WO2022100768A1

WO2022100768A1 - Modular displays

Info

Publication number: WO2022100768A1
Application number: PCT/CZ2021/050129
Authority: WO
Inventors: Premysl BALAZ
Original assignee: Futismo
Priority date: 2020-11-11
Filing date: 2021-11-11
Publication date: 2022-05-19

Abstract

The present invention is a modular display with human machine interface elements provided on a screen (2). The modular display has a side frame (7) adjacent to the screen (2). The invention is characterised in that modular display has a beam (8) for carrying the plurality of human machine interface elements and is releasably connected to the side frame (7).

Description

MODULAR DISPLAYS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to displays such as LCD, OLED or other displays and more particularly to displays comprising tactile human machine interface elements such as switches, buttons or knobs.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In the state of the art many devices such as remote controls, cars, planes, hospital beds or home appliances comprise digital displays. In order to provide a way of operating the device the displays are accompanied by human machine interface elements such as switches, buttons or knobs.

[0003] One such display device is represented by Chinese utility model number CN202838860U. Those solutions however have several drawbacks. Firstly, a large portion of the display is a covering portion and does not provide a possibility of operating the device. Secondly, the Human Machine Interface (HMI) is fixed to one place, thus not enabling layout modification, such as modification to specific needs of the user, nor the possibility of modifying or upgrading the display device.

[0004] Utilization of display space for HMI may be provided by using a touch screen display. Touch screens partially solves the problems of prior art inventions (such as that disclosed in CN202838860U). However, touch screens are more expensive and further do not provide a tactile response to the user. The user has to look directly at the display and thus is distracted from operating the device. Distraction of the user lowers their ability to properly operate the device and may even result in car crashes. Lack of tactile HMI elements also lowers the ability to use muscle memory. Lastly, touch displays also have the drawback that they are hard to operate when wearing gloves or with wet hands.

[0005] Several possible ways of providing a touch display with HMI elements or tactile (haptic) control means are known. Firstly, one way is to shape the display to provide an opening in the display, wherein the HMI elements such as knobs are inserted in the openings. This solution does limit possibility of modifications. Furthermore, specific shapes of displays are hard to manufacture and therefore costly.

[0006] An alternative solution is to shape the touch display in such manner, that a groove or protrusion is made on the screen. These touch display have a tactile part. This solution does limit the possibility of modification and further specific shapes of the displays are also hard to manufacture and therefore costly. Furthermore, this solution increases the risk of accidentally interacting with other parts of the touch display. Another drawback is that this solution is only capable of operating with touch displays.

[0007] Another display device is disclosed in PCT application number W02019800774 Al, wherein a knob is releasably attached to a face of a touch display. This knob is provided with conductor posts engaging a conductive connection between the knob and the touch display enabling the touch display to recognise mechanical interaction equal to a touch of a user. However, these displays are likely to malfunction when the display is wet or covered with dust. Water or dust produces false positive responses of the conductive connection. Furthermore, the knob may be accidentally moved or even removed from the display. It is also not possible to provide electrical energy to the knob as such (unless using a battery). Accordingly, it is not possible to backlight the knob. Furthermore, for the correct function of this solution it is needed to move the knob in a particular (predefined) position of the touch display in order to operate various functions. This distracts the user. Another drawback is that this solution is capable of operating solely with touch displays. A similar solution with the same drawbacks is also disclosed in German utility model number DE202018000111

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a modular display which enables modularity of the HMI elements and provides reliable tactile control means.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to the present invention, there is provided a modular display comprising:

(a) a screen,

(b) a side frame adjacent to the screen,

(c) a plurality of human machine interface elements; and

(d) a beam, wherein: i. at least part of the beam overlaps part of the screen; ii. the beam is configured for carrying at least a part of the plurality of human machine interface elements; and iii. the beam is releasably connected to the side frame.

[0010] Preferably, the side frame comprises a bus and the human machine interface elements are electrically connected to the bus. [0011] The side frame may be connected to the screen.

[0012] Preferably, the modular display further comprises a central frame configured for connecting the side frame and the screen.

[0013] It is also preferred that the side frame is a part of a central frame, the central frame being configured for connecting to the screen.

[0014] The plurality of human machine interface elements may comprise any of the following elements: a button, a microphone, light emitting means, a camera, sound emitting means, a switch and a knob.

[0015] It is also preferred that the beam is further configured for carrying any of the following elements: a sensor, an external memory connector and a connector.

[0016] Preferably, the modular display further comprises a computing unit. The computing unit is configured for operating the display and receiving data relating to a state of the plurality of human machine interface elements.

[0017] Preferably, the beam comprises a wire and a bus connector configured for connecting the wire to the bus of the side frame, the human machine interface elements carried by the beam are electrically connected to the wire and electrical connection of the human machine interface elements to the bus of the side frame is made through the wire and the bus connector.

[0018] The wire of the beam may be a bus. Preferably, the beam further comprises connecting means for mechanical connection of the human machine interface elements, the beam and each of the human machine interface elements.

[0019] Preferably, there are corresponding connecting means for mechanical connection of the human machine interface element and the beam.

[0020] It is also preferred that the bus connector is configured for connecting the human machine interface element to the bus of the beam. The human machine interface elements may be connected mechanically, electrically and releasably to the beam.

[0021] Optionally, the human machine interface elements carried by the beam are mechanically and non-releasably connected to the beam.

[0022] Optionally, the human machine interface elements carried by the beam are non-releasably mechanically connected to a module. The module preferably has: (a) a bus connector configured for connecting the module carried by the beam to the bus of the side frame,

(b) a wire connecting the human machine interface elements of the module to the bus connector, and

(c) a connecting means for creating a mutually releasable connection between the module and the beam, wherein the beam has corresponding connection means for a mutually releasable connection between the module and the beam.

[0023] Preferably, the modular display further comprises a second side frame adjacent to the screen on a different side of the screen than the first side frame, wherein the beam is releasably connected to the first and second side frame.

[0024] According to the present invention, there is provided a modular display comprising:

(a) a screen,

(b) a side frame adjacent to the screen, the side frame comprising a bus; and

(c) a plurality of human machine interface elements, wherein the side frame is configured for carrying at least a part of the plurality of human machine interface elements.

[0025] Preferably, the side frame comprises connecting means for creating a releasable mechanical connection of the side frame and of any of the following:

(a) a human machine interface element comprising a bus connector and corresponding connecting means,

(b) a module comprising a subset of the plurality of human machine interface elements, wherein the subset are non-releasably and mechanically connected to the module, a bus connector and corresponding connecting means; and

(c) any previously described beam comprising corresponding connection means.

[0026] According to the present invention, there is provided a modular display comprising:

(a) a screen,

(b) two side frames adjacent to the screen, each side frame adjacent to different side of the screen, the side frames being configured for carrying the screen,

(c) a beam non-releasably connected to each of the side frames,

(d) a plurality of human machine interface elements, wherein the side frames and/or the beam are configured for carrying at least a part of the plurality of human machine interface elements. [0027] Preferably, the beam is non-releasably connected to the side frames. More preferably, the beam comprises a bus and connecting means for creating a releasable mechanical connection of the beam to the side frames or any of the following elements:

(a) a human machine interface element of multiple human machine interface elements comprising a bus connector and corresponding connection means, or

(b) a module comprising: i. a subset of the multiple human machine interface elements that are non-releasably and mechanically connected to the module, ii. a bus connector and iii. connecting means, and iv. any previously described beam comprising corresponding connecting means.

[0028] Preferably, the beam comprises openings in the beam configured for allowing the light to pass through them. More preferably, the modules also comprise openings configured for allowing the light to pass through them.

[0029] Preferably, the beam comprises openings in the beam configured for allowing the light to pass through them. More preferably, human machine interface elements also comprise openings in the human machine interface elements configured for allowing the light to pass through them.

[0030] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0031] Embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a modular display according to an embodiment of the present invention with beam disassembled from the side modular display.

[0033] Figure 2 is an axonometric view of the modular display of figure 1, wherein the displays are turned on.

[0034] Figure 3 is an axonometric view of a modular display according of figure 1, wherein the displays are turned on.

[0035] Figure 4 is a top view of a modular display according to any embodiment of the present invention, wherein the display is turned on.

[0036] Figure 5 is an axonometric view of a side frame or beam of figures 1-3.

[0037] Figure 6 is an axonometric view of the modular display according to the an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the parts are disassembled.

[0038] Figure 7 is an axonometric view of the modular display of figure 6 with a beam.

[0039] Figure 8a is a top view of the beam of figures 6 and 7.

[0040] Figure 8b is a front view of the beam of figures 6 and 7.

[0041] Figure 8c is a front view of the beam of figures 6 and 7, wherein a module is connected.

[0042] Figure 9 is a top view of the beam of an embodiment of the modular display, wherein a module is connected.

[0043] Figure 10 is a top view of an embodiment of the modular display, wherein HMI elements and modules are not depicted.

[0044] Figure 11 is a front view of the module of figure 9.

[0045] Figure 12 is an axonometric view of the modular display of an embodiment of the modular display, wherein the parts are disassembled.

[0046] Figure 13 is a top view of the modular display of the first embodiment of the modular display.

[0047] Figure 14 is a cross section view of the modular display of figure 13.

[0048] Figure 15a is a top view of one of the beams of figure 13.

[0049] Figure 15b is a top view of a beam of figure 13.

[0050] Figure 16 is an axonometric view of a detail of the modular display of figure 13.

[0051] Figure 17 is an axonometric view of a detail the of modular display of figure 13, wherein the parts are disassembled.

[0052] Figure 18 is a schematic top view of a modular display according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0053] Figure 19 is a schematic top view of a modular display according to any embodiment of the present invention with beam extending away from the display.

[0054] Figure 20 is a front view of a side frame according to an embodiment of the present invention provided with connecting means.

[0055] Figure 21 is a side view of the side frame of figure 20.

[0056] Figure 22 is an axonometric view of the module according to an embodiment of the present invention provided with connecting means.

[0057] Figure 23 is a side cross-section view of a connection of the side frame of figure 20 and of the module of figure 22.

[0058] Figure 24a is a side cross-section view of the module of figure 23.

[0059] Figure 24b is a side cross-section view of the side frame of figure 23.

[0060] Figure 24c is a side cross-section view of the bolt connecting element of figure 23.

[0061] Figure 24d is a schematic view of the connecting hole of figure 22.

[0062] Figure 25 is an axonometric view of the central frame according to an embodiment of the present invention provided with connecting means.

[0063] Figure 26a is a front view of alternative embodiment of the module and a front view of alternative embodiment of the beam

[0064] Figure 26b is an axonometric view of module or beam of figure 26a.

[0065] Figure 27a is a front view of alternative embodiment of the module and a front view of alternative embodiment of the beam.

[0066] Figure 27b is an axonometric view of module or beam of figure 27a.

[0067] Figure 28 is an axonometric view of an alternative embodiment of the module.

[0068] Figure 29 is an axonometric view of an alternative embodiment of the beam with screen shown.

[0069] Figure 30 is an axonometric view of the beam of figure 29 and of the module of figure 28, wherein the parts are disassembled. [0070] Figure 31 is an axonometric view of figure 30, wherein the parts are assembled.

[0071] Figure 32 is an axonometric view of figure 31, wherein multiple modules are connected.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] The following text describes exemplary embodiments of the invention. These descriptions do not limit the scope of the protection of the invention, which is strictly limited to the language of the claims.

[0073] A modular display 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in figure 1. The modular display 1 comprises a screen 2, at least one side frame 7 adjacent to the modular screen 2 and a plurality of Human Machine Interface (HMI) elements. The modular screen 2 of some embodiments comprises a beam 8 configured for carrying HMI elements. The beam 8 may further carry other elements, such as sensors, external memory connectors.

[0074] The screen 2 is an output device for presentation of information in a visual form. The screen 2 is capable of projecting graphical information 6 which may be changed.

[0075] The screen 2 may use displays such as an LCD display, an OLED display, an AMOLED display, a LED display, a plasma display, a QLED display, an E-Ink display, a surfaceconduction electron-emitter display, or a rear-projection display, etc. The screen 2 may be a touch screen display, such as a capacitive touch screen display. The touch screen 2 is preferred.

[0076] The screen 2 is connected to a computing unit (not shown) which is configured for operating the screen 2. The computing unit may be an internal computing unit of the screen 2 or an external computing unit.

[0077] The computing unit may be further provided with a memory wherein a driver for operating the screen 2 and data representing the projected graphical information 6 are stored.

[0078] The graphical information 6 projected by the screen 2 may change upon inputs from the computing unit. The inputs may be triggered by changing a state of the human machine interface elements, or the inputs may be triggered by data obtained from the sensors, or the inputs may be triggered by from data obtained from an external electronic device.

[0079] It may be advantageous to provide the display with a casing. The computing unit is further configured to receive data relating to the state of the plurality of the HMI elements. Furthermore, the computing unit may be configured to send data to other computing units. [0080] The HMI elements in this application are various elements configured for interactions between humans and machines. The HMI elements may include elements such as buttons 4, microphones, light emitting diodes, cameras (such as a CCD or CMOS sensors), sound emitting means (such as speakers), switches (such as slide switches, toggle switches, joysticks etc.), knobs 5 (rotary switches), or a combination of those elements.

[0081] Touch operated input HMI elements such as buttons 4, switches or knobs 5 may use various technical effects for determining the state of the human machine interface element such as:

(a) releasing and connecting an electrical circuit,

(b) using potentiometers to determine the position of the mechanical part of the HMI element,

(c) using a Hall effect sensor to determine the position of the mechanical part of the HMI element,

(d) detecting a change of capacity, or

(e) using a movement of the mechanical part of the HMI element to generate an electromagnetic field.

[0082] Touch operated HMI elements are particularly advantageous for use with the screen 2 as they provide a tactile response to the user. The user may use them without looking at the HMI (and thereby taking their eyes off the road) by utilizing muscle memory. They are also visually easy to recognize.

[0083] Non tactile HMI input elements (such as microphones or cameras) can also be used with present invention. Further output HMI elements (light emitting means and sound emitting means) are used for accompanying the information provided by the screen 2. The light emitting means may be incorporated in the touch operated HMI elements for increasing visibility of the touch operated HMI elements.

[0084] The beam 8 is a mechanical part. Preferably it has a longitudinal shape and a width sufficient for carrying HMI elements. A beam 8 having other shapes such as circular, convex or various polygonal shapes may also be used. The beam 8 is configured for carrying and/or attaching the HMI elements thereto. The beam 8 is mechanically connected to at least one side frame 7. The connection may be releasable or non-releasable. The beam 8 is in a fixed position to the screen 2 in such a manner that the beam 8 overlaps a part of the screen 2 (on the side of the screen 2, where the information is projected). The beam 8 is preferably adjacent to the screen 2. Thus, it is either in direct contact with the screen 2 or is in close proximity to the screen 2. The distance between the beam 8 and the screen 2 is small enough to provide a reasonable visual accessibility to the screen 2 and is small enough to prevent any unwanted insertion of objects between the screen 2 and the beam 8. In particular, the distance is preferably smaller than 5 mm, and more preferably smaller than 1 mm and ideally is smaller than 0.1 mm. The distance may be filled by a sealant or a gasket.

[0085] Connection of the HMI elements and the beam 8 and connection of the beam 8 and the screen 2 will be further described in greater detail in exemplary embodiments of the modular display 1.

[0086] The side frame 7 is a part adjacent to the screen 2 and is located approximately in the same plane as the screen 2. The side frame 7 is adjacent to one of the sides of the screen 2, wherein the shape of the side frame 7 is preferably a longitudinal shape with a width sufficient for carrying HMI elements. The shape of the side frame 7 may be convex or curved according to the shape of the side of the screen 2. The side frame 7 is configured for receiving and connecting the beam 8 and/or the HMI elements. The side frame 7 is in a fixed position relative to the screen 2, wherein the side frame 7 is directly or indirectly connected to screen 2.

[0087] Other elements may be connected to the side frame 7 or beam 8 in the same manner as the HMI elements. These elements may include, for example: sensors (such as a motion sensor or a light sensor), an external memory connector (such as an SD card connector), or a connector (such as a USB™ connector or a jack connector).

[0088] Various embodiments of side frames 7, beams 8, their mechanical and electrical connections to each other, mechanical and electrical connections of screen 2 and side frames 7, mechanical and electrical connections of the HMI elements to each other and to the side frames 7, screen 2, beams 8 and computing units will be described in greater detail in the exemplary embodiments of modular displays.

[0089] Another embodiment of the invention is a modular display depicted in figures 12 and 13. Figure 13 depicts a top view of an assembled modular display and figure 12 depicts an axonometric view of a disassembled modular display. The modular display of this embodiment comprises a screen 2, two beams 8, two side frames 7, wherein at least one of the side frames 7 also comprises a bus 13. The modular display further comprises a plurality of HMI elements (which are exemplified as button 4 in figure 13) and two modules 12. The modules 12 comprise multiple HMI elements. The modular display further comprises a computing unit (not shown).

[0090] The screen 2 of this embodiment is directly mechanically connected to the side frames 7. The side frames 7 are on the opposing lateral sides of the screen 2. The mechanical connection of the screen 2 and the side frames 7 may be done by gluing, clips, welding or via fasteners such as screws, bolts, nails or rivets.

[0091] The side frames 7 comprise a groove for receiving a correspondingly shaped edge of the beam 8. The groove assist to centre the beam 8 while connecting it to the side frame 7.

[0092] As seen in figure 12 the side frames 7 are provided with threaded holes 3. The threaded holes 3 are configured for receiving a fastener (not shown). The fasteners releasably connect the beam 8 and the side frame 7. In this particular embodiment, the fasteners are screws or bolts. Each side frame 7 comprises at least one threaded hole per beam 8. Preferably, the side frame 7 comprises plurality of threaded holes 3 spaced apart along its length. In order to at least partially eliminate beam 8 deflection and to ensure a more stable connection, the threaded holes 3 may be doubled (as shown in figure 12). The threaded holes 3 are provided in the groove. However, they may also be provided on a side of the side frame 7 spaced away from the screen 2.

[0093] The beams 8 of this embodiment are mechanical parts having a longitudinal shape. As seen in figure 15a, the beam 8 of this embodiment comprises a groove. The groove receives the module 12. The sides of the groove provide a cover for the module 12 and make centering of the module 12 while connecting the module 12 to beam 8 more convenient during installation. The beams 8 further comprise an edge at the end of the beams 8 which is configured for connection with the side frame 7. Furthermore, the beams comprise a hole 16 for a fastener. The hole 16 for fastener is provided at the end of the beams 8 and is configured for connection with side frame 7.

[0094] When the edge at the end of the beam 8 is received by the groove of the side frame 7, the axes of the holes 16 for the fastener of the beam 8 and the axes of the corresponding threaded holes 3 of the side frame 7 lay in the same plane. If there are multiple holes, then the axes should lay in several parallel planes. Once the axes of the holes 16 for the fastener of the beam 8 and the axes of the corresponding threaded holes 3 of the side frame 7 are aligned in a straight line, the shaft of a connecting element (screw or bolt) may be put through the hole 16 for the fastener of the beam 8 and is screwed into or out of the threaded hole 3 of the side frame 7. Once screwed in, the head of the fastener presses the beam 8 in the direction of the side frame 7. The fastener, threaded hole 3 and hole 16 for the fastener are connecting means of the aforementioned parts.

[0095] The beams may be configured for connection to the side frame 7 on one end or on both ends. Figure 12 depicts two beams 8, wherein one of the beams 8 is configured for connection to the side frame 7 on one end and the other beam 8 is configured for connection to the side frame 7 on both ends.

[0096] Beam 8 is connected to the side frame 7 and overlaps the screen 2. It provides space and mechanical support for the connection of the module 12.

[0097] The beam 8 also comprises a threaded hole 3 configured for receiving a fastener (which is not shown). The fastener releasably connects the beam 8 to the module 12. The fasteners in this particular embodiment are screws or bolts. Each beam 8 comprises at least one threaded hole per module 12. Preferably, the beam 8 comprises multiple threaded holes 3 spaced apart along its length. Threaded holes 3 are provided in the groove, but they may also be provided on a side of the beam 8.

[0098] The module 12 of this particular embodiment is depicted in figure 15b in a top view and in figure 11 in a front view. The module 12 is provided with multiple HMI elements and may comprise other elements (wherein a non-exhausting list of such elements is provided above in the specification. The other elements are connected in the same manner as the HMI elements. The module 12 depicted in figures 11 and 15b is provided solely with buttons.

[0099] The module 12 comprises a casing which encapsulates electrical parts of the HMI elements. The casing also forms a mechanical bearing structure for the module 12. Preferably, the module 12 comprises a printed circuit board (which is not shown) that is mechanically connected with the casing. The HMI elements are mechanically and electrically connected to the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board comprises wire, connecting the HMI elements and other elements to a bus connector 17. The printed circuit board may comprise a plurality of wires connecting the HMI elements and other elements to a bus connector 17. Alternatively, the module is not provided with a printed circuit board and the HMI elements are connected mechanically to the casing. The module further comprises a wire connecting the HMI elements to the bus connector 17. The module may comprise a plurality of wires connecting the HMI elements to the bus connector 17. The bus connector 17 is provided on the side of the module 12 and enables electrical connection of the module 12 and the bus 13 of the side frame 7.

[00100] An alternative embodiment of the module 12 is depicted of figures 26a and 26b. The module 12 comprises a bus 13 that enables an electrical connection of the separate HMI elements. The HMI elements are provided with means for connecting to the module 12 and module 12 is provided with corresponding connecting means. The HMI elements are provided with a bus connector 17. The module 12 is provided with a bus connector 17 at the end, as previously described for connection with bus 13 of the side frame 7.

[00101] A similar embodiment of the module 12 is depicted of figures 27a and 27b. This embodiment of the module 12 has a middle part with a channel for an optical wire. The optical wire may be used for communicatively connecting HMI elements to the module 12.

[00102] The bus connector 17 of the module 12 according to any embodiment of the module 12 is preferably a low-profile spring-loaded connector. The bus connector 17 of module 12 depicted in figure 11 is a four-pin connector. The pins extend from the module 12 on at least one end of the module 12 facing the side frame 7.

[00103] The module 12 further comprises a hole 16 for a fastener corresponding to the threaded hole 3 of the beam 8. The mechanical connection of the module 12 and the beam 8 is mutatis mutandis the same as mechanical connection of the beam 8 and the side frame 7.

[00104] The side frame 7 is further provided with a bus 13, wherein the bus 13 is electrically connected to the computing unit. The computing unit is configured for operating the screen 2. Preferably the bus 13 is a flat bus, such as a printed circuit board bus 14 and is provided on a vertical wall 33 of the side frame 7 which is oriented towards the modules 12. The bus 13 as shown in figures 16 and 17 has a plurality of connecting interfaces 15. These connecting interfaces 15 are conductive parts which are oriented outwardly. The bus 13 has four wires and for each wire one connecting interface 15 of the bus is provided. The connecting interfaces 15 are spaced along the length of the vertical wall 33 of the side frame 7 of each of the wires of the bus 13 which enables the bus connector 17 to be electrically connected to the bus 13. Preferably, the bus 13 is the printed circuit board bus 14 which is made as a flexible printed circuit board. These flexible printed circuit boards are most commonly made using PYRALUX® or FR4® (and wire or wires). Flexible printed circuit boards provide higher durability and are thinner than rigid circuit boards. Alternatively, any conventional printed circuit board is suitable.

[00105] As shown in figures 16 and 17 groups of four connecting interfaces 15 of the bus are provided in predefined intervals. The intervals correspond to the intervals of the threaded holes 3 of the side frame 7. Therefore, it is possible to connect the beam 8 to the side frame 7 at any predefined position and to easily secure the electrical connection of the HMI elements of the module 12.

[00106] Electrical connection of the bus 13 and of the bus HMI elements is therefore provided through the wire or a plurality of wires of the module 12, bus connector 17 and the connecting interfaces 15 of the bus. An advantageous feature of the invention is that no further male or female connectors are required. However, the male and female connectors one provided on the module 12 and other on the bus 13 of the side frame 7 is a less preferred embodiment of an electrical connection of the HMI elements to the bus 13.

[00107] The modular display comprises a single computing unit and data from all HMI elements are sent to this computing unit which evaluates the data. The data may be an analogue signal.

[00108] The modular display comprises multiple computing units, wherein each module 12 comprises its module computing unit and memory with a stored driver and an application for evaluating the HMI elements state. The states of all HMI elements of a module are processed and sent as a digital signal to a central computing unit. Communication from a central computing unit to the modules 12 is also possible.

[00109] The screen 2 also comprises a computing unit, that communicates with the central computing unit.

[00110] Another embodiment of the modular display is a modular display depicted in figures 1, 2 and 3. Figures 2 and 3 show an embodiment comprising three displays 2 and figure 1 depicts substantially the same embodiment with a single screen 2.

[00111] The modular display of this embodiment has a screen 2, beams 8 and side frames 7. All side frames 7 have a bus 13. The modular display also comprises multiple HMI elements (namely, the buttons 4 and knobs 5). The modular display also comprises a computing unit (which is not shown). The modular display comprises a central frame (which is not shown).

[00112] All of the HMI elements in this embodiment of the modular display are a part of a module 12. The modular display of this embodiment comprises multiple modules 12, wherein each the module 12 has a casing, a printed circuit board, a bus connector, a computing unit, connecting means enabling connection to the side frame 7 or connecting means enabling a connection to the beam 8 and at least one other HMI element.

[00113] The side frame 7 of this embodiment is shown in figure 5. The side frame 7 comprises a bus connector 17 and a bus printed circuit board 14. The side frame 7 comprises a pair of interconnected base walls 22 (see figure 5), wherein the base walls 22 are adjacent, mutually connected and mutually parallel. The physical embodiment of following base walls 22 and side walls of the side frame 7 is mutatis mutandis the same as of the central frame 29. The base walls 22 in this particular embodiment are each set in each figure differently, wherein parallel planes are mutually offset. The base walls 22 are preferably interconnected via a channel with inner longitudinal hole. Optionally, the base walls 22 can be interconnected via other elements such as a vertically oriented wall or a pole. The inner longitudinal hole is configured for receiving an optical wire. In such a configuration, the channel further comprises light guide openings oriented horizontally or vertically from the channel. The light guide openings are hollow and allow for light to pass through them. Optionally, the light guide openings can be fitted with material such as an optical-fibre waveguide or a lightguide made of PPMA or UVT or other suitable material. The optical wire is provided with light refraction elements spaced in such manner that light is distributed towards the light guide openings. The side frame 7 is provided with at least with one lightguide opening oriented vertically on the side adjacent to the frame 1 (which points downwards in fig. 5) in the middle of its width. Thus, once the side frame 7 is connected to the central frame 29, light from an optical wire of the central frame 29 may pass through to the optical wire of the side frame 7 and vice versa.

[00114] The side frame 7 further comprises a pair of vertical walls 33. Each of the base walls 22 is provided on the side opposite to the side adjacent to the other base wall 22 with a vertical wall 33. The vertical walls 33 are oriented perpendicularly to the base walls 22. The vertical walls 33 are protruding above and/or under the base walls 22 and, preferably, the vertical walls 33 are parallel to each other. The side frame 7 according to this embodiment is provided with connecting means, wherein the connecting means are configured for receiving the connecting means of the module 12, the side frame 7, the central frame 29, or the screen 2.

[00115] The connecting means serve as a mechanical connection between the above- mentioned parts, wherein the connecting means are spaced apart in a corresponding manner (as will be described further below).

[00116] The connecting means of two parts are connected together with mutually compatible connecting holes 28 and bolt connecting elements 27. The side frame 7 is provided with connecting holes 28 that are capable of mutual connection with parts having bolt connecting elements 27 and vice versa.

[00117] In this embodiment of the invention the connecting elements of the side frame 7 are bolt connecting elements 27 and the module 12 is provided with a connecting hole 28 as depicted in figures 20 to 24d.

[00118] The side frame 7 of this embodiment comprises multiple bolt connecting elements 27 and the module 12 comprises multiple connecting holes 28.

[00119] The side frame 7 of figures 20 and 21 are provided with a plurality of bolt connecting elements 27. The bolt connecting elements 27 are configured for receiving connecting holes 28. The bolt connecting elements 27 are depicted in Fig. 24c. The bolt connecting elements 27 are connected via a thread to the side frame 7 that is to be connected to the module 12 with the connecting holes 28 (such as the module 12 shown in figure 22 and 24a).

[00120] The bolt connecting elements 27 are bolts (alternatively screws or rivets can be used when a connection to another part is appropriately configured). The bolt connecting element 27 comprises a head and a shank, wherein the head has larger diameter than shank. Upon fastening the bolt connecting element 27 to the side frame 7, part of the shank extends from the part to which the bolt connecting element 27 is fastened.

[00121] Such a connection is schematically depicted in cross section in figure 23 wherein the bolt connecting elements 27 are connected to a side frame 7. In Fig. 23 the bolt connecting element 27 is connected using threaded hole 3 in the side frame 7. Accordingly, the bolt connecting element 27 is provided with a thread on a part of its shank. The distance between the lower part of the head of the bolt connecting element 27 and the part to which the bolt connecting element 27 is connected is configured to lock a wall of a part provided with a connecting hole 28.

[00122] The connecting hole 28 is schematically depicted in figure 24d. The connecting hole 28 has a conic opening having diameter dl, that is equal to or larger than the head of the bolt connecting element 27. Further, the connecting hole 28 has a groove which is preferably ended by conic part. The width of the groove d2 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the shank of the bolt connecting element 27. The width of the groove is smaller than the diameter of the head of the bolt connecting element 27.

[00123] The connecting hole 28 is provided on parts having a thickness that can be inserted between the head of the bolt connecting element 27 and the part to which the bolt connecting element 27 is screwed. This enables an interference fit. Preferably, in the central frame 29, the connecting holes 28 are made in the vertical walls 33 or the base wall 22. The other parts provided with connecting holes 28 have the connecting holes 28 provided in a similar way. For example, the module 12 and the screen 2 have the connecting holes 28 provided in a casing wall.

[00124] The central frame 29 is provided with connecting holes 28 on the top, a lateral side and the bottom side of the vertical walls 33 and on the top and the bottom side around its longitudinal axis. Thus, the central frame 29 is provided with four connecting holes 28 arranged in rows across the length of the central frame 29. It is apparent that only a pair of the connecting holes 28 in each row is needed to be able to connect the side frame 7 (or the screen 2) to the top side of the central frame 29.

[00125] The connecting holes 28 on the lateral side of the vertical wall 33 of the central frame 29 are provided for connecting multiple central frames 29 in a parallel manner or for connecting the central frame 29 to a static object such as a car, a wall or a table.

[00126] The central frame 29 (shown on figure 25) is provided with channels 6' in the length of the central frame 29. The channels 6' are made in direction of the central frame 29 and each vertical wall 33 comprises one longitudinal hole. The channels 6' provide space for entering the bolt connecting elements 27.

[00127] The central frame 29 described above can be mutually connected with parts provided with the bolt connecting elements 27.

[00128] The function of the connections is further shown in a cross section of connecting a module 12 provided with connecting holes 28 in its bottom casing wall (shown on Fig. 22) and a side frame 7. The bolt connecting elements 27 are provided in various lengths of shank for providing different levels of force in the interference fit. The bolt connecting elements 27 are screwed into threaded holes 3 of the side frame 7. Afterwards the module 12 is put on the side frame 7 so that the conic parts of the connecting holes 28 are coaxial with a corresponding bolt connecting elements 27 and the module 12 is moved to touch the side frame 7. Afterwards the module 12 is moved in the direction of the groove of the connecting hole 28. The casing wall of the module 12 adjacent the groove and the head of the bolt connecting elements 27 and side frame 7 make an interference fit. Once a further movement of the module 12 is no longer possible (because the shanks of the bolt connecting elements 27 hit the end of the groove) the connection is complete (as is shown on Fig. 23). The module 12 is disconnected from the side frame 7 by performing this sequence in reverse. Such a connection method is applicable to all parts provided with connecting holes 28 and bolt connecting elements 27.

[00129] In Figs 20 to 24c, a configuration is shown wherein the connecting holes 28 are provided on the modules 12 and the bolt connecting elements 27 are provided on the side frame 7. It is apparent that providing parts with such connecting means can be changed, wherein the central frame 29, beams 8 and modules 12 may be provided with bolt connecting elements 27 and the side frame 7 and modules 12 are provided with connecting holes 28.

[00130] The modules 12 may be provided with either bolt connecting elements 27 or connecting holes 28 according to the part which they are going to connect to. It is preferable to provide central frames 29 on one lateral side with connecting holes 28 and on the other side with bolt connecting elements 27 (or at least with threaded holes 3) to assure mutual connectiveness of multiple central frames 29. It may be convenient to provide the central frames 29 with both threaded holes 3 and connecting holes 28 on each lateral side of the vertical wall 33.

[00131] The described connecting means may be used in any of the other embodiments of the modular display. It is advantageous that the parts are connected tight enough to provide sufficient strength yet loose enough to disassemble the parts by the user without need of additional tools.

[00132] The side frame 7 further comprises a bus 13 and a bus connector 17 provided on the other base wall 22 of the bus 13. The bus connector 17 is oriented in an opposing direction. The bus printed circuit board 14 is preferably connected to the bus connector 17 by electrical wire. The base wall 22 of the side frame 7 further comprises a face for connecting one of the bus printed circuit board 14 or bus connector 17 thereto. The faces are oriented in different directions to each other.

[00133] In an alternative embodiment of the side frame 7, the side frame 7 comprises two bus printed circuit boards 14 connected to base walls 22, each of the base walls 22 is oriented in such manner that the bus printed circuit boards 14 are facing in different directions. The two bus printed circuit boards 14 are mutually electrically connected to form a bus 13. This embodiment of the side frame 7 is particularly useful in side frames 7 that have a bigger length than the width of the central frame 29 to which the side frame 7 is connected and the side frame 7 extends the central frame 29 to which it is connected. The bus printed circuit board 14 is substantially the same as the bus printed circuit board 14 of the first embodiment of the modular display, but it differs only in that the connecting interface 15 of the bus is oriented differently and the bus printed circuit board 14 may have six or four wires. However, there are no substantial functional differences concerning this invention.

[00134] The parts of the side frame 7, specifically the base wall 22, the vertical walls 33 and the channel interconnecting the base wall 22 are made as a single piece.

[00135] The beams 8 of this embodiment of the modular display are substantially the same as the side frames 7. The beams 8 may differ only in size, in type of the bus connector 17 or in the type of connecting means. However, the means of connecting the beam 8 and side frame 7 are also mutually connectable.

[00136] An alternative embodiment of the side frame 7 and the beam 8 is depicted in figure 8a (top view), 8b (front view) and 8c (front view with a module 12 connected). This side frame 7 and the beam 8 differs in that it comprises only one base wall 22, but the other parts are substantially the same as in figure 5.

[00137] Another embodiment of the beam 8 is depicted of figures 26a and 26b. The beam 8 comprises a bus 13 that enables the electrical connection of separate HMI elements. The HMI elements are provided with means for connecting the beam 8 and beam 8 is provided with corresponding connection means. The HMI elements are provided with a bus connector 17. The beam 8 is provided with a bus connector 17, wherein its end is oriented downwardly (not shown, but as previously described). The bus connector 17 is configured for connection with the bus 13 of the side frame 7.

[00138] A similar embodiment of the beam 8 is depicted of figures 27a and 27b. This embodiment of the beam 8 further comprises a middle part provided with a channel configured for carrying an optical wire. The optical wire may be used for communicatively connecting the HMI elements to the beam 8.

[00139] The connection of the screen 2 and the side frames 7 is made through a central frame 29. This solution uses two central frames 29 as shown in figures 6 and 7. The central frame 29 is substantially same as side frames 7 and beams 8 described above. The central frame 29 only differs in that it does not have to comprise a bus connector 17. Furthermore, the central frame 29 may differ only in size or in a particular embodiment of the connecting means. However, the means connecting the central frame 29 and the side frame 7, or the central frame 29 and the screen 2, are mutually connectable.

[00140] The screen 2 in this embodiment further comprises a bus connector 17 (not shown). The screen 2 preferably comprises a computing unit. The screen 2 is mechanically and releasably connected to the central frame 29 using connecting means and electrically connected to the bus 13 of the central frame 29 via a bus connector 15.

[00141] The side frames 7 are mechanically and releasably connected to the central frame 29 using connecting means and are electrically connected to the bus 13 of the central frame 29 via a bus connector 15. [00142] The beams 8 are mechanically and releasably connected to the side frame 7 using connecting means and are electrically connected to the bus 13 of the side frame 7 via a bus connector 15.

[00143] The modules 12 are mechanically and releasably connected to the side frame 7 using connecting means and are electrically connected to the bus 13 of the side frame 7 via a bus connector 15. Some modules 12 are mechanically and releasably connected to the side frame 7 using connecting means and are electrically connected to the bus 13 of the side frame 7 via a bus connector 15.

[00144] The beams 8 are oriented in such manner that they at least partially overlap the screen 2. In figures 1-3, one of the beams 8 is mechanically connected on each end to the different side frames 7.

[00145] In another embodiment of the modular display the HMI elements are incorporated to the beam 8, but the other features are substantially the same as the previous embodiments. Therefore, the HMI elements are mechanically and non-releasably connected to the beam 8. This embodiment does not provide a module 12 of any kind that can be connected to the beam 8. The beam 8 comprises a bus connector 17 and a wire connecting HMI elements to the bus connector 17. The beam 8 may comprise a plurality of wires connecting HMI elements to the bus connector 17.

[00146] In another embodiment of the modular display, the invention comprises a screen 2, two side frames 7 adjacent to the screen 2, wherein each side frame 7 is adjacent to a different side of the screen 2. The modular display further comprises a beam 8, that is non-releasably connected to each of the side frames 7, and a computing unit.

[00147] The modular display further comprises a plurality of human machine interface elements, wherein the beam 8 is configured for carrying at least a part of the plurality of HMI elements. The beam 8 has means for connecting the modules 12 or HMI elements to it. The beam 8 is further provided with a wire electrically connecting the HMI elements to the computing unit. The beam 8 may be provided with a plurality of wires electrically connecting the HMI elements to the computing unit. The screen 2 is releasably connected to the side frames 7 via connecting means (as previously described). The modular display is schematically shown in figure 18, wherein in figure 18 the modular display comprises six beams 8.

[00148] Several features applicable to all previous embodiments of the modular display are further described with regards to figure 19. The beams 8 or side frames 7, that are configured for carrying HMI elements may extend also away from the screen 2. This may be particularly useful in handheld devices, but also in automotive applications wherein large numbers of HMI input elements are needed.

[00149] An exemplary embodiment of the modular display is depicted in figure 4. The modular display comprises a screen 2, side frames 7, HMI elements (knobs 6 and buttons 4) as in the previous embodiments. Graphical information 6 projected by the screen 2 is shown in chain- dotted lines. The modular display is a personal vehicle display. The bottom side of the screen 2 is connected to the modules 12 with the buttons 4. The modules 12 are also connected to the side frame 7 (which is not shown). The first beam 8 (not shown) is placed horizontally and is mechanically connected to the two opposite side frames 7. The second beam 8 is placed vertically and is connected to side frame 7 and to the first beam 8. The beam 8 carry buttons 4 and knobs 5.

[00150] It is apparent that by modifying or replacing the HMI elements, the overall layout can be changed according to the user’s liking. The graphical information 6 is adjacent to the HMI elements. For example, the knobs 5 are accompanied by projected lines and the actual functional state of the device is controlled by the knob 5. In this embodiment of the invention it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the HMI elements are capable of identifying themselves to the central control unit. The central control unit may automatically change the layout of the display accordingly to a new position of the HMI element. This embodiment is even simpler than the other embodiments because the HMI elements have a computing unit. For example, if the button 4 operating an audio player is moved from the left side of the screen 2 to the right side, then the graphical information 6 regarding the played track will be projected on the other side of the screen 2. The warning signals would then be automatically moved to a different side of the screen 2.

[00151] The modular display of figure 4 is further provided with a decorative casing.

[00152] Preferably the beams 8 of all the aforementioned embodiments are made of a see- through material. More preferably, all the parts that have open connecting means or open buses 13 are covered by a casing. It is preferred that the casing is made of plastic or another suitable material.

[00153] An embodiment of a beam 8 and of casing of a module 12 or separate HMI element, that can be used in any of the aforementioned embodiments of the modular display 1 is shown in Figures 28 to 32. The beam 8 is provided with multiple openings 9 in the beam 8. Said openings 9 in the beam 8 are spaced along the length of the beam 8. The opening 9 in the beam 8 is provided in the base wall 22 of the beam 8.

[00154] The modules 12 connected to the beam 8 are provided with opening 11 in the module 12. The opening 11 in the module 12 passes through the module 12 and its parts. Module 12 shown in figures 28, and 30 to 32 is provided with a button 4. Thus, the opening 11 in the module 12 goes through the bottom casing wall of the module 12 and through the button 4.

[00155] When the modules 12 are assembled and connected to the beam 8 and the beam 8 is connected to the screen 2, then the openings 9 in the beam 8 and openings 11 in the modules 12 at least partially overlap.

[00156] Both openings 11,9 are configured for passing the light through them. Said openings may be empty or they may be fitted with material such as an optical-fibre waveguide or a lightguide made of PPM A or UVT or other suitable material.

[00157] The screen 2 enables to project backlight 10 beneath the opening 9 of the beam 8. Said projected backlight 10 then passes through the openings 9 in the beam 8 and through the openings 11 in the module 12. Computing unit of the screen 2 may control the screen 2 to provide projected backlight 10 in different wavelengths from interval 380-800 nm. Further the projected backlight 10 may be steady or continuously changing its intensity. Preferably the projected backlight is projected solely on the part of the screen 2 adjacent to the opening 9 in the beam 8.

[00158] This configuration provides the modular display 1 with backlit HMI elements. The parts where the light or backlight is emitted are shown in crosshatching.

[00159] Same solution may be utilized in the aforementioned embodiments of the modular display 1 wherein the modules 12 are not used. In such embodiments the HMI elements are directly provided with openings configured for passing the light through them.

Concluding Remarks

[00160] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00161] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00162] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

List of references:

1 - Modular display

2 - Screen

3 - Threaded hole

4 - Button

5 - Knob

6 - Graphical information

6' - Channel

7 - Side frame

8 - Beam

9 - Opening in the beam

10 - Projected backlight

11 - Opening in the module

12 - Module

13 - Bus

14 - Bus printed circuit board

15 - Connecting interface of the bus

16 - Hole for fastener

17 - Bus connectors

22 - Base wall

27 - Bolt connecting element

28 - Connecting hole 29 - Central frame

33 - Vertical wall

Claims

26 CLAIMS

1. A modular display comprising:

(a) a screen (2),

(b) a side frame (7) adjacent to the screen (2),

(c) a plurality of human machine interface elements, and

(d) a beam (8), wherein at least part of the beam (8) overlaps part of the screen (2), the beam (8) is configured for carrying at least a part of the plurality of human machine interface elements and is releasably connected to the side frame (7).

2. The modular display of claim 1, wherein the side frame (7) comprises a bus (13) and the human machine interface elements are electrically connected to the bus (13).

3. The modular display of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side frame (7) is connected to the screen (2).

4. The modular display of any of the claims 1-3, wherein the modular display further comprises a central frame (29) configured for connecting the side frame (7) and the screen (2) thereto.

5. The modular display of any of the claims 1-3, wherein the side frame (7) is a part of a central frame (29) and the central frame (29) is configured for connecting the screen (2) thereto.

6. The modular display of any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of human machine interface elements comprises any of the following elements: a button (4), a microphone, light emitting means, a camera, sound emitting means, a switch or a knob (5).

7. The modular display of any of the preceding claims, wherein the beam (8) is further configured for carrying any of the following elements: a sensor, an external memory connector or a connector.

8. The modular display of any of the preceding claims, wherein the display further comprises a computing unit configured for operating the screen (2) and receiving data relating to a state of the plurality of human machine interface elements. The modular display of any of the preceding claims, wherein the beam (8) comprises a wire and a bus connector (17) configured for connecting the wire to the bus (13) of the side frame

(7), the human machine interface elements carried by the beam (8) are electrically connected to the wire and the electrical connection of said human machine interface elements to the bus (13) of the side frame (7) is made through the wire and the bus connector (17). The modular display of claim 9, wherein the wire of the beam (8) is a bus (13) and the beam

(8) comprises connecting means for mechanical connection of the human machine interface elements and the beam (8) and each of the human machine interface elements carried by the beam (8) comprises:

(a) means for mechanical connection of the human machine interface element and the beam (8), and

(b) a bus connector (17) configured for connecting the human machine interface element to the bus (13) of the beam (8), wherein the human machine interface elements are mechanically, electrically and releasably connected to the beam (8). The modular display of claim 9, wherein the human machine interface elements carried by the beam (8) are non-releasably connected to the beam (8). The modular display of any of the claims 1-8, wherein the human machine interface elements carried by the beam (8) are non-releasably connected to a module (12), wherein the module (12) has:

(a) a bus connector (17) configured for connecting the module (12) carried by the beam (8) to the bus (13) of the side frame (7),

(b) a wire, the wire connecting the human machine interface elements of module (12) to the bus connector (17), and

(c) a connecting means for mutual releasable connection of the module (12) and the beam (8), the beam (8) having corresponding connecting means for mutual releasable connection of the module (12) and the beam (8). The modular display of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a second side frame (7), adjacent to the screen (2) on a different side of the screen (2) than the first side frame (7), wherein the beam (8) is releasably connected to the first and second side frame (7). A modular display comprising:

(a) a screen (2),

(b) a side frame (7) adjacent to the screen (2), the side frame (7) comprising a bus (13), and

(c) a plurality of human machine interface elements, wherein the side frame (7) is configured for carrying at least a part of the plurality of human machine interface elements. The modular display of claim 14, wherein the side frame (7) comprises connecting means for releasable mechanical connection of the side frame (7) and of any of the following:

(a) a human machine interface element of the plurality of human machine interface elements, comprising a bus connector (17) and corresponding connecting means,

(b) a module (12) comprising subset of the plurality of human machine interface elements, wherein the human machine interface elements of the subset are non-releasably and mechanically connected to the module (12), a bus connector (17) and corresponding connecting means,

(c) a beam (8) comprising a wiring, a bus connector (17) configured for connecting the wiring to the bus (13) of the side frame (7), connecting means for mechanical connection of the human machine interface elements and corresponding connecting means for connecting to the side frame (7), and

(d) a beam (8), the beam (8) comprising a wiring, a bus connector (17) configured for connecting the wiring to the bus (13) of the side frame (7), human machine interfaces non- releasably connected to the beam (8) and corresponding connecting means for connecting to the side frame (7). A modular display comprising:

(a) a screen (2);

(b) two side frames (7) adjacent to the screen (2), wherein each side frame (7) is adjacent to 29 a different side of the screen (2), the side frames (7) being configured for carrying the screen (2);

(c) a beam (8) non-releasably connected to each of the side frames (7); and

(d) a plurality of human machine interface elements, wherein the side frames (7) and/or the beam (8) are configured for carrying at least a part of the plurality of human machine interface elements. The modular display of any of the preceding claims, wherein the beam (8) comprises openings (9) in the beam (8) configured for allowing the light to pass through them and the modules (12) comprise openings (11) in the modules (12) configured for allowing the light to pass through them. The modular display of any of the claims 1 to 16, wherein the beam (8) comprises openings (9) in the beam (8) configured for allowing the light to pass through them and human machine interface elements comprise openings in the human machine interface elements configured for allowing the light to pass through them.