Hinged Accessory Module for Instrument Cluster Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instrument clusters lack a suitable mounting mechanism for accessory modules that is gentle, secure, and reversible, particularly due to the fragility of display units and the need for secure attachment to withstand vibrations and pressure without damaging the cluster.
Innovation Solution
An accessory module with a hinged design comprising two pivotable parts, where one part contains a functional unit and the other an electronic control unit, allowing for secure clamping onto the cluster without fastening elements like screws, using a dead center mechanism to apply forces evenly and prevent slippage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the accessory module is directly attached to the cluster, then the mounting space is sufficient, but the display screen may be damaged due to excessive pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory module is divided into two separate parts: a first part that contacts the cluster and a second part that provides clamping force. This segmentation allows the clamping force to be applied indirectly through the hinge mechanism rather than directly pressing on the display screen, thus preventing damage while maintaining secure attachment in the limited mounting space.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge connection acts as an intermediary mechanism between the clamping force and the cluster. When the second part is pivoted to clamp the accessory module, the hinge transforms the clamping motion into a gentle pressing force on the cluster, preventing excessive pressure on the display screen while still achieving secure mounting.
2Reliability
If the accessory module is securely and rigidly mounted, then it withstands thrust and vibrations, but the attachment may damage the fragile cluster or display unit
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the accessory module into two parts with different functions, the first part can be designed to contact only robust areas of the cluster, while the second part provides the necessary clamping force. This segmentation allows reliable attachment without concentrating excessive force on fragile display areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge connection serves as a mechanical intermediary that decouples the clamping force from direct contact with the cluster. This allows the accessory module to be securely mounted with vibration resistance while the hinge mechanism protects the cluster from damage by controlling force transmission.
3Ease of operation
If the accessory module is easily affixed as a later add-on, then the attachment is reversible and simple, but the mounting may not be secure enough to prevent loosening over time
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge connection provides a dynamic mounting mechanism that is simple to operate (easy to open and close) but creates a secure attachment when closed. The pivotable nature of the hinge allows easy installation and removal, while the clamping action in the closed position ensures reliable attachment that prevents loosening from vibrations and thrust over the vehicle's lifetime.
4Reliability
If fastening elements like screws are used, then the attachment is secure, but the mounting mechanism becomes complex and may damage the display unit
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening function from traditional screw-based fastening elements and replaces it with a hinge-based clamping mechanism. This eliminates the need for complex screw assemblies and drilling operations, simplifying the mounting mechanism while maintaining secure attachment and preventing damage to the display unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism replaces the traditional mechanical fastening system (screws, bolts, nuts) with a pivotable clamping system. This substitution simplifies the mounting mechanism by using a single hinge component that provides both the attachment and securing functions, eliminating the need for multiple fastening elements and complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An accessory module for an instrument cluster comprises a first part and a second part hingedly connected to the first part. The second part is pivotable relative to the first part around a pivot axis between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position a contact surface of the second part is spaced apart from a contact surface of the first part such that the accessory module can be mounted to the cluster with the contact surface of the first part being supported against a first face of the cluster, wherein in the closed position the contact surface of the second part is forced towards the contact surface of the first part so as to clamp the cluster in between, and wherein the open position and the closed position are separated by a dead center.