Vehicle instrument panel computer interface node
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A system for enabling communication between a stand-alone computer and an electrical system of a vehicle, the system comprising:
- a communication interface node mounted to an instrument panel of the vehicle and operative to exchange information with a computer; and
a mounting pod positioned in the instrument panel adapted for removable receipt of the computer, the mounting pod including at least one wall for mounting display apparatus visible to an operator whenever the computer is not positioned in the pod.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A communication system includes a miniaturized palmtop computer which is information-coupled to a programmable node positioned in an instrument panel of a vehicle. The computer is removably resident in a pod or pocket of the instrument panel and communicates with a node either wirelessly or via a connectorized bus. Redundant radio and HVAC displays form at least one surface of the pod for use by vehicle operators not using the computer option.
205 Citations
18 Claims
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1. A system for enabling communication between a stand-alone computer and an electrical system of a vehicle, the system comprising:
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a communication interface node mounted to an instrument panel of the vehicle and operative to exchange information with a computer; and a mounting pod positioned in the instrument panel adapted for removable receipt of the computer, the mounting pod including at least one wall for mounting display apparatus visible to an operator whenever the computer is not positioned in the pod. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. A system for enabling communication between a stand-alone computer and an electrical system, including an ignition starting system, of a vehicle, the system comprising:
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a communication interface node mounted to an instrument panel of the vehicle and operative to exchange information with a computer; and a mounting pod positioned in the instrument panel adapted for removable receipt of the computer; wherein the system is operative to disable the ignition starting system whenever the computer is not positioned in the pod. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18)
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Specification