Vehicle instrument panel computer interface node
AssigneeChrysler Corporation
InventorStephen J. Buckley
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A communication system includes a miniaturized palmtop computer which is information-coupled to a programmable node positioned in an instrument panel of a vehicle. The computer is removably resident in a pod or pocket of the instrument panel and communicates with a node either wirelessly or via a connectorized bus. Redundant radio and HVAC displays form at least one surface of the pod for use by vehicle operators not using the computer option.
Claims18
A system for enabling communication between a stand-alone computer and an electrical system of a vehicle, the system comprising:
- a communication interface node mounted to an instrument panel of the vehicle and operative to exchange information with a computer;
- and
- a mounting pod positioned in the instrument panel adapted for removable receipt of the computer, the mounting pod including at least one wall for mounting display apparatus visible to an operator whenever the computer is not positioned in the pod.
A system for enabling communication between a stand-alone computer and an electrical system, including an ignition starting system, of a vehicle, the system comprising:
- a communication interface node mounted to an instrument panel of the vehicle and operative to exchange information with a computer;
- and
- a mounting pod positioned in the instrument panel adapted for removable receipt of the computer;
- wherein the system is operative to disable the ignition starting system whenever the computer is not positioned in the pod.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.