GB2588445A

GB2588445A - A display switching system for activation of a display

Info

Publication number: GB2588445A
Application number: GB1915434.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Sir David; Abd El Ghani Mohamed
Original assignee: Bentley Motors Ltd
Current assignee: Bentley Motors Ltd
Priority date: 2019-10-24
Filing date: 2019-10-24
Publication date: 2021-04-28
Anticipated expiration: 2039-10-24
Also published as: WO2021079119A1; GB2588445B; GB201915434D0; EP4049297A1

Abstract

A switching system comprises at least one lower printed circuit assembly (11) having at least one lighting element, e.g. LED (12), at least one upper printed circuit assembly (13) comprising at least one switch (23) to activate the at least one lighting element and an upper screen (15). Each switch is associated with at least one symbol indicating an associated control function and each symbol is only visible when illuminated and not visible when not illuminated. The switches are preferably capacitance touch switches, resistance touch switches or piezo touch switches. The electrodes of each switch may be etched to form the respective symbols. Activation of a switch a first time may cause the symbol to illuminate and subsequent actuation causes the switch control function to activate. The switching system may be provided as part of a wearable device forming part of a vehicle interface system with the wearable device communicating switch commands wirelessly to the vehicle.

Description

A DISPLAY SWITCHING SYSTEM FOR ACTIVATION OF A DISPLAY

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a display switching system to activate a hidden display and particularly to a display switching system to activate a hidden display with one or more command buttons.

Background to the Invention

A variety of display switching systems are conventionally available, including those with touch activation. The most common type of display switching system currently known is likely to be that used for touchscreens on smartphones.

The display on a smartphone is typically deactivated to extend battery life. In order to activate the display, the smartphone can be lifted or moved in which case, one of the sensors in the smartphone, typically the accelerometer detects the movement and activates the display, or the user can activate the display manually by pushing a button such as the 'home' button or the 'lock' button Once the display is activated, the user can then interact with the software application controlling the smartphone and/or any of the applications via icons displayed on the screen or view the application itself If left idle for a period (time period adjustable) the smartphone display will deactivate itself again. Alternatively, the display can be deactivated manually by pushing a button such as the 'lock' button The most common display technology used within mobile phones and tablets is the liquid crystal display (LCD) which features two elements: a backlight overlaid with a layer of liquid crystals. LCDs themselves do not emit light: instead, this is provided by a backlight. The backlight produces a constant source of illumination with the layer of liquid crystals above the backlight then blocking individual colours to produce the required colour.

Organic LED displays differ in that organic light emitting diodes are used. These diodes each individually emit light directly without the need for a backlight.

In both types of display, the software operating on the smartphone then produces features on the display by ordering the illuminated elements into patterns to form pictures, icons, numbers, letters and the like.

Summary of the Invention

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display switching system comprising: a body; at least one lower printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and comprising at least one lighting element; at least one upper printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and associated with at least one symbol indicating an associated control function, the at least one upper printed circuit assembly comprising at least one switch to activate the at least one lighting element on the at least one lower printed circuit assembly to illuminate the at least one symbol, and an upper screen to sandwich the at least one lower printed circuit assembly and at least one upper printed circuit assembly relative to the body, the at least one symbol visible through the upper screen when illuminated but not visible when not illuminated.

In a more particular form, the present invention resides in a wearable device comprising a display switching system In this form, the body is preferably configured 20 to secure or be secured to or around a body part of a wearer. In some embodiments, the wearable device may be attachable to clothing worn by a user.

The at least one upper printed circuit assembly preferably comprises at least one capacitive electrode to activate at least one lighting element on the at least one lower printed circuit assembly to illuminate at least one symbol Preferably, activation of the switch a first time causes illumination of the at least one symbol by the at least one lighting element and at the same time, activates control functionality associated with the at least one symbol. Preferably, subsequent actuation of the at least one symbol whilst the control functionality is activated, causes a command associated with the at least one symbol to be issued. This will preferably allow the display switching device to also issue commands, preferably wirelessly, to one or more other devices or mechanisms.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle interface system comprising a vehicle with at least one wireless communication device and a wearable device comprising a body configured and sized to secure around a wearer, at least one lower printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and comprising at least one lighting element, at least one upper printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and associated with at least one symbol, each at least one symbol associated with a control function and at least one wireless communication device, the at least one upper printed circuit assembly comprising at least one switch to activate the at least one lighting element on the at least one lower printed circuit assembly to illuminate the at least one symbol and an upper screen to sandwich the at least one lower printed circuit assembly and at least one upper printed circuit assembly relative to the body, the at least one symbol visible through the upper screen when illuminated but not visible when not illuminated, wherein activation of the switch a first time illuminates the at least one symbol and activates control functionality and subsequent actuation of the at least one symbol whilst the control functionality is activated causes the respective control functionality to issue a command associated with the at least one symbol, from the wearable device to the at least one wireless communication device of the vehicle.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle including a vehicle interface system, the vehicle comprising and on board computer for processing and acting on instructions issued to it via at least one wireless communication device, and at least one wearable device comprising a body configured and sized to secure around a wearer, at least one lower printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and comprising at least one lighting element, at least one upper printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and associated with at least one symbol, each at least one symbol associated with a control function and at least one wireless communication device, the at least one upper printed circuit assembly comprising at least one switch to activate the at least one lighting element on the at least one lower printed circuit assembly to illuminate the at least one symbol and an upper screen to sandwich the at least one lower printed circuit assembly and at least one upper printed circuit assembly relative to the body, the at least one symbol visible through the upper screen when illuminated but not visible when not illuminated, wherein activation of the switch a first time illuminates the at least one symbol and activates control functionality and subsequent actuation of the at least one symbol whilst the control functionality is activated causes the respective control functionality to issue a command associated with the at least one symbol, from the wearable device to the at least one wireless communication device of the vehicle In an embodiment, the at least one switch is or includes a touch switch or touch activated switch. A proximity switch could be used.

In the present specification, a printed circuit board (PCB) populated with electronic components is called a printed circuit assembly (PCA), printed circuit board assembly or PCB assembly (PCBA). In informal usage in the field, the term "printed circuit board" most commonly means "printed circuit assembly" (with components) IS The display switching system of the present invention is particularly directed towards illuminating a display and particularly a display of one or more symbols. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more symbols will typically be hidden, preferably by a lack of illumination until they are lit or illuminated.

As mentioned above, contemporaneously with the illumination of the at least one symbol, control functionality associated with the at least one symbol will typically also be activated. This will typically allow further actuation of at least one symbol by a user, to issue control commands. Preferably, until the at least one symbol is illuminated, the control functionality will be non-functioning or in "sleep-mode. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, activation of the display switching system will typically achieve two functions, namely illuminating the at least one symbol, and contemporaneously activating control functionality associated with each at least one symbol.

Preferably, the display switching system will be activated by tactile activation, typically using the touch switch or similar.

In a preferred embodiment, the display switching system of the present 30 invention is incorporated into a wearable which can be worn by a user and which provides hidden functionality until the display switching system is activated in the at least one symbol is illuminated. The wearable will typically look like a fashion accessory until activation.

The display switching system of the present invention includes a body. The body may have any size and/or any shape. In one particularly preferred embodiment, the body may be generally rectangular when viewed in plan but alternative configurations such as a circular configuration are possible.

The body can be manufactured from any material. The body can be rigid or flexible. Preferably, the body will be at least partially flexible in order to conform to the shape of a body part of the wearer, such as the wearer's wrist for example, so that the body can be mounted relative to the wearer's wrist in a wristband configuration. It is preferred that any material used be non-porous or have low porosity in order to enable the body to be made weatherproof to protect the components inside.

In one form, the body may be arcuate The body may be configured as a cylinder arc In this form, the body will typically have a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in plan, but a curved shape from the side.

Typically, the internal radius of the preferred body and the external radius of the preferred body are concentric with the internal radius being less than the external radius. Preferably, the inner arcuate surface and the outer arcuate surface are parallel to one another, but they need not be.

The body will preferably include a depression into which components of the display switching system are received. The depression will typically be shaped to receive the respective components of the display switching system.

The depression will preferably be generally rectangular when viewed in plan.

The depression will typically have a pair of end walls, a pair of side walls, and a base wall.

The side walls of the depression may have a stepped profile to provide one or more abutment surfaces to assist with mounting the respective printed circuit assemblies within the depression. The provision of a stepped side wall profile will also typically assist with maintaining separation between the respective printed circuit assemblies within the depression. It is preferred that the steps in the stepped profile are concentric. Typically, a lower step is provided further into the depression, closer to the base for mounting the at least one lower printed circuit assembly relative thereto. An upper step is typically provided above the lower step, closer to the top of the body, but still under the upper screen.

Preferably, the lower step will be smaller in external perimeter dimension than the upper step.

The aforementioned configuration is preferred when the printed circuit assemblies are mounted relative to the body from the upper side. However, it is possible that the printed circuit assemblies may be mounted relative to the body from the lower side in which case an opposite configuration may be provided. Further, in the opposite configuration, the upper screen may be formed integrally with the body and a separate base wall portion may be provided to close (and seal) the depression, with the base wall removably attachable relative to the body.

IS An opening may be provided in a rear side of the body or in the base wall A charging interface or port is preferably provided relative to the opening in the rear side of the body. Typically, the charging interface or port will be sealed relative to the opening in the rear side of the body.

Alternatively, charging of an onboard battery may be achieved wirelessly, for example using inductive charging The present invention includes at least one lower printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and comprising at least one lighting element.

One or more lower printed circuit assemblies may be provided, but typically, a single printed circuit assembly comprising a number of lighting elements is provided.

The at least one lower printed circuit assembly will preferably be secured relative to the body, preferably within the depression as discussed above.

The or each lower printed circuit assembly will typically be flexible Any type of lighting element(s) can be provided. As mentioned above, typically a number of lighting elements are provided relative to the at least one lower printed circuit assembly. Each lighting element is preferably a light emitting diode (LED). Typically, one lighting element is provided relative to each symbol. There will typically be multiple symbols provided with a corresponding number of lighting elements. Preferably, a lighting element is mounted relative to the lower circuit assembly directly below or behind each one of the symbols.

The at least one lower printed circuit assembly will typically control the activation status of each of the lighting elements based on input from the at least one switch.

Each lighting element may be individually activated. Alternatively, all of the lighting elements may be activated together. Typically, a user will touch the upper screen of the display switching system of the present invention in order to activate one or more of the lighting elements. Preferably, a single touch will activate all of the lighting elements of the display switching system allowing the user the choice as to which of the symbols they then wish to actuate.

IS Shielding may be provided about each of the individual lighting elements such that when each lighting element is illuminated, there is minimal light spillage from each of the lighting elements. This will preferably assist with the symbols being delineated clearly, even when all of the lighting elements are activated.

Preferably, the or each lower printed circuit assembly is provided with a controller and each of the lighting elements is typically linked to the controller. The controller may be separate from the lower printed circuit assembly but, preferably, will be part of the lower printed circuit assembly.

Each of the lighting elements is preferably provided relative to an upper surface of the lower printed circuit assembly, Each of the lighting elements is typically spaced from other components on the lower printed circuit assembly.

Each of the lighting elements is preferably offset from higher profile components which are mounted on the lower printed circuit assembly and is preferably offset from those high-profile components which are mounted relative to the upper printed circuit assembly.

The present invention includes at least one upper printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and associated with at least one symbol indicating an associated control function, the at least one upper printed circuit assembly comprising at least one switch to activate the at least one lighting element on the at least one lower printed circuit assembly to illuminate the at least one symbol.

Preferably, the at least one upper printed circuit assembly is mounted in an inverted configuration relative to the lower printed circuit assembly such that the components of each of the printed circuit assembly face one another when the respective printed circuit assemblies are mounted relative to the body.

A single switch may be provided. Alternatively, more than one switch may be provided.

More than one upper printed circuit assembly may be provided but preferably, a single upper printed circuit assembly is provided.

The or each upper printed circuit assembly is preferably secured relative to the body, preferably within the depression as described above. The or each upper printed circuit assembly will normally be mounted above the or each lower printed circuit assembly. Typically, the or each upper printed circuit assembly is aligned with the or each lower printed circuit assembly so that each of the symbols are provided relative to, and preferably overlie a lighting element.

Any type of switch may be used. For example, the touch switch may be a capacitance touch switch which typically needs only one electrode to function. The electrode can be placed behind a non-conductive screen panel such as wood, glass, plastic or other material such as leather for example. Without wishing to be limited by theory, a capacitance touch switch works using body capacitance. The capacitance touch switch keeps charging and discharging the electrode to detect changes in capacitance. When a grounding body, such as person, touches the capacitance touch switch, the grounding body increases the capacitance which triggers the switch.

The touch switch may be a resistance switch which typically needs two electrodes to be physically in contact with something electrically conductive (for example a finger) to operate Resistance switches operate by lowering the resistance between the two electrodes. It is thus much simpler in construction compared to the capacitance switch. A person placing one or two fingers across the electrodes achieves a turn on or closed state. Removing the finger(s) from the metal pieces turns the device off.

The touch switch may be a piezo touch switch, based on mechanical bending of piezo ceramic, typically constructed directly behind a surface. This solution enables touch interfaces with any kind of material. Another characteristic of a piezo touch switch is that it can function as an actuator as well.

Given the relative merits of the various types of touch switches, one or more capacitance switches are preferred. The electrode of a capacitance switch may be shaped or etched for example to form a symbol. When illuminated, an etched electrode will preferably allow light from the lighting element to escape, lighting the symbol.

In one configuration, a touch switch is provided for each symbol The one or more switches are preferably provided on a side of the device which is worn away from the user. The one or more switches are preferably provided on one or more of the lateral sides of the device although this may be less preferred if the one or more switches are touch switches as the location on the lateral sides of the device may lead to accidental triggering of one or more of the switches. If provided on one or more of the lateral sides of the device, the one or more switches may be pressure switches requiring at least a degree of depression (or co-ordinated depression) to trigger the functionality.

In a preferred form, a larger or primary touch switch may be provided for triggering illumination of the at least one lighting element, preferably all of the lighting elements (and preferably activation of the control functionality).

A number of smaller or secondary touch switches are preferably provided, one secondary touch switch relative to each of the at least one symbol and at least one light element associated with each at least one symbol. Preferably the secondary touch switches will be provided relative to the larger or primary touch switch. Typically, the secondary touch switches will be provided within the area of the larger or primary touch switch. In a preferred form, the secondary touch switches will be provided within the area of the larger or primary touch switch, but separated from the larger or primary touch switch and from each other secondary touch switch.

Preferably, the secondary touch switches will be provided as discrete areas, preferably separated and delineated within the primary touch switch area The provision of a larger, primary touch switch with a number of smaller, secondary touch switches according to the above-described configuration will preferably provide or allow two types of functionality in particular, the user will be able to touch a larger surface of the larger, primary touch switch to activate the illumination (and preferably to activate the control functionality) and then whilst activated, the user will be able to touch a smaller surface of a selected secondary touch switch to actuate the preferred control functionality that the user requires and which is associated with the selected secondary touch switch.

The larger or primary touch which will typically be shaped, and generally to correspond with the shape of the upper screen In this way, a touch on any part of the upper screen will preferably activate the illumination (and preferably to activate the control functionality).

The smaller or secondary touch switches will typically be shaped. A circular shape is preferred, but any shape could be used.

Any number of secondary touch switches may be provided, typically between one and six, but preferably four. The number of secondary touch switches will typically correspond to the number of symbols provided in the display switching system. Where the display switching system is used in the wearable configuration, for example to issue control commands to a vehicle, it is preferred that four symbols with corresponding control functionality are provided. The four symbols may for example include a lock/unlock function, open fuel cap function, an activate heater function and a favourites function. Typically, a symbol will be provided for each function, with a lighting element provided for each symbol, and preferably secondary touch switch provided for each symbol.

In a preferred embodiment, the secondary touch switch may not be activated until the primary touch switch is activated. Once the primary touch switch has been Ii activated, which in turn preferably activates the secondary touch switch, the primary touch switch may be deactivated so that the only activated touch switches in the system are the secondary touch switches. This may enhance the detectability of the activation of the secondary touch switches by the user, which may in turn minimise false identification of which secondary touch switch has been activated by the user.

Once activated, the activation will typically remain 'live' for a period of time and will then typically automatically deactivate once that period of time has passed. The period of activation can be any length, preferably between two seconds and 10 seconds, preferably around five seconds, and particularly preferably around three seconds.

If the primary touch switch is activated and a secondary touch is not activated within the preferred time period, the activation will typically lapse into deactivation.

In an alternative configuration, instead of the at least one symbol being provided on or as a part of the upper printed circuit assembly, the at least one symbol may be provided on or associated with the upper screen The present invention also includes an upper screen to sandwich the at least one lower printed circuit assembly and at least one upper printed circuit assembly relative to the body, the at least one symbol visible through the upper screen when illuminated, but not visible, or hidden, when not illuminated.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one symbol may be provided on or relative to the upper screen. In particular, the at least one symbol may be provided on a lower side of the upper screen such that illumination from the at least one lighting element will illuminate the at least one symbol.

The upper screen will typically function as a top cover for the display switching system. Preferably, the upper screen, together with the body, will protect the printed circuit assemblies from any damage and/or adverse conditions.

The upper screen will typically seal the preferred depression in the body with the at least one lower printed circuit assembly and at least one upper printed circuit assembly therein The upper screen will preferably be at least partially transparent. The upper screen may be coloured or tinted or have an anti-reflective coating for example.

The upper screen will normally be manufactured of a plastic material but other materials such as scratch resistant glass for example could be used The upper screen is preferably shaped to correspond to the portion of the preferred depression relative to which it seals. In one embodiment, the upper screen may be at least partially received within the preferred depression. The upper screen may be provided across the top of the depression. An upper surface of the upper screen may be planar or arcuate.

Other materials may be provided over the top of the upper screen. For example, one or more layers of material may be provided above the upper screen in order to obscure the upper screen to increase the aesthetic appeal of the display switching system, particularly when provided in a wearable configuration. It is important however that if one or more layers of material are provided above the upper screen that the materials chosen and/or configured do not interfere with the functionality of the display switching system but merely disguise the display switching system.

Examples of types of materials that could be used in this way include hide material such as leather or imitation materials. The hide material may be provided with one or more openings or perforations formed therein to allow the display to be seen by a user when illuminated but to visually obstruct or occlude the appearance of the display when not illuminated. The hide material may be provided without openings or perforations.

The one or more layers of material may include a discrete area or areas of perforations to define or identify the location of the at least one switches The upper screen may be associated with one or more seals in order to seal effect vely The upper screen may be flexible.

The display switching system of the present invention will preferably include one or more controllers, particularly to control the at least one lighting element and to activate the at least one lighting element when the at least one switch is activated. In a preferred form, at least one controller is provided for the at least one lower printed circuit assembly. At least one controller may be provided for the at least one upper printed circuit assembly. A single controller may be provided for the display switching system, controlling all the components. The one or more controller will preferably have appropriate connections to the components to control of the display switching system and/or components thereof.

The one or more controllers may be flexible.

Each controller typically includes a processor in order to process instructions. 10 The one or more controllers may be associated with one or more memory modules in order to store information. The one or more memory modules may be provided on board or remotely.

The display switching system of the present invention is powered, and depending upon the configuration, one or more batteries will preferably be provided, particularly in the wearable configuration. Preferably, the one or more batteries will be provided on board the wearable. The one or more batteries will typically be rechargeable. The one or more batteries will preferably be located in a lower portion of the body, preferably adjacent to the at least one lower printed circuit assembly. This will typically allow the at least one battery to be located closer to the preferred charging port or connector. Preferably, the at least one battery will be located at one end of the lower printed circuit assembly, typically offset from the lower printed circuit assembly in order to minimise the thickness of the display switching system.

The display switching system will preferably have a communications module allowing the display switching system to issue instructions as outlined above. Although any type of communications module can be provided, a wireless communications module is preferred and a Bluetoothi module is particularly preferred due to its small size and useful range. A small form Bluetooth module is typically used in order to reduce the size of the communications module as much as possible.

The preferred communications module is typically located relative to the at least one upper printed circuit assembly. Preferably, the communications module is located at one end of the at least one upper printed circuit assembly, typically offset from the at least one upper printed circuit assembly to minimise the thickness of the display switching system. The communications module will typically be connected to at least one of the controllers in order to issue a message or instructions upon actuation of one of the symbols.

Appropriate insulation will typically be provided in the display switching system. In particular, insulation will normally be provided between the at least one lower printed circuit assembly and the at least one upper printed circuit assembly. The insulation may be or include any one or more of electrical insulation, heat insulation, or vibration insulation.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which-Figure 1 is an isometric rendered view of a wristband with a display switching system according to an aspect of the present invention Figure 2 is a top view of the wristband illustrated in Figure 1 Figure 3 is a top view of the wristband illustrated in Figure 2 with the display activated Figure 4 is a top view of an alternative configuration of a wristband according to an aspect of the present invention with the display activated.

Figure 5 is a top view of two variants of a wristband according to an aspect of the present invention with the display activated.

Figure 6 is a sectional isometric view through the wristband illustrated in Figure 2, along line A-A.

Figure 7 is a sectional isometric view through the wristband illustrated in Figure 2, along line B-B.

Figure 8 is a partially exploded isometric view of a wristband with a display switching system according to an aspect of the present invention.

IS

Figure 9 is an exploded isometric view of a wristband with a display switching system according to an aspect of the present invention.

In the illustrated embodiments, the display switching system is embodied in a wearable device 10 including the display switching system In this form, the body is configured as a part of a wristband to be secured around a body part of a wearer (not shown).

The display switch system of the illustrated embodiment includes at least one lower printed circuit assembly 11 supported relative to the body and comprising a number of lighting elements 12, and at least one upper printed circuit assembly 13 supported relative to the body and associated with a number of symbols 14, each symbol 14 indicating an associated control function. The at least one upper printed circuit assembly 13 comprises at least one touch switch to activate the lighting elements 12 on the at least one lower printed circuit assembly 11 to illuminate the symbols 14 as shown in Figures 3 to 5 An upper screen 15 is provided to sandwich the at least one lower printed circuit assembly 11 and at least one upper printed circuit assembly 13 relative to the body. As shown, the symbols 14 are visible through the upper screen 15 when illuminated (Figures 3 to 5) but are not visible or hidden when not illuminated Figures 1 and 2.

Preferably, activation of the touch switch a first time causes illumination of the symbols 14 by the lighting elements 12 and at the same time, activates control functionality associated with the symbols 14. Preferably, subsequent actuation of one of the symbols 14 whilst the control functionality is activated, causes a command associated with the selected symbol 14 to be issued. This allows the wearable 10 to also issue commands, preferably wirelessly to one or more other devices or mechanisms.

The wearable device can therefore interface with a vehicle control system for example, to allow a user to issue a command associated with one of the symbols 14 wirelessly to the vehicle to control features of the vehicle or the vehicle operating system.

The body can be rigid or flexible. In the illustrated embodiment, the body is at least partially flexible in order to conform to the shape of a body part of the wearer, such as the wearer's wrist for example, so that the body can be mounted relative to the wearer's wrist in a wristband configuration as shown. It is preferred that any material of construction used be non-porous or have low porosity in order to enable the body to be made weatherproof to protect the components inside.

In the illustrated form, the body includes a depression 16 which is shaped to receive the respective components of the display switching system within.

The depression 16 shown is generally rectangular when viewed in plan including a pair of end walls, a pair of side walls, and a base wall.

The side walls of the depression illustrated in Figure 6 in particular have a stepped profile to provide abutment surfaces to assist with mounting the respective printed circuit assemblies 11, 13 within the depression 16. As illustrated in Figure 6, a lower step is provided further into the depression, closer to the base for mounting the at least one lower printed circuit assembly 11 relative thereto. An upper step is typically provided above the lower step, closer to the top of the body, but still under the upper screen In this configuration, the lower step is larger in external perimeter dimension than the upper step so that the printed circuit assemblies 11, 13 will typically be mounted in the depression from the lower side of the body 50.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, an opening (obscured) is provided in a rear side of the body or in the base wall. A charging interface 17 is provided relative to the opening in the rear side of the body so that a charging cable 18 may be attached to charge one or more on board batteries 19.

A number of flexible lower printed circuit assemblies 11 may be provided such as shown in Figure 8. In this configuration, two lower printed circuit assemblies 11 are provided, each with a pair of lighting elements 12.

Alternatively, a single lower printed circuit assembly 11 comprising a number of lighting elements may be provided such as shown in Figure 9. In this configuration, the lower printed circuit assembly 11 is provided with one or more primary lighting elements 12 centrally and extending along the length of the lower printed circuit assembly 11. In addition, one or more secondary lighting elements 12 are provided at the long edges and extending along the length of the lower printed circuit assembly 11.

These one or more secondary lighting elements 20 are provided to be lit when a command has been sent and/or received so that the user has a visual confirmation that the command that they actuated has been sent. An example is shown in Figure 4. A confirmation from the intended target of the command may be used to trigger illumination of the one or more secondary lighting elements. The illumination may be visually different depending on whether confirmation is received. For example, the one or more secondary lighting elements 20 may be illuminated red when a command has not confirmed and illuminated green when a command is confirmed.

Each lighting element is preferably a light emitting diode (LED). In the form illustrated in Figure 8, one lighting element 12 is provided relative to each symbol 14 preferably directly below or behind each one of the symbols 14.

A controller 21 associated with the lower printed circuit assembly controls the activation status of each of the lighting elements 12 based on input from the at least one touch switch.

Typically, a user will touch the upper screen 15 to activate one or more of the lighting elements. Preferably, a single touch will activate all of the lighting elements 12 as illustrated in Figures 3 to 5, allowing the user the choice as to which of the symbols 14 they then wish to actuate.

Shielding may be provided relative of the individual lighting elements such that when each lighting element is illuminated, there is minimal light spillage from each of the lighting elements. This will preferably assist with the symbols being delineated clearly, even when all of the lighting elements 12 are activated as shown in Figures 3 to 5. An underside of the upper screen may be blackened to shield the lighting elements to minimise light spillage.

As shown in Figure 7, each of the lighting elements 12 is preferably provided relative to an upper surface of the lower printed circuit assembly 11. Each of the lighting elements 12 is spaced from other components on the lower printed circuit assembly 11, offset from higher profile components which are mounted on the lower printed circuit assembly 11. The lighting elements 12 are preferably offset from those high-profile components which are mounted relative to the upper printed circuit assembly 13 as well.

As illustrated in Figure 7, preferably, the at least one upper printed circuit assembly 13 is mounted in an inverted configuration relative to the lower printed circuit assembly 11 such that the respective components of each of the printed circuit assemblies 11, 13 face one another when the respective printed circuit assemblies 11, 13 are mounted relative to the body.

The or each upper printed circuit assembly 13 is preferably secured relative to the body, preferably within the depression 16 as described above. The or each upper printed circuit assembly 13 will normally be mounted above the or each lower printed circuit assembly 11. Typically, the or each upper printed circuit assembly 13 is aligned with the or each lower printed circuit assembly so that each of the symbols 15 are provided relative to, and preferably overlie a lighting element 12 Given the relative merits of the various types of touch switches, one or more capacitance switches are preferred. The electrode of a capacitance switch may be shaped or etched for example to form a symbol. When illuminated, an etched electrode will preferably allow light from the lighting element 12 to escape, lighting the symbol 15.

In a preferred form, a larger or primary touch switch electrode 22 may be provided for triggering illumination of the lighting elements 12 (and preferably activation of the control functionality).

A number of smaller, secondary touch switch electrodes 23 are preferably provided, one secondary touch switch electrode 23 relative to each of the symbol 14 and lighting element 12 associated with each symbol 15. In a preferred form, the secondary touch switch electrodes 23 are provided within the area of the larger, primary touch switch electrode 22, but separated from the larger, primary touch switch electrode 22 and from each other secondary touch switch 23.

The provision of a larger, primary touch switch with a number of smaller, secondary touch switches according to the above-described configuration allows two types of functionality, in particular, the user will be able to touch a larger surface of the larger, primary touch switch to activate the illumination (and preferably to activate the control functionality) and then whilst activated, the user will be able to touch a smaller surface of a selected secondary touch switch to actuate the preferred control functionality that the user requires and which is associated with the selected secondary touch switch.

The larger, primary touch switch electrode 22 is shaped generally to correspond with the shape of the upper screen 15. The primary touch switch electrode 22 can be opaque to provide shielding to minimise light spillage. In this way, a touch on any part of the upper screen will preferably activate the illumination (and preferably to activate the control functionality) The smaller, secondary touch switch electrodes 23 will typically be shaped. A circular shape is illustrated, but any shape could be used. The secondary touch switch electrodes 23 can be etched to form the symbols such that when lit from below, they form the lit symbol 15 as illustrated in Figures 3 to 5.

Any number of secondary touch switch electrodes 23 may be provided, typically between one and six, but preferably four. The number of secondary touch switch electrodes 23 corresponds to the number of symbols 14 provided. In the illustrated embodiment, four symbols with corresponding control functionality are provided. The four symbols shown include a lock/unlock function, open fuel cap function, an activate heater function and a favourites function.

Once activated, the activation will typically remain 'live' for a period of time and will then typically automatically deactivate once that period of time has passed.

The period of activation can be any length, preferably between two seconds and 10 seconds, preferably around five seconds, and particularly preferably around three seconds.

The upper screen 15 will typically function as a top cover for the display switching system. Preferably, the upper screen 15, together with the body, will protect the printed circuit assemblies 11, 13 from any damage and/or adverse conditions.

The upper screen 15 will typically seal the depression 16 in the body with the at least one lower printed circuit assembly 11 and at least one upper printed circuit assembly 13 therein.

The upper screen 15 is normally at least partially transparent but may be coloured or tinted or have an anti-reflective coating for example.

The upper screen will normally be manufactured of a plastic material but other materials such as scratch resistant glass for example could be used.

The display switching system of the present invention will preferably include one or more controllers, a controller 21 associated with the lower printed circuit assembly 11 to control the lighting elements 12. In the illustrated embodiment, a control interface 24 is provided for the upper printed circuit assembly and which is connected to a connection interface 25 so that a single controller 21 can control all of the components and functions for the display switching system. The controller 21 will have appropriate connections to the components to control of the display switching system and/or components thereof The controller is typically also flexible.

The display switching system of the illustrated embodiment is powered, and one or more batteries are provided. Preferably, the batteries 16 are provided on board the wearable 10 and are rechargeable. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the at least one battery is located in a lower portion of the body, preferably adjacent to the lower printed circuit assembly 11, allowing the at least one battery 16 to be located closer to the charging interface 17. Preferably, the at least one battery 16 is located at one end of the lower printed circuit assembly 11, offset from the lower printed circuit assembly 11 in order to minimise the thickness of the system.

The display switching system includes a communications module allowing the display switching system to issue instructions as outlined above. Although any type of communications module can be provided, a small form Bluetoothm module 27 is particularly preferred due to its small size and useful range.

As illustrated in Figure 7, the preferred Bluetooth' module 27 is located at one end of the upper printed circuit assembly 13, offset from the upper printed circuit assembly 13 to minimise the thickness of the system. The preferred Bluetooth module 27 is connected to the controller 2 in order to issue a message or instructions upon actuation of one of the symbols 15.

The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims. 2. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Claims

A display switching system comprising a. a body; b, at least one lower printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and comprising at least one lighting element; c, at least one upper printed circuit assembly supported relative to the body and associated with at least one symbol indicating an associated control function, the at least one upper printed circuit assembly comprising at least one switch to activate the at least one lighting element on the at least one lower printed circuit assembly to illuminate the at least one symbol; and d. an upper screen to sandwich the at least one lower printed circuit assembly and at least one upper printed circuit assembly relative to the body, the at least one symbol visible through the upper screen when illuminated but not visible when not illuminated.
A display switching system as claimed in claim 1 incorporated into a wearable device.
A display switching system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein activation of the at least one switch a first time causes illumination of the at least one symbol by the at least one lighting element and at the same time, activates control functionality associated with the at least one symbol.
A display switching system as claimed in claim 3 wherein subsequent actuation of the at least one symbol whilst the control functionality is activated, causes a command associated with the at least one symbol to be issued.
A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one switch is or includes a touch switch or touch activated switch.
A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the body comprises a depression into which components of the display switching system are received A display switching system as claimed in claim 6 wherein one or more walls of the depression have a stepped profile to provide one or more abutment surfaces to assist with mounting the respective printed circuit assemblies within the depression.
8. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a single printed circuit assembly comprising a number of lighting elements is provided.
9. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a number of lighting elements are provided relative to the at least one lower printed circuit assembly, one lighting element provided relative to each symbol.
10. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein all of the lighting elements are activated together.
11. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each lower printed circuit assembly is provided with a controller and each of the lighting elements is linked to the controller.
12. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each upper printed circuit assembly is aligned with the or each lower printed circuit assembly so that each of the symbols overlie a lighting element.
13. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein each switch is a capacitance touch switch, a resistance touch switch or a piezo touch switch.
14. A display switching system as claimed in claim 13 wherein an electrode of the touch switch is shaped or etched to form the symbol.
15. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a larger, primary touch switch is provided for triggering illumination of the at least one lighting element, and a number of smaller, secondary touch switches are provided, one secondary touch switch relative to each of the at least one symbol and at least one light element associated with each at least one symbol.
16. A display switching system as claimed in claim 15 wherein the secondary touch switches are provided as discrete areas, separated and delineated within an area of the primary touch switch.
17. A display switching system as claimed in claim 15 or claim 16 wherein the number of secondary touch switches corresponds to the number of symbols provided.
18. A display switching system as claimed in any one of claims 15 to 17 wherein the secondary touch switches are activated only once the primary touch switch is activated.
19. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein once activated, the illuminated remains active for a period of time and automatically deactivates once the period of time passes.
20. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the upper screen is at least partially transparent.
21. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one layer of other material is provided over the top of the upper screen to allow the display to be seen by a user when illuminated but to obstruct or occlude the appearance of the display when not illuminated.
22. A display switching system as claimed in claim 21 wherein the at least one layer is hide or imitation hide.
23. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a single controller is provided for the display switching system, controlling all components.
24. A display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including a communications module allowing the display switching system to issue an instruction associated with each at least one symbol.
25. A vehicle interface system comprising a vehicle with at least one wireless communication device and a wearable device comprising a display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the body is configured and sized to secure around a wearer, wherein activation of the at least one switch a first time illuminates the at least one symbol and activates control functionality and subsequent actuation of the at least one symbol whilst the control functionality is activated causes the respective control functionality to issue a command associated with the at least one symbol, from the wearable device to the at least one wireless communication device of the vehicle.
26. A vehicle including a vehicle interface system, the vehicle comprising an on board computer for processing and acting on instructions issued to it via at least one wireless communication device, and at least one wearable device comprising a display switching system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the body is configured and sized to secure around a wearer, wherein activation of the at least one switch a first time illuminates the at least one symbol and activates control functionality and subsequent actuation of the at least one symbol whilst the control functionality is activated causes the respective control functionality to issue a command associated with the at least one symbol, from the wearable device to the at least one wireless communication device of the vehicle.