Editable Vehicle Instrument Panel Lens Frame System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle instrument assemblies are overbuilt, inflexible, and prone to incorrect installation due to the need for all possible icons and labor-intensive modifications when new options are added or existing options are not purchased, and they lack easy editability and correct orientation assurance.
Innovation Solution
An editable instrument assembly with a lens frame system that allows removably and slidably receiving lenses with cooperatively shaped icons, ensuring correct orientation and easy replacement or addition of icons, and a retaining assembly to prevent incorrect installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all possible icons and sockets are manufactured in the instrument assembly, then all potential options are covered, but the assembly becomes overbuilt and cannot be easily edited for new options
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument assembly is segmented into modular components: a reusable instrument panel and replaceable lens assemblies. Each lens assembly contains specific icons and can be independently swapped, allowing the system to adapt to different option configurations without replacing the entire instrument panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens assemblies are designed to be dynamically replaceable through the lens frame receiving assembly. This allows the configuration of icons to change over time based on purchased options or new features, transforming the static instrument panel into a dynamically adaptable system.
2Ease of operation
If the front face is permanently attached to the instrument panel, then structural integrity is maintained, but labor is expended when removal and reorientation are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The lens assemblies are pre-configured with specific icon arrangements before installation. The cooperatively shaped interfaces are also prepared in advance, enabling quick identification and installation without requiring complex alignment procedures during the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooperatively shaped lens frame and receiving assembly create a self-aligning system where the lens assembly automatically orients itself during insertion. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual alignment and reduces installation time while maintaining structural integrity.
3Ease of operation
If lenses are installed without orientation guidance, then installation is simple, but lenses are frequently installed in wrong orientation requiring removal and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The lens assemblies and receiving assembly feature asymmetric, cooperatively shaped interfaces that only fit together in the correct orientation. This asymmetric design provides built-in orientation guidance, ensuring that lenses can only be installed correctly without requiring complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooperatively shaped interfaces are designed to prevent incorrect installation attempts before they can occur. The asymmetric geometry creates mechanical interference that blocks wrong orientations, providing preliminary anti-action against installation errors.
Data Source
AI summary
An editable instrument assembly (100) for a vehicle. The editable instrument assembly includes a plurality of lenses (110), each lens having an icon (112) disposed thereon and a lens frame (108). The lens frame is adapted to removably receive each of the plurality of lenses. The editable instrument assembly also includes an instrument panel (102) comprising a lens frame receiving assembly (160) for removably and slidably receiving the lens frame with the plurality of lenses.