Calibrated custom instrument gauge module and means for assembly
OwnerCraig A. Ayresinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A custom instrument gauge module is disclosed which replaces the OEM instrument cluster gauges sub-assembly and utilizes the original electronic circuitry for the unique customization of an existing instrument cluster. The custom gauge module is designed and calibrated to replace the original cluster graphics, gauges, and pointers, while maintaining the original cluster circuitry and, optionally, the molded housing. The flexible design and manufacturing of the custom gauge module allows the enhancement of existing instrument panels to have an upgraded appearance and additional functions, while maintaining and using the original cluster complex electronic circuit.
Claims32
A calibrated custom vehicle gauge module assembly for use in customizing an OEM instrument cluster, said calibrated custom vehicle gauge module assembly comprising:
- a support member;
- a plurality of gauge motors attached on one side of said support member;
- a custom graphic overlay on an opposite side of said support member;
- means for electrically connecting said gauge module assembly to interface with an OEM instrument cluster circuit board of an OEM instrument cluster;
- and
- a pointer calibrated onto each of said gauge motors, whereby movement of said pointers on said gauge motors replicates OEM instrument cluster pointer movement.
A calibrated custom vehicle gauge module assembly for use in customizing an OEM instrument cluster, said calibrated custom vehicle gauge module assembly comprising:
- a support member;
- a continuous custom printed circuit having multiple gauge motors, said continuous custom printed circuit being mountable on one side of said support member;
- a custom graphic overlay on an opposite side of said support member;
- means for electrically connecting said continuous custom printed circuit to electrically interface with an OEM instrument cluster circuit board;
- and
- a pointer calibrated onto each of said gauge motors, whereby movement of said pointers on said gauge motors replicates OEM instrument cluster pointer movement.
A method for forming a customized vehicle instrument cluster, said method comprising the step of:
- providing a calibrated custom vehicle gauge module assembly for use in customizing an OEM instrument cluster, said calibrated custom vehicle gauge module assembly including:
- a support member;
- a plurality of gauge motors attached on one side of said support member;
- a custom graphic overlay on an opposite side of said support member;
- means for electrically connecting said gauge module assembly to interface with an OEM instrument cluster circuit board of an OEM instrument cluster;
- and
- a pointer calibrated onto each of said gauge motors, whereby movement of said pointers on said gauge motors replicates OEM instrument cluster pointer movement.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.