System and method for presenting information to operator of recreational vehicle

Abstract

The disclosed systems and methods for presenting information to an operator of a recreational vehicle include i) displaying on a display a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information, the first set of information relating to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle, ii) displaying on the display a second GUI component representing a second set of information, the second set of information relating to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle, the second set of information relates to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle, and iii) upon receiving a first control command from the controller based on an operator interaction with the display, modifying a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 239,160, filed on August 31, 2021, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRESENTING INFORMATION TO AN OPERATOR OF ARECREATIONAL VEHICLE,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to recreational vehicles and, in particular, to systems and methods for presenting information to an operator of a recreational vehicle. Background Art

[0004] As digital displays have become more common, first in conjunction with analog gauges and then often replacing them entirely, the variety of information that can be displayed to the operator of a vehicle has increased dramatically. Non-analog screens (e.g., older LCDs) allow operators to customize their experience by enabling the operator to select which vehicle information should be displayed on the gauges and / or how that information should be displayed, such as allowing the operator to select which information takes priority (e.g., vehicle speed, RPM, coolant temperature, fuel level, etc.).

[0005] Additionally, as vehicles become more technologically advanced, complex, and sophisticated, operators have access to a wider variety of infotainment features. For example, many vehicles now allow operators to select from a variety of infotainment features (e.g., local vehicle navigation, contact calling / making phone calls, ride data, rear camera, local vehicle media player / radio, etc.). In addition to the vehicle's local infotainment features, recent developments have enabled the vehicle display to be able to communicate with the vehicle through, for example, Android Auto TM 、Apple CarPlay TM and Bosch MySpin TM The software of the smartphone connects to the smartphone to display "infotainment" content from applications running on the smartphone (such as navigation applications, music streaming applications, weather applications, etc.).

[0006] Navigating between all of these infotainment functions (including both native vehicle functions and external applications) via various dedicated physical switches and / or various dedicated digital switches (e.g., dedicated icons displayed on the display) can be complex, particularly in the context of recreational vehicles, which typically have less real estate for displays than conventional automobiles. Furthermore, due to the limited real estate on the display of a recreational vehicle, effectively displaying vehicle information (e.g., vehicle speed, RPM, coolant temperature, fuel level, etc.) and infotainment functions together is somewhat challenging.

[0007] As noted above, there is interest in developing effective systems for recreational vehicles to navigate between various options. Summary of the invention

[0008] Implementations of the present disclosure were developed based on the developer's understanding of the limitations associated with the prior art, namely: i) using dedicated physical switches and / or digital switches to navigate through various infotainment functions of a recreational vehicle, ii) effectively displaying vehicle information (e.g., vehicle speed, RPM, coolant temperature, fuel level, etc.) and infotainment functions (e.g., local vehicle navigation, contact calling / making phone calls, riding data, rear camera, local vehicle media player / radio, etc.) together on a display of the recreational vehicle.

[0009] According to a first broad aspect of the present disclosure, a virtual cockpit system for a recreational vehicle is provided, the virtual cockpit system comprising a display, a controller and a processor, the display being configured to present information to an operator of the recreational vehicle, the controller being configured to allow interaction between the operator and the virtual cockpit system, the processor being configured to execute instructions which, when executed, cause: displaying a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information on the display, the first set of information relating to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle; displaying a second GUI component representing a second set of information on the display, the second set of information relating to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle; and modifying a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component upon receiving a first control command from the controller based on the operator's interaction with the display.

[0010] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the controller includes a digital focus controller, and the first control command is received subsequent to an operator interacting with the digital focus controller.

[0011] According to any embodiment of the present disclosure, the digital focus controller is displayed on the display as the intersection of a first GUI component and a second GUI component, and moving the digital focus controller to the right by an operator increases the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and decreases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display, and moving the digital focus controller to the left by the operator decreases the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and increases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display.

[0012] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the controller includes a physical focus controller, and the first control command is received subsequent to an operator interacting with the physical focus controller.

[0013] According to any embodiments of the present disclosure, the physical focus controller includes an up switch / down switch, and the operator's interaction with the up switch causes the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display to be increased and the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display to be decreased, and the operator's interaction with the down switch causes the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display to be decreased and the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display to be increased.

[0014] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first display ratio defines a first portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a second portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0015] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the modified first display ratio defines a first modified portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a second modified portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0016] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0017] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the modified first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0018] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0019] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the modified first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0020] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a second control command received from at least one of the controller and the display, update the second GUI component by representing a first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

[0021] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a third control command received from the controller, update the second GUI component by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

[0022] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, updating the second GUI component by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function defines a cycle through the carousel of possible infotainment functions for the operator.

[0023] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the controller includes an applet switcher, and the second control command and the third control command are received subsequent to an operator interacting with the applet switcher.

[0024] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the applet switcher is configured to allow an operator to cycle from a first infotainment function to a second infotainment function.

[0025] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first infotainment function and the second infotainment function may be customized by an operator.

[0026] According to a second broad aspect of the present disclosure, a recreational vehicle is provided, wherein a virtual cockpit system includes a display, a controller, and a processor, wherein the display is configured to present information to an operator of the recreational vehicle, the controller is configured to allow interaction between the operator and the virtual cockpit system, and the processor is configured to execute instructions which, when executed, cause: a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information to be displayed on the display, the first set of information relating to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle; a second GUI component representing a second set of information to be displayed on the display, the second set of information relating to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle; and upon receiving a first control command from the controller based on the operator's interaction with the display, a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component to be modified.

[0027] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the controller includes a digital focus controller, and the first control command is received subsequent to an operator interacting with the digital focus controller.

[0028] According to any embodiment of the present disclosure, the digital focus controller is displayed on the display as the intersection of the first GUI component and the second GUI component, and moving the digital focus controller to the right by the operator increases the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and decreases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display, and moving the digital focus controller to the left by the operator decreases the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and increases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display.

[0029] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the controller includes a physical focus controller, and the first control command is received subsequent to an operator interacting with the physical focus controller.

[0030] According to any embodiments of the present disclosure, the physical focus controller includes an up switch / down switch, and the operator's interaction with the up switch causes the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display to be increased and the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display to be decreased, and the operator's interaction with the down switch causes the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display to be decreased and the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display to be increased.

[0031] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first display ratio defines a first portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a second portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0032] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the modified first display ratio defines a first modified portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a second modified portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0033] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0034] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the modified first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0035] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0036] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the modified first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

[0037] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a second control command received from at least one of the controller and the display, update the second GUI component by representing a first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

[0038] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a third control command received from the controller, update the second GUI component by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

[0039] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, updating the second GUI component by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function defines a cycle through the carousel of possible infotainment functions for the operator.

[0040] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the controller includes an applet switcher, and the second control command and the third control command are received subsequent to an operator interacting with the applet switcher.

[0041] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the applet switcher is configured to allow an operator to cycle from a first infotainment function to a second infotainment function.

[0042] According to any implementation of the present disclosure, the first infotainment function and the second infotainment function may be customized by an operator.

[0043] According to any embodiment of the present disclosure, a handlebar is also included, and the applet switcher is mounted on the handlebar.

[0044] According to any embodiment of the present disclosure, a steering wheel is also included, and the applet switcher is installed on the steering wheel.

[0045] According to a third broad aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer-implemented method for presenting information to an operator of a recreational vehicle, the method comprising: displaying a first graphical user interface (GUI) component on a display representing a first set of information, the first set of information relating to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle; displaying a second GUI component on the display representing a second set of information, the second set of information relating to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle; and modifying a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component upon receiving a first control command from a controller based on an interaction of the operator with the display. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0047] Figure 1 shows a left side elevation view of a vehicle according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 2 is a partial view of a vehicle from a driver's seat showing a virtual cockpit system according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 3 Non-limiting examples of controllers according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure are shown;

[0050] Figure 4 Another non-limiting example of a virtual cockpit system implemented on a vehicle including a steering wheel according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0051] Figure 5 Another non-limiting example of a controller according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0052] Figure 6shows a first graphical user interface (GUI) component initially displayed on a display according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 7 shows a first GUI component and a second GUI component initially displayed on a display according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 8 shows examples of first and second GUI components and a digital focus controller displayed on a display according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0055] Fig. 9 Another example of a first GUI component, a second GUI component, and a digital focus controller displayed on a display according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0056] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B shows another example of a first GUI component and a digital focus controller according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0057] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D illustrates different viewports of a first GUI component and a second GUI component displayed on a display according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0058] Figure 12 to Figure 13 Some further examples of first and second GUI components displayed on a display according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure are shown;

[0059] Fig.14 shows a GUI for customizing the second set of information according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0060] Fig.15 A high-level functional block diagram illustrating a computing environment included in a virtual cockpit system according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0061] Fig.16 Depicted is a flow chart representing a process for a method for presenting information to an operator of a vehicle in accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0062] It should be understood that throughout the drawings and corresponding description, the same features are identified by the same reference numerals. In addition, it should be understood that the drawings and the following description are for illustration purposes only, and such disclosure does not limit the scope of the claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The present disclosure is directed to addressing at least some of the deficiencies of the current technology. In particular, the present disclosure describes systems and methods for presenting information to an operator of a recreational vehicle.

[0064] Unless otherwise defined or indicated by the context, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the described embodiments belong.

[0065] In the context of this specification, unless otherwise expressly provided, the words "first", "second", "third", etc. are used as adjectives and are used only to distinguish between the nouns they modify, rather than to describe any particular relationship between these nouns. Thus, for example, it should be understood that the use of the terms "first graphical user interface (GUI) component" and "third GUI component" are not intended to imply any particular order, type, chronological order, hierarchy, or ranking of (for example) GUI components / GUI components, nor is their use (per se) intended to imply that there must be any "second GUI component" in any given case. In addition, as discussed in other contexts herein, reference to a "first" element and a "second" element does not exclude that the two elements are the same actual real-world element.

[0066] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it may be directly or indirectly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intervening elements. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements. Other words used to describe relationships between elements (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.) should be interpreted in a similar manner.

[0067] In the context of this specification, when an element is referred to as being “associated with” another element, in some embodiments, the two elements may be directly or indirectly associated, related, connected, coupled, the second element uses the first element, etc., without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0068] The terms used herein are intended only to describe specific representative embodiments and are not intended to limit the present technology. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the terms "include" and / or "comprise" used in this specification are used to illustrate the presence of the described features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or combinations thereof.

[0069] The implementations of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned purposes and / or aspects, but not necessarily all of the above-mentioned purposes and / or aspects. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology generated by attempting to achieve the above-mentioned purpose may not meet the purpose and / or may meet other purposes not specifically described herein.

[0070] The examples and conditional language set forth herein are primarily intended to help the reader understand the principles of the present technology, rather than to limit its scope to these specifically set forth examples and conditions. It will be appreciated that a person skilled in the art may design various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, still embody the principles of the present technology and are included within its spirit and scope.

[0071] In addition, to aid understanding, the following description may describe a relatively simplified implementation of the present technology. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, various implementations of the present technology may have greater complexity.

[0072] In some cases, useful examples that are considered to be modifications to the present technology may also be set forth. This is merely to aid understanding, and is not intended to define the scope of the present technology or set forth the limits of the present technology. These modifications are not an exhaustive list, and other modifications may be made by those skilled in the art while still remaining within the scope of the present technology. In addition, where examples of modifications are not set forth, it should not be construed that modifications cannot be made and / or that what is described is the only way to implement elements of the present technology.

[0073] In addition, all statements describing the principles, aspects, and implementations of the present technology herein, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to include structural and functional equivalents thereof, whether currently known or developed in the future. Thus, for example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any block diagram herein represents a conceptual view of an illustrative circuit that embodies the principles of the present technology. Similarly, it should be understood that any flow chart, flow chart, state transition diagram, pseudocode, etc., represents various processes that can be substantially represented in a computer-readable medium and thus performed by a computer or processor, whether or not such a computer or processor is explicitly shown.

[0074] The functions of the various elements shown in the figures, including any functional blocks marked as "processors" or "processing units", can be provided by using dedicated hardware and hardware capable of executing software associated with appropriate software. When provided by a processor, these functions can be provided by a single dedicated processor, a single shared processor, or multiple separate processors, some of which can be shared. In some embodiments of the present technology, the processor can be a general-purpose processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), or a processor dedicated to a specific purpose, such as a graphics processing unit (GPU). In addition, the explicit use of the term "processor" or "controller" should not be interpreted as specifically referring to hardware capable of executing software, and may implicitly include, but is not limited to, digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, network processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), and non-volatile storage devices for storing software. Other conventional and / or customized hardware may also be included.

[0075] In the context of the present disclosure, the expression "data" includes data of any nature or kind that can be stored in a database. Thus, data includes, but is not limited to, audiovisual works (images, films, recordings, demonstrations, etc.), data (location data, numerical data, etc.), texts (opinions, comments, questions, messages, etc.), documents, spreadsheets, etc.

[0076] Software modules or modules or units implied as software may be represented herein as any combination of flow chart elements or other elements indicating the execution of process steps and / or text descriptions. Such modules may be executed by hardware shown explicitly or implicitly.

[0077] With these basic principles, the present disclosure is directed to addressing at least some of the deficiencies of the current technology.In particular, the present disclosure describes systems and methods for presenting information to an operator of a recreational vehicle.

[0078] The present technology will be described herein with respect to a three-wheeled straddle-type vehicle 100. It is contemplated that the present technology may also be implemented using vehicles having two, four, or more wheels, as well as other types of vehicles including, but not limited to, snowmobiles and personal watercrafts.

[0079] Reference Figure 1 , the vehicle 100 may include a front end 102, a rear end 104, and a longitudinal center plane (not shown) defined in line with the forward travel direction of the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 may have a frame 108 for supporting various components of the vehicle 100, and left and right front wheels 110 mounted to the frame 108 (the left front wheel is at the rear). Figure 1). In particular, the left front wheel 110 may be mounted to the frame 108 on the left side of the frame 108 by a left front suspension assembly (not shown), and the right front wheel 110 may be mounted to the frame 108 on the right side of the frame 108 by a right front suspension assembly (not shown). More specifically, the left and right front wheels 110 may be rotatably mounted to left and right steering knuckles, which may be supported by left and right front suspension assemblies.

[0080] In certain non-limiting embodiments, a single rear wheel 118 may be mounted to the frame 108 at the rear end of the frame 108 via a rear suspension assembly 120. The left and right front wheels 110 and the rear wheels 118 may each have a tire secured thereto. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the front wheels 110 may be disposed equidistant from the longitudinal center plane, and the rear wheels 118 may be centered relative to the longitudinal center plane.

[0081] In certain non-limiting embodiments, each front suspension assembly can be a double A-arm type suspension, also known as a double wishbone suspension, and can include corresponding shock absorbers. It is contemplated that other types of front suspensions, such as a MacPherson strut suspension or a swing arm, can be used. The rear suspension assembly 120 can include a swing arm 126 and a shock absorber (not shown). The shock absorber can be connected between the swing arm 126 and the frame 108. It is contemplated that other types of rear suspensions can be used.

[0082] The vehicle 100 may have a driver's seat 130 mounted to an upper portion of the frame 108 and disposed along a longitudinal center plane. The vehicle 100 may also have a passenger seat 134 disposed behind the driver's seat 130. The passenger seat 134 may have a seat portion 135 and a backrest portion 136 for supporting the back of a passenger in the passenger seat 134. The seat portion 135 of the passenger seat 134 may be supported by and connected to the rear upper frame member 114 of the frame 108. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the driver's seat 130 and the passenger seat 134 may be straddle-type seats.

[0083] In certain non-limiting embodiments, a driver's foot pedal 132 may be provided on both sides of the vehicle 100 to support the driver's feet. The driver's foot pedal 132 may be connected to the lower portion of the frame 108. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the driver's foot pedal 132 may be in the form of a foot pedal extending longitudinally in front of the driver's seat 130. The vehicle 100 may also be provided with a passenger foot pedal 137, which is provided behind the driver's foot pedal 132 on both sides of the vehicle 100 for supporting the passenger's feet. A brake pedal (not shown) may be connected to the right driver's foot pedal 132 for braking the vehicle 100.

[0084] like Figure 1As schematically shown in , the vehicle 100 may have a power pack including a motor 138 and a transmission assembly 140. The power pack may be supported by the frame 108 and may be housed within the frame 108. The transmission assembly 140 may include a manual transmission, a semi-automatic transmission, or a fully automatic transmission. The motor 138 may be in the form of an internal combustion engine. However, it is conceivable that the motor 138 may not be an internal combustion engine, such as an electric motor, a hybrid, etc. It is also conceivable that the transmission assembly 140 may be of other types, such as a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The motor 138 may be operably connected to the rear wheels 118 via the transmission assembly 140 to drive the rear wheels 118.

[0085] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The vehicle 100 may have a steering system 142 that may include a handlebar assembly 143, a steering column assembly (not shown) connected to the handlebar assembly 143, and a plurality of links that operably connect the steering column assembly to the steering knuckle.

[0086] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the handlebar assembly 143 may include a handlebar 144 that may be disposed in front of the driver's seat 130. A left-hand grip may be placed around the left side of the handlebar 144 near its left end, and a right-hand grip may be placed around the right side of the handlebar 144 near its right end. The right-hand grip may have a twist-grip type throttle control. It is contemplated that different types and / or locations of throttle controls may be used. The handlebar 144 may be operably connected to the front wheel 110 via a steering column assembly. The steering system may define a steering axis around which the handlebar 144 may rotate relative to the frame 108. The driver may turn the handlebar 144 about the steering axis to steer the front wheel 110, and thereby steer the vehicle 100.

[0087] It should be understood that the front wheels 110 are one example of a steerable ground engaging member with which embodiments of the steering system 142 may be used. It is contemplated that embodiments of the steering system 142 may be used with vehicles in which the steerable ground engaging components are, for example, skis or tracks.

[0088] The vehicle 100 may also have a plurality of fairings 148 that may surround the motor 138 and the transmission assembly 140, thereby providing an enclosure that not only protects the motor 138 and the transmission assembly 140 but also makes the vehicle 100 more aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing. The fairings 148 may include a hood 149 and one or more side panels that may be opened to allow access to the motor 138 and the transmission assembly 140 when necessary, such as for inspection or maintenance of the motor 138 and the transmission assembly 140. A windshield 146 may be connected to the fairings 148 near the front end 102 of the vehicle 100. The windshield 146 may serve as a windshield to reduce the force of air on the driver when the vehicle 100 is moving.

[0089] The vehicle 100 may include various other components that are known in the art and therefore are not described in detail herein.

[0090] Figure 2 1 is a partial view of a vehicle 100 as seen from a driver's seat 130, showing a virtual cockpit system 210, according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the virtual cockpit system 210 may include a display 220 and a controller 230. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the virtual cockpit system 210 may include a computing environment (details of which will be discussed later in the present disclosure).

[0091] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the display 220 may be configured to display various operating conditions and / or information regarding the vehicle 100, environmental conditions, infotainment (e.g., GPS, radio, wireless connections, Bluetooth TM connections, audio settings, navigation, etc.), and / or any other information that may be useful to the driver during operation of the vehicle 100.

[0092] In some non-limiting embodiments, the display 220 may be a touch screen based screen, wherein the front surface of the display 220 may be touch sensitive. The display 220 may receive input by the driver / operator touching the front surface of the display 220. In other non-limiting embodiments, the display 220 may be configured to receive input without being touched by the driver / operator. Such input may be provided by the driver / operator using the controller 230.

[0093] In some non-limiting embodiments, the controller 230 can be located on the handlebar 114. In some non-limiting embodiments, the controller 230 can be located on the left side of the handlebar 114. In other non-limiting embodiments, the controller 230 can be located on the right side of the handlebar 114. It should be noted that where the controller 230 is located should not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0094] As shown, the controller 230 may include a ride setting 230-1, a small program switcher 230-2, a focus controller 230-3, a push-to-talk switch 230-4, and a product-specific switch 230-5. It should be noted that the controller 230 may include other switches, however, for simplicity, these switches are not shown. Figure 2 Shown in.

[0095] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the focus controller 230-3 may include an up switch / down switch and a select switch. In one non-limiting embodiment, the product specific switch 230-5 may include switches specific to the vehicle 100, such as a heated grip switch, a vehicle start switch, a headlight switch, etc.

[0096] It is conceivable that for the controller 230, Figure 2 The arrangement of the different switches shown is merely one example. In various non-limiting embodiments, the switches on the controller 230 may have a different arrangement.

[0097] Figure 3 A non-limiting example of a controller 240 (almost similar to controller 230 in terms of functionality) according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, similar to controller 230, controller 240 may also have a ride setting 240-1, a small program switcher 240-2, a focus controller 240-3, a push-to-talk switch 240-4, and a product-specific switch 240-5. However, the switches in controller 240 may be arranged differently from the switches on controller 230. Furthermore, in this case, the product-specific switch 230-5 may include a volume switch, a turn indicator switch, a horn switch. As long as controller 230 or 240 or any other arrangement of controllers includes a ride setting, a small program switch, and a focus controller, the product-specific switch may not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0098] Figure 4Another non-limiting example of a virtual cockpit system 210 implemented on a vehicle 100 that may include a steering wheel 180 instead of a handlebar 144 according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the steering system 142 may include a steering wheel 180 instead of a handlebar 144. In such non-limiting embodiments, the display 220 may be mounted on a dashboard 252 of the vehicle 100, and the controller 250 may be mounted to the steering wheel 180. As shown, the controller 250 may include a ride setting 250-1, an applet switcher 250-2, a focus controller 250-3, and a push-to-talk switch 250-4. It should be noted that whether the steering system 142 includes a handlebar 144 or a steering wheel 180, the steering system 142 should not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0099] In certain non-limiting embodiments, instead of controller 230 or controller 240 mounted on handlebar 144, or controller 250 mounted on steering wheel 180, a similar controller 260 (e.g. Figure 5 ) may be located in a keypad, elsewhere on the vehicle 100 but near the steering system 142. The controller 260 may also include ride settings 260-1, applet switcher 260-2, focus controller 260-3, and a push-to-talk switch 260-4.

[0100] Hereinafter, various non-limiting embodiments will be discussed with reference to controller 230. However, the same embodiments may be equally applicable to controllers 240, 250, and 260.

[0101] As discussed previously, various conventional vehicles may have different dedicated physical and digital switches corresponding to various infotainment functions (e.g., local vehicle navigation, contact calling / making phone calls, riding data, rear camera, local vehicle media player / radio, etc.) that the driver / operator may access during vehicle use. However, such dedicated physical and digital switches may cause the driver / operator to be distracted while driving the vehicle, thereby increasing the chance of an accident. Furthermore, for conventional vehicles, it remains somewhat challenging to effectively display vehicle information (e.g., vehicle speed, RPM, coolant temperature, fuel level, etc.) and infotainment functions together.

[0102] To avoid such a situation, in various non-limiting embodiments, the vehicle 100 may be provided with a controller 230. In particular, the applet switch 230-2 and the focus controller 230-2 may be used as shortcuts to various infotainment functions. This may help the driver / operator access the various infotainment functions of the vehicle 100 without having to look for different dedicated switches, thereby reducing driver / operator distraction. In addition, having fewer switches to access and adjust the various infotainment functions of the vehicle 100 may make the hardware requirements simpler.

[0103] Back to Figure 2 , in certain non-limiting embodiments, at least ride setting 230-1, applet switch 230-2, and focus controller 230-3 may be digital switches / controllers and displayed on display 220. In such non-limiting embodiments, ride setting 230-1, applet switch 230-2, and focus controller 230-3 may perform their functions based on a driver / operator's touchscreen-based interaction with the display.

[0104] In certain non-limiting embodiments, initially when the vehicle 100 is turned on, the display 220 may display a graphical user interface (GUI) component. Figure 6 An initial display according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown in ( Figure 2 100 . The first GUI component 300 may be initially displayed on the display 220 of the vehicle 100 . The first GUI component 300 may be displayed when the vehicle 100 is turned on. The first GUI component 300 may represent a first set of information related to the operating conditions of the vehicle 100 . The first set of information may include, for example, vehicle speed 302, engine speed 304, fuel level 306, coolant temperature 308, engine mode 310, driving mode 312 (e.g., "DPS mode" representing dynamic power steering), and current volume 314. It should be noted that the first set of information may include any other information that is useful to the driver / operator when driving the vehicle 100. Unless the display 220 receives a control command, the display 220 may continue to display the first GUI component 300.

[0105] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the vehicle 100 may be required to always display certain minimum vehicle information, such as vehicle speed 302, engine speed 304, fuel level 306, and coolant temperature 308. Laws may vary by vehicle type and jurisdiction. For example, an electric vehicle may have an equivalent but different set of minimum vehicle information, such as vehicle speed, battery charge state, range, etc.

[0106] In another non-limiting embodiment, initially when the vehicle 100 is turned on, the display 220 may display the first GUI component 300 and the second GUI component. Figure 7 Various non-limiting embodiments according to the present disclosure are shown initially in ( Figure 2 ) a first GUI component 300 and a second GUI component 330 on the display 220.

[0107] In certain non-limiting embodiments, after the vehicle 100 is turned on, the second GUI component 330 may be displayed on the display 220 together with the first GUI component 300 based on the driver / operator's first interaction (e.g., pressing) with the applet switch 230-1. The second GUI component 330 may represent a second set of information 332. The second set of information may be related to infotainment functions associated with the vehicle 100. As an example, the second set of information 332 may include local vehicle navigation, contact calls / phone calls, riding data, rear camera, local vehicle media player / radio, etc.

[0108] The first GUI component 300 may be displayed on the left side of the display 220, and the second GUI component 330 may be displayed on the right side of the display. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the first GUI component 300 may have a first display ratio that defines a first portion of the display 220 occupied by the first GUI component 300. Similarly, the second GUI component 300 may have a second display ratio that defines a second portion of the display 220 occupied by the second GUI component 330.

[0109] As an example, the first display ratio may define a 2 / 3 portion of the display 220 occupied by the first GUI component 300 , and the second display ratio may define a 1 / 3 portion of the display 220 occupied by the second GUI component 330 .

[0110] In another example, the first display ratio may define a ⅓ portion of the display 220 occupied by the first GUI component 300 , and the second display ratio may define a ⅓ portion of the display 220 occupied by the second GUI component 330 .

[0111] It should be noted that the above values ​​of the first display ratio and the second display ratio are merely examples, and in various other non-limiting embodiments, the first GUI component 300 and the second GUI component 330 may have other suitable values ​​of the first display ratio and the second display ratio, respectively.

[0112] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the driver / operator may have the option of changing or modifying the first display ratio and the second display ratio. As will be discussed in further detail below, when the display 220 is a touch screen-based screen, the driver / operator may modify the first display ratio and the second display ratio by interacting directly with the front surface of the display 220. Alternatively or in addition, the driver / operator may interact (e.g., press) with the controller 230, and more specifically with the focus controller 230-3. Based on the driver / operator's interaction (e.g., pressing) with the focus controller 230-3, the controller 230 may generate a first control signal. The first control signal may be sent to the display 220, and the first display ratio and the second display ratio may be modified accordingly by the virtual cockpit system 210.

[0113] As previously discussed, the focus controller 230-3 may include an up switch / down switch, and the driver / operator may interact with the up switch / down switch in order to modify the first display ratio and the second display ratio. As an example, the driver / operator's interaction with the up switch may cause the length of the first GUI component 300 displayed on the display 220 to increase, and the length of the second GUI component 330 displayed on the display 220 may be reduced. Similarly, the driver / operator's interaction with the down switch may cause the length of the first GUI component 300 displayed on the display 220 to decrease, and the length of the second GUI component 330 displayed on the display 220 may be increased.

[0114] In certain non-limiting embodiments, controller 230 may include a digital focus controller, and the first control command may be received subsequent to a driver / operator interaction with the digital focus controller. Figure 8 Examples of first and second GUI components 300 and 330 and a digital focus controller 340 displayed on the display 220 are shown in accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the digital focus control 340 may be an interface of the first GUI component 300 and the second GUI component 330 on the display 220. The display 220 may be a touch-sensitive display and may allow the driver / operator to interact with the digital focus control 340. The digital focus control 340 may be configured to move or slide in a given direction (e.g., to the left or to the right) depending on the interaction with the driver / operator.

[0116] As an example, moving the digital focus control 340 to the right by the driver / operator may cause the length of the first GUI component 300 displayed on the display 220 to increase, and may reduce the length of the second GUI component 330 displayed on the display 220. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the digital focus control 340 may be configured to move or slide to the right end of the display 220. In doing so, the second GUI component 330 may be removed from the display 220.

[0117] Fig. 9 Another example of a first GUI component 300, a second GUI component 330, and a digital focus controller 340 displayed on the display 220 according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, as the digital focus controller 340 moves to the right to the rightmost end of the display 220, it can cause the second GUI component 330 to be removed from the display 220 and the first GUI component 300 to be displayed on the display 220. In order to split the display on the display 220 into the first GUI component 300 and the second GUI component 330 again, the driver / operator can interact with (e.g., press) the applet switcher 230-2. Such interaction can split the display on the display 220 using a predefined first display ratio of the first GUI component 300 (e.g., 1 / 3 of the display 220) and a predefined second display ratio of the second GUI component 330 (e.g., 2 / 3 of the display 220).

[0118] Similar to moving the digital focus control 340 to the right, moving the digital focus control 340 to the left by the driver / operator may cause the length of the first GUI component 300 displayed on the display 220 to decrease, and may increase the length of the second GUI component 330 displayed on the display 220. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the digital focus control 340 may be configured to move or slide up to the left end of the display 220. In doing so, the second GUI component 330 may be removed from the display 220. As previously discussed, some jurisdictions may require at least some of the first set of information (vehicle speed, engine speed, fuel level, coolant temperature, etc.) to be displayed. In such jurisdictions, the digital focus control 340 may be configured to move or slide only to the left side of the display 220 to a predefined level. Such that the first GUI component representing the first set of information may comply with jurisdictional requirements.

[0119] In any case, the first display ratio and the second display ratio may be modified to a modified first display ratio and a modified second display ratio by means of driver / operator interaction with the focus control 320-3 and / or the digital focus control 340. The modified first display ratio may define a first modified portion of the display 220 occupied by the first GUI component 300, and the modified second display ratio may define a second modified portion of the display 220 occupied by the second GUI component 330.

[0120] In a case where the first display ratio is limited to 2 / 3 of the display 220 and the second display ratio is limited to 1 / 3 of the display 220, the modified first display ratio may now be limited to 1 / 3 of the display 220, and the modified second display ratio may now be limited to 2 / 3 of the display 220.

[0121] In addition, in a case where the first display ratio is limited to 1 / 3 of the display 220 and the second display ratio is limited to 2 / 3 of the display 220, the modified first display ratio may now be limited to 2 / 3 of the display 220, and the modified second display ratio may now be limited to 1 / 3 of the display 220.

[0122] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B Another example of a first GUI component 300 and a digital focus controller 340 is shown in accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 10A Various viewports of the first GUI component 300 and the digital focus controller 340 are shown when the vehicle 100 is stationary. Fig. 10B Various viewports of the first GUI component 300 and the digital focus controller 340 are shown as the vehicle 100 moves. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B In certain non-limiting embodiments, even though the second GUI component 330 may not be displayed on the display 220 , the virtual cockpit system 210 may provide an option to adjust the first display ratio of the first GUI component 300 .

[0123] In such an embodiment, initially when the first GUI component 300 may be displayed on the entire display 220, initially the digital focus controller 340 may be located at the right edge of the display 220. The driver / operator may interact with the digital focus controller 340. In this case, when the digital focus controller 340 may be at the right edge of the display 220 initially, the digital focus controller 340 may be configured to have the ability to move or slide to the left. Once the digital focus controller 340 has moved to the left side of the display 220, resulting in a reduction in the first display ratio, the digital focus controller 340 may be configured to move or slide in either direction (i.e., left or right). The movement of the digital focus controller 340 may adjust or modify the first display ratio accordingly.

[0124] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D Different viewports of a first GUI component 300 and a second GUI component 330 displayed on the display 220 are shown in accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig.11A Three different examples of the display 220 when the vehicle is started are shown. In the first example, the first GUI component 300 may occupy 1 / 3 of the display on the display 220, and the second GUI component 330 may occupy 2 / 3 of the display on the display 220. In the second example, the first GUI component 300 may occupy 2 / 3 of the display on the display 220, and the second GUI component 330 may occupy 1 / 3 of the display on the display 220. In the third example, the first GUI component 300 may be displayed on the display 220.

[0125] It should be noted that when the vehicle 100 is started, the second GUI component 330 may present a second set of information 332 (e.g. Figure 7 shown). Fig. 11B A first GUI component 300, a second GUI component 330, and a second set of information 332 are shown. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the driver / operator can select an infotainment function from the second set of information 332. To this end, in one example, the driver / operator can interact with an icon representing an expected infotainment function (e.g., media) displayed in the second GUI component 330. In another example, the driver / operator can interact with the applet switcher 230-2. Based on the driver / operator's interaction with the display 220 and / or with the applet switcher 230-2, the display 220 and / or the applet switcher 230-2 can generate a second control command. In response to the second control command, the virtual cockpit system 210 can be configured to update the second GUI component 330 by representing the first infotainment function associated with the vehicle 100.

[0126] Fig. 11C2 shows a first GUI component 300 and a second GUI component 330 displayed on the display 220 when the vehicle 100 is stationary. Fig. 11C , the second GUI component 330 can display the first infotainment function. In certain non-limiting embodiments, consistent with other embodiments and examples discussed in this disclosure, the display 220 can display a vehicle menu shortcut 350 at the bottom right of the display 220. In some examples, the vehicle menu shortcut 350 can be represented as two or three slashes ( / / , \\, / / / , or \\\). In other examples, the vehicle menu shortcut 350 can be represented by 2 to 4 boxes. The vehicle menu shortcut 350 can provide access to the vehicle menu at any point in time when the vehicle is turned on, regardless of whether the vehicle 100 is moving or stationary.

[0127] In certain non-limiting embodiments, consistent with other embodiments and examples discussed in this disclosure, the display 220 may display a context menu shortcut 360 at the top right of the display 220. In some examples, the context menu shortcut 360 may be represented as three vertical, horizontal, or diagonal dots. The context menu shortcut 360 may provide access to a menu of options specific to the infotainment function currently displayed on the second GUI component 330. The context menu shortcut may be displayed when the vehicle 100 is stationary.

[0128] Fig.11D The first GUI component 300 and the second GUI component 330 are shown displayed on the display 220 when the vehicle 100 is moving. As shown, the context menu shortcut 360 may not be displayed on the display 220 when the vehicle 100 is moving.

[0129] In certain non-limiting embodiments, in response to the third control command received from the controller 230 , the virtual cockpit system 210 may update the second GUI component 330 by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function associated with the vehicle 100 .

[0130] The driver / operator may intentionally change the first infotainment function displayed on the display 220 to the second infotainment function. To this end, in certain non-limiting embodiments, the driver / operator may interact with (e.g., press) the applet switch 230-2. In doing so, the applet switch 230-2 may be configured to generate a third control command. Based on the third control command, the virtual cockpit system 210 may be configured to update the second GUI component 330 by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function associated with the vehicle 100.

[0131] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the applet switcher 230-2 can be configured to allow the driver / operator to cycle from a first infotainment function to a second infotainment function. In certain non-limiting embodiments, updating the second GUI component 330 by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function defines a cycle through the carousel of possible infotainment functions for the driver / operator.

[0132] Figure 12 to Figure 13 Some more examples of first GUI components 300 and second GUI components 330 displayed on the display 220 are shown according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig.12 A first GUI component 300 and a second GUI component 330 are shown. Fig.12 In the example, the second GUI component 330 may represent local vehicle navigation. In response to the driver / operator's interaction with the applet switcher 230, the second GUI component 330 may be updated (e.g., by representing the statistics of the vehicle 100 (the next infotainment function on the carousel)). Fig.13 shown).

[0133] It should be noted that the second group of information 332 related to the infotainment function (such as Figure 7 ) are non-limiting, and the second set of information 332 may be customizable (eg, to add or remove infotainment features). Fig.14 395 for customizing the second set of information 332 according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the second set of information 332 may be customized in response to a driver / operator interacting with a vehicle menu shortcut 350 (e.g., Fig. 11C and Fig.11D GUI 395 is displayed by interacting with the user (as shown).

[0134] Thus, with the aid of applet switch 230-1, focus controller 230-2, and / or digital focus controller 340, various infotainment functions can be accessed without requiring dedicated switches that take up space on or near steering system 142, and navigating through various infotainment functions is more convenient. Additionally, vehicle information (e.g., vehicle speed, RPM, coolant temperature, fuel level, etc.) and infotainment functions can be displayed together more efficiently.

[0135] Fig.15A high-level functional block diagram of a computing environment 400 included in a virtual cockpit system 210 according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the computing environment 400 can be implemented by any conventional personal computer, a computer dedicated to operating to present information to an operator, a remote server and / or an electronic device (such as but not limited to a mobile device, a tablet device, a server, a controller unit, a control device, a monitoring device, etc.) and / or any combination thereof suitable for the relevant task at hand. In some embodiments, the computing environment 400 includes various hardware components, including one or more single-core or multi-core processors collectively represented by a processor 402, a solid-state drive 404, a random access memory 406, and an input / output interface 408.

[0136] The computing environment 400 may be a computer specifically designed to present information to an operator of a recreational vehicle. In some alternative implementations, the computing environment 400 may be a general purpose computer system, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, a desktop computer, etc.

[0137] In some embodiments, the computing environment 400 may also be a subsystem of one of the systems listed above. In some other embodiments, the computing environment 400 may be an "off-the-shelf" general-purpose computer system. In some embodiments, the computing environment 400 may also be distributed among multiple systems. In some embodiments, the computing environment 400 is virtualized in the "cloud" so that the processing power and / or memory capacity can be scaled up or down according to the actual needs of the implementation of the present technology. The computing environment 400 may also be dedicated to the implementation of the present technology. In some embodiments, the computing environment 400 may be configured to operate in an offline mode, and all operations may be performed locally on the computing environment 400 without any communication with an external server / cloud. In an offline mode, the computing environment 400 may also be configured to share its data with the server / cloud whenever a connection to a network is ready. In some embodiments, the computing environment 400 may be configured to operate in an online mode to perform at least some of its operations, that is, the computing environment 400 may be connected to a network to increase processing power and / or memory capacity. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, numerous variations are envisioned as to how the computing environment 400 may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present technology.

[0138] Communications between the various components of the computing environment 400 may be accomplished via one or more internal and / or external buses 410 (e.g., a PCI bus, a Universal Serial Bus, an IEEE 1394 "Firewire" bus, a SCSI bus, a Serial ATA bus, an ARINC bus, a CAN bus, etc.) electrically coupled to the various hardware components.

[0139] Input / output interface 408 can enable networking capabilities such as wired or wireless access. As an example, input / output interface 408 can include a networking interface, such as but not limited to a network port, a network socket, a network interface controller, etc. Multiple examples of how to implement a networking interface will become apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, but not limited to, a networking interface can implement a specific physical layer and data link layer standard, such as Ethernet, Fiber Channel, Wi-Fi, or Token Ring. A specific physical layer and data link layer can provide the basis for a complete network, thereby enabling communication between small groups of computers on the same local area network (LAN) and large-scale network communication through a routable protocol such as the Internet Protocol (IP).

[0140] According to implementations of the present technology, the solid-state drive 404 stores program instructions suitable for loading into the random access memory 406 and being executed by the processor 402 to present information to an operator of the recreational vehicle. For example, the program instructions may be part of a library, application, API, framework, software as a service (SaaS), etc. The solid-state drive 404 may also store various databases including metadata, user information such as logins, activity history, etc.

[0141] In certain non-limiting embodiments, the display 220 may be coupled to the processor 402, the solid-state drive 404, the random access memory 406, and the input / output interface 408 via one or more internal and / or external buses 410. The processor 402 may be configured to execute instructions stored in the solid-state drive and / or the random access memory 406, and may control content to be displayed on the display 220.

[0142] Fig.16 A flow chart representing a process 500 of a method for presenting information to an operator of a recreational vehicle according to various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. As shown, the process begins at step 502, where a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information related to the operating conditions of the recreational vehicle is displayed.

[0143] As discussed above, the display 220 may display a first GUI component 300 representing a first set of information. The first set of information may relate to the operating conditions of the vehicle 100.

[0144] Process 500 proceeds to step 504 where a second GUI component presents a second set of information related to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle.

[0145] As discussed above, the display 220 may display a second GUI component 330 representing a second set of information 332. The second set of information relates to infotainment functionality associated with the vehicle 100.

[0146] Finally, process 500 proceeds to step 506 where, upon receiving the first control command from the controller, a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component are modified.

[0147] As described above, the driver / operator may interact with the focus controller 230-3 and / or the digital focus controller 340. Based on the interaction, the controller 230 may generate a first control signal. As a result, the virtual cockpit system 210 may modify the first display ratio of the first GUI component 300 and the second display ratio of the second GUI component 330.

[0148] It should be understood that the operation and functionality of the virtual cockpit system 210, component parts and associated processes may be implemented by any one or more of hardware-based, software-based and firmware-based elements. Such operational alternatives do not limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0149] It should also be understood that although the embodiments presented herein have been described with reference to specific features and structures, it is apparent that various modifications and combinations may be made without departing from these disclosures. Therefore, the specification and drawings are only to be regarded as an illustration of the implementation or embodiment discussed and its principles as defined by the appended claims, and are intended to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations or equivalents within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A virtual cockpit system for a recreational vehicle, the virtual cockpit system comprising a display, a controller, and a processor, the display being configured to present information to an operator of the recreational vehicle, the controller being configured to allow interaction between the operator and the virtual cockpit system, the processor being configured to execute instructions which, when executed, cause: displaying on the display a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information related to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle; displaying on the display a second GUI component representing a second set of information related to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle; as well as Upon receiving a first control command from the controller based on the operator's interaction with the display, a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component are modified.

2. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 1, wherein: The controller includes a digital focus controller, and the first control command is received subsequent to the operator interacting with the digital focus controller.

3. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 2, wherein: The digital focus control is displayed on the display as an interface of the first GUI component and the second GUI component, and Moving the digital focus controller to the right by the operator increases the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and decreases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display, and Moving the digital focus controller to the left by the operator reduces the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and increases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display.

4. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 1, wherein: The controller includes a physical focus control, and the first control command is received subsequent to the operator interacting with the physical focus control.

5. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 4, wherein: The physical focus control includes an up switch / down switch, and The operator's interaction with the up switch causes an increase in the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and a decrease in the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display, and The operator's interaction with the down switch causes a decrease in the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and an increase in the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display.

6. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 1, wherein: The first display ratio defines a first portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a second portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

7. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 1, wherein: The modified first display ratio defines a first modified portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a second modified portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

8. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 1, wherein: The first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

9. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 8, wherein: The modified first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

10. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 1, wherein: The first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

11. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 10, wherein: The modified first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

12. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 1, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a second control command received from at least one of the controller and the display, update the second GUI component by representing a first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

13. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 12, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a third control command received from the controller, update the second GUI component by indicating that a second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

14. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 13, wherein: Updating the second GUI component by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function defines a cycle through a carousel of possible infotainment functions for the operator.

15. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 13, wherein: The controller includes an applet switcher, and the second control command and the third control command are received subsequent to the operator interacting with the applet switcher.

16. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 15, wherein: The applet switcher is configured to allow the operator to cycle from the first infotainment function to the second infotainment function.

17. The virtual cockpit system according to claim 13, wherein: The first infotainment function and the second infotainment function are customizable by the operator.

18. A recreational vehicle, comprising a virtual cockpit system for the recreational vehicle, the virtual cockpit system comprising a display, a controller, and a processor, the display being configured to present information to an operator of the recreational vehicle, the controller being configured to allow interaction between the operator and the virtual cockpit system, the processor being configured to execute instructions that, when executed, cause: displaying on the display a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information related to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle; displaying on the display a second GUI component representing a second set of information related to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle; as well as Upon receiving a first control command from the controller based on the operator's interaction with the display, a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component are modified.

19. The recreational vehicle of claim 18, wherein: The controller includes a digital focus controller, and the first control command is received subsequent to the operator interacting with the digital focus controller.

20. The recreational vehicle of claim 19, wherein: The digital focus control is displayed on the display as an interface of the first GUI component and the second GUI component, and Moving the digital focus controller to the right by the operator increases the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and decreases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display, and Moving the digital focus controller to the left by the operator reduces the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and increases the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display.

21. The recreational vehicle of claim 18, wherein: The controller includes a physical focus control, and the first control command is received subsequent to the operator interacting with the physical focus control.

22. The recreational vehicle of claim 21, wherein: The physical focus control includes an up switch / down switch, and The operator's interaction with the up switch causes an increase in the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and a decrease in the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display, and The operator's interaction with the down switch causes a decrease in the length of the first GUI component displayed on the display and an increase in the length of the second GUI component displayed on the display.

23. The recreational vehicle of claim 18, wherein: The first display ratio defines a first portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a second portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

24. The recreational vehicle of claim 18, wherein: The modified first display ratio defines a first modified portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a second modified portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

25. The recreational vehicle of claim 18, wherein: The first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

26. The recreational vehicle of claim 25, wherein: The modified first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

27. The recreational vehicle of claim 18, wherein: The first display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the second display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

28. The recreational vehicle of claim 27, wherein: The modified first display ratio defines a 2 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the first GUI component, and the modified second display ratio defines a 1 / 3 portion of the display occupied by the second GUI component.

29. The recreational vehicle of claim 18, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a second control command received from at least one of the controller and the display, update the second GUI component by representing a first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

30. The recreational vehicle of claim 29, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the processor in response to a third control command received from the controller, update the second GUI component by indicating that a second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function associated with the recreational vehicle.

31. The recreational vehicle of claim 30, wherein: Updating the second GUI component by indicating that the second infotainment function replaces the first infotainment function defines a cycle through a carousel of possible infotainment functions for the operator.

32. The recreational vehicle of claim 30, wherein: The controller includes an applet switcher, and the second control command and the third control command are received subsequent to the operator interacting with the applet switcher.

33. The recreational vehicle of claim 32, wherein: The applet switcher is configured to allow the operator to cycle from the first infotainment function to the second infotainment function.

34. The recreational vehicle of claim 30, wherein: The first infotainment function and the second infotainment function are customizable by the operator.

35. The recreational vehicle of claim 30, further comprising a handlebar, and wherein the applet switch is mounted on the handlebar.

36. The recreational vehicle of claim 30, further comprising a steering wheel, and wherein the applet switch is mounted on the steering wheel.

37. A computer-implemented method for presenting information to an operator of a recreational vehicle, the method comprising: displaying on the display a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information related to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle; displaying on the display a second GUI component representing a second set of information related to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle; and Upon receiving a first control command from a controller based on the operator's interaction with the display, a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component are modified.

38. A virtual cockpit system for a recreational vehicle, the virtual cockpit system comprising a display, a controller, and a processor, the display being configured to present information to an operator of the recreational vehicle, the controller being configured to allow interaction between the operator and the virtual cockpit system, the processor being configured to execute instructions which, when executed, cause: displaying on the display a first graphical user interface (GUI) component representing a first set of information related to an operating condition of the recreational vehicle; displaying on the display a second GUI component representing a second set of information related to infotainment functions associated with the recreational vehicle; and Upon receiving a first control command from the controller based on the operator's interaction with a physical focus controller, a first display ratio of the first GUI component and a second display ratio of the second GUI component are modified.

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