We all like the new options of having a built-in navigational system, a program in our vehicle that keeps track of everything from tire pressure to gas mileage, and, of course, the built in DVD to keep the kids quiet on long trips. But it can be difficult to monitor these things while driving. In response to this matter, Apple is once again trying to integrate itself into daily life by patenting the idea for a dashboard touch screen. Not only would this dashboard include all of the aforementioned things that we are used to having at our disposal, but it would extend to include everything that is on the steering column as well. The patent, granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, is dubbed “Programmable tactile touch screen displays and man-machine interfaces for improved vehicle instrumentation and telematics” (patent no. 8,482,535) describes a tactile-feel touch screen that would let you adjust several of the key features and functions in your car.
The patent discusses such options as controlling the temperature, the wipers, and the radio all from one panel. And in a nod toward safety, certain controls would be enabled only when the car is stopped. For example, a transparent knob on the touch screen could be used to alter the temperature or turn on the wipers when the car is in motion. But that same knob could also activate your e-mail and Web browser when the car stops. It could be argued that this is not any safer than turning your windshield wipers on as you normally do, but it definitely is a good idea in integrating all of the driver-controlled functions in a vehicle. Perhaps Apple could expand the idea a bit further and incorporate automatic wipers and temperature controls, and voice-activated radio.
Overall he touch screen’s tactile approach is designed to help drivers push the right buttons without having to take their eyes off the road. The patent itself describe the invention as “a revolutionary form of dashboard or instrument panel results which is stylistically attractive, lower in cost, customizable by the user, programmable in both the tactile and visual sense, and with the potential of enhancing interior safety and vehicle operation.”
The whole concept could complement Apple’s upcoming “iOS in the Car,” a feature that would let you control your iPhone directly through your auto’s onboard receiver.
