature of the surface, and adequate fix-bonding strength is obtained for both the on-vehicle equipment 10 side and the dashboard 2 side. COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Vehicle solar energy system

Abstract: A vehicular body panel energy generator system comprises a plurality of body panels forming the vehicle body 2. At least one of the body panels comprises a solar panel. The solar panel may be incorporated into a roof panel, a bonnet or boot lid, a door panel, a parcel shelf and/or a dashboard. The solar panel my comprise a fabric panel.

Retractable manual gear selector body

Abstract: The invention relates to a manual gear selector body, comprising at least one lever (2a), articulated with relation to a console (2b), such as to select different gears, characterised in that said console (2b) is retractable with relation to the dashboard (1) once said vehicle has stopped.

Display device for a motor vehicle dashboard with a light-permeable panel covering display instruments and light sources emitting light through the panel comprises linear light-absorbing areas arranged a distance apart in the panel material

Abstract: Display device (1) for a motor vehicle dashboard with a light-permeable panel (3) covering the display instruments (2) and light sources (4) emitting light from the instruments through the panel comprises parallel linear light-absorbing areas (6) arranged a distance apart in the panel material. Preferred Features: The light-absorbing areas extend vertically or horizontally and are formed by lamellae in the cover material that absorb light on both sides.

Device for concealing vehicle identification numbers

Abstract: A device for concealing the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate/label. The label is typically disposed on the dashboard of the automobile, especially in a narrow space between the dashboard and the windshield of the automobile such that the label can be seen from the outside of the automobile through the front windshield. The device comprises a panel comprising a distal portion. The panel is to be placed over the label as the distal portion is securely wedged between the dashboard and windshield of the automobile.

Dashboard gauge display apparatus

Abstract: An assembly for attaching gauges or other accessories to vehicles provides a rampart member for securing the assembly to a vehicle surface and a parapet member secured to the rampart member for adequately engaging a vehicle surface and covering any instruments that may be inserted and received in the rampart member for display.

Facing Diversity When Designing and Evaluating Driver Support Systems

Abstract: . An increasing amount of computing technology is being integrated into vehicles in the form of ADAS and in-vehicle information systems. In approaching the dream of fully automated cars, these driver support systems must be able to handle the diversity of individual drivers and driving situations. Consequently, the focus of research should be on design of adaptive and cooperative systems. In particular, the design process should focus on developing an integrated driver–vehicle interface instead of individual functions. Most importantly, the safety and comfort benefits of each driver support system need to be thoroughly evaluated as to minimise unsafe behaviour in the form of behavioural adaptation, driver distraction or high workload. As an example of such an evaluation, this chapter describes a study concerning the design of minimally distractive control devices for an adaptive cruise control (ACC) system. ACC is designed to support the primary task of driving, in that it controls both vehicle speed and headway. However, adjusting the settings should not lead to driver distraction. Therefore, two driver–vehicle interface concepts for an ACC system were designed and tested in a fixed-base driving simulator. Adjusting both settings at once had the most detrimental effect on driving performance and visual distraction. Dividing the controls between the steering wheel and dashboard also increased visual distraction. The results are used to derive recommendations for the design of minimally distractive driver–vehicle interfaces.