Segmented Pointer With Light Guide For Central Display Area
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display instruments for motor vehicles face challenges in utilizing their central area for additional display functions without disrupting the visibility of the pointer, which is typically mounted on the side and obstructs the central view.
Innovation Solution
A display instrument design featuring a pointer with a basic structure that enhances rigidity and strength, allowing the central area to accommodate optical units like LCDs or OLEDs, where the pointer is supported by a light guide and a base frame, such as a kite or diamond-shaped structure, and a stepper motor is integrated to control the pointer's movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the pointer is mounted on the side of the display instrument, then the central area can be used for additional display functions, but the pointer structure becomes more complex and requires multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The pointer is divided into multiple parts: a pointer arm that rotates about the display scale, and a separate pointer flag that is movable relative to the pointer arm. This segmentation allows the pointer to be mounted on the side while keeping the central area free for additional displays, and enables independent optimization of each component's structure and function.
Solution Approach 2:
The pointer flag is designed to be movable not only radially but also in the axial direction relative to the pointer arm. This additional degree of freedom allows the pointer flag to clear the display scale during rotation, enabling side mounting without obstructing the central display area while maintaining simple structure.
2Shape
If the pointer is designed as a light guide, then the pointer appearance is improved, but the structural stability and alignment precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pointer is segmented into a pointer arm and a separate pointer flag, allowing the pointer flag to be designed as a light guide for improved appearance while the pointer arm provides the structural framework for stable mounting and precise alignment. The connecting means between them enable independent optimization of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting means act as an intermediary between the pointer arm and pointer flag, providing precise positioning and alignment features. This mediator ensures that the light guide pointer flag maintains accurate alignment with the display scale while allowing the structural pointer arm to provide stable support.
3Area of stationary object
If the pointer flag is made separate from the pointer arm, then the pointer can be mounted on the side without obstructing the central area, but the pointer structure becomes more complex requiring connecting means
Solution Approach 1:
The pointer is divided into a pointer arm and a separate pointer flag connected by connecting means. This segmentation enables side mounting that frees the central area for additional displays while the connecting means provide a straightforward mechanical linkage that minimizes assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pointer flag is designed with movable connection to the pointer arm, allowing it to move radially and axially. This dynamic design enables the pointer flag to clear the display scale during rotation, achieving side mounting without central obstruction while the movable connection simplifies the overall structure compared to rigid alternatives.
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
This design enables the use of the central area for additional display functions while maintaining clear visibility and providing precise and stable pointer alignment, allowing for a compact and efficient layout of components like stepper motors and circuit boards.
Implementation Method 1
the pointer is designed as a light guide, with at least the area of the pointer close to the coupling being supported by the basic structure
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a display instrument (1, 1') having a pointer (H, H') rotatably disposed about a pointer axis (2, 2'), having a pointer coupling part (74, 74') and a pointer head (70, 70') and at least one pointer segment (71 to 72) disposed between same. According to the invention, at least one of the pointer segments (71 to 72) is retained in a main structure (6, 6') between the pointer coupling part (74, 74') and the pointer head (70, 70').