New type of '3D' instrument cluster display

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Dec 21, 2001

Planar Systems has developed a new type of '3-dimensional' instrument cluster display in conjunction with automotive suppliers Sagem and Johnson Controls

Planar Systems has developed a new type of '3-dimensional' instrument cluster display in conjunction with automotive suppliers Sagem and Johnson Controls.

The dual-plane semi-circular transparent electroluminescent (EL) display provides speedometer, gear selection, and fuel level information and appears to 'float', allowing the viewing of additional information on displays behind it.

The transparent display solves the challenge of displaying more information safely in the crowded cluster area by overlaying information, an increasing problem as the amount of data increases with new telematics applications.

Johnson's industrial designers initially came up with an approach that could not be realised with displays readily available on the market.

However, Sagem and Planar were able to quickly deliver a bright, easily readable transparent display.

'The prospect of adding a depth dimension to the already crowded instrument cluster really appeals to the transportation industry', comments Erick Petersen, director of marketing and business development for Planar's Transportation Business Unit: 'Johnson Controls, Sagem and Planar put together an impressive concept solution in a short time frame.

Planar is currently investigating a number of other applications for this innovative transparent EL technology.' 'Today we have a concept that is drawing significant customer interest', adds Petersen: "We see this as a very typical example of how we will apply innovation to bring fresh ideas to the automotive industry.'.