Abstract: An illuminated pointer includes an outer pointer that surrounds an inner pointer. The outer pointer extends from a base and is generally elliptical. The inner pointer extends from the base into the void of the outer pointer. The illuminated pointer utilizes a single light source for illuminating both the outer and inner pointer. The inner pointer provides easier reading of a dual scale gauge such as with a speedometer having both English and Metric speed scales.

Abstract: An instrument display system provides vehicle information where a driver and passenger side of a vehicle dash have primarily identical appearances when the display system is not activated. The instrument display system includes a primary light system, a primary optical system, and a semitransparent screen used to produce an image of at least one instrument gauge. The primary optical system directs a light from the primary light system to the semitransparent screen, which is attached to the vehicle dash. The semitransparent screen has a similar appearance to the dash. Thus, when the instrument display system is turned off the semitransparent screen blends with the dash. Other embodiments may use additional light systems and optical systems, such that the scales and indicator for an instrument gauge are produced separately, yet displayed in the same location of the dash.

Abstract: An instrument cluster includes a compact color flat panel display for reducing the “eyes off the road” time of a driver. The display includes vehicle information graphics to convey vehicle information to the driver and a text portion to display communication information, such as telephone numbers of incoming calls. The vehicle information graphics use color and/or shape to convey the vehicle information. As an example, green may indicate a normal or safe vehicle condition, a change to yellow may warn of a cautionary vehicle condition and a change to red may warn of a more serious vehicle condition. Using a compact display and changing colors to indicate a vehicle condition may decrease the “eyes off the road” time of the driver.

Abstract: A vehicle instrument cluster 10 includes a dial or display 16 having a graphical image that is illuminated by a light source. The light source is mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB). A light housing is used to support the dial relative to the PCB. The light housing includes an inclined reflective surface that is located directly above the light source. The light housing also includes at least one radially extending channel used to more evenly illuminate a desired portion of the graphical image. The channel includes a flat portion that is mounted directly to the PCB. An intermediate portion extends from the flat portion and is spaced apart from the PCB to define a gap. The instrument cluster control electronics are mounted to the PCB within this gap. A beveled portion extends from the intermediate portion upwardly toward the dial.

Abstract: An instrument display for a vehicle comprises a first light guide (14) in communication with a first light source (18). (FIG. 1A). The first light guide (14) directs light to a first instrument mark (22). A second light guide receives light from a second light source (34). The second light guide (26) is spaced from the first light guide (14) and directs light to a second instrument mark (24). A support (42) connects the first light guide (14) and the second light guide (26) and limits light transmission between the first light guide (14) and the second light guide (26).