Instrument panels are central display modules on the driver's side, integrated into the cockpit systems. They are used primarily for vehicle operation and unit protection. At present, the importance for information transfer and security increases constantly. Displaying rotational speed, speed and fuel level give the driver important information in order to operate the vehicle propperly. To protect the main units such as engine and gearbox, the water and oil temperature, the oil pressure and a ba...
Instrument panels are central display modules on the driver's side, integrated into the cockpit systems. They are used primarily for vehicle operation and unit protection. At present, the importance for information transfer and security increases constantly. Displaying rotational speed, speed and fuel level give the driver important information in order to operate the vehicle propperly. To protect the main units such as engine and gearbox, the water and oil temperature, the oil pressure and a battery charge indicator are displayed as well. The information exchange includes, for example, time, driven distances for the day and total route, average fuel consumption and navigation. If the distance to the preceding vehicle is too short or the tire pressure is too low, warning messages are issued for safety reasons. Cockpit systems are also referred to as dashboards. Within the vehicle, they are used for the integration and networking of electrical, electronic and mechatronic components, operation, comfort, safety and design. Depending on vehicle model and furnishings, changing instrument panels, steering wheels, gear shift levers, operating elements as well as navigation and entertainment systems are being installed. Depending on the vehicle model, cockpits for flexible adjustment are divided into three functional units: the driver module, the center console and the passenger module. In contrast to instrument panels, dashboards are mainly mounted manually or semi-automatically. Wood decors and genuine leather lamination are examples of optional ways of individualizing a vehicle.