Hybrid Vehicle Instrument Panel Region Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hybrid vehicles, drivers find it difficult to understand the traveling state and the possibility of engine start due to the unpredictable movement of pointers indicating engine start conditions, leading to unintended shifts from EV mode to HV mode.
Innovation Solution
A display device with distinct regions on a circular instrument panel, including a first region for EV mode, a second region for HV mode, and a third region indicating the possibility of engine start, where the third region is positioned close to the second region to clearly show the engine start output range, allowing drivers to easily grasp the traveling state and intended driving mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a pointer-based display is used to indicate engine start conditions, then the display can show current output and engine start threshold, but the pointer moves unpredictably causing drivers to misunderstand the traveling state and engine start possibility
Solution Approach 1:
The display scale is segmented into multiple distinct regions: a first region indicating EV mode where the engine is stopped, a second region indicating HV mode where the engine is operating, and a third region indicating the output range where engine start is possible. This segmentation transforms the continuous pointer movement into discrete, easily interpretable zones, resolving the contradiction by providing clear visual information while maintaining ease of understanding.
2Loss of information
If the display shows only current output without indicating engine start possibility, then the display is simple, but drivers cannot grasp when the engine might start unexpectedly
Solution Approach 1:
The display scale is divided into functionally distinct regions: the first region for EV mode, the second region for HV mode, and the critical third region that indicates where engine start is possible. This segmentation provides comprehensive information about engine start conditions while maintaining a relatively simple display structure that drivers can easily interpret.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the display scale are given different visual qualities and meanings. The third region, which indicates engine start possibility, is positioned between the first and second regions and can be visually distinguished. This local differentiation provides specific information about engine start conditions without requiring a completely complex display system.
3Measurement precision
If the pointer indicates a single threshold value for engine start, then the display is simple, but it does not account for the range of output where engine start may occur
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of showing a single threshold point, the display segments the scale into regions, with the third region specifically indicating the range of output where engine start is possible. This segmentation provides precise information about the engine start condition range while maintaining a simple regional display structure rather than requiring complex multiple indicators.
Data Source
AI summary
A display device, for a hybrid vehicle for displaying an output relating to traveling of the hybrid vehicle, includes a first region and a second region. The first region indicates the output in a first mode in which an internal combustion engine is stopped and the vehicle travels using an electric motor. The second region indicates the output in a second mode in which the internal combustion engine is operated to travel. The first region includes a third region positioned close to the second region and indicating the output at which the internal combustion engine possibly starts up.