Reconfigurable modular instrument cluster arrangement
US6441510B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 6, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 27, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 6, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60K2360/828
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A configurable instrument panel design is provided that integrates component designs so that an instrument panel can be configured for a specific vehicle content as late in the vehicle assembly process as possible. An electrical system and modular instrument cluster are provided that utilizes the same flat flexible cable for every vehicle independent of vehicle content. Instrument cluster modules are provided with universal connector arrangement, where the type and function of a particular module determine which connectors are live. A plurality of different multiplexing links are built-in to the electrical system and wiring arrangement allowing the system to be universal across all possible instrument cluster configurations. This allows the system to accommodate lower option vehicles at a lower cost than conventional technology. Instrument cluster features can be configured at the time of assembly, all without customizing the electrical system and wiring arrangement.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.