Virtual dashboards can match mood and function and display in 3D
Glass aircraft cockpit type dashboards that can change colour or display according to user needs or preferences are likely to be a feature of the next generation of cars and trucks.
The idea comes from Fujitsu Microelectronics Europe and icon incar, a German automotive design studio, and exists in the form of a demonstration unit.
'Basic mode' provides the driver with all the information that is required and relevant to the current driving situation. The scene is modeled like a tunnel and the background area enables the display of moving elements that are smaller or bigger, depending on their distance of importance.
'Sports' mode uses a 'Fire' colour scheme showing traditional needle instruments. Additional colouring features can be used if the speed needle moves into the red area.
'Stop' mode when the car is stationary or the engine is switched off, ceases to display speed and other related information, but allows the drive to call up and display information about routes or traffic information
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There is no reason why the idea could not also be extended to control panels for machine tools and other electronically controlled products.