WO2008063633A2

WO2008063633A2 - Instrument cluster

Info

Publication number: WO2008063633A2
Application number: PCT/US2007/024240
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael R. Catlin; Timothy J. Borgeson; Chris Hogg; Rodger W. Eich; Steven Schultz
Original assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
Priority date: 2006-11-20
Filing date: 2007-11-20
Publication date: 2008-05-29
Also published as: WO2008063633A3

Abstract

The application relates to a display comprising a pointer (20) configured to be illuminated by the light source and a graphic surface (12) for cooperation with the pointer (20). In order to reduce an amount of light transmitted from the pointer to the graphic surface (12) a sleeve (24) is provided around the pointer (20). This reduces the halo effect. As alternative or in addition, a cap (52) may be provided. The display may be used in vehicles or buildings.

Description

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/860,032 filed Nov. 20, 2007 the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present application relates generally to the field of instrument clusters, particularly instrument clusters for cars and other land vehicles.

[0003] Instrument clusters for vehicles often include an instrument panel that includes a pointer. The pointer is typically configured to point to some vehicle parameter such as fuel level, vehicle speed, engine speed, engine temperature, etc. The pointer is generally connected to a stepper motor by a shaft.

[0004] It has become popular to light the pointer using LEDs. In general, multiple LEDs might be arranged around the outside of the shaft to which the pointer is connected. As the pointer moved along an arc, the pointer would be lit by subsequent LEDs around the shaft.

Light from the LEDs would enter the pointer and make the pointer appear as if it were glowing.

[0005] A company named Sonceboz has developed a stepper motor for an instrument cluster that included a hollow shaft. With this new motor, a light-piping shaft could be used to collect light from a single LED and transfer that light into the pointer.

[0006] However, in both of these methods, light tends to extend beyond the intended target, the pointer, resulting in a halo effect. To control for this halo effect, many pointers are capped by a hub, an exemplary hub being around 14 mm in diameter. Such hubs limit the designs of instrument clusters. However these hubs are generally thought to be needed to block the halo effect.

SUMMARY

[0007] One embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster. The instrument cluster includes a light source and a pointer configured to be illuminated by the light source. The pointer includes a shaft portion and a display portion, and is configured such the display portion of the pointer can be illuminated by transmitting light from the light source through the shaft portion of the pointer. The instrument cluster also includes a graphic surface configured to cooperate with the pointer to display information, a sleeve around the pointer

(the sleeve configured to reduce an amount of light transmitted through the pointer that illuminates the graphic surface), and a motor configured to rotate the pointer, the motor including a hollow portion configured to receive the shaft portion of the pointer. The instrument cluster may also include a processing circuit configured to receive information from a vehicle system and to control the motor such that the pointer and the graphic surface display information relating to the vehicle system.

[0008] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster. The instrument cluster includes a light source, a light transmissive pointer configured to be illuminated by the light source, a graphic surface cooperating with the pointer to display information, a motor configured to control motion of the pointer, wherein substantially no halo from the light source illuminating the pointer can be seen on the graphic surface. If the instrument cluster includes a hub, the hub is no more than about 6 mm wide.

[0009] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster. The instrument cluster includes a pointer configured to be illuminated by a light source, a graphic surface configured to cooperate with the pointer to display information to a user, and a sleeve around the pointer, the sleeve extending to the graphic surface.

[0010] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster. The instrument cluster includes a housing, and a pointer configured to be illuminated by a light source. The pointer extends through an opening in the housing. The instrument cluster also includes a sleeve around the pointer. The sleeve extends to the opening of the housing.

[0011] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster. The instrument cluster includes a light source, a light transmissive pointer configured to be illuminated by the light source, and a graphic surface cooperating with the pointer to display information. The instrument cluster includes a hub with an open configuration.

[0012] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster. The instrument cluster includes a housing, and a pointer configured to be illuminated by a light source. The pointer extends through an opening in the housing. The instrument cluster also includes a sleeve around the pointer. The sleeve extends to the opening of the housing.

[0013] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster. The instrument cluster includes a housing, and a pointer configured to be illuminated by a light source. The instrument cluster also includes a cap connected to a sleeve that fits around the pointer. The sleeve and the cap may be integral or may be separate pieces.

[0014] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer with two bends.

[0015] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer with a bend of greater than 100 degrees. In some embodiments, the bend is greater than about 120 and/or about 135 degrees.

[0016] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer with a light source (e.g. solid state light source such as an LED) embedded in the pointer. In some embodiments, the light source may be embedded in an end of the pointer located away from a drive mechanism that is configured to move the pointer. In some embodiments, power may be transferred to the light source using a brush assembly, an inductive assembly, a contactless power transfer assembly, and/or a contact-based power transfer assembly. In some embodiments, the pointer includes wires configured to transfer power to the light source. In some embodiments, the pointer includes printed power lines configured to transfer power to the light source. The power lines may be formed from organic-based conductors. In some embodiments, the conductors may be located on one or more sides of the pointer that do not face the user (e.g. vehicle cabin) of the instrument cluster. [0017] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer that is configured to provide light from beneath a sheet. In some embodiments, the sheet may be a translucent plastic sheet. In some embodiments, the sheet may have a first area configured to carry a graphic and a second area that is translucent. In some embodiments, a portion of the sheet through which the pointer provides light is more than an inch away from an axis of rotation of the pointer.

[0018] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer configured to cooperate with a graphic display to provide information, and a light guide behind the pointer. In some embodiments, the light guide may be behind the graphic surface with which the pointer cooperates to provide information. In some embodiments, the light guide may be a wedge-shaped light guide. In some embodiments, the light guide may be shaped differently (e.g. wider) than the pointer. In some embodiments, the light guide may be configured to provide a trailing beam of light. [0019] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster that includes a light guide configured to be rotated around a pivot, the light guide configured to provide a cone of light across a graphic surface of the instrument cluster.

[0020] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster that includes a light guide configured to be rotated around an axis, the light guide configured to provide pie-shaped light across a graphic surface of the instrument cluster. In some embodiments, the light guide is configured to rotate around the same axis as a pointer.

[0021] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer located behind a graphic surface with which it cooperates to provide information.

[0022] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer configured to project light on a selected portion of a graphic surface, the selected portion being variable. In some embodiments, the selected portion may include indicia (e.g. holographic indicia) printed on a trim, bezel, or other surface of the instrument cluster.

[0023] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer. The pointer is configured to provide illumination to a light pipe. In some embodiments, the light pipe may be divided into sections or have limited transmittance.

[0024] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer that includes a shaft portion and a display portion. Part of the display portion away from the shaft portion extends through a housing (e.g. bezel) and provides illumination to indicia.

[0025] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer that includes a first portion transverse to an axis of rotation of the pointer. Part of the first portion is visible to a user, and part of the first portion is not visible to a user and provides illumination to indicia.

[0026] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer that is illuminated by ultraviolet light. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light may be used to illuminate indicia on a graphic surface (e.g. phosphors or ink on a graphic surface). In some embodiments, the pointer may simultaneously be illuminated by light of a second color (e.g. a color visible to a human).

[0027] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer and an illuminated body separate from the pointer. The pointer is configured to extend over the illuminated body. In some embodiments, the illuminated body may include a light pipe. In some embodiments, the illuminated body may form a ring of light around a graphic surface with which the pointer cooperates. In some embodiments, the end of the pointer may be formed at an angle, and/or may follow the contour of the illuminated body.

[0028] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a plurality of pointers having a common axis of rotation. In some embodiments, each pointer may include a shaft portion and a display portion comprised of light transmitting materials. In some embodiments, each display portion may be illuminated by providing illumination through the shaft portion.

[0029] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer. The instrument cluster includes a body having a masking portion behind which a pointer can be located (e.g. when a vehicle is off). In some embodiments, the pointer may be configured to provide illumination to the masking portion such that illumination is visible from the masking portion.

[0030] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having two pointers with a common axis of rotation. A first pointer includes a display portion illuminated by light transmitted through a shaft of the first pointer. The second pointer also includes a display portion illuminated by light transmitted through the shaft of the first pointer.

[0031] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer, and a structure (e.g. bezel) around a graphic surface with which the pointer cooperates. The pointer is configured to illuminate indicia in the structure. In some embodiments, the structure may be located at least partially in a plane that is in front of the primary plane in which a display portion of the pointer is located.

[0032] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer that is lit on a tip portion of the pointer and a tail portion of a pointer. The tip portion and tail portion can be separately lit or can be commonly lit.

[0033] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer that provides illumination visible in a vehicle interior at a tip portion and at about an axis of the pointer. The illumination may be visible from about the axis to about the tip of the pointer.

[0034] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer that comprises a compensation layer.

[0035] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer that comprises a diffusion layer. The diffusion layer may be separate from a light guide of the pointer. [0036] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer which is compensated for an unevenness of light provided by a light guide of the pointer.

[0037] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having an illuminated pointer with a varying printed image on at least one of a light pipe and a diffusion member used in a pointer.

[0038] Another embodiment is directed to pointer having a curved shaft portion. The pointer may also include a display portion that extends in at least two directions from a point at which the shaft portion intersects the display portion. Both direction of the display portion may be illuminated.

[0039] Another embodiment is directed to an instrument cluster having a pointer with an axis of rotation, and a body in front of at least a portion of the pointer viewed along the axis of rotation. At least a portion of the pointer is configured to extend in front of the body.

The body may include a display portion and may include electronic components.

[0040] Another embodiment is directed to use of any of the above-mentioned instrument clusters in an automobile.

[0041] Another embodiment is directed to use of any of the above-mentioned instrument clusters in a display configured to provide data relating to environmental conditions of a building.

[0042] Other embodiments are directed to all of the possible combinations of the above? listed embodiments, including use of the varioμs features in a single pointer-system and/or in more than one pointer of a multi-pointer instrument cluster.

[0043] Other embodiments are directed to use of one or more of the above-listed features in combination with features disclosed below and/or disclosed in the drawings.

[0044] Other embodiments are directed to features disclosed below and/or in the drawings, but not discussed above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Fig. 1 is an instrument cluster pointer assembly according to one embodiment; [0046] Figs. 2-14 are exemplary pointer system designs which can be created where hubs are not required according to various embodiments; [0047] Figs. 15-72 are exemplary instrument clusters according to various embodiments that include various different lighting system configurations, lighting effects, a shaftless instrument cluster pointer, and/or other features;

[0048] Figs. 73-77 illustrate a pointer and instrument cluster including a compensation layer according to one embodiment;

[0049] Fig. 78 is an instrument cluster according to one embodiment;

[0050] Fig. 79 is a stepper motor configuration according to one embodiment;

[0051] Fig. 80 is a stepper motor configuration according to one embodiment;

[0052] Fig. 81 is an instrument cluster pointer assembly according to one embodiment;

[0053] Figs. 82-83 is a pointer assembly according to one embodiment; and

[0054] Fig. 84 is a pointer assembly according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0055] Referring to Fig. 1, a pointer system 8 for an instrument cluster 10 includes a pointer 20. Pointer 20 may be a unitary body or may consist of multiple parts that are assembled together. In one embodiment, pointer 20 is a unitary body consisting of a display portion 21 that extends above a body (e.g. white housing 28) of instrument cluster 10. The display portion 21 can be used in conjunction with graphics (such as those provided on an applique 12) to provide information to a user of the instrument cluster. Pointer 20 also includes a shaft portion 22 arranged at an angle (e.g. at about a substantially 90° angle) with respect to display portion 21. Shaft portion 22 extends through the body (white housing 28) of instrument cluster 10.

[0056] Shaft portion 22 also extends through a hollow portion 48 of a stepper motor 40. Stepper motor 40 is configured to control the position of pointer 20. Stepper motor 40 may be under the control of a processing circuit (not illustrated). Stepper motor 40 and/or its processing circuit may be attached to a circuit carrying element, such as printed circuit board 36, a flexible circuit, etc.

[0057] Pointer 20 is formed of a light transmitting material, such as a light pipe, and may be formed from acrylic, polycarbonate, and/or some other material. Light from a light source 32 (e.g. LED) can be transferred through the shaft portion 22 of pointer 20 to the display portion 21 of pointer 20. In this manner, display portion 21 may appear illuminated to a user of instrument cluster 20 when light source 32 is activated. Light source 32 may be mounted to a circuit carrying element (e.g. PCB 36) as well, and may be arranged such that it is received within a hollow region 42 of motor 40. IfLEDs are used as light source 32, light source 32 may consist of a single LED or may include multiple LEDs. [0058] To block light that may tend to form a halo effect, pointer system 8 may further include a sleeve 24. Sleeve 24 would generally be configured to surround (typically, completely surround) shaft portion 22 of pointer 20. Sleeve 24 would generally be configured to move (e.g. rotate) with pointer 20. In many embodiments, sleeve 24 might be designed to extend through a gap 56 in white housing 28 such that it extends behind the graphic surface formed by applique 12. In the illustrated embodiment, sleeve 24 extends back to a motor output gear 44 of motor 40, which is located behind the graphic surface of instrument cluster 10.

[0059] Sleeve 24 may be configured such that it snugly fits around shaft portion 22 or may be configured to provide some space. Sleeve 24 may be formed from any number of opaque materials such as polycarbonate, plastic, metal, paint, or any number of other materials.

[0060] In some embodiments, sleeve 24 may be a separate component that is joined with shaft portion 22 and/or cap 52. In some embodiments, sleeve 24 may be formed in a common process (e.g. molding process) as and/or may be formed integral with pointer 20 and/or cap 52. In some embodiments, sleeve 24 may be opaque paint that is painted on to shaft portion 22 of pointer 20.

[0061] In some embodiments, shaft portion 22 may be formed from a material or materials with properties that allow light to be transferred by the material but which does not allow significant light to escape from the material. The properties of the material may include surface characteristics shaped into the material during formation of the material, etc. [0062] In many embodiments, pointer system 8 gives off an insignificant amount of halo, such that it would not be a concern to a user or customer for the system. In some of these embodiments, pointer system 8 would give off substantially no halo, such that it would not be distracting to a majority of users of the instrument cluster 10. In some of these embodiments, the pointer system 8 would give off essentially no halo, such that any halo given off would not be easily noticeable by most human eyes. The amount of halo would generally be measured based on the halo observable above the graphic surface and/or applique of instrument cluster 10. The amount of halo that is observable is based, in part, on the contrast between the light emanating from the pointer and the graphic surface. Contrast can be based on light color, intensity, color of applique, and other variables. For more information on contrast and other topics, see Lighting Handbook, Eight Edition by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America.

[0063] Halo can be measured by assembling instrument cluster 10, taking a picture of pointer system 8 in the instrument cluster 10 (while illuminated) in a dark room, and analyzing the picture taken to determine if halo is present.

[0064] Sleeve 24 and/or pointer system 8 may include a secondary halo blocking ring 16 if desired. Halo blocking ring 16 may be located in front of the graphic surface formed by applique 12 such as close to and in front of gap 56 in white housing 28. Halo blocking ring 16 would typically be formed from a substantially opaque material.

[0065] In some embodiments, shaft portion 22 may have a width (e.g. diameter) of at least about 1 mm and/or up to about 10 mm. In some of these embodiments, shaft portion 22 may have a width of at least about 2 mm and/or up to about 6 mm. In some embodiments (including those discussed above), the width of shaft portion 22 may be at least about 3 mm and/or up to about 4 mm wide. Also, in some embodiments, display portion 21 may have any of these above listed dimensions. In some embodiments, shaft portion 22 and/or display portion 21 may have widths less than about 1 mm and/or more than about 10 mm. [0066] In some embodiments, sleeve 24 may have a thickness of less than about 3 mm, including up to about 1 mm. In other embodiments, sleeve 24 may have a thickness greater than 3 mm.

[0067] In some embodiments, gap 56 may have a smaller width (diameter) than prior art systems. For example, gap 56 may have a width of less than 10 mm in some embodiments. In some of these embodiments, gap 56 may have a diameter of less than about 7 mm and/or up to about 5 mm. Gap 56 may be configured to have a width such that there is a clearance of less than 2 mm between sleeve 24 and a housing 28 and/or up to about 1 mm between sleeve 24 and a housing 28. In some embodiments, gap 56 may have a width greater than 10 mm and/or have a width such that there is clearance of at least 2 mm between sleeve 24 and housing 28.

[0068] System 8 may also include a cap 52 configured to block light transmitted by pointer 20. Cap 52 may be smaller than the hubs typically used in vehicle instrument clusters. In some embodiments, cap 52 may have a width (e.g. diameter) that is less than 8 mm. In some of these embodiments, cap 52 may have a width that is no more than about 5 mm, 3 mm, and/or 2 mm. In other embodiments, cap 52 may have a width of at least 8 mm. [0069] As shown in Figs. 2-4, a pointer system 8 can include an elbow 23 at the junction of the display portion 21 and shaft portion 22. Sleeve 24 is formed by a metal foil extending around shaft portion 22, elbow 23, and display portion 21. A cap 52 can extend around sleeve 24. As illustrated, cap 52 can have an open configuration such as a donut shape. In other embodiments the open shape can take any form such as a hollow box, a design, a logo, etc.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 5, a pointer system 8 may not include a cap. Instead, the pointer may be shrouded in a material. As in Figs. 2-4, sleeve 24 may be a metal sleeve extending along shaft portion 22 across elbow 23 to display portion 21 of pointer 20.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 6, a pointer system 8 includes a small ovular cap 52 placed over display portion 21. Pointer 20 also includes a metal trim piece 70 around display portion

21.

[0072] As shown in Fig. 7, elbow 23 of pointer 20 includes a notched portion 74 and no cap 52 or hub.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 8, a pointer 802 can include a shaft portion 822 and a display portion 821. Display portion 821 may have a first illuminated portion 860 and a second illuminated portion 862. In some embodiments, only one of portions 860 and 862 will be illuminated. Pointer 802 has a tip portion 894 and a tail portion 892 on opposite sides of shaft 822.

[0074] As shown in Figs. 9 and 10, a pointer 1002 includes a shaft 1022 that splits into a tail portion 1092 of a display portion 1021, and a tip portion 1094 of display portion 1021.

Pointer 1002 also includes a conical cap 1052.

[0075] As shown in Figs. 11 and 12, a pointer 1102 includes a shaft portion 1122 and a display portion 1121. Display portion 1121 includes a tip portion 1894 and a tab portion

1192 that is on an opposite side of shaft portion 1122 than tip portion 1894. Pointer 1102 also includes a rectangular cap 52 having an open configuration forming a space 1154 between walls of cap 52. Cap 52 is disposed at a 45 degree angle with respect to display portion 1121.

[0076] As shown in Figs. 13 and 14, a pointer 1302 includes a shaft portion 1392 and a display portion 1321. Display portion 1321 includes a tip portion 1394 and a tail portion

1322. Display portion includes an illuminated portion 1323 surrounded by an un- illuminated portion 1325. Instrument Clusters with Lighting Effects

[0077] In addition to (or as an alternate to) providing the possibility for a hubless design, an instrument cluster may have one or more additional lighting effects. Any of the embodiments described below may have one or more of the properties discussed above for Figs. 1-14, including designs, materials, components, etc.

[0078] Referring to Figs. 15 and 16, an instrument cluster 902 may include a display face 910 carrying indicia 912 and/or telltales 920 (e.g. turn indicators, warnings, system status indicators, etc.). The instrument cluster 902 also includes a pointer 914 that is configured to provide light 916 from an end 918 (or other portion) of pointer 914. Pointer 914 may be located at a plane above at least a portion of display face 910. The light 916 from pointer 914 may shine towards other portions of instrument cluster 902, such as parts located back from (e.g. directly behind) pointer 914.

[0079] Pointer 914 may be controlled by a motor 926 or other drive means mounted to a circuit board 922. Motor 926 rotates a shaft portion of pointer 914 which in turn rotates a display portion 928 of pointer 914.

[0080] Light 916 may come from any number of sources. For example, a light source (LED, OLED, EL device, etc.) may be mounted in an end 918 of pointer 914 and/or may be otherwise carried by pointer 914. As another example, pointer 914 may be designed to pipe light (as discussed above) from a light source mounted on board 922 to an end portion 918 of pointer 914 that is configured to allow light to escape (while other portions of pointer 914 may or may not be configured to allow light to escape).

[0081] Referring to Figs. 17 and 18, an instrument cluster 1102 includes a body 1110 configured to carry a see-through (e.g. transparent, translucent, etc.) sheet 1114. Sheet 1114 carries indicia 1116 and may carry tick marks 1112. In some embodiments, body 1110 carries tick marks 1112.

[0082] Instrument cluster 1102 also includes a pointer assembly 1118. Pointer assembly 1118 includes a motor 1126 configured to drive a shaft 1128. Shaft 1128, in turn, is configured to carry a light transmitting sheet 1122 which is located behind body 1110 and a pointer 1119 that rotates in front of body 1110. Pointer 1119 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein.

[0083] In operation, sheet 1122 provides a light output 1120 that is visible through body 1110 and is located in a position that follows pointer 1119 on a back side 1132 of pointer 1119. In other embodiments, sheet 1122 may be configured to be located on both sides of pointer 1119 (see, e.g. Figs. 19 and 20). In some embodiments, the relative position of sheet 1122 and pointer 1119 is variable (e.g. sheet 1122 may include projections on either side of sheet 1122 that, when pointer 1119 is moved towards one side of sheet 1122, one or the other projections abuts a projection from shaft portion 1128, thereby causing sheet to trail the direction in which pointer 1119 is moved). In still other embodiments, sheet 1122 and pointer 1119 may be configured to be driven by two separate (e.g. coaxial) shafts that may be controlled by the same or different drive sources.

[0084] Sheet 1122 and pointer 1119 may be illuminated from a common light source (e.g. by light traveling through shaft 1128), or may be illuminated by different light sources. Sheet 1122 may be configured to only provide light in limited situations (e.g. when accelerating, decelerating, to indicate that a system should be checked, when headlights are on, on start-up, and/or some other situation). The situations may be determined based on a data from a sensor configured to monitor a vehicle parameter.

[0085] Sheet 1122 may provide light in any shape, including as a cone or wedge of light. [0086] Referring to Figs. 19 and 20, instrument cluster 1102 includes multiple gauges 1180, 1190, 1192. Gauges 1190 and 1192 include components that correspond to those of Figs. 17 and 18 (e.g. components 1152-1160 corresponding to similar components as components 1112-1120).

[0087] Gauge 1180 includes a pointer system 1182 that cooperates with indicia 1184 to provide information to a vehicle occupant.

[0088] Gauges 1180, 1190, 1192 also include raised edges 1140, 1142, 1186 that provide a deeper look to gauges 1180, 1190, 1192.

[0089] Referring to Figs. 21 and 22, an instrument cluster 2102 includes a body 2110, a display face (e.g. applique 2111), and a light transmissive body 2114. Body 2114 carries indicia 2116 and may carry tick marks 2112. Instrument cluster 2102 also includes a pointer assembly 2118. Pointer assembly 2118 includes a motor 2126 or other drive means configured to drive a shaft 2128. Shaft 2128, in turn, is configured to carry a light transmitting body 2122 which is located behind a portion of transparent body 2114 and a pointer 2119 that rotates in front of transparent body 2114. Pointer 2119 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. Light transmitting body 2122 provides a light output 2120 that is visible through transparent body 2114 proximate to the tip of pointer 2119. Pointer assembly may further include an additional motor 2146 configured to drive a shaft 2148. Shaft 2148, in turn, is configured to carry a secondary pointer 2149 that cooperates with a second set of indicia to provide a second type of information to a vehicle occupant. In other embodiments, sheet 2122 and pointer 2119 may be configured to be driven by two separate (e.g. coaxial) shafts that may be controlled by the same or different drive sources, as discussed above for other coaxial pointers [0090] Referring to Figs. 23 and 24, an instrument cluster 2302 includes a body 2310 and a dome 2311 (e.g., faceplate applique, etc). Dome 2311 includes an outer see-through (e.g. transparent, translucent, etc.) portion 2314. Portion 2314 may be configured to form at least a portion of a deadfronted display face (e.g. hides pointer 2319 until pointer 2319 is illuminated). Dome 2311 also includes a central portion 2315. Central portion 2315 may be see-through or may be opaque. Central portion 2315 may be configured to carry information, a design, etc. Body 2310 carries indicia 2316 and may carry tick marks 2312 which cooperate with pointer 2319 to provide information to a vehicle occupant. [0091] According to another exemplary embodiment (Figs 25-26), transparent portion 2314 may carry tick marks 2512 and/or other indicia. ^■"

[0092] Instrument cluster 2302,2502 also includes a pointer assembly 2318. Pointer assembly 2318 includes a motor 2326 or other drive means configured to drive a shaft 2328. Shaft 2328, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 2319 that rotates behind dome 2311. Pointer 2319 includes a tip 2322 that is aligned with transparent portion 2314. Pointer 2319 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. While the majority of pointer 2319 may be hidden behind dome 2311, tip 2322 may be configured to provide a light output 2120 that is visible through body 2114 proximate to the tip of pointer 2119. Dome 2311 provides an area for telltales, vehicle insignia, or other function or decorative elements. Tip 2322 may provide a "pointer-less" look for instrument cluster 2302 (e.g. may appear to only have a small pointer tip portion, may hide the pointer such that essentially no portion of the pointer is visible when the pointer is not illuminated, etc.).

[0093] Referring to Figs. 25 and 26, an instrument cluster 2502 is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. Instrument cluster 2502 is similar to instrument cluster 2302, but includes tick marks 2512 on transparent portion 2514. Instrument cluster 2502 may also include a light transmitting body 2560 located along a perimeter of the path formed by pointer 2319.

[0094] Referring to Figs. 27-29, an instrument cluster 2702 includes a body 2710 (e.g. a bezel or applique) that carries indicia 2716 and may carry tick marks or other markings. According to an exemplary embodiment, indicia 2716 are printed with an ultraviolet (UV) reactive ink. Indicia 2716 may be printed to produce a holographic or 3-D effect. [0095] Instrument cluster 2702 also includes a pointer assembly 2718. Pointer assembly 2718 includes a motor 2726 or other drive means configured to drive a shaft 2728. Shaft 2728, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 2719. Pointer 2719 includes a tip 2722 that is aligned with body 2710 and is configured to illuminate body 2710 with a UV light output 2720. UV light output 2720 causes indicia 2716 to be revealed as they are illuminated and glow.

[0096] Pointer 2719 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. According to one exemplary embodiment a UV light-emitting diode is molded into or otherwise coupled to tip 2722. In other embodiments, indicia 2716 may be illuminated by other means (e.g. from a sheet traveling behind indicia 2716 as shown in Fig. 17, from behind by an end of pointer 2719 that extends into a body on which the indicia 2716 are included as shown in Fig. 35, or any other method of providing light including other methods described herein)..

[0097] According to other exemplary embodiments, body 2710 may include holographic telltales 2740 (Fig. 29) or other markings that are illuminated by a UV light output. Telltales 2740 may be illuminated by a pointer, may be illuminated from a hidden body (e.g. a sheet or pointer behind telltales 2740), may be illuminated by separate light sources, etc.

[0098] Referring to Figs. 30 and 31, an instrument cluster 3002 includes a body 3010 and a faceplate 3011 (e.g. an applique 3011). Faceplate 3011 carries indicia 3016 and may carry tick marks. Instrument cluster 3002 also includes one or more pointer assemblies 3018. According to an exemplary embodiment, pointer assemblies 3018 move linearly. [0099] Pointer assembly 3018 includes a linear stepper motor 3026 or other drive means configured to drive a shaft 3028. For example, pointer assembly 3018 may be moved along a track by a stepper motor 3026 configured to move the track. The light source that is configured to illuminate the pointer 3019 may be mounted in a fixed relationship with respect to the pointer 3019 such that motor 3026 is also configured to move the light source. The light source may be mounted on a flexible circuit and/or may be connected to a power source by a flexible connector. In another embodiment, the track on which the pointer 3019 is moved may include conducting members configured to provide power to (and/or control over) the light source. In some of these embodiments, the circuit board to which the light source is mounted is configured to be connected to and moved along the track, and the light source and the pointer are connected to the circuit board.

[0100] Shaft 3028, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 3019 that moves in front of applique 3011. Pointer 3019 and/or shaft 3028 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. Pointer 3019 and/or shaft 3028 provide a light output 3020 that illuminates indicia 3016.

[0101] Referring to Figs. 32 and 33, an instrument cluster 3202 includes a body 3210 configured to carry a light transmitting body 3214 (e.g. a light guide element). Body 3210 carries indicia 3216. Body 3214 carries tick marks 3212 (although any markings could be carried by body 3214). Instrument cluster 3202 also includes a pointer assembly 3218. Pointer assembly 3218 includes a motor 3226 or other drive means configured to drive a shaft 3228. Shaft 3228, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 3219. Pointer 3219 may- have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. Pointer 3219 provides a light output 3220 that is visible through body 3214 to illuminate tick marks 3212 (and/or other markings) proximate to the tip of pointer 3219. According to another ' exemplary embodiment, an LED or other light source may be coupled to pointer 3219 to provide light output 3220.

[0102] Referring to Figs. 34 and 35, an instrument cluster 3402 includes a body 3410 (e.g., bezel, housing, etc.) and a body 3411 that may carry an applique. Body 3411 carries indicia 3416 and may carry tick marks 3412. [0103] Instrument cluster 3402 also includes a pointer assembly 3418. Pointer assembly

3418 includes a motor 3426 or other drive means configured to drive a shaft 3428. Shaft 3428, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 3419 that rotates in front of an applique carried by body 3411. Pointer 3419 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein.

[0104] Pointer 3419 provides a light output 3420 that illuminates pointer 3419. Pointer

3419 further provides a secondary light output 3442. Secondary light output 3442 illuminates slots 3440 in body 3410 to provide a decorative or functional lighting effect. Slots 3440 may be formed as spaces in body 3410, see-through (e.g. transparent or translucent) portions of body 3410, or in some other form. For example, slots 3440 may form tick marks that align with tick marks 3412 on an applique of body 3411. Instead of slots 3440, other markings could be provided which markings may be in body 3410, through body 3410, on body 3410, or otherwise carried by body 3410. Also, markings 3440 could be provided on one or both sides of body 3410 (e.g. the side facing the display face of instrument cluster 3402, the side of body 3410 facing away from the display face as illustrated, etc.).

[0105] Referring to Figs. 36 and 37, an instrument cluster 3602 includes a body 3610 and a body 3611. Body 3611 may be see-through (as illustrated) or may be opaque. Body 3610 carries indicia 3616 and may carry tick marks. According to an exemplary embodiment, indicia 3616 are see-through (e.g., cut-out, transparent, translucent, etc.) portions of body 3610. According to an exemplary embodiment, body 3611 may be configured to carry telltales and/or other vehicle indicators. Instrument cluster 3602 also includes a pointer assembly 3618. Pointer assembly 3618 includes a motor (not shown) or other drive means configured to drive a shaft 3628. Shaft 3628, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 3619 that rotates behind body 3611. Pointer 3619 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. Pointer 3619 also includes an upturned tip 3622 that provides a light output 3620. Light output 3620 illuminates indicia 3616 proximate to the tip of pointer 3619. Pointer 3619 could also include an additional portion (not illustrated) that extends horizontally from the end of pointer 3619. [0106] Referring to Fig. 38, an instrument cluster 3802 includes a body 3810 configured to carry indicia 3816 and may carry tick marks. According to an exemplary embodiment, indicia 3816 are printed with an ultraviolet (UV) reactive ink or some other material generally only visible when illuminated by a non-ambient light (e.g. a wavelength of light not normally provided in sufficient quantity to illuminate the material). [0107] Instrument cluster 3802 also includes a pointer assembly 3818. Pointer assembly 3818 includes a motor or other drive means (not shown) configured to drive a shaft 3828. Shaft 3828, in turn, is configured to carry a display portion. Pointer 3819 is configured to illuminate body 3810 with a UV light output 3820. Pointer 3819 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. According to one exemplary embodiment a UV light-emitting diode is molded into or otherwise coupled to pointer 3819. UV light output 3820 causes indicia 3816 to be revealed and glow as they are illuminated by light output 3820. UV light output 3820 may also illuminate other functional or decorative markings 3812.

[0108] Referring to Figs. 39-40, an instrument cluster 3902 includes a body 3910 configured to carry indicia 3916 and may carry tick marks, tell tales, or other markings. Instrument cluster 3902 also includes a pointer assembly 3918. Pointer assembly 3918 includes a motor 3926 configured to drive a shaft 3928. Shaft 3928, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 3919. Pointer 3919 is configured to illuminate body 3910 with a light output. Pointer 3919 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. According to an exemplary embodiment, pointer assembly is capable of providing a light output of several different colors with a tricolor LED 3940 or multiple color LEDs, etc. Different colored light outputs may be used during different conditions such as normal driving conditions, low fuel conditions, cruise control conditions, etc. Different colored light outputs may also be used for decorative purposes such as during vehicle start-up.

[0109] Referring to Figs. 41 and 42, an instrument cluster 4102 includes a body 4110, configured to carry a faceplate or applique 4111. Body 4110 carries indicia 4116 and may carry tick marks. According to an exemplary embodiment, body 4110 includes a transparent portion or ring 4112. According to an exemplary embodiment, faceplate 4111 is a generally transparent body and may be configured to carry telltales and/or other vehicle data. Instrument cluster 4102 also includes a pointer assembly 4118. Pointer assembly

4118 includes a motor 4126 configured to drive a shaft 4128. Shaft 4128, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 4119 that rotates behind transparent faceplate 4111. Pointer

4119 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein. Pointer 4119 includes an opaque tip 4122 and provides a light output 4120 that surrounds opaque tip 4122 with a backlight. Tip 4122 blocks light output 4120 to provide a split- colored look.

[0110] Referring to Figs. 43 and 44, an instrument cluster 4302 includes a body 4310. Body 4310 carries indicia 4316 and may carry tick marks. According to an exemplary embodiment, body 4310 includes a transparent portion or ring 4312. Instrument cluster 4302 also includes a pointer assembly 4318. Pointer assembly 4318 includes a motor 4326 configured to drive a shaft 4328. Shaft 4328, in turn, is configured to carry a steeply angled pointer 4319. Pointer 4319 includes a tip 4322 that is aligned with indicia 4216 and configured to illuminate indicia 4316 with a light output 4320. Pointer 4319 may have any of the light transmitting properties of any other pointer discussed herein.. [0111] Referring to Figs. 45 and 46, an instrument cluster 4502 includes a body 4510. Body 4510 carries indicia 4516 and may carry tick marks. Instrument cluster 4502 also includes a pointer assembly 4518. Pointer assembly 4518 includes a motor (not shown) configured to drive a shaft 4528. Shaft 4528, in turn, is configured to carry a pointer 4519. Pointer 4519 includes a tip 4522 that is aligned with indicia 4216. According to an exemplary embodiment, tip 4522 includes an LED 4540 that is configured to illuminate indicia 4516 with a light output 4520. Other Instrument Clusters

[0112] Various instrument clusters and their respective components may take on any number of forms. These instrument clusters may include features such as those described elsewhere in this patent, including the features discussed above and below. Any of the embodiments described below may have one or more of the properties discussed above for Figs. 1-46, including designs, materials, components, etc.

[0113] Referring to Figs. 47 and 48, an instrument cluster 4702 includes a body 4752 (e.g. a curved or beveled body with curved edges on both sides of the body 4752), a display face 4710 (e.g. a sheet such as an applique) carrying indicia 4716. Display face 4710 includes a cut-out portion 4754 that allows information 4755 to be displayed, and which adds a layer of depth to cluster 4702.

[0114] The cluster 4702 also includes an illuminated pointer 4719 that is driven by a motor 4726 mounted to a circuit board 4724. Motor 4726 drives shaft 4728, bends at bend 4729 to a first portion, bends at bend 4742 to a second portion 4744, bends at a bend 4746 to a third portion 4748, and bends at a bend 4749 to a fourth portion 4750. Bend 4729 is about 90 degrees, bend 4742 is greater than 90 degrees, bend 4746 is less than 90 degrees, and bend 4749 is about 90 degrees.

[0115] According to various embodiments, a pointer may have at least one, at least two, at least three, at least four, or more bends of at least about 20 degrees, at least about 30 degrees, at least about 45 degrees, at least about 60 degrees, at least about 70 degrees, at least about 90 degrees, at least about 110 degrees, and/or at least about 130 degrees. A pointer with more than one bend may have one bend meeting one angle requirement and another meeting a different angle requirement listed above. All such combinations are contemplated.

[0116] Referring to Figs. 49 and 50, an instrument cluster 4902 is configured to place pointers 4910,4930,4950 in hidden positions at at least some times (e.g. when they are not in use, when a vehicle is not on, etc.). Pointers 4910,4930,4950 may be hidden behind projections 4920,4940,4960 or may be substantially hidden from the view of an occupant by some other means. Projections 4920,4940,4960 may be horizontal, vertical, or have some other orientation. Projections 4920,4940,4960 may be formed in a bezel 4970 of the instrument cluster, may be formed in some other body, or may be formed separately. Projections 4920,4940,4960 may be configured to be translucent such that light from pointers 4910,4930,4950 may shine through projections 4920,4940,4960. This may provide a glow pattern as shown in Fig. 50. The glow pattern may be provided at any time including one or more pre-defined times (e.g. at start-up, when courtesy lights are turned on, etc.).

[0117] Referring to Fig. 51 , an instrument cluster 5102 includes gauge areas 5104 and 5106. Gauge areas 5104,5106 include pointers 5119 that may include cap portions 5140 such as those described with respect to Figs. 6-14. The instrument cluster 5102 also includes a display 5146 (e.g. to display direction information, temperature information, etc.). Display 5146 may be deadfronted display (e.g. appears not to display information until activated such as by shining light through the dead front). Display 5146 may also be configured to serve as a light that provides illumination (e.g. a map light, an ambient light, a cabin illuminating light, etc.). Display 5146 may be constructed as described in U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/876966 filed 12/22/2006, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0118] Instrument cluster 5104 also includes an information section 5142 defined by a high wall 5144. Information section 5142 may be configured to provide fixed, changing, and/or reconfigurable information displays (e.g. fixed telltales, a rotating display, an LCD display, a screen from a projection display, etc.).

[0119] Referring to Figs. 52-54, an instrument cluster 5202 includes a pointer 5219 having an extended portion 5220 with a hole 5221 for receiving a hub 5230. Hub 5230 and extended portion 5220 may be illuminated by a common light source, may be illuminated separately, or may not be illuminated. According to some embodiments, hub 5230 may be configured to carry indicia 5232 such as tell-tales, other indicator symbols, designs (e.g. brand designs), or other markings. ■ ,

[0120] Referring to Figs. 55-58, an instrument cluster 5502 includes a pair of gauges 5504,5506. Each gauge 5504,5506 includes a see-through (e.g. transparent or translucent) sheet 5510,5511 that carries indicia 5512,5513. Sheet 5510,5511 may be a clear applique. Use of a clear sheet 5510,5511 on a the white housing background may give an illusion that the indicia 5512,5513 carried by the sheet 5510,5511 are floating in space. [0121] The indicia 5512,5513 of sheets 5510,5511 are surrounded by rings 5508,5509 such as chrome rings, other metal rings, and/or rings made from other materials. Rings 5508,5509 may be part of a body 5528 configured to carry the rings 5508,5509. Body 5528 may also be configured to carry sheets 5520,5522 that carry further indicia. [0122] Sheets 5520,5522 may be placed forward from (above) pointers 5514,5515 which are located forward from sheets 5510,5511. Sheet 5510,5511 are located forward from white housing 5530 over cavities 5580,5581 in housing 5530. A light pipe ring^v5580 may be included above sheet 5510.

[0123] Sheets 5510,5511 may be configured to rest on shoulders 5560 formed in housing 5530. Cavities 5580,5581 may have curved walls 5536,5537 that define the cavity 5580,5581, and may include projections 5532,5533 that project from a center of the cavity. The projections 5532,5533 include spaces 5534,5535 through which shafts 5554 of pointers 5514,5515 extend. Shaft 5554 may be driven by a motor 5552 that is mounted to a circuit board 5550.

[0124] Body 5528 may include be in-mold decorated part (e.g. an in-mold decorated lens 5591). A first surface of the in-mold decorated part 5528 could include a ring (e.g. chrome ring) 5508 and a black (or other color) background. A second surface 5520 of the in-mold decorated part 5528 may include tick marks, tell-tales, and/or other indicia or markings. [0125] Referring to Figs. 59 and 60, an instrument cluster 5902 includes components similar to those discussed above with respect to Figs. 55-58 (see, e.g. ring 5908, sheet 5910, etc.). Cluster 5902 differs in that housing 5930 includes a cavity 5980 without a projection. Further, pointer 5914 is configured to conform to the shape of cavity 5980. Here, cavity 5980 has a concave shape and pointer 5914 conforms to that concave shape.. In other embodiments, cavity 5980 could have any shape (e.g. a stepped shape, a curved shape, a shape with sharp corners, etc.). Pointer 5914 could conform to any of these shapes, or may have a shape independent of the shape of cavity 5980.

[0126] Referring to Figs. 61-64, an instrument cluster 6102 includes an applique 6130 that carries indicia 6132, and a body 6110 that extends to an open space 6190 defined by the applique 6130. The body 6110 may be configured to carry any number of informational displays. For example, body 6110 may carry static informational displays configured to display a consistent type of information. As an example, body 6110 may be configured to carry various tell-tales, including a turn signal indicator 6116, vehicle status indicators 6114 (e.g. warning lights), and a vehicle transmission state indicator 6112 (e.g. a PRNDL). Body 6110 may alternatively (or additionally) carry reconfigurable information displays. For example, body 6110 may be configured to carry an OLED display, an LCD display, and/or some other type of reconfigurable display. These reconfigurable displays may be configured to provide one or more than one type of information to a user, which information may change based on monitored vehicle parameters, user inputs, and/or some other input. [0127] Instrument cluster 6102 also includes a pointer 6119 having a curved shaft 6120, which curves out from behind body 6110, and moves through space 6190. Pointer 6119 also includes an extended portion 6121 that extends over body 6110 and applique 6130. [0128] Referring to Fig. 62, applique 6130 may be placed on a body 6132, which body may have raised portions 6133. Body 6132 may be placed over (and/or in contact with) a white housing 6140. Also, pointer 6119 may further include a second shaft 6123 configured to be driven by a motor (not illustrated) and, in turn, drive shaft 6120. [0129] Referring to Fig. 63, applique 6130 could be a sheet 6142 carrying the indicia (e.g. the indicia may be molded in the sheet). Sheet 6142 may be curved or otherwise shaped and may have a lip 6157. Sheet 6142 and housing 6140 may form a space 6149. A second body 6143 may be placed over sheet 6142. Sheet 6143 may have spacings 6144 which cooperate with markings 6145 on sheet 6142.

[0130] Referring to Fig. 64, housing 6140 includes a space 6425 in which a light source 6424 (e.g. LED) is located. Light source 6424 may be mounted to a circuit board 6440. Light source 6424 may be configured to illuminate indicia 6130 (Fig. 61) and/or 6144 (Fig. 63).

[0131] Body 6110 also includes a space 6422 in which a light source 6423 is located. Light source 6423 is mounted on a circuit board 6434 and may be configured to illuminate indicators 6114 formed in an applique 6428 carried by body 6110. [0132] Motor 6420 is configured to control pointer 6119, and is also mounted on board 6440 in a space defined by board 6440 and housing 6140. A light source 6462 (e.g. LED) may be mounted on board 6440 beneath motor 6420. Light source 6462 may be configured to provide illumination to pointer 6119.

[0133] Instrument cluster 6102 may also include a housing 6432 around the other various components. The housing may include a lens 6430 forward from (in front of) the other components discussed above.

[0134] Referring to Figs. 65-68, an instrument cluster 6502 includes a display that has a multi-layer look. In particular, instrument cluster 6502 includes a first layer 6504, a second layer 6506, a third layer 6508, and a fourth layer 6510. In other embodiments, instrument cluster 6502 may include at least three, at least four, and/or at least five layers. First layer 6504 and second layer 6506 (adjacent layers) are separated by a larger distance than are the remaining adjacent layers. Second layer 6506 carries indicia 6512, third layer 6508 carries indicia 6514, and fourth layer 6510 carries tick marks 6516. Markings 6512-6516 can cooperate to provide a common type of information. Markings 6512-6514 are formed from appliques 6548 which may be applied as a single piece or as separate pieces (e.g. one of each layer). For example, an instrument cluster 6502 may include at least about three layers having appliques.

[0135] Pointer 119 extends through a space in body 6543 that forms the first layer 6504. Pointer 119 cooperates with markings 6512-6516 to provide information to a user. Pointer 119 includes a shaft 6521 surrounded by a shroud 6520. Light from light source 6564 is carried through shaft 6521 and into an extended portion of pointer 6519. Light source 6564 is mounted on circuit board 6566 along with motor 6568 which controls movement of pointer 6519.

[0136] Additional light sources 6560 and 6562 are also mounted on circuit board 6566. Lights sources 6560 are configured to illuminate indicia 6512 and 6514, while light sources 6562 are configured to illuminate tick marks 6516.

[0137] Instrument cluster 6502 includes a back housing 6570 that is configured to receive circuit board 6566, which board 6566 abuts body 6543, body 6540, and body 6542. Body 6540 is configured to support second layer 6506 along with body 6542 such that light can travel within the space between bodies 6540 and 6542. The third layer 6508 is supported by a further body 6546 and the fourth layer 6510 is formed by a body 6550. Either of bodies 6546 and 6510 may be light carrying bodies such as light pipes. [0138] Instrument cluster also includes a body 6552 that fits between forward housing 6554 and body 6550 to hold the components of instrument cluster 6502 firmly against the two outer housings 6570 and 6554. Instrument cluster 6502 may also include a trim element 6558 around the edge of the display area of the gauge. Additionally, instrument cluster 6502 may include a clear sheet 6577 (e.g. a lens) to cover (and enclose) the other components of the instrument cluster 6502.

[0139] Referring to Figures 69A-70, an instrument cluster 6902 has a multi-layer display in a similar manner as instrument cluster 6502 (see, e.g. Fig. 65). The instrument cluster has a first layer 6904, a second layer 6906, and a third layer 6908. The first layer includes tick marks 6916 and indicia 6914, the second layer includes indicia 6906, and the third layer includes indicators 6930 (Fig. 70). The various markings 6912-6916 may be formed using appliques 6950-6954 or by any other means. Appliques 6950-6954 may be supported by a body 6942 that is enclosed within a housing 6940.

[0140] The instrument cluster 6902 also includes a pointer 6919 that includes a sheath

6920 over a shaft of the pointer 6919.

[0141] Referring to Fig. 71, an instrument cluster 7102 includes a double pointer system.

In particular, instrument cluster 7102 includes a first pointer 7119 and a second pointer

7219 that is coaxial with the first pointer 7119. Pointers 7119 and 7219 are controlled separately. Pointer 7119 is driven by shaft 7120 which extends through the center of shaft

7220 which drives pointer 7219. This can allow pointer 7119 to cooperate with tick marks 7132 and indicia 7130 to provide a first type of information (e.g. vehicle speed), while allowing pointer 7219 to cooperate with tick marks 7232 and indicia 7230 to provide a second type of information (e.g. engine rotations per minute).

[0142] Pointers 7119 and 7219 form a tall pointer system where the pointers are well separated. In particular, pointer 7119 is separated from pointer 7219 by a distance 7180 that is at least 70% (e.g. at least about 80%) of the distance between pointer 7219 and the base 7104 of the instrument cluster display face. Pointer 7219 may be above the base 7104 by at least about 1 inch (e.g. at least about 2 inches and/or at least about 3 inches), while pointer 7119 may be above pointer 7219 by at least about 0.5 inches (e.g. at least about 1 inch, at least about 1.5 inches, at least about 2 inches, and/or at least about 3 inches). [0143] Referring to Fig. 72, an instrument cluster 7202 includes a double pointer system similar to the double pointer system of Fig. 71. Instrument cluster 7202 further includes a body 7240 (e.g. a curved body) that divides a space 7248 defined by ring 7246 into a first portion 7242 and a second portion 7244. Pointer 7219 cooperates with markings located in the first portion 7242 to provide a first type of information, while pointer 7119 cooperates with markings located in space 7248 to provide a second type of information. Body 7240 may include a portion 7250 through which shaft 7120 extends. Shaft 7220 may or may not extend through portion 7250.

Pointer with Diffuser and Compensation Layer

[0144] Referring to Fig. 73, a pointer system 500 (e.g. for an instrument cluster) includes a light pipe 504 encased in an upper housing 510 and a lower housing 502. The pointer system 500 also includes a light compensation layer 506 and a light diffusion layer 508. [0145] Light compensation layer 506 is a layer that changes an amount of light given off by any particular portion of pointer 500. Light compensation layer 506 may be used to increase the evenness of light provided by portion 534-540 (Fig. 74) of pointer 500. Light compensation layer 506 may also be used to achieve various other effects such as increasing a relative amount of light given off by one portion 534-540 of pointer 500, etc. Light compensation layer 406 may be located in front of light guide 504. [0146] Light diffusion layer 508 may be provided to diffuse light provide by light guide 504 (which may have passed through light compensation layer 506). Light diffusion layer 508 may include various structures to provide a desired appearance. For example, as shown, light diffusion layer 508 includes a first elongated raised portion 566 extending along the tip portion 584 of pointer 500, a second elongated raised portion 562 extending along the tail portion 582 of pointer 500, and a raised dimple along an axis of rotation of pointer 500.

[0147] The light guide 504 includes a notch 580 along the axis of rotation of pointer 500. Extending to one side of the notch 580 is a tip portion 584 of light guide 504 which extends from the axis of rotation 581 (Fig. 75) to the tip 585 (Fig. 75) of pointer 500. Extending to a second side (here, opposite the first side) is a tail portion 582 of light guide 504 which extends from the axis of rotation 581 to the tail 583 of pointer 500. [0148] Referring to Fig. 74, light compensation layer 506 may be formed in any number of means. For example, light compensation layer 506 could be formed by a material having a variable light transmissiveness (e.g. a material that darkens in response to the presence of light), an ink layer, a reflective material, and/or some other material. [0149] Compensation layer 506 may be its own component, or may be integrated into one of the other components. For example, compensation layer 506 could be a layer of ink printed on a thin film. As another example, compensation layer could be a layer of ink printed on light guide 504 or diffuser 508 (e.g. on the back side of diffuser 508). [0150] The black and white image of Fig. 75 is computer generated output from ray- tracing software used to evaluate the lighting patterns of CAD geometry. This output can be used as a map for the compensation printing. An inverse of the image could be printed to knock down the hot spots (e.g. high light areas provided by light guide 504) using a gradient printing of opaque ink to even out the light escaping into the diffuser 508 and out the top of the pointer 500. In other words, where the image shows a large number of light rays escaping (the black areas) enough opaque ink would be printed to balance the light output with the lowest level output along the pointer blade. Where there are fewer light rays escaping (the white or "clear" areas), nothing (or little) would be printed, letting a larger amount of light through the compensation layer 506:

[0151] Compensation layer 506 may provide differing light transmission at different regions 534-540 of pointer 500. For example, compensation layer may be designed to more thoroughly restrict light transmission at a central region 532 of pointer 500 along an axis 581 (Fig. 75) of the light guide 504 than at regions 534, 536 near, but not along the axis 581. These regions 534,536 near the axis 581, may themselves be more restricted than areas 538 farther away from the axis 581. These regions 534, 536 near the axis may be restricted to about the same degree as a region 540 at the tip 585 (Fig. 75) of the pointer 500 (or at the tail 583 of the pointer 500).

[0152] Referring to Fig. 76, an instrument cluster 7602 includes a pointer 500 as described with respect to Figs. 73-75. However, any of the pointers described in the application may have a compensation for brightness using one or more of the techniques described herein. [0153] Pointer 500 cooperates with indicia 7610 and 7614, and tick marks 7612, to provide information to a user. Instrument cluster 7602 also includes indicators 7616 that provide information relating to various vehicle conditions to a user. [0154] Referring to Fig. 77, instrument cluster 7602 includes a motor 7630 configured to drive a shaft 7662 of pointer 500. Shaft 7662 extends through an opening in body 7640 which body hides motor 7630 from view. Pointer 500 also includes a lower housing 7660 that serves as a sheath, and an upper housing 7664.

[0155] A light source 7636 (e.g. an LED) configured to provide illumination to pointer 500 is mounted on a circuit board 7638. Additional light sources 7632 and 7634 configured to illuminate indicia 7614 (Fig. 76) and tick marks 7612 are also provided on board 7638. Light source 7632 shines through space 7654 while light source 7656 shines through space 7656.

[0156] Instrument cluster 7602 also includes a body 7650 and a body 7652 (e.g. a white housing) configured to define paths for light to travel (e.g. so that separate markings can be illuminated separately).

[0157] Referring to Figs. 82 and 83, an instrument cluster may include a pointer 8408 that is configured to provide a controlled (e.g. substantially even, differing in known but not inherent ways, etc.) light output along its length. Pointer 8408 may include a light guide 8404 that includes notches 8436 and 8438 formed in the light guide 8404. Notches 8436 and 8438 serve to redirect light carried by light guide 8404 from its shaft 8478. Redirecting light using notches 8436,8438 may serve to compensate for what would otherwise be an uneven provision of light at an area above the intersection 8480 of the shaft portion 8478 with the display portion.

[0158] Spaces 8436,8438 may be include surfaces (e.g. surface 8490) configured to reflect light. The angle of these surfaces may be selected to direct light to portions of the pointer which would otherwise be less lit by light traveling through shaft 8478.

[0159] Pointer 8408 may also include lower housing portions 8402 and 8403. Each of lower housing portions 8402 and 8403 may include projections 8432 and 8434 which may be configured to fit within at least a portion of notch (space) 8436 and to interfere with

(block, reflect, etc.) the transmission of light through notch 8436. Projections 8432,8434 may be formed from an opaque material, a light reflective material, a translucent material, etc. Lower housing portions 8403 and 8404 may form a sleeve (e.g. shroud) around shaft

8478 to reduce an amount of halo provided frompointer 8408.

[0160] Pointer 8408 may also include an upper housing 8410 which may include portions

(e.g. transparent sections, translucent sections, spaces) through which light may escape from pointer 8408. Housing 8410 may include any decorative features, and may include portions configured to change a color of light provided by pointer 8408. Pointer 8408 may also include a diffusion layer 8408 similar to diffusion layer 508 discussed above.

[0161] Referring to Fig. 84, a pointer 8408 includes a shaft portion 8478 configured to provide light to a display portion of the pointer 8408. The display portion includes a tip portion 8484 that extends towards the tip 8486 of the pointer 8408, and a tail portion 8482 that extends towards a tail 8488 of the pointer 8408 from the intersection 8480 of the shaft portion 8478 and the display portion of the pointer 8408

[0162] Pointer 8408 also includes spaces (e.g. holes) 8440 in the light guide 8404 of the pointer 8408. Spaces 8440 are configured to redirect light provided from shaft 8478 and thereby compensate for what would otherwise be an uneven provision of light at an area above the intersection 8480 of the shaft portion 8478 with the display portion.

[0163] Pointer 8408 may also include one or more housings (not illustrated), a diffuser

(not illustrated), and/or other compoenents. Hubless Pointer Designs

[0164] Many of the embodiments described above are shown using a pointer that is powered by a motor or other drive means. Even if illustrated with a different motor and/or halo-less or other pointer system, any of the above referenced pointers can use a motor and pointer system as described with respect to Fig. 79, a motor and/or pointer system as described with respect to Fig. 80, and/or may be driven by some other system. [0165] Referring to Fig. 79, a pointer includes a pointer shaft that is driven by a shaftless stepper motor. The pointer shaft, in turn, drives a display portion of the pointer. The pointer and shaft may be covered using a small hub. The shaftless stepper motor may be mounted to a circuit board which includes a light source. The motor may be arranged such that the shaft of the pointer will be located over the light source such that the light source will provide light to the shaft. The shaft may be formed from a light transmitting material that is configured to transmit light within the body of the shaft. [0166] Referring to Fig. 80, a motor 8010 (e.g. a stepper motor, aircore motor, etc.) having a shaft 8018 (e.g. drive pin) may be used to drive the pointer 8026. The drive pin 8018 connects to and drives a portion of pointer 8026 such as shaft portion 8014. Shaft portion 8014 may then drive a display portion 8024 of pointer 8026. [0167] Shaft portion 8014 may extend through a space 8030 (e.g. a hole) in a display face 8022 (e.g. applique) of the instrument cluster. Shaft portion 8014 may be a light transmitting body such as a light guide (e.g. a light pipe) that is configured to receive light from light sources 8012 and to transmit that light to a display portion 8026 which may be a light transmitting body having any of the characteristics discussed above. Pointer 8026 may also include a small hub 8028 over the intersection of shaft portion 8014 and display portion 8024. Pointer 8026 may also include a sleeve 8020 that is configured to block light from portion 8014 of pointer 8016. As discussed with respect to Fig. 1, sleeve 8020 may be configured to rotate with shaft portion 8014, may be connected to a same body as display face 8022 (e.g. may be connected to a body that carries an applique that forms the display face, may be connected to a body in which a display face is molded, etc.), or may be connected in some other manner. Sleeve 8020 may or may not also have any of the other properties discussed above for sleeve 24, such as being formed from an opaque material, being formed from a plastic, etc.

[0168] Motor 8010 and/or light sources 8012 may be mounted on a common circuit carrying element 8016 (e.g. a circuit board, a flexible circuit, etc.). In some embodiments, motor 8010 may be mounted on an opposite side of circuit carrying element 8016 as light sources 8012 and/or the display portion 8026 of pointer 8026. In some of these embodiments, a shaft 8018 of motor 8010 may extend through an opening (e.g. a hole) in circuit carrying element 8016.

Other Potential Features of Exemplary Instrument Clusters

[0169] Referring to Fig. 78, instrument cluster 10 may or may not include any number of other traditional or untraditional features of instrument clusters. Instrument cluster 10 may includes an applique 210 having various indicia 290-306 printed on a forward facing face of applique 210. Indicia 290-306 may include tick marks and numerical indicia 290-298, telltales 300, 302, and/or turn indicators 304, 306. Tick marks and numerical indicia 290-298 are illuminated by light source groups 230, 232, 236-240 (shown as LEDs) mounted on circuit board 202. Spaces 250, 250-253, 268 are provided in opaque light directing housing 204 such that light from the respective groups of light sources are directed towards the tick marks they are configured to illuminate, but do not provide significant amounts of light to other indicia on applique 210. Light diffusers 206, 208 may be used to diffuse light from light source groups 230, 236 used to illuminate tick marks and numerical indicia 292, 296. Light sources 228, 234 (shown as LEDs) mounted on circuit board 202 may also be provided, which light sources shine light through various spaces 254, 256 in opaque light directing housing 204 to selectively illuminate one or more indicia of indicia groups 302, 300 on applique 210. Light sources 246, 248 (shown as LEDs) may also be provided to illuminate turn indicators 304, 306.

[0170] Instrument cluster 10 may also include a digital display 242. Display 242 may be mounted to circuit board 202 (as shown) or may be arranged in some other manner. Information from display 242 can be viewed through space 266 in opaque light directing housing 204 and space 308 in applique 210.

[0171] Instrument cluster 10 may also include pointers (not shown) which extend through openings 270-276 in opaque light directing housing 204 and openings 310-318 in applique 210.

[0172] Bezel 214 may include separated spaces 350-360, 380, 382 to allow a vehicle occupant to view information from applique 210 and display 242. Bezel 214 may alternately have an open design without separated spaces. In one embodiment, bezel 214 may consist essentially of a brow and/or lip. Bezel 214 may also include connectors 362- 366 which are configured to allow connection of bezel 214 to back cover 200. Back cover

200 may include corresponding connectors 368-376 which are configured to allow connection of bezel 214 to back cover 200. The connection may be a snap connection or some other type of connection.

[0173] Instrument cluster 10 may further include ring system 212 having various openings

230-342 through which information can be viewed, a stem 218 that allows user actuation Of₁ a control, and/or other additional components that may serve various other purposes.

[0174] Circuit board 202 may be a printed circuit board, may be a flexible circuit board, may be a rigid circuit board, may be a conductive foil, and/or may take some other form.

[0175] An instrument cluster may include multiple levels of graphics.

[0176] An instrument cluster may have a pointer that is configured to be illuminated by light of a plurality of different colors. In some embodiments, the plurality of colors may be created using a plurality of LEDs (or other solid-state light sources) having different colors.

In some embodiments, the different colors may be used to signify different states (e.g. different vehicle conditions).

[0177] The instrument cluster may include a hub/cap over the pointer, the hub having an indicia configured to be illuminated to notify a user of a vehicle condition. In some embodiments, the indicia may be illuminated by light transmitted through the pointer. In some embodiments, the indicia may include a filter configured to filter out light of at least a first color such that light of the first color does not illuminate the indicia. In many embodiments, the indicia may be a telltale.

[0178] The instrument cluster may include a multiple tiered structure, such as an instrument cluster that includes multiple rings layered on top of one another such that a first ring below a second ring has a smaller internal diameter than the second ring.

[0179] Vehicles may include aircraft, watercraft, and land vehicles. Land vehicles may include passenger vehicles such as cars, trucks, busses, sport utility vehicles, and vans.

[0180] The term 'in front of is intended to refer to a visual path location with the front being closer in the path to a viewer, and not to refer to the front of the vehicle in which the instrument cluster is to be installed.

[0181] Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to a particular embodiment, but extends to various modifications that nevertheless fall within the scope of the claims or the invention as a whole. The various components of the instrument cluster and sheet may be connected or formed in any number of manners and are not limited to the order or arrangement shown in the illustrative embodiments.

[0182] Instead of a stepper motor, an instrument cluster described herein can include an aircore motor, a non-motor based actuator, or any other type of drive system configured to change the position of a pointer or other body, preferably configured to change the position in a controlled manner.

[0183] System 10 could also be used to spread light into extended display portions 21 of any instrument cluster display including the pointer systems disclosed herein. [0184] Additionally, any instrument cluster disclosed herein could include a lens in front of the elements disclosed. In some embodiments where the pointer is behind another body (e.g. behind a sheet containing an applique), the body may serve some or all of the functions of the lens (e.g. enclosing the pointer assembly and/or protecting the pointer assembly from dust and other environmental elements). Any applique disclosed herein may be a deadfronted applique that only provides information when a condition is met (e.g. when illuminated). When a pointer is behind the applique, a deadfronted applique may also serve to hide the pointer as well.

[0185] While the pointer-based displays (e.g. gauges) described herein have been primarily directed to instrument clusters, these same displays can be equally- applied to areas of the vehicle outside the instrument cluster (e.g. in an overhead console, in a rear view mirror, in a trim piece, in a door, in a pillar, in an engine compartment, etc.). Moreover, while much of the discussion has been directed to vehicles (especially for instrument clusters in cars), this discussion is equally applicable to pointer-based displays for use in other information providing fields as well. For example, in other embodiments, the technology disclosed herein may be applied in the field of building controls and automation. For, example, the lighted pointer system may be used as an indicator on lighted electronic controls that provide information about the status of a building parameter (e.g. temperature, pressure, humidity, etc.). Such a system may include a processing circuit (as described above) configured to receive data from various building systems and sensors, such as temperature sensors, air quality sensors (e.g. CO₂ sensors, etc.), humidity sensors, sensors configured to sense information regarding a state of a building system, etc.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

L A display comprising: a pointer configured to be illuminated by a light source; a graphic surface configured to cooperate with the pointer to display information to a user; and a sleeve around the pointer, the sleeve extending to at least the graphic surface.

2. A display comprising: a housing; a pointer configured to be illuminated by a light source, the pointer configured to extend through an opening in the housing; and a sleeve around the pointer, the sleeve extending to at least the opening of the housing.

3. A display comprising: a light source; a light transmissive pointer configured to be illuminated by the light source; a cap configured to block light transmitted through the pointer, the cap having a width of 0 mm to about 4 mm; and a graphic surface cooperating with the pointer to display information; a motor configured to control motion of the pointer wherein substantially no halo from the light source illuminating the pointer can be seen on the graphic surface.

4. A display comprising: a light source; a pointer configured to be illuminated by the light source, the pointer comprising a shaft portion and a display portion, the pointer configured such the display portion of the pointer can be illuminated by transmitting light from the light source through the shaft portion of the pointer; a graphic surface configured to cooperate with the pointer to display information; a sleeve around the pointer, the sleeve configured to reduce an amount of light transmitted through the pointer that illuminates the graphic surface; a motor configured to rotate the pointer, the motor comprising a hollow portion configured to receive a shaft of the pointer; and a processing circuit configured to receive information from a vehicle system and to control the motor such that the pointer and the graphic surface display information relating to the vehicle system.

5. A display according to claim 4, wherein the light source, the motor, and the processing circuit are mounted to a common circuit board.

6. The display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer comprises a shaft portion and a display portion, the pointer configured such the display portion is illuminated by transmitting light from the light source through the shaft portion.

7. A display according to any preceding claim, further comprising a motor configured to rotate the pointer, the motor comprising a hollow portion configured to receive a shaft of the pointer.

8. A display according to claim 7, wherein the sleeve extends to about a surface of the motor.

9. A display according to claim 7, further comprising a processing circuit configured to receive information from a vehicle system and to control the motor such that the pointer and the graphic surface display information relating to the vehicle system.

10. A display according to claim 9, wherein the processing circuit is configured to receive the information from the vehicle system over a vehicle bus.

11. A display according to claim 7, further comprising a circuit carrying element, wherein the motor and a light source configured to illuminate the pointer are mounted to the circuit board.

12. A display according to claim 11, wherein the motor is configured to receive the light source in a hollow portion of the motor.

13. A display according to claim 11 , wherein the motor and the light source are mounted to a same side of the circuit carrying element.

14. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve extends behind the graphic surface.

15. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve extends behind the opening of the housing through which the pointer extends.

16. A display according to any preceding claim, further comprising a light source configured to illuminate the pointer.

17. A display according to claim 16, wherein the light source comprises an LED.

18. A display according to any preceding claim, further comprising a housing, the pointer extending through the housing.

19. A display according to claim 18, wherein the pointer is configured to extend through a gap in the housing that is less than 7 mm.

20. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein substantially no halo from the light source illuminating the pointer can be seen on a graphic surface of the display that cooperates with the pointer.

21. A display according to any preceding claim, further comprising a cap having a width of 0 mm to about 6 mm.

22. A display according to any preceding claim, further comprising a cap having a design that includes a hole.

23. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer includes a notch that is visible to a user of the display.

24. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer includes a plurality of bends.

25. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer includes a bend greater than about 110 degrees.

26. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer has a light source embedded in the pointer.

27. A display according to claim 26, wherein the light source is embedded in an end of the pointer away from the mechanism used to move the pointer.

28. A display according to claim 26, wherein the pointer comprises printed power lines configured to provide power to the light source.

29. A display according to claim 28, wherein the power lines are provided such that they are not visible to a user of the display.

30. A display according to claim 26, wherein the light source comprises a solid- state light source.

31. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer is configured to provide illumination from beneath a body.

32. A display according to claim 31 , wherein the body comprises a first portion in front of an axis of the pointer that is opaque and includes a see-through portion away from the axis of the pointer.

33. A display according to any preceding claim, further comprising a light guide located behind the pointer and configured to move such that it is proximate the pointer, the light guide configured to provide a light output.

34. A display according to claim 33, wherein the light guide is located behind a display surface and the pointer is located in front of the display surface.

35. A display according to claim 33, wherein the light guide is coupled to a common shaft as a display portion of the pointer.

36. A display according to claim 33, wherein the light guide and the pointer are configured to be driven separately.

37. A display according to any previous claim, wherein the pointer is located behind a graphic surface with which it cooperates to provide information.

38. A display according to any previous claim, wherein the pointer is configured to provide a light output that illuminates markings with a non-ambient light, the markings configured to be essentially not visible when not illuminated by the light output and configured to be visible when illuminated by the light output.

39. A display according to any previous claim, wherein the pointer is configured to provide illumination to a light transmitting body from an end of the pointer.

40. A display according to claim 39, wherein the pointer is configured to provide illumination into a first side of the light transmitting body and the light transmitting body comprises markings on a second side of the light transmitting body.

41. A display according to claim 39, wherein the light transmitting body is configured to have sections such that light provided from the pointer at least primarily illuminates the section at which the pointer is pointing.

42. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein an end of the pointer is configured to extend through a body and illuminate markings carried by the body.

43. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer is configured to rotate within a cavity visible to a vehicle occupant, and the pointer is configured to conform to the shape of the cavity.

44. A display according to claim 43, wherein the cavity comprises a curved shape.

45. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer includes a display portion and a shaft portion, the display portion intersects with the shaft portion at an intersection, and the display portion is illuminated on both sides of the intersection.

46. A display according to claim 45, wherein both sides of the display portion are illuminated by a common light source.

47. A display according to claim 46, wherein the display portion is lit at the intersection of the display portion and the shaft portion.

48. A display according to claim 46, wherein the display portion is illuminated by light provided through the shaft portion.

49. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the display comprises a plurality of pointers having a common axis of rotation.

50. A display according to claim 49, wherein the plurality of pointers are separately controlled.

51. A display according to claim 49, wherein at least two of the plurality of pointers are configured to be illuminated by a common light source that provides light through a shaft of the at least two pointers.

52. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the display comprises a body configured to hide the pointer.

53. A display according to any previous claim, wherein the pointer comprises a hub with an open configuration.

54. A display according to any previous embodiment, wherein the pointer has a transverse portion that is transverse to an axis of rotation of the pointer, a first part of the transverse portion being visible to a user and a second part of the transverse portion not being visible to a user.

55. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer comprises a compensation layer.

56. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer comprises a diffusion layer.

57. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer is compensated for an unevenness of light used to illuminate the pointer.

58. A display according to any preceding claim, wherein the pointer comprises a curved shaft portion that extends from behind a body that is in front of an axis of rotation of the pointer.

59. A display according to claim 58, wherein the pointer comprises a display portion that extends in front of the body in front of the axis of rotation of the pointer.

60. A display according to any preceding claim, comprising a gauge having at least about three layers of information.

61. A display according to claim 60, wherein each of the three layers cooperates with the pointer to provide a common type of information.

62. A display according to claim 60, wherein at least one layer is formed by a light guide member, and at least two layers are not formed by light guide members.