Vehicle display having a recharging module with an accessory interface - Patents.com

Abstract

The vehicle includes a host display having a graphical user interface incorporating a touch screen. At least a portion of the host display includes a charging interface. A docking port is disposed proximate to the host display. The docking port is configured to selectively couple with a portable computing device having a portable display. Engagement of the portable computing device with the docking port positions a portable display of the portable computing device in front of the charging interface of the host display. A controller of the host display is disposed in electrical communication with the portable computing device to charge a battery cell of the portable computing device. The engagement further adjusts the graphical user interface of the host display to selectively assimilate the portable display of the portable computing device to define the portable display as an adjunct display of the host display.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The device is in the field of vehicle displays, and more specifically, vehicle displays that include a recharging interface for charging a portable computing device such as a cell phone, tablet, or other similar device. In addition to the recharging capability, the vehicle display includes an attachment interface that allows the portable display of the portable computing device to be attached as part of the vehicle display. [Background technology]

[0002] In conventional vehicles, one or more displays are positioned within the vehicle's console, among other emerging spaces being used to house displays within the vehicle. These displays can take up a large amount of space to provide the necessary information to the vehicle's operators and passengers. These displays are typically in the form of digital displays that may have a touchscreen interface or other user interface controlled to operate the display screen and vehicle components. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle includes a host display having a graphical user interface incorporating a touchscreen. At least a portion of the host display includes a charging interface. A docking port is disposed proximate to the host display. The docking port is configured to selectively couple with a portable computing device having a portable display. Engagement of the portable computing device with the docking port positions the portable display of the portable computing device in front of the charging interface of the host display. A controller of the host display is disposed in electrical communication with the portable computing device to charge battery cells of the portable computing device. Engagement further adjusts the graphical user interface of the host display to selectively assimilate the portable display of the portable computing device to define the portable display as an adjunct display of the host display.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a user interface for a vehicle includes a host display having a graphical user interface, at least a portion of the host display including a charging interface and a touchscreen of the host display incorporating the graphical user interface. The docking port of the touchscreen is configured to selectively receive a portable computing device having a portable display. Engagement of the portable computing device with the docking port of the touchscreen positions the portable display of the portable computing device in front of a portion of the touchscreen that selectively defines the docking port. A controller of the host display is disposed in electrical communication with the portable computing device to charge battery cells of the portable computing device. Engagement further adjusts the graphical user interface of the host display to selectively assimilate the portable display of the portable computing device to define the portable display as an accessory display of the host display. Assimilating the portable display includes at least one of transitioning a hidden portion of the graphical user interface behind the portable computing device into an area surrounding the docking port of the touchscreen and transitioning the hidden portion of the graphical user interface onto the portable display. The touchscreen defining the docking port is operated via the portable display.

[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a charging surface for a vehicle includes a host display having a graphical user interface and a touchscreen of the host display incorporating the graphical user interface. The charging interface of the touchscreen is configured to selectively accept a portable computing device having a portable display. Engagement of the portable computing device with the charging interface of the touchscreen positions the portable display of the portable computing device in front of a portion of the touchscreen that selectively defines a charging port. A controller of the host display is disposed in electrical communication with the portable computing device to charge a battery cell of the portable computing device through the charging port. Engagement further adjusts the graphical user interface of the host display to selectively integrate the portable display of the portable computing device to define the portable display as an accessory display of the host display. The host display includes a light-emitting layer and a conductive layer between which electrons are transferred during use of the host display. Transfer of electrons within the charging interface is directed to the portable computing device to provide wireless charging via the charging interface of the touchscreen.

[0006] These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present disclosure will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon review of the following specification, claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0007] The following is a drawing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle display incorporating aspects of an accessory interface. [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle display of FIG. 1 showing the attachment of a portable display integrated with the vehicle display. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the transition of components of a graphic user interface for a vehicle display to illustrate the space occupied by a portable computing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of one type of vehicle display that can be used as a vehicle recharging interface. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating placement of a portable computing device on a vehicle display. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the assimilation of a portable display to be an extension of a vehicle display. [Figure 7] 1 is a linear flow diagram illustrating a method for recharging a portable computing device using a vehicle display. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Where necessary, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to detailed design, and some schematic diagrams may be exaggerated or minimized to show an overview of functions. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to employ the present invention in various ways.

[0010] For purposes of description herein, the terms "top," "bottom," "right," "left," "back," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and their derivatives shall refer to the present concepts as oriented in FIG. 1 . However, it should be understood that the present concepts may assume various alternative orientations, unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0011] The illustrated embodiment resides primarily in a combination of method steps and apparatus components related to a display screen within a vehicle, including a recharging interface and an attached capability for incorporating a portable display of a portable computing device that becomes part of the vehicle's display. Accordingly, where applicable, apparatus components and method steps have been represented by conventional numerals in the drawings showing only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the present disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Furthermore, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0012] The term "and / or," when used in a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be employed alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be employed. For example, if a composition is described as including components A, B, and / or C, the composition can include A only, B only, C only, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0013] In this document, relative terms such as first and second, top and bottom, etc. are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any such actual relationship or order between such entities or actions. "Comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus comprising a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises...a" does not, without further constraints, preclude the presence of additional identical elements in a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises that element.

[0014] As used herein, the term "about" means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not, and need not be, exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as appropriate, to reflect tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement error, and the like, as well as other factors known to those of ordinary skill in the art. When the term "about" is used in describing a value or endpoint of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or endpoint referenced. Regardless of whether a numerical value or endpoint of a range in the specification is described as "about," the numerical value or endpoint of the range is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by "about" and one not modified by "about." It will further be understood that each endpoint of a range is significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

[0015] As used herein, the terms "substantial," "substantially," and variations thereof are intended to note that a described characteristic is equal or nearly equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to describe a surface that is planar or nearly planar. Furthermore, "substantially" is intended to describe two values ​​that are equal or nearly equal. In some embodiments, "substantially" can describe values ​​that are within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other or within about 2% of each other.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "the," "a," or "an" mean "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless expressly indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, reference to "a component" includes embodiments having two or more such components, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0017] 1-7, reference numeral 10 generally refers to a host display incorporated within a vehicle 12. Typically, a vehicle 12 includes at least one host display 10, and typically includes multiple host displays 10 that provide various information to a user and also serve as interface points or user interfaces 14 to allow an operator or occupants of the vehicle 12 to control various components of the vehicle 12. These host displays 10 typically include digital displays and also include one or more touchscreen interfaces 16 or other user interfaces 14 that allow interaction with the host displays 10 of the vehicle 12 by occupants of the vehicle 12. According to various aspects of the device, the vehicle 12 includes a display having a graphic user interface 18 (GUI) that incorporates the touchscreen interface 16. At least a portion of the host display 10 includes a charging interface 20. In this manner, the host display 10 can also define a charging surface 114. A docking port 22 is disposed proximate to the host display 10. The docking port 22 is configured to selectively couple, at least electronically, with a portable computing device 24 that includes a portable display 26. When engaged with the docking port 22, the portable computing device 24 is positioned above the host display 10, obscuring at least a portion of the GUI 18 of the host display 10. Engagement of the portable computing device 24 with the docking port 22 positions the portable display 26 of the portable computing device 24 in front of a portion of the host display 10. Through this engagement, the controller 28 of the host display 10 is positioned in electrical communication with the portable computing device 24. This electrical communication activates a charging interface 20 that charges a battery 68, such as a battery cell, of the portable computing device 24.Engagement of the portable computing device 24 with the docking port 22 also adjusts the GUI 18 of the host display 10 to selectively integrate the portable display 26 of the portable computing device 24 and define the portable display 26 as an adjunct display 30 of the host display 10 of the vehicle 12. According to various aspects of the device, the docking port 22 and the charging portion 112 of the charging interface 20 are defined by the same portion of the host display 10. This charging portion 112 is an area of ​​the host display 10 that is obscured by the portable computing device 24. It is also contemplated that the docking port 22 can define or include the charging portion 112 of the charging interface 20. It is contemplated that the entire host display 10 can define the charging interface 20. In such aspects of the device, only those portions of the host display 10 that define the docking port 22 also define the charging portion 112 of the charging interface 20.

[0018] In certain device embodiments, the docking port 22 may be in the form of a physical feature that at least partially supports and seats the portable computing device 24 relative to the host display 10. Such support may be in the form of a shelf 70 positioned along or near the outer edge of the host display 10, as described more fully herein. The docking port 22 may also be defined as a portion of the host display 10, such as in the case of a horizontally positioned host display 10. In such a configuration, the docking port 22 is the portion of the host display 10 that is hidden, covered, or supported by the portable computing device 24, as described more fully below. Additionally, during operation of the vehicle 12, the portable computing device 24 may slide or otherwise change location relative to the host display 10. During such movement, the portable display 26 and GUI 18 of the host display 10 may adjust to this movement of the portable computing device 24. In this manner, the location of the docking port 22 and charging portion 112 of the host display 10 can change and adjust over time depending on where the portable computing device 24 is positioned and where the portable computing device 24 may move relative to the host display 10 during operation of the vehicle 12.

[0019] 1-6 , when the portable computing device 24 is placed over the host display 10, the portable computing device 24 obscures at least a portion of the host display 10 of the vehicle 12. In the case of a tablet, a significant portion of the host display 10 may be obscured. To accommodate charging of the portable computing device 24 without sacrificing or removing a portion of the host display 10 for the vehicle 12, the controller 28 for the host display 10 attaches the portable display 26 for the portable computing device 24 to temporarily function as part of the host display 10. Thus, those interactive portions of the GUI 18 that are obscured by the portable computing device 24 can be adjusted or mirrored to appear on the currently attached portable display 26 of the portable computing device 24. In this manner, the portable display 26 for the portable computing device 24 is transformed into an attached display 30, which is effectively part of the host display 10. This attachment includes not only the visible screen of the portable computing device 24 but also the touch interface 110 capabilities of the portable computing device 24. Thus, the portable computing device 24 may be assimilated into and attached to the host display 10 for the vehicle 12 through engagement with the docking port 22 .

[0020] This assimilation and attachment of portable display 26 occurs without distorting the host display 10 for vehicle 12. Thus, the interaction between portable computing device 24 and host display 10 does not cause distortion of GUI 18 in host display 10 other than the intended manipulation of GUI 18 between host display 10 and attached display 30, as discussed herein. In this manner, engagement of portable computing device 24 with host display 10 and assimilation of portable display 26 to become attached display 30 of host display 10 does not result in a loss of resolution of either host display 10 or portable display 26. These display degradations or distortions are minimized or eliminated entirely during engagement of portable computing device 24 with docking port 22.

[0021] As illustrated in FIG. 4 , which depicts a basic cross-sectional schematic diagram of a host display 10 having a light-emitting diode 82 (LED), organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, or other similar display, these host displays 10 utilize the flow of electricity in the form of electrons 66 traveling between various layers of the host display 10, such as between an anode 58 and a cathode 60 and through various light-emitting and conductive layers 62, 64, and other layers. These electrons 66, which may be in the form of electrons, ions, or other charged particles, typically travel within the layers of the host display 10 to generate photons to create visible light. Using the devices described herein, a charging interface 20 of the host display 10 allows these electrons 66 to travel through the top layer of the OLED screen of the host display 10 to provide wireless charging of one or more batteries 68. When a portable computing device 24 engages with the docking port 22, these electrons 66 are permitted to travel through the host display 10 and into the battery 68 of the portable computing device 24, functioning as a wireless charging interface 20 between the portable computing device 24 and the host display 10. These electrons pass through the display to the battery 68 for the portable computing device 24 without deactivating or changing the GUI 18 in terms of resolution. Those portions of the host display 10 that are covered by the portable computing device 24 remain active and can be mirrored on the attached display 30 of the portable computing device 24.

[0022] Only those portions of the host display 10 that are obscured by the portable computing device 24 are utilized to transmit electrons 66 to facilitate the recharging function of the host display 10. Therefore, those portions of the host display 10 that are not obscured by the portable computing device 24 remain unaffected by the positioning of the portable computing device 24 and operate without distortion. As described herein, the GUI 18 can be adjusted or tailored to correspond to the positioning of the portable computing device 24 to present the GUI 18 for use by the operator or other occupants of the vehicle 12. This interaction creates a generally seamless operation of the GUI 18 between the host display 10 and the accessory display 30 of the portable computing device 24. When the accessory display 30 is coupled to the host display 10, those portions of the host display 10 that are obscured by the portable computing device 24 can be inactive or can be active and remain undistorted. In either case, the visible portion of the host display 10 remains undistorted, and the charging portion 112 of the charging interface 20 operates continuously to charge the coupled portable computing device 24.

[0023] When portable computing device 24 is placed on host display 10 to define docking port 22 and charging portion 112 of charging interface 20, current delivered to the area of ​​the touchscreen of host display 10 that defines docking port 22 and charging portion 112 can receive charging current that provides not only operation of host display 10 but also the charging functionality of charging interface 20. As described herein, as portable computing device 24 moves relative to host display 10, the portion of host display 10 that defines docking port 22 and charging portion 112 of charging interface 20 can also change.

[0024] As discussed herein, the touch interface 110 of the portable computing device 24 is attached by the host display 10 for the vehicle 12 so as to be incorporated as part of or mirrored as part of the touchscreen interface 16 for the host display 10. Thus, interaction between an operator or occupant of the vehicle 12 and the portable computing device 24 can be used to adjust various controls of the vehicle 12 while engaged with the docking port 22. Engagement by the operator or occupant of the vehicle 12 with a portion of the host display 10 or a portion of the attached display 30 can accomplish adjusting or interacting with various features of the vehicle 12 via the GUI 18 of the host display 10 and the attached display 30.

[0025] 3 and 5-6 , in certain device implementations, placing the portable computing device 24 with the docking port 22 may also adjust the GUI 18 of the host display 10 to accommodate the placement of the portable computing device 24 on the host display 10. Accordingly, various icons 52 or other interfaces of the host display 10 may be manipulated and transitioned outside the perimeter 50 of the portable computing device 24. In such an example, the accessory display 30 of the portable computing device 24 may shift between operating as the touch interface 110 for the portable computing device 24 and operating as part of the touchscreen interface 16 for the host display 10. When the portable computing device 24 is adjusted to be the touchscreen interface 16 for the portable computing device 24, those icons 52 of the GUI 18 located within the accessory display 30 are transitioned outside the accessory display 30 and into the host display 10 for the vehicle 12. Accordingly, various features of the portable computing device 24 may be accessed as desired while the portable computing device 24 is engaged with the docking port 22.

[0026] This adjustment of the icons 52 of the GUI 18 may also occur when the portable computing device 24 is coupled to the docking port 22 but is deactivated. In this case, deactivation of the portable computing device 24 and the portable display 26 may prevent the above-described attachment. Thus, the GUI 18 of the host display 10 may be moved to an area outside the portable computing device 24. In certain embodiments, the docking port 22 may be positioned to obscure the less frequently used icons 52 of the GUI 18 within the host display 10, regardless of whether the placement of the portable computing device 24 is activated or deactivated. Thus, the GUI 18 may not be adjusted or modified in a significantly noticeable manner. The use of the less frequently used icons 52 of the GUI 18 may be achieved by moving the portable computing device 24, in this embodiment of the device.

[0027] It is also contemplated that when the portable computing device 24 is placed on the host display 10, the GUI 18 may be adjusted such that less frequently used icons 52 of the GUI 18 are moved, adjusted, or otherwise shifted to be located below the portable computing device 24. This may occur regardless of whether the portable computing device 24 is activated or deactivated. When the portable display 26 is activated, modification of the GUI 18 of the host display 10 may be used if a user may desire to access at least a portion of the icons 52 of the portable display 26 for the portable computing device 24. As discussed herein, the portable display 26 may be temporarily assimilated as part of the host display 10, defined as the accessory display 30. This accessory display 30 may be used to display the icons 52 of the portable computing device 24, the icons 52 of the GUI 18, or a combination of these icons 52 within the accessory display 30. When icons 52 for both GUI 18 and portable display 26 are adjusted to appear on attached display 30, less frequently used icons 52 for GUI 18 are located within host display 10 but can be shifted to be underneath portable computing device 24.

[0028] Additionally, shifting of icons 52 to be under portable computing device 24 may be done depending on the status of vehicle 12. Those icons 52 that may not be needed or used while vehicle 12 is moving may be moved to be located under portable computing device 24. When vehicle 12 comes to a stop, icons 52 in GUI 18 may shift again to place other or additional icons 52 under portable computing device 24.

[0029] If host display 10 is a horizontal display and docking port 22 is defined by any surface of host display 10 that is obscured by portable computing device 24, portable computing device 24 may slide along the surface of host display 10, such as when vehicle 12 rapidly accelerates or decelerates or makes a sharp turn. In such an example, GUI 18 for host display 10 may continuously adjust to accommodate such movement of portable computing device 24. This may include real-time adjustment of those portions of GUI 18 that are mirrored on accessory display 30. Additionally, this movement of portable computing device 24 may also result in a continuous shifting of icons 52 of GUI 18 during the movement of portable computing device 24. Alternatively, it is contemplated that during such movement of portable computing device 24, accessory display 30 may transform to the mirrored portions of host display 10 and GUI 18 until portable computing device 24 comes to rest on host display 10.

[0030] 1-3 and 5-6 , the docking port 22 can be a specifically defined location on the host display 10 so that placing the portable computing device 24 in a repeated and consistent location can result in engagement between the portable computing device 24 and the docking port 22. Various detents, mounting features, and other physical mechanisms can be used to mount the portable computing device 24 on the host display 10. By way of example and not limitation, the host display 10 can include a lower shelf 70 on which the portable computing device 24 can rest. This shelf 70 can include various mounting mechanisms for positioning the portable computing device 24 over a particular portion of the host display 10. These mounting devices can also be used to prevent sliding and other displacement of the portable computing device 24 during operation of the vehicle 12, such as while the vehicle 12 is being turned.

[0031] 1-3 and 5-6 , it is also contemplated that the portable computing device 24 may be located in any portion of the host display 10. In such an embodiment of the device, the docking port 22 may be in the form of a mobile interface 80 that activates wherever the portable computing device 24 is located on the host display 10 for the vehicle 12. A particular portion of the host display 10 may be used to detect the presence of the portable computing device 24 over that portion of the host display 10. This may be useful where the portable computing device 24 may be a smartphone, a tablet, multiple devices, or a combination thereof. Various light-emitting diodes 82 (LEDs) on the host display 10 may detect the presence and perimeter 50 of each portable computing device 24 and communicate with the controller 28 to attach each portable display 26 to become an accessory display 30 of the host display 10 for the vehicle 12. Thus, regardless of where a particular portable computing device 24 is located on the host display 10, that portable computing device 24 may be assimilated as an accessory display 30 for integration with the touchscreen interface 16 of the host display 10 for the vehicle 12. As discussed herein, this assimilation of the portable display 26 with the attached display 30 occurs without distortion of the host display 10 or the portable display 26 .

[0032] During use, an operator of the vehicle 12 can place their portable computing device 24, such as a smartphone, on the host display 10 and engage it with the docking port 22 of the host display 10. As an example, the portable computing device 24 can be positioned over the HVAC icon 52 of the GUI 18. When the portable computing device 24 is positioned in this location, the HVAC icon 52 of the GUI 18 can appear on the currently attached display 30 of the portable computing device 24. As discussed herein, engagement of the attached display 30 for the portable computing device 24 can be used to interact with the HVAC controls of the GUI 18 to adjust the passenger cabin environment. Specifically, when the operator of the vehicle 12 desires to interact with the portable computing device 24, the HVAC icon 52 of the GUI 18 can be transitioned to an area outside the perimeter 50 of the portable computing device 24, thereby making the controls of the portable computing device 24 accessible. The HVAC icon 52 of the GUI 18 that has transitioned outside the perimeter 50 of the portable computing device 24 is also accessible. To accommodate the space for the portable computing device 24, it is contemplated that the size, scale, and position of various components of the GUI 18 can be manipulated to accommodate engagement of the portable computing device 24 with the docking port 22. The GUI 18 can adjust to occupy or clear the auxiliary display 30 to allow manipulation of controls for the portable computing device 24. This adjustment can occur via voice commands, engagement of portions of the user interface 14, or other similar controls on the host display 10 or portable display 26.

[0033] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and 5-6 , the portable computing device 24 obscures a portion of the host display 10. Various sensors can be utilized to monitor and determine where the perimeter 50 of the portable computing device 24 resides above the host display 10. Various cameras can be used to determine the perimeter 50. It is also contemplated that various proximity, light, or other similar sensors can be incorporated into the host display 10 to monitor where the external boundary of the portable computing device 24 resides above the host display 10. Additionally, the location of the portable computing device 24 and its perimeter 50 can be determined using information stored within the vehicle 12 or on a cloud-based computing interface. This information can be accessed via any one or more of a variety of communication protocols, including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, NFC, RFID, Cloud, combinations thereof, and other similar protocols. The stored data can be related to the portable computing device 24, such as the device model, screen size, resolution, location, and other similar data. This data can be used by the controller 28 of the host display 10 to determine the size and position of the portable computing device 24 and details of any possible adjustments, mirroring, or other adjustments of the GUI 18 .

[0034] In determining the outer boundary 100 of the portable display 26, this can be used to ascertain the level of transition or distance of transition that the icon 52 for the GUI 18 must accommodate in order to move outside the perimeter 50 of the portable computing device 24. This can be accomplished through various memory functions, where parameters for a particular device can be stored in the memory of the vehicle 12 through the portable computing device 24 of the operator of the vehicle 12, or a particular user of the vehicle 12.

[0035] Using the docking port 22 of the host display 10, the portable computing device 24 is assimilated into the host display 10 and becomes an extension of the host display 10 itself. Thus, the controls and icons 52 of the GUI 18 that are typically operated through the touchscreen interface 16 for the host display 10 itself can now be operated through the auxiliary display 30 of the portable computing device 24. When the portable computing device 24 is removed from the docking port 22, the portable display 26 ceases to be the auxiliary display 30 and the host display 10 for the vehicle 12 returns to the exemplary state 150 of the GUI 18.

[0036] 1-6 , when the portable computing device 24 is engaged with the docking port 22, the portable computing device 24 is charged through the coil, and the portable computing device 24 typically indicates on the portable display 26 that the device is charging. Various features of the host display 10 and / or other portions of the vehicle 12 or device are used to check the periphery 50 of the portable computing device 24 to determine how the GUI 18 needs to be adjusted or what portions of the GUI 18 need to be communicated to the accompanying display 30 of the portable computing device 24. It is contemplated that the communication of electrons 66 through the host display 10 via the charging portion 112 of the charging interface 20 can be used as an indicator of what portions of the host display 10 are obscured by the portable computing device 24. If the portable computing device 24 includes a case 90 or outer bezel, certain portions of the portable computing device 24 will not be used to communicate the electronics 66 but will still obscure portions of the host display 10. As described herein, position detection mechanisms may be utilized to ascertain the outer boundaries of portable computing device 24 and any case 90 surrounding portable computing device 24 .

[0037] According to various aspects of the device, multiple portable computing devices 24 may also be used on the host display 10, with each portable display 26 of the various portable computing devices 24 being capable of becoming an accessory display 30 of the host display 10 of the vehicle 12. In certain aspects of the device, it is contemplated that the entire host display 10 of the vehicle 12 may be occupied by the accessory displays 30 of the various portable computing devices 24, or by a larger-sized portable computing device 24, such as a large tablet. When multiple portable computing devices 24 are disposed on the host display 10, it is contemplated that certain portions of the portable computing devices 24 may extend outside the boundary 100 of the host display 10. In such a situation, only a portion of the portable display 26 may define the accessory display 30 for the vehicle 12.

[0038] It is also contemplated that the auxiliary display 30 may transition outside the boundaries of the host display 10. By way of example and not limitation, the portable computing device 24 may be positioned partially relative to a portion of the host display 10 such that a portion of the portable computing device 24 also extends outside the boundaries 100 for the host display 10. In such a condition, the GUI 18 may transition to those portions of the portable computing device 24 that are above the host display 10 as well as those portions of the portable computing device 24 that are outside the boundaries 100 of the host display 10.

[0039] It is contemplated that the charging capabilities of the host display 10 may be utilized for the portable computing device 24. It is contemplated that the charging capacity may also be used for other devices. Such devices may include, but are not limited to, battery packs, laptops, wearable devices, and other similar rechargeable portable devices.

[0040] According to various aspects of the device, the host display 10, having charging capabilities and the ability to integrate and attach the portable display 26 of the portable computing device 24, can also be positioned outside the vehicle 12. In certain aspects of the device, a manhole cover can be integrated with the host display 10 as described herein. Such a host display 10 can be utilized to recharge the vehicle 12. It is contemplated that a vehicle 12, such as an electric vehicle 12 or other rechargeable vehicle 12, can be parked on a manhole cover having the configuration of the host display 10. Those portions of the host display 10 not covered by the vehicle 12 can continue to function as an undistorted host display 10 using the manhole cover's host display 10. If the manhole cover's host display 10 contains various information related to traffic or other occurrences in the area, this host display 10 can be communicated or coordinated to a separate display in another portion of the local environment or a separate display in a portion of the vehicle 12 for display by a separate, nearby attached display 30. These host displays 10, placed on a particular substrate (such as a manhole cover), can be used to charge any electric vehicle 12 or device, including, but not limited to, rechargeable scooters, rechargeable bicycles, rechargeable fixtures, and other similar devices as described herein that can be wirelessly recharged.

[0041] According to various aspects of the device, the wireless charging capabilities of a particular host display 10 can be utilized to operate as both the host display 10 and as a recharging interface 20 or other power interface for various vehicles 12, furniture, devices, and other similar mechanisms. This recharging capability occurs through the host display 10 and without distortion of the host display 10. Portions of the host display 10 that are covered by the portable computing device 24 or other mechanism can continue to operate. Portions of the GUI 18 that are obscured by the portable computing device 24 can be transitioned or otherwise moved to another portion of the host display 10 that is not obscured and integrated into or mirrored in the companion display 30 of the device being charged.

[0042] 1-7 , which illustrate various aspects of the device, a method 400 for charging a device utilizing a host display 10 for a vehicle 12 is disclosed. According to the method 400, a first step 402 involves placing the portable computing device 24 on the host display 10 for the vehicle 12. Once placed on the host display 10 for the vehicle 12, the controller 28 for the host display 10 communicates various authorization protocols with the portable computing device 24 (step 404). Various protocols are involved to enable access between the controller 28 and the portable computing device 24. Use of these protocols allows the portable display 26 for the portable computing device 24 to be assimilated by the host display 10 and become an accessory display 30 of the host display 10. Once these protocols are completed and access to the host display 10 is granted, the portable display 26 for the portable computing device 24 becomes an accessory display 30 that is an extension of the host display 10 for the vehicle 12 (step 406). The GUI 18 for the host display 10 of the vehicle 12 is adjusted (step 408) to integrate the accessory display 30. This may include either integrating a portion of the GUI 18 into a portion of the accessory display 30 or transitioning hidden portions of the GUI 18 to an area outside of the accessory display 30. In the latter embodiment, the portable display 26 for the portable computing device 24 may operate as the touch interface 110 of the portable computing device 24. The portable display 26 for the portable computing device 24 may also be a hybrid configuration.In such a configuration, a portion of the portable display 26 may function as a touch interface 110 for the portable computing device 24, and another portion of the portable display 26 may be attached to perform as part of the touch screen interface 16 for the host display 10.

[0043] According to various aspects of the device, the accessory display 30 for the portable computing device 24 can operate as both a portion of the GUI 18 and as a touch interface 110 for the portable computing device 24 itself. When the vehicle 12 is in motion, certain features of the phone may be hidden as they may not be needed during operation of the vehicle 12. By way of example and not limitation, using a driver mode, certain icons 52 for games and other potential operator distractions may be hidden from view during operation of the vehicle 12. Controls for the GUI 18 may be shifted onto the accessory display 30 such that only certain features of the portable computing device 24 are visible, in addition to various portions of the GUI 18 for the host display 10.

[0044] 1-7 , according to method 400, GUI 18 for host display 10 may be adjusted between occupying auxiliary display 30 as described herein, as in occupied state 152, transitioning out of auxiliary display 30 as in unoccupied state 154, or a combination thereof (step 410). When charging is complete or when an occupant or operator of vehicle 12 is ready to exit vehicle 12, portable computing device 24 may be detached from docking port 22 for host display 10 (step 412). Upon removal from host display 10, GUI 18 for host display 10 returns to its exemplary state 150, and communication between portable computing device 24 and controller 28 for host display 10 is at least temporarily terminated (step 414).

[0045] It is contemplated that communication between the portable computing device 24 and the controller 28 for the host display 10 may occur via a variety of communication devices, including, but not limited to, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and other similar wireless communications, as well as wired communications where the portable computing device 24 may be attached to the host display 10 via a cord.

[0046] According to various aspects of the device, the host display 10 used to provide the charging interface 20 to the portable computing device 24 can be located in various portions of the vehicle 12. Such locations can include, but are not limited to, a console 200, a dashboard 202, a headrest, an armrest, an overhead display, combinations thereof, and other similar and alternative locations within the vehicle 12. Vehicles 12 that can utilize the host display 10 and charging and accessory capabilities described herein can include, but are not limited to, family vehicles, ride-share vehicles, fleets, mass transit vehicles, and combinations thereof, as well as other support vehicles.

[0047] It should also be understood that changes and modifications can be made to the structure described above without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and further that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless those claims expressly state otherwise by their language.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: a host display having a graphic user interface incorporating a touch screen, at least a portion of the host display including a charging interface; a docking port disposed adjacent to the host display and configured to selectively couple with a portable computing device having a portable display; engagement of the portable computing device with the docking port disposes the portable display of the portable computing device in front of the charging interface of the host display; a controller of the host display is disposed in electrical communication with the portable computing device to charge a battery cell of the portable computing device; and engagement further adjusts the graphic user interface of the host display to selectively assimilate the portable display of the portable computing device to define the portable display as an attached display of the host display.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein engagement of the portable computing device with the docking port also disposes a touch interface of the portable computing device in communication with the host display.

3. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the attached display of the host display also assimilates the touch interface of the portable computing device, and the touch interface communicates with the host display.

4. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the docking port is defined by the charging interface of the host display.

5. The vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the docking port wirelessly communicates with the portable computing device via the touch screen.

6. The vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the docking port includes an outer edge of the host display.

7. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the charging interface is defined by the position of the portable computing device relative to the host display.

8. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the host display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED).

9. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the assimilation of the portable display includes shifting a hidden portion of the graphical user interface that is behind the portable computing device to an area surrounding the portable computing device.

10. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the assimilation of the portable display includes shifting a hidden portion of the graphical user interface onto the portable display, the portable display being incorporated within the host display, and the hidden portion of the graphical user interface being defined within the charging interface.

11. The vehicle according to claim 9, wherein the host display includes a light emitting layer and a conductive layer through which electrons are transmitted during use of the host display, and the transmission of the electrons within the hidden portion is directed towards the portable computing device to provide wireless charging.

12. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the host display is disposed on one of a console and a dashboard.

13. The vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the charging interface is selectively defined by any part of the host display.

14. A user interface for a vehicle, the user interface comprising a host display having a graphical user interface, at least a part of the host display including a charging interface, a touch screen of the host display incorporating the graphical user interface, the docking port of the touch screen being configured to selectively receive a portable computing device having a portable display. By engaging the portable computing device with the docking port of the touch screen, the portable display of the portable computing device is placed in front of the portion of the touch screen that selectively defines the docking port, The controller of the host display is arranged in electrical communication with the portable computing device to charge the battery cell of the portable computing device, Furthermore, by engagement, the graphic user interface of the host display is adjusted to selectively assimilate the portable display of the portable computing device so as to define the portable display as an attached display of the host display, The assimilation of the portable display includes at least one of shifting a hidden portion of the graphic user interface behind the portable computing device to an area surrounding the docking port of the touch screen and shifting the hidden portion of the graphic user interface onto the portable display, and the portion of the touch screen that defines the docking port operates via the portable display, a user interface.

15. The user interface according to claim 14, wherein the engagement of the portable computing device with the docking port of the touch screen also arranges a touch interface of the portable computing device that communicates with the host display.

16. The user interface according to claim 15, wherein the attached display of the host display also assimilates the touch interface of the portable computing device, and the touch interface communicates with the host display.

17. The user interface according to claim 14, wherein the controller wirelessly communicates with the portable computing device at least via the docking port of the touch screen.

18. The user interface according to claim 14, wherein the docking port selectively includes an outer edge of the host display.

19. The user interface according to claim 14, wherein a charging portion of the charging interface is defined within the docking port of the touch screen.

20. The user interface according to claim 14, wherein the host display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED).

21. The user interface according to claim 14, wherein the host display includes a light emitting layer and a conductive layer through which electrons are transmitted during use of the host display, and the transmission of the electrons within the hidden portion is directed to the portable computing device to provide wireless charging.

22. The user interface according to any one of claims 14 to 21, wherein the charging interface is selectively defined by any portion of the host display.

23. A charging surface for a vehicle, a host display having a graphic user interface, and a touch screen of the host display incorporating the graphic user interface, wherein a charging interface of the touch screen is configured to selectively receive a portable computing device having a portable display, the touch screen comprising: placing the portable display of the portable computing device in front of a portion of the touch screen that selectively defines the charging port by engagement of the portable computing device with the charging interface of the touch screen; a controller of the host display is disposed in electrical communication with the portable computing device to charge a battery cell of the portable computing device via the charging port; further by engagement, adjusting the graphic user interface of the host display to selectively assimilate the portable display of the portable computing device to define the portable display as an attached display of the host display. The host display includes a light-emitting layer and a conductive layer through which electrons are transmitted during use of the host display, and the transmission of the electrons within the charging interface is directed to the portable computing device to provide wireless charging via the charging interface of the touch screen, a charging surface.

24. The charging surface according to claim 23, wherein the engagement of the portable computing device with the charging interface also arranges a touch interface of the portable computing device that communicates with the host display.

25. The charging surface according to claim 24, wherein the attached display of the host display also assimilates the touch interface of the portable computing device, and the touch interface communicates with the host display.

26. The charging surface according to claim 23, wherein the charging interface wirelessly communicates with the portable computing device via the touch screen.

27. The charging surface according to claim 23, wherein the charging interface includes an outer edge of the host display.

28. The charging surface according to claim 23, wherein the charging interface is defined by the position of the portable computing device relative to the host display.

29. The charging surface according to claim 23, wherein the host display is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED).

30. The charging surface according to claim 23, wherein the charging interface is selectively defined by any part of the host display.

31. The charging surface according to any one of claims 23 to 30, wherein the assimilation of the portable display includes shifting a hidden part of the graphical user interface within the charging interface to an area surrounding the charging port.

32. The charging surface according to any one of claims 23 to 30, wherein the assimilation of the portable display includes shifting a hidden part of the graphical user interface within the charging interface onto the portable display, and the portable display is incorporated into the host display.

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