Modular Vehicle Cluster with Removable Side Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle clusters require separate manufacturing methods for different regions and vehicle models, and there is a need to integrate liquid crystal display (LCD) and segment technology to improve their configuration.
Innovation Solution
A modular vehicle cluster design featuring a center module with a center display unit and removably coupled side modules, including a terminal insert groove and sealing unit, allowing for easy customization and adaptation to various vehicle models and regions, with LCD displays for speed, warning lights, weather, phone status, fuel, temperature, and multimedia information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate manufacturing methods are used for different regions and vehicle models, then the cluster can meet specific regional and model requirements, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cluster is divided into a center module and multiple side modules that can be selectively assembled. The center module contains common components (center display unit, speed indicator), while side modules contain region-specific components (warning light indicators, fuel indicators). This segmentation allows a standardized center module to be combined with different side modules for different regions and models, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The center module is designed as a universal component that can be used across different vehicle models and regions. The terminal insert groove and sealing unit provide a standardized interface that accommodates various side modules, creating a multi-functional assembly system that reduces the need for separate manufacturing lines for different cluster variants.
2Adaptability or versatility
If LCD and segment technology are integrated into the cluster, then the display functionality and information presentation are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The display system is segmented into different module types: center display units using LCD technology for comprehensive information display, and side modules using segment displays for specific indicators (fuel level, temperature, warning lights). This segmentation allows each display type to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall system configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal insert groove acts as an intermediary interface between the center module and side modules, enabling easy connection and disconnection of different display modules. This standardized interface simplifies the integration of various display technologies (LCD and segments) into a cohesive system without increasing manufacturing difficulty.
3Stability of the object's composition
If side modules are permanently fixed to the center module, then the structural stability is improved, but the ease of customization and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between side modules and the center module is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The terminal insert groove provides a stable mechanical connection during normal operation, while allowing for easy insertion and removal when customization or maintenance is needed. This dynamic connection approach maintains structural stability during use while enabling flexibility when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing unit mounted on the terminal part acts as an intermediary element that ensures a stable, sealed connection between modules during operation, while the overall terminal insert groove design allows for tool-free or simple tool-based assembly and disassembly, balancing stability with ease of customization.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables a flexible and adaptable cluster configuration that meets diverse regional and vehicle specifications, providing stable mounting and sealing while allowing for easy display style changes, enhancing functionality and compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing unit may include elastically deformable material
Data Source
AI summary
A cluster for a vehicle may include a center module including a center display unit, and a side module mounted to a side surface of the center module, and including a side display unit and the side module may be removably coupled to the center module.