Automotive Digital Instrument Cluster

Ans. The hardware configuration will change based on real-time dependence on OEM defined functionality. For example, in two-wheelers, there is no need to include an advanced audio system as music applications do not have priority in this case.

On the other hand, a good audio system will enhance the dashboard of a car or a truck. While designing the instrument cluster for such vehicles, priority managers are required. The role of the priority manager is to ensure that a specific audio track takes priority over the other when both are scheduled to play at the same time. For example, phone vs music, phone vs navigation guidance, Voice Recognition (VR) vs navigation, etc.

VR is the most important feature in cars, but this is not required in two wheelers. Similarly, HVAC and Rear View Camera (RVC) are other features that need to be incorporated in digital instrument clusters of cars and heavy vehicles.

Ans. It can be different for different System on Chip (SoC). When you select NXP SoC from i.MX 8 family, you will require 1.5 GB RAM for two-wheelers and 2 -2.5 GB RAM for four-wheelers and trucks.

Ans. Yes, this is possible. There are different ways to achieve the digital e-cockpit solution with a single SoC. Please get in touch with our team to understand how this can be done.

Ans. No, it is not mandatory to have a secure OS.

Ans. Android Automotive OS, Linux, AGL – Automotive Grade Linux.

Ans. These are some of the application frameworks we use for this purpose:

• Qt & QML
• Kanzi Studio
• Altia
• Unity

Ans: SVN – Stolen Vehicle Notification

The user can remotely enable this feature from mobile/web, once the stolen vehicle comes online. Once the SVN is received, it is possible to disable few functionalities such as touch and acceleration.

VPN – Vehicle Position Notification

Through this notification, the user will know about the vehicle’s position. Geo fencing can also be used to define VPN.

Ans. No, it is not recommended to update the Android OS over Bluetooth because of footprint.

Ans. Yes, in the past we have worked on a similar project for a leading supplier of automotive electronics products. In that project, we developed a connected digital instrument cluster with the assistance of our Ecosystem Partners, from whom we procured cost-effective LED screens best suited for the project. Connect with us to learn more about our capabilities in this area.

Ans. Yes, we have recently worked on a project in which we integrated a Bluetooth connectivity module with a two-wheeler digital instrument cluster. The primary MCU was on a different module of the cluster. The MCU of our Bluetooth module makes a connection with the primary MCU through UART and reads the fault codes, speed, odometer info, fuel level details, etc. This information is also sent to the mobile application of the rider.

Additionally, the cluster connects to the cloud and transmits vehicle data. This information is processed in the cloud to derive intelligent insights.

Reach out to our team at sales@embitel.com to learn more about this project.

Ans. A digital instrument cluster collects various types of vehicle data from ECUs and sensors spread across the vehicle through communication networks like CAN, LIN, Ethernet, FlexRay, etc. This data is then decoded and converted to a format that can be consumed by the user and displayed on the cluster screen. Some of the sensors that provide data to the digital gauge cluster are engine coolant sensor, fuel sensor, anti-lock braking system (ABS), airbag, oil level sensor, seatbelt, etc.

Ans. Analog instrument clusters have screens with needles that display data by pointing to corresponding numbers on a scale. The movement of the needles directly correspond to the engine fuel variations, vehicle speed changes, etc. These gauges are completely mechanical and are made of small moving parts and gears. Such needles are also susceptible to mechanical vibrations and can wear out quite often.

On the other hand, digital instrument clusters display vehicle data in numbers on a digital screen. Such clusters can perform well under mechanical vibration. They also have good backlighting and the data is easier to read, unlike analog gauges where there can be parallax errors. Digital gauges are powered by high-end microprocessors and software and hence, they provide accurate readings.

Digital gauges are more expensive than analog gauges. However, they do not have to undergo regular calibration and replacement due to wear and tear like analog gauges. Hence, in the long run, they are a more cost-effective and reliable option. This is why auto OEMs are adopting digital gauge clusters in their modern vehicles.

Ans. The instrument cluster is commonly referred to as the dash or dashboard. This is actually a misnomer, as the dash and dashboard are what the driver sees in front of them just behind the steering wheel, while driving. The instrument cluster is a part of the dashboard that contains gauges depicting vehicle and driving conditions.

Ans.

The modern digital instrument clusters have several sophisticated features that enhance driver experience in the vehicle. Listed below are some of these features:

• Customisable displays – High-end digital instrument clusters can allow the driver to personalise the layout and appearance of the displayed information. The driver can configure the style of the gauges, adjust the colour schemes, and also choose what data should be displayed.
• Advanced navigation – Digital gauge clusters have sophisticated navigation systems that accurately provide turn-by-turn (TBT) navigation assistance. They also display real-time traffic updates and points of interest in the locality.
• Augmented Reality (AR) based Head-Up Displays (HUDs) – Some vehicles have HUDs that project important information onto the windshield in an AR display. Crucial information such as driving speed, navigation instructions and safety warnings are directly visible on the windshield. Since the data is displayed in the driver’s line of sight, it minimises driver distraction and facilitates quick action.
• Smartphone connectivity – Most digital instrument clusters allow the user to connect their smartphones via Bluetooth to the cluster. Smartphone integration platforms like Android Auto enables the driver to use phone apps and make/receive phone calls directly from the cluster screen.
• Adaptive information display – The cluster display can change based on the driving mode chosen. For example, if the vehicle is in off-road driving mode at a remote location, the display can show a map of the surroundings to guide the driver.