Sure, and it's spelt AusS2000 for the degree BTW.

I don't know much about the specs of ODB-II. Just that it's a pretty good interface for talking to the ECU and reading sensors. First time I heard about it was that Palm Pilot Datalogger

 

I see it more of a step backward. There seems to be little gain in functionality, flexibility aside. As far as your opinion that users locate buttons by spatial juxtaposition, try this experiment. You can buy an inexpensive LCD screen remote control at most electronic stores. Try using one without looking at it. Now try the same thing using a remote with molded buttons. I believe you'll find it is difficult to use the touchscreen remote without looking at it. I design remote controls as part of job. I don't mean to rain on your parade; I'm just sharing some of my experience.

 

NSXS,

Actually, I have used systems like this before...everytime I watch movies in the dark. Used to have one of those touchscreen LCD remotes with backlights...the backlight converter died, so it was by remembering placement of buttons. Of course, with that one, the buttons were the size of a fingertip, so you had to be VERY careful where you pressed. I think I've avoided that by making the screen large enough.

Try this, take a thick piece of cardboard (like from a moving box) and cut out a 3.5" x 2.5" hole (close enough to 4" diagonal). Imagine the touchscreen is at the bottom of the cardboard (gentle touches won't activate the screen, only solid pushes will). Now without looking, see if you can find the corners and middle by feel alone. I bet good money you can...and if you can't, well, how do you use the stock controls without looking?

 

Good point, after you make to prototype, post a pic.

 

Take something simple and elegant and make it complicated. Is this your business model?

For example, So far no one has come up with a better way to raise or lower volume on a stereo than the simple volume nob, but they keep thinking they can. Sure folks I rather push a tiny button a dozen times rather than rotating a simple round nob a few degrees.

I don't think taking simple tactile controls and replacing them with a touchscreen (that will probably be unable to be seen in bright sunlight) is an improvement.

 

Originally posted by MacGyver
I find the controls by feeling the shape of the buttons. It would be more difficut if the buttons where all the same shape. One other thing I have learned from my experience is that I am not a good role model for the general population. I need to test all my designs with real people. So, don't be discouraged by my opinion if others like your idea. I usually score in the minority.

 

my feeling is that making a touchscreen for the buttons will make people feel the way a blind person does trying to use a touchscreen. It's just going to make it more difficult to use. Yeah, it might be flashy and cool looking and could even provide more functionality. I still think it would be better to replace the panel with more physical buttons that can be distinguised without looking at what you're pressing.

David

 

MacGuyver:
Give me a prototype, api and compiler, and i'll help out with the software.

It could be cool, if done right. I remember seeing a Skyline where the dash was completely digital. One mode showed an analog-like representation of the tach and speedo, another mode showed various ecu data (throttle position, a/f...) and the 3rd mode showed 2-axis acceleration data.. very cool.

Im not sure about doing without some of the tactile feedback. I'd definately like the mode button to become a joystick. perhaps the righthand controls (HVAC) would be better suited to replacement with an LCD MFD. Its not like we're always changing the settings..

 

i would be more interested in a mount and interface for my palm pilot...that way i don't have to shell out for another touch-sensitive LCD.

 

I have a liquid crystal display on my Brookstones clock, alarm, calendar, temp, date, thing. Problem is that in Southern California the sun can really beat down on the interior of our convertibles. That unremitting blast of photons just blacks out my LCD, upshot, can't read my clock. Not so serious since I wear a back up on my wrist. Sure would be a problem if that were my start button.

On a similar note, although people give Honda a lot of criticism for that LED tach, I've come to like it. But that's as high tech in the way of displays I'm comfortable with. I guess the keep it simple dictum works for me.


Just my 2 rupees.

2x6spds