DE102012020320A1 - Method for controlling programmable combination instrument i.e. dash panel, of motor car, involves actuating or driving dash panel such that dash panel is operated in two operating modes - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves actuating or driving a dash panel (100) such that the dash panel is operated in two operating modes. The first operating mode is used for exclusive or predominant presentation of non-selectable and/or activatable information (1-7). The second operating mode is used for exclusive or predominant presentation of selectable and/or activatable information. The dash panel is adapted to display the speed of the vehicle. Additional driving instructions of a navigation system are illustrated.

Description

The invention relates to a method for controlling a freely programmable instrument cluster according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

Combination instruments or short instrument cluster of a motor vehicle are used primarily for displaying important for the driver traffic or operating information of the vehicle, such as in particular the current driving speed and the current engine speed. Furthermore, it is customary today to display the current information or driving instructions of a navigation system on instrument cluster.

In addition, infotainment functions, such as telephony, or entertainment functions, such as MP3 and video, are increasingly finding their way into the functional range of today's motor vehicles. In order to represent the increasing diversity of information, instrument clusters are known which have one or more freely programmable display surfaces. Therefore, these instruments are often no more physical, analog instruments used.

An instrument cluster is usually arranged in the vicinity of the driver's primary field of vision. Usually it is located in the cockpit behind the steering wheel, where it is visible through an opening of the steering wheel.

From the WO 2008/108844 A1 a method for controlling a freely programmable instrument cluster with the features of the preamble of claim 1 is known.

The freely programmable instrument cluster can be operated according to a user's choice in five operating modes. In addition to a normal mode in this case a sports mode, a highway mode, a economy mode and a travel mode are provided.

The available default modes of operation differ in the appearance characteristics of the instruments displayed, such as their size, color, brilliance, shape, and arrangement.

In addition, it is also possible for the user to set a further personal operating mode in which the instrument cluster can be activated and stored in a retrievable manner.

The presentation characteristic of one or more instruments can also be changed depending on certain external criteria, such as the driving speed. Thus, for example, in sports mode, the speed display is enlarged and thus exposed, while in the travel mode, the display of the speed display completely omitted and instead the map of a navigation system is displayed.

From the DE 10 2005 035 481 A1 is also a freely programmable instrument cluster known, which in a method according to the features of the preamble of claim 1 controllable and switchable between three or more operating modes. The selectable modes of operation are primarily for variable representation of round instruments in conventional form, such as a speedometer, a speed indicator, and an analogue time display. Each of the representations is assigned a freely programmable display area. It is proposed to display data from a navigation system or infotainment information instead of the time on the corresponding display area.

The known methods for controlling freely programmable instrument clusters serve predominantly only to display information that can not be selected and / or activated. The possibility of a more extensive or comprehensive operation is the user partially provided by other display and input devices, which are usually arranged in the area of the center console.

The operation is thereby divided into more distant places, which can sometimes lead to increased distraction of the operator.

Again, in trying to focus on the instrument cluster alone, there is a great risk of overburdening the operator with an inscrutable menu depth and a wide variety of conditions.

Against this background, the present invention is based on the object to improve the known method for controlling a freely programmable instrument cluster according to the preamble of claim 1 such that a simplified operation is possible.

This object is achieved with the characterizing features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments or developments of the invention can be taken from the respective subclaims.

The invention is based on a method for controlling a freely programmable instrument cluster, wherein the instrument cluster is controllable or driven such that it can be operated in different operating modes.

According to the invention, it is provided that the instrument cluster can be operated in at least two operating modes, one of which is an operating mode for exclusive or at least predominant presentation of non-selectable and / or activatable information and the at least one other operating mode for exclusive or at least predominant representation of select and / or activatable information is used.

The operating mode for the exclusive or at least predominant presentation of information which can not be selected and / or activated should also be referred to as the "driving mode" and the at least one other operating mode for the exclusive or at least predominant presentation of selectable and / or activatable information as "operating mode" ,

This development of the prior art, the basis is created to keep the operation in a motor vehicle very "slim". The driver can thus be provided at any time a needs and driving situation appropriate information density.

In this context, the term "selectable and / or activatable information" should be explained in more detail:
This is such information which the operator can optically mark, for example, by means of a suitable input device or optionally also via voice input from a plurality of possibilities and subsequently execute a function associated with the correspondingly marked information by actuating a suitable input device (including voice input) or thereby can display a further display of further selectable and / or activatable information in the manner of a submenu.

A selectable and / or activatable information thus represents an input option, which is visually marked by the operator via an input device and by further actuation of an input device at least one of these input option associated function can be triggered.

A selectable and / or activatable information, for example, the contact entry in an address book, which can be marked by the operator and then edited or selected via a connected mobile phone.

In contrast, with no information that can not be selected and / or activated, the operator has no further input option available. As such information, for example, the representation of the current vehicle speed or the current engine speed to be considered. The representation of current driving instructions of a navigation system or the display of the remaining travel time or remaining distance to a given destination are for example expected to this.

The term "at least predominant representation" of one of the aforementioned types of information is intended to mean that at least approximately 80 percent, preferably at least approximately 90 percent of the information presented corresponds to this type.

An extremely expedient development of the invention provides that the instrument cluster is operated or operable in at least one further operating mode, which serves both to display information that can not be selected and / or activated and to display information that can be selected and / or activated. Such an operating mode should also be referred to as a "combined mode".

This allows the operator to demand only as much operator complexity as he needs at the right time and according to the situation.

The operating complexity thus increases gradually from the drive mode to the operating mode.

While the operator in driving mode, no or little control options are provided and thus the operator is not confused or distracted in the driving mode by operating options, the operator can be provided in the operating mode, a comprehensive operating structure with a variety of input options. The input options may extend over all functional areas of the motor vehicle, such as settings of possible operational data of the vehicle, such as the degree of hardness of a chassis, infotainment data, such as the setting of a route, to entertainment functions, such as for example, selecting and playing MP3 tracks.

Another embodiment of the inventive concept proposes, in the operating mode that serves for the exclusive or at least predominant presentation of selectable and / or activatable information, at least a majority of that information that can not be selected and / or activated, no longer on the instrument cluster but to be displayed or displayed using at least one other display or projection device.

Thus, it becomes possible for the operator on the instrument cluster to make use of maximum operating complexity while doing so At the same time directly driving or operational information, such as the current speed can still keep track of.

The at least one other display or projection device can be embodied, for example, as a display that can be extended from the instrument panel (so-called head-up display) or else as a projection device that projects the required information onto the windshield. The location of the head-up display or the projected information is preferably above the instrument cluster on the instrument panel or on the windshield, so that the operator can retrieve this information in the immediate vicinity of the instrument cluster, ie in his primary field of view.

It has proved to be expedient that in the operating mode which serves exclusively or at least predominantly to display information that can not be selected and / or activated, at least one driving speed is displayed on the instrument cluster or can be displayed. The driving speed is one of the most important information for the driver in order to be able to behave properly.

In this case, in addition at least one engine speed can be displayed, whereby the driver, in particular in a sporty vehicle for him usually the most important driving information is provided.

Optionally, it is also expedient to additionally present at least driving instructions of a navigation system, whereby the driver can be given the generally most important information for the safe and traffic-correct attainment of his destination.

The presentation of the driving speed and / or the engine speed can advantageously take place in the manner of a round instrument. Round instruments are known and familiar to most operators and therefore guarantee a good recording of the information presented. The representation in the manner of a round instrument also includes 3D representations in the manner of tubes and also half-open curves, wherein the term "round" does not have to mean circular, but also includes curve-like representations.

It has proved to be very advantageous if, in the case of a change from the operating mode which serves exclusively or at least predominant presentation of information which can not be selected and / or activated, to the operating mode which is used both for displaying non-selectable and / or activatable information Information as well as for the presentation of selectable and / or activatable information is used, the representation of the vehicle speed and / or the engine speed and / or the driving instructions is moved and / or reduced.

In this way, the change between the driving mode and the combined mode can be realized very elegantly and quickly detectable for the driver.

Preferably, the display of information that can be selected and / or activated here takes place on the outside from the representation of the speed and / or the engine speed. This also facilitates an exposed representation of the vehicle speed and / or the engine speed in the combined mode, so that the operator can continue to capture this information quickly.

It is advantageous if, according to another development of the invention, it is provided that, starting from the operating mode which serves for the exclusive or at least predominant representation of information which can not be selected and / or activated, a change into the operating mode is provided for the representation is used by non-selectable and / or activatable information as well as for the presentation of selectable and / or activatable information, then takes place when an input request is registered. An input request of the operator is registered by the "system" in particular when it actuates an input device associated with the instrument cluster. Such an input device may, for example, a touch-sensitive input surface, such. As a touchpad, a key switch or a rotatable and depressible control roller. Also, a voice input is conceivable, which can serve as an input device, for example, a suitable microphone.

Thus, for example, then switched from the default initially activated driving mode in the combined mode as soon as the driver enters a letter on a touchpad of the steering wheel or calls by voice input the name of a contact.

In the first case, a search is activated and all media with the selected initial letter are displayed on the instrument cluster, while in the second case an address book is opened and, if appropriate, the named contact or similar sounding contacts are displayed for selection and more in-depth editing.

A selection of selectable and / or activatable information is preferably carried out by Touching at least one touch-sensitive input surface and / or by rotating at least one control roller and the activation of a selected information by depressing at least one touch-sensitive input surface and / or at least one control roller. Due to this operating concept, operating errors can be minimized even in the case of a vibration-laden driving operation.

The invention also relates to a freely programmable instrument cluster, which is controlled by the method according to the invention or is controllable. Such a freely programmable instrument cluster preferably has a single freely programmable display surface which extends almost over the entire surface facing the driver or operator. The freely programmable instrument cluster can thus be operated optimally by the method according to the invention.

Furthermore, the invention also relates to a motor vehicle with at least one freely programmable instrument cluster, which is controlled or controllable by the method according to the invention, wherein at least one input device for selecting and / or activating one of the operating modes and at least one input device for selection and / or activation one of the selectable and / or activatable information is present.

Such a motor vehicle can provide the driver with a complex operating concept, which he can call up as needed.

According to a development of the motor vehicle according to the invention, the input devices are exclusively part of a steering wheel. All necessary for the complex operating concept controls or input devices are thus placed exclusively on serving as a so-called multifunction steering wheel.

Controls on a center console, as often common, can be kept to a minimum. Despite sporting or even intentionally "Spartan" embodiment of a motor vehicle, the realization of a complex operating concept is still possible.

Preferably, the input devices on the steering wheel consist of a combination of at least one touch-sensitive input surface, at least one depressible, touch-sensitive input surface, at least one push-button or rocker button and at least one rotatable and depressable control roller.

It is very advantageous to arrange the input devices on the steering wheel in different levels, for example, the required for operating the combined mode input devices are closer to the driver, as required for operating the operating mode input devices.

The input devices, which the driver often requires, are thus positioned closer and more accessible to the driver.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and will be explained in more detail in the following description. Here, the same reference numerals refer to the same, comparable or functionally identical components, with corresponding or comparable properties and advantages are achieved, even if a repeated description is omitted.

It show, each schematically

1 a freely programmable instrument cluster according to the invention, which is activated in the drive mode,

2 a freely programmable instrument cluster, which is activated in the drive mode, but in another embodiment,

3 the freely programmable instrument cluster according to 1 , which is controlled in combined mode,

4 the freely programmable instrument cluster according to 1 , which is controlled in operating mode,

5 the representation of one from the operating mode according to 4 producible pop-up menus,

6 a freely programmable instrument cluster, which is activated in the drive mode, in a further embodiment,

7 the presentation of the instrument cluster according to 6 , which is controlled in combined mode,

8th the freely programmable instrument cluster according to 6 , which is controlled in operating mode,

9 the representation of a multifunction steering wheel, which control or input devices for operating the freely programmable instrument cluster according to 1 and displaying three possible operating modes,

10 the representation of a part of the multifunction steering wheel according to view X from 9 and

11 a motor vehicle with an operable according to the method of the invention, freely programmable instrument cluster.

First, it will open 1 Referenced. This is a freely programmable instrument cluster 100 shown, which has a single freely programmable display area F. The display surface F extends substantially over the entire, an operator-facing surface of the instrument cluster 100 , Also conceivable are a plurality of individual, controllable display surfaces, but maximum flexibility can be achieved with the solution shown.

The instrument cluster 100 is controlled in this figure in "driving mode". In this mode, in the exemplary embodiment, only such information is displayed on the display surface F that can not be selected and / or activated by the operator via corresponding input devices. The displayed information shows an analogue speed display 1 , an analog speed display 2 , each with a rotation pointer 3 to display the value and between these two indications 1 . 2 driving information 4 a navigation system, in particular a driving instruction 5 ,

Deviating from the embodiment, however, is also conceivable that even in the driving mode, the one or other information is displayed on the display surface F, which is selectable and / or activated, for example, a trip odometer, which displayed in driving mode, selectable and reset to the value zero is. However, in the drive mode, the presentation of information that can not be selected and / or activated will significantly outweigh.

It can be seen that the ads 1 and 2 are shown in the style of conventional round instruments. In particular, they have a circular outline, which only in the field of driving information 4 is interrupted.

Instead of the circular, half-open presentation of the ads 1 . 2 Other representations are conceivable, which may include, for example, corners and curve-like sections.

The ads 1 . 2 each have scaling lines S, which are provided with a kink K, whereby a special 3D effect can be achieved. The ads 1 . 2 have in this way the appearance of tube-like round instruments, as they are used in particular in sports cars.

Below the above mentioned driving instructions 4 be a driving time 6 to the destination and right next to it a distance 7 digitally displayed to the destination.

All the above described information displayed in the driving mode on the display surface F, the driver can only take note.

In 2 becomes an instrument cluster 100 also driven in the driving mode, in contrast to 1 a digital speedometer 8th and a digital speed display 9 available.

3 now shows a state in which, starting from the driving mode, the instrument cluster 100 according to 1 in "combined mode" is controlled.

In this mode, in addition to information that the operator can neither select nor activate, and thus only take note of, such information is also displayed, under which the operator can select and activate it.

Compared to the driving mode, the speed display and the speed display are now reduced in size ( 1' . 2 ' ). The representations are also shifted slightly towards each other. The original condition ( 1 . 2 ) is additionally dashed lines, which is also indicated by arrows, the reduction.

In combined mode, the information between which the user can select and activate is now radially outward of the speed display still shown as conventional round instruments 1' and the speed indicator 2 ' seen.

Thus, the left side of the speed indicator is radially on the left 1' five input options 10 to 14 and right radially outward of the speed indicator 2 ' five input options 20 to 24 seen.

With the input option 10 the user receives the possibility of the combined mode in the driving mode (see. 1 ) to return.

Pressing one of the input options 11 to 14 offers the operator the opportunity to switch from combined mode to operating mode, which provides a more complex operator level, as explained later.

Each of the input options 11 to 14 shows in combined mode a currently set or valid value for a functional area, which can be operated more fully upon activation of the respective input option.

This is the input option 11 Connected to the "Phone" function area and displays the currently selected mobile network as well as the quality of the network connection. The input option 12 is assigned to the function area "Auto" and displays the current range until the required refueling. The input option 13 is assigned to the "Media" function area and indicates that a title of a selected artist is currently being played. Finally, the input option 14 assigned to the function area "Navigation" and displays the expected arrival time at the destination.

The information from the assigned functional areas, each with the input options 11 to 14 are to be displayed, can be set via input options at a lower input level (not shown).

With the input options 10 to 14 So is a kind of menu navigation possible.

The input options 20 to 24 are preset settings (presets) with which the operator can make entries or changes to a limited extent.

So offers the input option 20 the ability to control the temperature of the heater. The input option 21 offers the possibility to change the ventilation in its intensity.

By the input option 22 the possibility is created to repeat the last call made by a connected mobile phone. With the input option 23 a change of the music interpreter can be made.

Finally, the input option offers 24 the ability to change the current destination.

Once with an appropriate input device (described in more detail later) one of the input options 20 to 24 is selected and activated, appears between the round instruments 1' . 2 ' temporarily a limited possibility of operation in the form of further input options (not shown in detail).

In the view shown are the input options 13 and 21 each selected by means of a cursor C. However, these input options are not activated yet.

It should be noted that instead of the input options 20 to 24 (Presets) in a lower operating level by the operator also other presets can be set (not shown).

Between the round instruments 1' and 2 ' In combined mode, as can be seen, information about the currently selected input options 11 to 14 shown.

So with numeral 15 the one with the input option 13 connected functional area, in this case the functional area "media".

With the ad 16 becomes the currently selected title, with the indicator 17 the selected artist, with the ad 18 the cover of the selected album and the ad 19 the album is displayed in plain text. This data is only temporary when operating the input options 20 - 24 "overwritten".

Below these representations can continue to travel time 6 and the distance 7 to the destination.

With a suitable input device (to be described later), the user can place the cursor C between the input options 10 to 14 and thus make a preselection, which, depending on the position of the cursor C, between the round instruments 1' and 2 ' change the context of the displayed information.

To change to the operating mode, the operator must select one of the input options 11 to 14 select and activate.

In 4 is an activation of the input option 13 shown. This activation therefore results in a change from combined mode to operating mode.

On the display area F, in the exemplary embodiment, only selectable and / or activatable information, that is to say input options, are represented in this embodiment, wherein the activation of the input option results in the activation of the input option 13 out 3 the user has entered operating mode for the "Media" function area.

The circular instruments still shown in the combined mode 1' . 2 ' as well as the ads still visible there 15 to 19 (see. 3 ) are no longer displayed. Instead, on the previously used area of the display area F, selectable and activatable information is displayed, which is used as context for input options now displayed on the right-hand side of the input area F. 32 to 36 appear.

So become the input option 29 , which corresponds to the functional area "Media", corresponds to the input option "CD" on the right side 32 , the input option "DVD" 33 , the input option "MP3" 34 , the input option "genre" 35 and the input option "Rock" 36 shown.

In the 4 is the input option "MP3" 34 selected (see cursor C) and already activated, so that in the middle area of the display area F all available MP3 files in the form of the associated album 18 be presented as a cover. The currently playing title or the associated cover 18 is highlighted graphically by means of unspecified numbered frames.

A suitable input device, for example a touchpad, can be used between the illustrated covers 18 be navigated or a vertical or horizontal scrolling be exercised.

Before the input option "Rock" 36 A check mark is set to indicate that all MP3 files with the attribute "Rock" are displayed at the moment.

When selecting and activating the input option 36 This filter can be deactivated immediately so that all available MP3 files are displayed. The same can be done with the input option 36 Reactivate this filter immediately.

When selecting and activating the genre input option 35 A pop-up window opens, allowing you to select and activate a larger number of filters or genres. The genre selected there will be returned to the in 4 displayed view in the input option 36 again shown and marked with a check mark.

With the input options "CD" 32 and "DVD" 33 are similar to the input option "MP3" 34 the media that can be selected and activated in the center of the display area F can be displayed.

To use the in the operating mode (see 4 and also 5 ) to display existing operating complexity, without the driver to withhold the most important driving information, the speed indicator 1' and the speed indicator 2 ' shown on another display device. This will be explained later.

Notwithstanding the embodiment, even in the operating mode, one or the other not selectable and / or activatable information can be displayed. For example, it is conceivable that placeholders 25 and 26 be provided for the speed display and the speed display, which indicate such a "swap" (indicated by dashed lines). It is also conceivable to display this information for orientation over the selected title or artist ( 16 and 17 , also indicated by dashed lines). However, in the operating mode, the presentation of selectable and / or activatable information will significantly outweigh.

Also in the operating mode according to 4 is navigating between the input options via a suitable input device (to be described later) 10 such as 27 to 31 possible. Accordingly, the cursor C. shifts.

In the illustrated operating mode is using the input options 27 to 31 a direct indication of the functionalities associated with the input options.

So can with the input option 10 be returned immediately to the drive mode, with the input option 27 can phone settings, with the input option 28 Auto settings and with the input option 30 Navigation settings are made.

With the input option "Search" 31 a direct search can be called. This can be done via a suitable input device, such as a touchpad, a single or multi-character input, which is also displayed on the display surface F during the input. If the search is confirmed then, depending on the active input option 27 . 29 or 30 , all telephone numbers, contacts, media or even destinations to be selected and further edited with an entered number, an entered letter or an entered character string.

Coming back to the currently selected input option "Media" 29 and the album highlighted as selected (Cover) 18 , This representation can be activated by means of a suitable input device in another pop-up menu according to 5 be transferred, with even more detailed information will now be presented.

Thus, the display is enlarged centrally and greatly 18 of the selected album (cover). On the left, they become the album 18 belonging title 16 shown. The selected title (title 3 ) is graphically highlighted with a cursor C, the selected title 16 , the interpreter 17 , the album 19 in plain text and the year of publication 42 optionally additionally to the right of the display 18 of the selected album. Unselected albums 18 be considered "Not selected" moved into the background (see dashed line).

Furthermore, on the right side of the display area F are input options 37 to 41 shown.

The input option 37 allows a random playback, the input option 38 a title return, the input option 39 a playback or a playback stop of the title, the input option 40 a title lead and the input option 41 a return to the previous menu (compare 4 ).

The input options shown on the left 10 such as 27 to 31 remain the same and allow navigation at any depth of operation between the functional areas shown ( 27 to 30 ), a return to the driving mode ( 10 ) or calling a direct search ( 31 ).

The operation of other functions in the "Media" function area or in the other functional areas "Telephone", "Auto", "Media" or "Navigation" shall not be further described as this is no longer necessary for the understanding of the invention and in a similar manner he follows.

Instead, it should be based on 6 again a programmable instrument cluster 100 which is controlled in a driving mode according to an alternative embodiment.

Here, on the display surface F is only a speed indicator 1 shown. In addition, a cooling water temperature gauge 43 and a motor oil temperature gauge 44 , also in the style of conventional round instruments shown.

If you change to the combined mode in this embodiment, then the instrument cluster 100 controlled so that it in a view according to 7 replaced.

As can be seen, in combined mode, the speed indicator becomes 1 greatly reduced and moved to the bottom of the display area F (see. 1' ). Turn left or right on the display surface F turn the input options 10 to 14 respectively. 20 to 24 shown. Their operation and function has already been described and therefore need not be explained again.

Above the speedometer 1' are again the ads 15 to 17 such as 19 shown.

By activating the currently selected (see Cursor C) input option 13 the operator enters the operating mode according to 8th ,

The operating mode is similar to 4 illustrated operating mode. Therefore, the input options are 10 . 27 to 31 such as 32 to 36 only hinted.

Optionally, here again can be a placeholder 25 be provided on the now outsourced to another display device speed indicator 1 points. The mentioned temperature displays 43 and 44 are no longer displayed on any display in this operating mode.

In 9 is summarized again the process of the invention described:
This is the freely programmable instrument cluster 100 can be controlled via various input devices, which are exclusively connected to a multifunction steering wheel 300 are arranged. This is a very "central" and "sporty" operation possible.

In detail, the multifunction steering wheel 300 a steering wheel rim 302 on, which with a baffle pot 301 over a left, horizontal spoke 303 and a right, horizontal spoke 304 connected is. On the left spoke 303 is on the left outside a pushable touchpad 305 arranged, which is narrow and strip-like in plan view. Right next to it is one in comparison to the touchpad 305 large touchpad 307 arranged.

Similarly, the right steering wheel spoke points 304 an outer, narrow and depressible touchpad 306 and a large touchpad on the left side 308 on.

Above the right spoke 304 , and at the height of the baffle 301 is at this ( 301 ) a wing-like element 313 arranged (compare 10 ), on which two pushbuttons 310 and between these a rotatable and rotatable control roller 312 are attached.

In the same way are above the left steering wheel spoke 303 pushbuttons 309 and a control roller 311 available.

The on the steering wheel spokes 304 respectively. 303 arranged touchpads 308 and 306 respectively. 307 and 305 are a first, "lower" control plane E1 and on the wing-like element 313 arranged controls a second, "upper" operating level E2 assigned (see. 10 ). The operating plane E2 is in a plan view of the steering wheel 300 closer to the operator than the operator level E1.

By default, the setting is designed so that when starting the motor vehicle, the instrument cluster 100 is controlled in a "driving mode" M1 (see. 1 . 2 and 6 ).

Now the driver touches one of the input devices 305 to 312 , the "system" starts from a wanted input of the driver and goes into a "combined mode" M2 (see also 3 and 7 ).

In the combined mode M2 is an operation or navigation between the input options 10 to 14 only via the pushbuttons 309 , an activation of the same only on the control roller 311 , a navigation through the input options 20 to 24 only via the pushbuttons 310 and their activation only via the control roller 312 possible.

Even with a voice input via a not-shown microphone, the system goes into the combined mode M2.

When activating one of the input functions 10 to 14 through the control roller 311 the system changes to an "operating mode" M3 (see also 4 and 8th ). If necessary, you can do this on the instrument cluster beforehand 100 displayed speed displays 1 , Speed Indicators 2 and / or driving instructions 5 on another display device 200 shown, for example, as above the steering wheel 300 , from the instrument panel extendable display (head-up display) can be formed.

In the operating mode M3 can by means of the touchpad 305 through the input options 10 respectively. 27 to 31 be navigated and thus changed at any time in the driving mode or switched between functional areas on a complex operating level.

Using the touchpad 306 is a navigation between the input options shown on the right outside of the display area F (for example 32 to 36 ) possible.

The selected input option is activated by depressing the touchpad 305 respectively. 306 or the control roller 311 respectively. 312 ,

The input of a character or a string is in the operating modes M2 and M3 via one of the touchpads 307 or 308 possible.

With the illustrated embodiment is therefore exclusively on the steering wheel 300 arranged controls a complex operating concept feasible, ranging from an operating mode M1 with minimal operating complexity up to an operating mode M3 with maximum operating complexity.

Most advantageous in this context is the outsourcing of important driving and operating information (in particular speed indicator 1 , Speed display 2 and / or driving instructions 5 ) to another display device 200 which allows maximum operator complexity without information loss.

Instead of the mentioned outsourcing to a head-up display 200 can the information (especially speedometer 1 , Speed display 2 and / or driving instructions 5 ) are also outsourced by means of a projection device, for example on the windshield (not shown in detail).

Finally shows 11 a motor vehicle vehicle, which with a freely programmable instrument cluster 100 and the multifunction steering wheel 300 equipped. The instrument cluster 100 is driven by the method according to the invention or can be controlled by this method. All the necessary input devices for selecting and / or activating one of the operating modes described and / or for selecting and / or activating one of the selectable and / or activatable information are on the multifunction steering wheel 300 arranged. There is also a head-up display 200 in the instrument panel behind the instrument cluster 100 arranged.

The invention is not limited to the above embodiments. These were used only for general explanation of the essence of the invention. Rather, within the scope of its scope, the invention may assume other than the embodiments or forms described above. In this case, it may in particular also have features which represent a combination of individual features of the respective claims.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Speed display analog

2

Speed display analog

3

rotary vector

4

Driving information of a navigation system

5

driving instruction

6

Driving time to the destination

7

Distance to the destination

8th

Speed display digital

9

Speed display digital

10

Input option "Driving" (driving mode)

11

Input option "Network" (phone settings)

12

Fueling input option (Auto Settings)

13

Input option "Play Media" (Media Settings)

14

Input option "arrival time" (navigation settings)

15

Display selected functional area "Media"

16

Display of selected titles

17

Display selected artist

18

Display selected album (cover)

19

Display selected album (text)

20

Input option "Heating" (Auto settings)

21

Input option "Ventilation" (Auto settings)

22

Last call input option (phone settings)

23

Input option "Artist" (Media Settings)

24

Entry option "destination" (navigation settings)

25

Placeholder for speedometer

26

Placeholder for speed display

27

Phone input option (Phone Settings)

28

Input option "Auto" (Auto Settings)

29

Media input option (Media Settings)

30

Input option "Navigation" (navigation settings)

31

Input option "Search" (direct search)

32

Input option "CD" (CD functions)

33

Input option "DVD" (DVD functions)

34

Input option "MP3" (MP3 functions)

35

Input option "Genre" (filter function)

36

Input option "Rock" (filter function)

37

Shuffle

38

Title Return

39

Playback / Playback Stop

40

Title Tab

41

Menu back

42

Publishing year

43

Cooling water temperature display

44

Engine oil temperature gauge

100

Freely programmable instrument cluster

200

Retractable display

300

Multifunctional steering wheel

301

impact absorber

302

steering wheel rim

303

left spoke

304

right spoke

305

left, pushable touchpad

306

right, pushable touchpad

307

left touchpad

308

right touchpad

309

pushbuttons

310

pushbuttons

311

Pressable control roller

312

Pressable control roller

313

Wing-like element

E1

first operating level

E2

second operating level

F

Freely programmable display area

K

kink

motor vehicle

motor vehicle

M1

"Driving mode"

M2

"Combined mode"

M3

"Operating mode"

S

scale marks

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 2008/108844 A1 [0005]
• DE 102005035481 A1 [0010]

Claims (14)

Method for controlling a freely programmable instrument cluster ( 100 ), the instrument cluster ( 100 ) can be controlled or driven such that it can be operated in different operating modes (M1-M3), characterized in that the instrument cluster ( 100 ) is operated or is operable in at least two operating modes (M1, M3), one of which is an operating mode (M1) for the exclusive or at least predominant presentation of information which can not be selected and / or activated ( 1 - 9 ) and the at least one other operating mode (M3) for the exclusive or at least predominant presentation of selectable and / or activatable information ( 10 . 18 . 27 - 41 ) serves. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the instrument cluster ( 100 ) is operated or operable in at least one further operating mode (M2), which can be used both to display information which can not be selected and / or activated ( 1' . 2 ' . 6 . 7 . 15 - 19 ) as well as for presentation of selectable and / or activatable information ( 10 - 14 . 20 - 24 ) serves. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in the operating mode (M3), which is used for the exclusive or at least predominant representation of selectable and / or activatable information (M3). 10 . 18 . 27 - 36 ), at least a large part of the information ( 1 . 2 . 5 ), which are not selectable and / or activatable, no longer on the instrument cluster ( 100 ), but by means of at least one other display or projection device ( 200 ) is displayed or can be displayed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the operating mode (M1), which does not select jack for exclusive or at least predominant presentation of and / or information which can be activated ( 1 - 9 ), on the instrument cluster ( 100 ) at least one driving speed ( 1 . 8th ) is displayed or can be displayed. A method according to claim 4, characterized in that at least in addition an engine speed ( 2 . 9 ) is pictured. Method according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that at least additional driving instructions ( 5 ) of a navigation system. Method according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the representation of the driving speed ( 1 ) and / or the engine speed ( 2 ) takes place in the manner of a round instrument. Method according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, in the case of a change from the operating mode (M1), to the exclusive or at least predominant representation of information which can not be selected and / or activated ( 1 - 9 ) to the operating mode (M2), which is used both to display information that can not be selected and / or activated ( 1' . 2 ' . 6 . 7 . 15 - 19 ) as well as for presentation of selectable and / or activatable information ( 10 - 14 . 20 - 24 ), the representation of the driving speed ( 1 ) and / or the engine speed ( 2 ) and / or driving instructions ( 5 ) is shifted and / or reduced. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that the representation of selectable and / or activatable information ( 10 - 14 . 20 - 24 ) on the outside of the representation of the driving speed ( 1 ) and / or the engine speed ( 2 ) he follows. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, starting from the operating mode (M1), the exclusive or at least predominant representation of non-selectable and / or activatable information ( 1 - 9 ), a change to the operating mode (M2), which is both for the presentation of non-selectable and / or activatable information ( 1' . 2 ' . 6 . 7 . 15 - 19 ) as well as for presentation of selectable and / or activatable information ( 10 - 14 . 20 - 24 ), then takes place when an input request is registered. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a selection of selectable and / or activatable information ( 10 . 18 . 27 - 41 ) by touching at least one touch-sensitive input surface ( 305 - 308 ) and / or by depressing a pushbutton ( 309 . 310 ) and / or by rotating at least one control roller ( 311 . 312 ) and the activation of a selected information (C) by depressing at least one touch-sensitive input surface (C) ( 305 . 306 ) and / or at least one control roller ( 311 . 312 ) he follows. Freely programmable instrument cluster ( 100 ), which is controlled by the method according to at least one of claims 1-11 or is controllable. Motor vehicle (motor vehicle) with at least one freely programmable instrument cluster ( 100 ), which is controlled by the method according to at least one of claims 1-11 or is controllable, wherein at least one input device ( 305 - 312 ) to select and / or activate a the operating modes (M1-M3) and at least one input device ( 305 - 312 ) for selecting and / or activating one of the selectable and / or activatable information ( 10 . 18 . 27 - 41 ) is available. Motor vehicle (motor vehicle) according to claim 13, characterized in that the input devices ( 305 - 312 ) exclusively part of a steering wheel ( 300 ) are.

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