Reconfigurable control device
AssigneeContinental Automotive GmbH
InventorsLing Chih TENG, Jason Choon Leng TAN
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A reconfigurable control device, in particular for use in a vehicle. Input keys on the reconfigurable control device allow a user to trigger different selection of modes. The control device is reconfigured by performing a first step of selecting a function mode by pressing one of the at least two input keys on the control device and a second step of selecting a function displayed on an array of mechanical switches. The selection of functions is refreshed with user trigger a fresh selection of mode.
Claims13
A reconfigurable control device, for use in vehicles, comprising:
- a display for supplying text and/or graphic information;
- an array of mechanical switches having at least an opaque portion,
- a housing unit, a surface of the housing unit comprising:
- a display opening for viewing a second section of the display-means;
- a recess for receiving the array of mechanical switches;
- at least two outlets, each of the at least two outlets for retaining at least one input key;
- and
- an electronic control unit for retrieving information from the array of mechanical switches and the input keys, wherein the at least one input key is configured for selecting a plurality of predetermined modes, and the array of mechanical switches are each configured for supplying a plurality of predetermined functions, and wherein the array of mechanical switches partially covers the first section of the display and the electronic control unit.
A method for reconfiguring a control device, for use in vehicles, wherein the control device comprises:
- a housing unit having a display;
- an array of mechanical switches of an opaque material;
- and
- at least two input keys,
- the method comprising:
- selecting a function mode by pressing one of the at least two input keys on the control device;
- selecting a function displayed on the array of mechanical switches for selection of a desired function from a plurality of predetermined functions, and
- reconfiguring the array of mechanical switches for selection of the desired function upon selecting the function mode by pressing one of the at least two input keys on the control device.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.