Modular Dashboard Assembly with Smart Back Plane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dashboard assemblies in military vehicles are inflexible and difficult to reconfigure for different mission variants, leading to inefficient operation and challenging equipment upgrades due to their rigid structure and fixed component placement.
Innovation Solution
A modular dashboard assembly with a smart back plane that integrates electrical and data communication systems, allowing for easy removal and replacement of control modules, including driver, center, and passenger modules, which can be configured to meet specific mission requirements without altering the underlying infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional single dashboard panel with fixed component placement is used, then structural stability and manufacturing simplicity are improved, but adaptability and ease of reconfiguration for different mission variants deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The dashboard assembly is divided into multiple independent control modules (driver module, center module, passenger module) that can be separately configured and installed. Each module contains specific controls and instrumentation relevant to its function, allowing the vehicle to be reconfigured for different missions by changing module combinations without redesigning the entire dashboard structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The dashboard assembly is designed with universal mounting structures and standardized interfaces that allow the same basic framework to support various control modules for different mission types. The smart back plane and modular architecture enable a single dashboard system to perform multiple functions across command, supply, control, reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and medivac missions.
2Ease of repair
If a rigid single dashboard panel structure is used, then manufacturing precision and structural strength are improved, but ease of repair and equipment upgradeability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The dashboard is segmented into removable control modules mounted on a stable back plane structure. This segmentation allows individual modules to be easily removed for repair or upgrade without compromising the overall structural integrity of the dashboard assembly. The modular design enables maintenance personnel to access and service specific equipment while the vehicle remains operational.
3Productivity
If fixed component placement on a single dashboard panel is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but productivity and operational efficiency for different missions deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The dashboard assembly transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Control modules can be added, removed, or repositioned based on mission requirements, allowing the vehicle to rapidly adapt to different operational roles. The smart back plane and standardized mounting mechanisms enable quick reconfiguration without extensive manufacturing or assembly work.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular dashboard assembly for a vehicle, such as a tactical vehicle, is described. In some cases, the dashboard assembly includes a smart back plane and removably attachable front modules. The back plane may facilitate communications between components within the front modules and systems with the vehicle, or between components.