An automotive retro-fit instrument cluster assembly

Abstract

The present application belongs to the technical field of automobile accessories, and particularly relates to a kind of automobile refitting instrument screen assembly, comprising: connecting frame and refitting panel, connecting frame is used to bridge installation in original car instrument installation site, connecting frame is equipped with the space for accommodating original car instrument dial and the positioning connection structure for being detachably positioned with original car instrument installation site;Refitting panel is connected to the side of connecting frame away from original car instrument, and display panel is arranged on refitting panel, and display panel is located between connecting frame and refitting panel. Plug rod is arranged on display panel, and slot is arranged on connecting frame, and the plug-in cooperation realizes the pre-positioning of refitting panel. Thin sheet connecting piece is arranged on connecting frame, and the distance between connecting frame and refitting panel can be adjusted by replacing connecting pieces and plug rods of different specifications, and different vehicle models can be adapted. The present application does not need to remove original car instrument or break the line refitting, realizes lossless reversible installation, and has the advantages of high assembly efficiency and strong versatility.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of automotive parts technology, and specifically relates to an automotive instrument panel assembly for modification. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of automotive intelligence, more and more car owners hope to install multi-functional display panels in the original instrument panel area to expand the display functions of navigation, tire pressure monitoring, driver assistance, and other information. However, existing instrument panel modification solutions have many drawbacks: Currently, there are two main modification methods: one is to directly remove the original instrument cluster and replace it with a third-party LCD instrument cluster. This method requires disconnecting the original vehicle's signal lines and re-matching the protocol. Not only does this wire-breaking operation pose safety hazards, but the vehicle cannot be restored after removing the original instrument cluster, severely impacting its resale value. Furthermore, modifying the circuitry can void the original warranty and lead to vehicle inspection violations. The other method is to install an external instrument cluster screen. Most modification schemes require moving the original instrument cluster from its original installation location. A common practice is to move it to a non-original location such as the storage box below the steering wheel or the glove box on the passenger side. This non-original installation space is narrow and irregular, lacking a matching original instrument cluster mounting structure, which can easily cause misalignment, shaking, and abnormal noises after installation. It also requires disassembling interior structural components to add wiring between the added instrument cluster and the LCD instrument cluster for data communication, increasing installation complexity and data instability.

[0003] The common drawback of the above solutions is that they all require physical modifications or electrical interventions to the original vehicle instrument mounting location (i.e., the location of the original vehicle instrument panel), making it impossible to achieve non-destructive and reversible changes.

[0004] Furthermore, due to differences in dashboard depth and trim panel clip positions among different car models, existing aftermarket parts have poor universality and often require custom molds for each model, resulting in high development costs. Moreover, the distance between the display panel and the original car instrument panel cannot be flexibly adjusted after installation, thus limiting compatibility.

[0005] Meanwhile, existing retrofit screens lack an effective pre-positioning structure during installation, making them prone to misalignment, shaking, and abnormal noises during assembly, and making it difficult to guarantee installation accuracy and fixing methods. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides a car retrofit instrument panel assembly that can resolve some of the technical issues mentioned in the background section.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows.

[0008] A car modification instrument panel assembly includes a connecting bracket, a positioning and connecting structure, a modification panel, and a display panel.

[0009] The connecting bracket is used for bridging the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position, and it has clearance space to accommodate the original instrument panel. A positioning connection structure is provided on the connecting bracket for detachably fixing the connecting bracket to the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position. This positioning connection structure includes a snap-fit ​​part and a support part. The snap-fit ​​part is used to engage with a snap-fit ​​position on the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position, and the support part is used to abut against the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position. The modification panel is detachably connected to the side of the connecting bracket facing away from the original vehicle's instrument panel. The display panel is mounted on the modification panel and located between the connecting bracket and the modification panel.

[0010] During installation, the connecting bracket is first secured to the original instrument panel mounting position via a snap-fit ​​mechanism. Simultaneously, the support component abuts against the original instrument panel mounting position to provide support. Together, these two components allow the connecting bracket to be detachably fixed to the original instrument panel mounting position. Next, the modified panel, integrating the display panel, is connected to the side of the connecting bracket facing away from the original instrument panel, positioning the display panel between the two. This achieves a stacked installation of the display panel in front of the original instrument panel, without removing the original instrument panel. By preserving the original instrument panel dials and pointers and stacking the display panel in front of them, a non-destructive modification is achieved. No cutting or modification of the original vehicle structure is required, and the vehicle can be completely restored at any time without affecting its resale value. Furthermore, since it does not require disassembling numerous interior structural components for wiring or altering the dashboard structure, the modification does not constitute illegal modification and does not affect the original factory warranty or annual inspection pass rate.

[0011] Furthermore, the positioning and connecting structure includes side plates disposed around the periphery of the connecting frame, with snap-fit ​​and support portions disposed on the side plates. The side plates integrate snap-fit ​​and support functions, resulting in a compact structure that facilitates integral molding and assembly.

[0012] Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​part is a clip, the position of which matches the original dashboard trim panel snap-fit ​​position; the support part is a support block. The snap-fit ​​position matches the original trim panel snap-fit ​​position, so the installation of the connecting bracket does not require the addition of new mounting holes or snap-fit ​​positions on the original vehicle, achieving a perfect fit with the original vehicle structure and further ensuring the reversibility of non-destructive modification; the support block provides reliable support force, enhancing the vibration resistance of the connecting bracket under driving vibration environment.

[0013] Furthermore, the modified panel is detachably connected to the connecting frame via a pre-positioning structure. In a specific implementation, this pre-positioning structure includes a slot on the connecting frame and a plug on the display panel. The plug engages with the slot to pre-fix the modified panel before fastening. During installation, the plug on the display panel is aligned with the slot on the connecting frame and inserted, ensuring the modified panel is in the correct assembly position before the fasteners are tightened, thus achieving pre-positioning. This pre-positioning structure allows the modified panel to be accurately positioned before fastening, avoiding misalignment of mounting holes due to panel offset, significantly reducing assembly difficulty and improving installation efficiency. Simultaneously, pre-positioning ensures the relative positional accuracy between the modified panel and the connecting frame, resulting in a more precise and aesthetically pleasing final installation that matches the original vehicle's appearance.

[0014] Furthermore, the insertion rod includes a mounting base and a spring clip. The spring clip is mounted on the mounting base and has a slot. The spring clip snaps into the slot and is fixed in place by engaging with the wall of the slot. The spring clip's own elasticity keeps it firmly in place within the slot, and the engagement between the slot and the slot wall further enhances the stability of the insertion and prevents the insertion rod from accidentally coming out.

[0015] Furthermore, the spring is equipped with an abutment rod, and the mounting base has a limiting groove. The abutment rod is accommodated within the limiting groove, and the limiting groove drives the spring to move synchronously during insertion and removal. When installing the insertion rod, first install the mounting base of the insertion rod onto the display panel, then place the spring on the mounting base, allowing the abutment rod to enter the limiting groove. When the mounting base, carrying the spring, is inserted into the slot, the spring is pressed by the slot, ensuring the abutment rod is located within the limiting groove, while the abutment rod provides support for the spring. During disassembly, pulling the modification panel outward causes the limiting groove on the mounting base to drive the spring out of the slot synchronously with the mounting base via the abutment rod, effectively preventing the spring from being stuck in the slot due to excessive tightness and falling or being lost. This design significantly improves the reliability and convenience of disassembly and assembly, avoids the safety hazards caused by lost small parts, further ensures the core advantage of non-destructive modification that can be restored at any time, and reduces subsequent maintenance costs.

[0016] Furthermore, a connector is detachably mounted on the connecting frame, and the modified panel is fixedly connected to the connector using fasteners. Specifically, the connector is a thin-plate component, the connecting frame has a limiting part, and the connector has a connecting part, which is detachably engaged with the limiting part; the connector has connecting holes, and the modified panel has bolt holes corresponding to the connecting holes. Through the engagement of the connecting part and the limiting part, the connector can be easily installed on or removed from the connecting frame. By passing bolts or other fasteners through the connecting holes and bolt holes, the modified panel can be firmly fixed to the connector, achieving complete fixation. The thin-plate component is lightweight and occupies little space, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the assembly, conforming to the trend of automotive lightweighting.

[0017] Furthermore, the spacing between the connector and the retrofit panel is adjustable by replacing connectors of different thicknesses and / or inserts of different lengths. Specifically, different models of retrofit panels have different spacings between the connected display panel and the connector. By selecting connectors of different thicknesses and / or inserts of different lengths according to the actual installation depth requirements, a perfect fit between the retrofit panel and the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position can be achieved, ensuring the display panel reaches the ideal installation position. Spacing adjustment can be achieved by replacing connectors and / or inserts of different specifications, eliminating the need to redesign the connector, significantly reducing product development and mold manufacturing costs; simultaneously, it enhances the assembly's universal compatibility, covering more vehicle models and retrofit solutions, thus strengthening the product's market competitiveness.

[0018] Furthermore, a protective plate is installed on the display panel to protect the components of the display panel and prevent damage from accidental contact during installation or use.

[0019] Furthermore, the clearance space is formed in the hollow section in the middle of the connecting frame. The hollow section provides a larger clearance space, which can reliably accommodate the original vehicle instrument panel and pointers, ensuring that the display panel will not interfere with the original vehicle instrument when it is stacked and installed.

[0020] The installation method for the aforementioned automotive instrument panel assembly is as follows: Remove the original instrument panel trim panel. First, install the connector onto the connector bracket using the connection and limiting parts. Then, install the insert rod onto the corresponding display panel of the modified panel. Next, install the connector bracket onto the original instrument panel mounting position, securing it with the support block and clips. Fasteners can then be used to completely fix the connector bracket to the original instrument panel mounting position. Next, electrically connect the original instrument panel to the display panel, bringing the modified panel close to the connector bracket. Insert the insert rod on the display panel into the corresponding slot to pre-fix the modified panel. At this point, the connecting holes on the connector correspond one-to-one with the bolt holes on the modified panel. Finally, use bolts and other fasteners to achieve complete fixation. The bolt holes are not visible when the user is looking directly at the instrument panel.

[0021] By preserving the original instrument panel and pointers and using a protective plate for physical isolation, a display panel is superimposed while retaining the original instrument panel and integrating it into the design, achieving truly non-destructive modification. The connector bracket adapts to the original instrument panel mounting position, and the corresponding modification panel fits the original dashboard shape, eliminating the need for cutting or modifying the original structure. This allows the vehicle to be completely restored at any time without affecting its resale value. Since no wire cutting is performed on the original electrical system, and there is no need to modify the dashboard structure, the modification does not constitute illegal modification and does not affect the original factory warranty or annual inspection pass rate. The pre-positioning structure ensures accurate positioning of the modification panel before fastening, avoiding misalignment of mounting holes, reducing assembly difficulty, and ensuring a final aesthetically pleasing result. In particular, the spring in the insert, through the cooperation of the abutment rod and the limiting groove, provides support for the spring during insertion, enhancing engagement stability. During disassembly, the limiting groove drives the spring out simultaneously, effectively preventing the spring from falling off and being lost. By changing the size and specifications of the thin-plate connectors and plugs, the spacing between the connector and the modified panel can be adjusted, allowing the same connector to adapt to a variety of different models and installation depths of modified panels. This greatly reduces product development and mold manufacturing costs and enhances the product's market competitiveness. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the front-view structure of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the rear-view structure of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the overall structure of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the bolt hole structure of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the insertion rod structure of the present invention.

[0027] Figure label: 1. Connecting bracket; 2. Modification panel; 3. Display panel; 11. Connector; 12. Insert rod; 13. Side plate; 14. Hollow section; 15. Slot; 16. Limiting part; 111. Connecting hole; 112. Connecting part; 121. Mounting base; 122. Spring piece; 123. Limiting groove; 124. Abutting rod; 125. Slot; 131. Support block; 132. Buckle; 21. Bolt hole; 31. Protective plate. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention.

[0029] See Figures 1-5 This embodiment provides a car retrofit instrument panel assembly, including: A car modification instrument panel assembly includes a connecting bracket 1, a positioning and connecting structure, a modification panel 2, and a display panel 3.

[0030] The connecting bracket 1 is used for bridging the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position, and it has clearance space to accommodate the original instrument panel. A positioning connection structure is provided on the connecting bracket 1 to detachably fix the connecting bracket 1 to the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position. This positioning connection structure includes a snap-fit ​​part and a support part. The snap-fit ​​part is used to engage with a snap-fit ​​position on the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position, and the support part is used to abut against the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position. The modification panel 2 is detachably connected to the side of the connecting bracket 1 facing away from the original vehicle's instrument panel. The display panel 3 is disposed on the modification panel 2 and located between the connecting bracket 1 and the modification panel 2.

[0031] During installation, the connecting bracket 1 is first secured to the original vehicle's instrument panel mounting position via a snap-fit ​​mechanism. Simultaneously, the supporting part abuts against the original instrument panel mounting position to provide support. Together, these two components allow the connecting bracket 1 to be detachably fixed to the original instrument panel mounting position. Next, the modified panel 2, integrating the display panel 3, is connected to the side of the connecting bracket 1 facing away from the original instrument panel, positioning the display panel 3 between the two. This achieves a stacked installation of the display panel 3 in front of the original instrument panel, while preserving the original instrument panel without removal. By retaining the original instrument panel dials and pointers and stacking the display panel 3 in front of them, a non-destructive modification is achieved. No cutting or modification of the original vehicle structure is required, and the vehicle can be fully restored at any time without affecting its resale value. Furthermore, since no wire breaking is performed on the original vehicle's electrical system, there is no need to modify the dashboard structure. Therefore, the modification does not constitute illegal modification and does not affect the original factory warranty or annual inspection pass rate.

[0032] Furthermore, the positioning and connecting structure includes a side plate 13 disposed around the periphery of the connecting frame 1, with a snap-fit ​​part and a support part disposed on the side plate 13. By integrating snap-fit ​​and support functions through the side plate 13, the structure is compact and facilitates integral molding and assembly.

[0033] Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​part is a snap-fit ​​132, the position of which is consistent with the snap-fit ​​132 position of the original vehicle's dashboard trim panel; the support part is a support block 131. The snap-fit ​​132 position is consistent with the original vehicle's trim panel snap-fit ​​132 position, so that the installation of the connecting bracket 1 does not require the addition of new mounting holes or snap-fit ​​positions on the original vehicle, achieving a perfect fit with the original vehicle structure and further ensuring the reversibility of non-destructive modification; the support block 131 provides reliable support force, enhancing the vibration resistance of the connecting bracket 1 under driving vibration environment.

[0034] Furthermore, the modified panel 2 is detachably connected to the connecting frame 1 via a pre-positioning structure. In a specific embodiment, this pre-positioning structure includes a slot 15 on the connecting frame 1 and a plug 12 on the display panel 3. The plug 12 engages with the slot 15 to pre-fix the modified panel 2 before fastening. During installation, the plug 12 on the display panel 3 is aligned with the slot 15 on the connecting frame 1 and inserted, ensuring the modified panel 2 is in the correct assembly position before the fasteners are tightened, thus achieving pre-positioning. This pre-positioning structure allows the modified panel 2 to be accurately positioned before fastening, avoiding misalignment of mounting holes due to panel offset, significantly reducing assembly difficulty and improving installation efficiency. Simultaneously, pre-positioning ensures the relative positional accuracy between the modified panel 2 and the connecting frame 1, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing final installation.

[0035] Furthermore, the insertion rod 12 includes a mounting base 121 and a spring piece 122. The spring piece 122 is disposed on the mounting base 121 and has a slot 125. The spring piece 122 is inserted into the slot 15 and fixed by engaging with the wall of the slot 15 through the slot 125. The elastic force of the spring piece 122 itself keeps it locked in the slot 15, and the engagement between the slot 125 and the wall of the slot 15 further enhances the stability of the insertion and prevents the insertion rod 12 from accidentally coming out.

[0036] Furthermore, the spring piece 122 is provided with an abutment rod 124, and the mounting base 121 is provided with a limiting groove 123. The abutment rod 124 is accommodated in the limiting groove 123, and the limiting groove 123 drives the spring piece 122 to move synchronously during insertion and removal. When it is necessary to install the insertion rod 12, the mounting base 121 of the insertion rod 12 is first installed on the display panel 3, and then the spring piece 122 is placed on the mounting base 121, so that the abutment rod 124 enters the limiting groove 123. When the mounting base 121 with the spring piece 122 is inserted into the slot 15, the spring piece 122 is squeezed by the slot 15, ensuring that the abutment rod 124 is located in the limiting groove 123, and at the same time, the abutment rod 124 provides support for the spring piece 122. During disassembly, pulling the modification panel 2 outward causes the limiting groove 123 on the mounting base 121 to drive the spring piece 122 out of the slot 15 simultaneously with the mounting base 121 via the abutment rod 124. This effectively prevents the spring piece 122 from being stuck in the slot 15 due to excessive tightness, thus preventing it from falling or being lost. This design significantly improves the reliability and convenience of disassembly and assembly, avoids safety hazards caused by the loss of small parts, further ensures the core advantage of non-destructive modification that can be restored at any time, and reduces subsequent maintenance costs.

[0037] Furthermore, a connector 11 is detachably mounted on the connecting frame 1, and the modified panel 2 is fixedly connected to the connector 11 by fasteners. Specifically, the connector 11 is a thin sheet component. The connecting frame 1 has a limiting part 16, and the connector 11 has a connecting part 112, which is detachably engaged with the limiting part 16. The connector 11 has a connecting hole 111, and the modified panel 2 has bolt holes 21 corresponding to the connecting hole 111. Through the engagement of the connecting part 112 and the limiting part 16, the connector 11 can be easily installed on or removed from the connecting frame 1. By passing bolts or other fasteners through the connecting hole 111 and the bolt hole 21, the modified panel 2 can be firmly fixed to the connector 11, achieving complete fixation. The thin sheet component is lightweight and occupies little space, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the assembly and conforms to the trend of automotive lightweighting.

[0038] Furthermore, the spacing between the connecting bracket 1 and the modified panel 2 is adjustable by replacing the connectors 11 of different thicknesses and / or the inserts 12 of different lengths. Specifically, different models of modified panels 2 have different spacings between the connected display panel 3 and the connecting bracket 1. By selecting connectors 11 of different thicknesses and / or inserts 12 of different lengths according to the actual installation depth requirements, a perfect fit between the modified panel 2 and the original vehicle instrument mounting position can be achieved, allowing the display panel 3 to reach the ideal installation position. Spacing adjustment can be achieved by replacing connectors 11 and / or inserts 12 of different specifications, eliminating the need to redesign the connecting bracket 1, significantly reducing product development and mold manufacturing costs; at the same time, it improves the assembly's universal compatibility, covering more vehicle models and modification schemes, and enhancing the product's market competitiveness.

[0039] Furthermore, a protective plate 31 is provided on the display panel 3 to protect the components of the display panel 3 and prevent them from being damaged by accidental contact during installation or use.

[0040] Furthermore, the clearance space is formed in the hollow section 14 in the middle of the connecting frame 1. The hollow section 14 provides a larger clearance space, which can reliably accommodate the original vehicle instrument panel and pointers, ensuring that the display panel 3 will not interfere with the original vehicle instrument when it is stacked.

[0041] The installation method of the above-mentioned modified car instrument panel assembly is as follows: Remove the decorative panel of the original car instrument panel. First, install the connector 11 onto the connector bracket 1 through the cooperation of the connector 112 and the limiting part 16. Then, install the plug 12 onto the display panel 3 of the corresponding modified panel 2. Next, install the connector bracket 1 on the original car instrument mounting position. The connector bracket 1 is fixed by the support block 131 and the buckle 132. Subsequently, the connector bracket 1 can be completely fixed on the original car instrument mounting position with fasteners. Then, electrically connect the original car instrument and the display panel 3, so that the modified panel 2 is close to the connector bracket 1. Insert the plug 12 on the display panel 3 into the corresponding slot 15 to achieve the pre-fixation of the modified panel 2. At this time, the connecting holes 111 on the connector 11 correspond one-to-one with the bolt holes 21 on the modified panel 2. Then, the modified panel 2 is completely fixed with bolts and other fasteners. When the user looks at the instrument panel directly, the bolt holes 21 are not visible.

[0042] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A car instrument panel assembly, characterized in that, include: A connecting bracket is used for bridging installation at the original vehicle instrument mounting position, and the connecting bracket is provided with clearance space to accommodate the original vehicle instrument panel; A positioning connection structure is provided on the connecting frame for detachably fixing the connecting frame to the original vehicle instrument mounting position. The positioning connection structure includes a snap-fit ​​part and a support part. The snap-fit ​​part is used to cooperate with the snap-fit ​​part on the original vehicle instrument mounting position, and the support part is used to abut against the original vehicle instrument mounting position. The modification panel is detachably connected to the side of the connecting bracket that faces away from the original vehicle instrument panel; The display panel is disposed on the modified panel and located between the connecting bracket and the modified panel.

2. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positioning connection structure includes a side plate disposed around the periphery of the connecting frame, and the snap-fit ​​part and the support part are disposed on the side plate.

3. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The latching part is a buckle, and the position of the buckle is consistent with the buckle position of the original vehicle dashboard decorative panel; the supporting part is a supporting block.

4. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The modified panel is detachably connected to the connecting frame via a pre-positioning structure. The pre-positioning structure includes a slot on the connecting frame and a plug on the display panel. The plug engages with the slot to pre-fix the modified panel before fastening the connection.

5. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The insertion rod includes a mounting base and a spring piece. The spring piece is disposed on the mounting base and has a slot. The spring piece is inserted into the slot and fixed by engaging with the wall of the slot through the slot.

6. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The spring is provided with an abutment rod, and the mounting base is provided with a limiting groove. The abutment rod is accommodated in the limiting groove, and the limiting groove drives the spring to move synchronously during the insertion and removal process.

7. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The connecting frame is detachably provided with a connector, and the modified panel is fixedly connected to the connector by fasteners; the connecting frame is provided with a limiting part, the connector is provided with a connecting part, and the connecting part and the limiting part are detachably engaged; the connector is provided with a connecting hole, and the modified panel is provided with a bolt hole corresponding to the connecting hole.

8. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The distance between the connecting bracket and the modified panel can be adjusted by replacing the connector and / or the plug.

9. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, A protective plate is provided on the display panel.

10. The automotive instrument panel assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clearance space is a hollow section formed in the middle of the connecting frame.

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