Patent Description:
Typically, watercraft builders build dash assemblies (e.g., control components and displays for the helm) using components from multiple manufacturers. The components are installed through a backboard of the helm, wired together, and configured by the watercraft builder and/or a third party.

Assembly of a dashboard or helm in this manner may cause the industrial design of the resulting helm control center to be inconsistent, as each manufacturer has different designs for their products. The product design may even vary within the same brand, manufacturer, and/or watercraft builder. The overall look of the helm may appear disjointed, especially contrasted with a generally sleek form applied to the marine vessel by the watercraft builder. The housings of the various components may have different curvatures and/or peripheries that clash when placed side-by-side, projecting out of the backboard of the helm. Further, each component may have the corresponding logo for the manufacturer prominently displayed in differing fonts, colors, sizes, etc. Where multiple components have display screens, these screens may have radically different color outputs, resolutions, and lighting, for example. Taken as a whole, the aesthetics and branding of the marine vessel intended by the watercraft builder may be compromised by the hardware of the assorted components in the dashboard assembly.

<CIT> discloses a marine navigation control system provided with navigation control boxes having information display panels and waterproof door panels.

<CIT> discloses a display and operating system for a motor vehicle including an instrument cluster configured to display operating parameters of the vehicle, the instrument cluster having a plurality of displays bonded under a covering pane.

<CIT> discloses an automotive instrument cluster and method for wirelessly communicating data from a diagnostic tool to the instrument cluster or any vehicle system visible by a user. <CIT> discloses another example of marine information display assembly.

Often, components from each manufacturer are standard components, designed to fulfill a single function or a subset of the overall functions desired on the helm; thus, the resulting helm dashboard assembly may have significant overlap in functionalities and/or a lack of integration. Redundancies in the resulting assembly may be inefficient from the perspective of both cost and space. Additionally, the wiring of these various components may be complex. Complicated wiring could result in cord management problems, costly converters, incompatible interfaces, unnecessary power cords, extra heat and/or shielding issues, etc. The internal hardware of the components may contribute to wireless signal and/or other types of interference. Moreover, any integration of the components may be difficult or impossible to implement and may not provide a full or functional integration of all the various capabilities.

The proprietary software of each component of the dashboard assembly may cause further issues. For example, the software for some components may be incompatible with incoming data, which could cause problems with peripheral detection and/or communication between components. The components may have vastly different user interface layouts and menus that each operate differently and may clash in terms of brand identity, type design, color schemes, etc. Moreover, it may be hard for a user to memorize and/or quickly switch between the functions and navigation for each of the various user interfaces, which may limit the usability of the overall helm operations, possibly leading to safety issues.

Waterproofing of dashboard assembly components may add to costs, especially where components are designed for both in-dash and bracket mount installation on a helm. Such costs would otherwise be unnecessary if the components were protected by the dash assembly itself. Moreover, in any environment, as more seams or joints are included in the assortment of components, the risk of damage or deterioration of seals increases, resulting in unwanted entry of water and/or debris into components thereby accelerating their time to failure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for various bonded marine information displays that cure many of the above noted defects and difficulties. In this regard, in some embodiments, an assembly is specifically designed for the watercraft manufacturer to provide a cost effective and aesthetically desirable design, which also offers integration of components. More particularly, a single piece overlay pane may be designed (e.g., in shape and size) to correspond to and be easily installed into a dashboard of the helm or elsewhere in a specific vessel. The bonded marine information display may include one or more user interface displays bonded to a rear face of the overlay pane, which may provide a seamless and waterproof solution. Customization of the number and placement of the user interface displays provides for improved optionality and aesthetic look for each watercraft manufacturer. The bonded marine information display may provide a sleek, custom, and fully upgradable dash control.

Further, an integration hub included and/or built-in to the system of the bonded marine information display may be able to share information from all systems onboard a vessel. The integration hub of the bonded marine information display may provide integration of all major components on the vessel (e.g., engines, batteries, anchors, digital switching, stereos, air-conditioning, generators, trim tabs, etc.) controlled by a central display for easier and better control and comfort. The graphical user interface of the bonded marine information display may be fully configurable and designed to present necessary information when users need it. In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display may be cloud-connected to provide data and digital services to/from a host of boating industry partners, which may add to the safety and enjoyment of a user's experience. Using the networking and communication abilities of the integration hub, the bonded marine information display may provide seamless connectivity and control of a vessel via a multi-functional display, mobile phone, tablet, etc., whether the user is on or off the vessel. The integrational capabilities of the bonded marine information display may provide a user or watercraft manufacturer with the ability to automate activities and make changes to the various vessel systems.

In one exemplary embodiment, a marine information display assembly for installation on a marine vessel is provided. The marine information display assembly may include an overlay pane and a plurality of user interface displays for displaying marine data to a user. Each of the plurality of user interface displays may include a front face and a screen. The overlay pane may define a front face and a rear face. The rear face of the overlay pane may be bonded to the front face of each of the plurality of user interface displays such that each screen of the plurality of user interface displays is visible through the overlay pane. The marine information display may further include a protective mounting frame configured to surround the plurality of user interface displays and abut the rear face of the overlay pane such the front face of each of the plurality of the user interface displays is substantially flush with a front face of the protective mounting frame when a retention lip of each of the plurality of the user interface displays is seated within a corresponding display recess of the protective mounting frame, wherein the protective mounting frame extends along the rear face of the overlay pane between at least two of the plurality of user interface displays. The marine information display may further include an integration hub. The integration hub may include a communication interface configured to provide data communication between the plurality of user interface displays and one or more peripheral devices. The communication interface may include at least one Ethernet interface for controlling communications between the integration hub and the plurality of user interface displays. Each of the plurality of user interface displays may include a rear mounting connection configured to engage with a compression bracket. The compression bracket may be configured to hold the protective mounting frame in place against the overlay pane. At least one of the plurality of user interface displays may comprise a touchscreen. The overlay pane may be glass or polycarbonate. The marine information display may further include a mounting ring disposed around a periphery of the overlay pane.

In another exemplary embodiment, a marine information display system for attachment to a marine vessel is provided. The marine information display system may include a plurality of user interface displays and an integration hub in communication with the plurality of user interface displays. Each of the plurality of user interface displays may include a front face and a screen. Each front face may be bonded to a rear face of an overlay pane such that the screen of each of the plurality of user interface displays is visible through the overlay pane. The integration hub may include a processor, a communication interface, and memory.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method of manufacturing a marine information display is provided. The method may include forming an overlay pane and bonding a plurality of user interface displays to a rear face of the overlay pane. The overlay pane may be formed according to a periphery shape. The plurality of user interface displays may be bonded to the rear face of the overlay pane by bonding a front face of each of the plurality of user interface displays to the rear face of the overlay pane. The method may further include connecting a capacitive touch panel to each of the plurality of user interface displays prior to the bonding. The method may further include applying a protective laminate film to the overlay pane. The method may further include connecting the plurality of user interface displays to an integration hub for transmission of power and data between the plurality of user interface displays and peripheral devices. The integration hub may include a processor and a memory. The method may further include marking at least one of the overlay pane and the protective mounting frame with a logo according to a boat profile. The method may further include storing computer-readable code indicating the boat profile in the memory of the integration hub. The method may further include providing selectable size options for the plurality of user interface displays. The method may further include providing selectable shape and size options for the periphery shape for the overlay pane. The overlay pane may be formed based on a selected shape and size option. The method may further include inserting each of the plurality of user interface displays into a protective mounting frame. The method may further include connecting a compression bracket to a rear mounting connection of each of the plurality of user interface displays. The method may further include rotating and tightening the compression bracket such that pressure is applied to the protective mounting frame directed toward the overlay pane.

In another exemplary embodiment, a marine information display system for attachment to a helm of a marine vessel is provided. The marine information display system may include an overlay pane and a user interface display for displaying marine data to a user. The overlay pane may define a front face and a rear face. The overlay pane may have a periphery shape with a width. The width of the overlay pane may extend substantially across an entire width of the helm. The periphery shape of the overlay pane may correspond to one or more contours of the helm. The user interface display may include a front face and a screen, defining a width. The front face of the user interface display may be bonded to the rear face of the overlay pane such that the user interface display is visible through the overlay pane. The width of the screen of the user interface display may be less than the width of the overlay pane.

Having thus described embodiments of the present disclosure in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:.

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Indeed, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements.

<FIG> illustrates example marine vessel <NUM> and helm <NUM> including an example bonded marine information display <NUM>, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. The vessel <NUM> may be any watercraft configured to traverse a body of water either surfaced or submerged. The vessel may include one or more helms <NUM> as the designated locations configured to control one or more operations of the vessel <NUM>, including, but not limited to, propulsion, maneuvering, sonar, radar, rigging, navigation, and communications. The helm <NUM> may include analog and/or digital displays configured to provide information related to one or more vessel operations (e.g., speed, heading, trim depth) and/or to the status of one or more vessel components (e.g., engines, rudder or planes angles, trim tanks, ballast tanks, fuel tanks, pumps, trolling motor, sonar, radar, radios, auxiliary equipment). In an example embodiment, one or more of the displays may be unified in a bonded marine information display <NUM>, such as described in further detail below. The bonded marine information display <NUM> may be supplied to a watercraft manufacturer (e.g., builder) as a single dashboard assembly to install into the helm <NUM> of a vessel <NUM>. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a bonded marine information display <NUM> may be installed in locations other than the helm <NUM> of a vessel <NUM>.

Embodiments of the bonded information display are not limited to installation in marine vessels and may be configured for installation in other vessels, vehicles, etc. and/or as a standalone display. For example, in some embodiments, the bonded information display may be used in an automobile and/or other vehicle. As another example, in some embodiments, the bonded information display may be used in a laboratory, plant, factory, and/or testing environment to display information to a user. In other embodiments, the bonded information display may be installed and/or used with machinery or other equipment.

In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display <NUM> may include one or more user interface displays <NUM>, such as touchscreen displays. The user interface displays <NUM> may be configured to provide data associated with the vessel, such as vessel operations and component status. The user interface displays <NUM> may operate as marine electronic displays, such as marine multi-functional displays, known in the art, to integrate sonar, radar, autopilot, etc. In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display <NUM> may include two or more user interface displays <NUM> that may be integrated to communicate data and/or user interface input between the two or more user interface displays <NUM>.

The bonded marine information display <NUM> may include an overlay pane <NUM>, as seen best in the exploded view of <FIG>, bonded to the one or more user interface displays <NUM>. The overlay pane <NUM> may be formed from glass, polycarbonate, or other suitable material. For example, in some embodiments, the overlay pane <NUM> may be made from any optically transparent materials. Utilizing an overlay pane <NUM> formed from polycarbonate may enable a high degree of customization of the outer periphery <NUM> of the bonded marine information display (such as shown in <FIG>). In some embodiments, the overlay pane <NUM> may include indicia <NUM> such as branding artwork and/or labels. The indicia <NUM> may be silk-screened or screen printed, such as by a frit or other suitable method. In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display <NUM> may also include other instruments (e.g., analog gauges, meters, speakers, vents) such that may be mounted in bore holes either milled or drilled into the overlay pane <NUM>. Alternatively, the other instruments may be similarly bonded to the overlay pane <NUM> or may be mounted underneath the overlay pane <NUM> and otherwise secured to the dashboard assembly of the bonded marine information display <NUM>.

<FIG> show various example bonded marine information displays <NUM> installed onto helms <NUM> of vessels. The bonded marine information displays <NUM> may have a single continuous surface along a front face of an overlay pane and include a custom layout of one or more user interface displays <NUM> (e.g., 106a, 106b, etc.), analog displays, gauges, and/or bore holes for mounting other utilities. The user interface displays <NUM> may be bonded to the overlay pane within the bonded marine information display <NUM> to unify the displays with the overlay pane in order to create a one-piece dashboard assembly for installation into the vessel, as discussed in further detail below.

<FIG> shows a helm <NUM> with a bonded marine information display <NUM> installed featuring one super-wide user interface display <NUM>. <FIG> shows a helm <NUM> with a bonded marine information display <NUM> installed featuring two user interface displays 106a, 106b of the same size. <FIG> shows a helm <NUM> with a bonded marine information display <NUM> installed featuring four user interface displays 106a, 106b, 106c, 106d, where two of the user interface displays 106a, 106d are larger and the same size, and the other two user interface displays 106b, 106c are smaller, the same size, and centrally located within the bonded marine information display <NUM>. <FIG> shows a helm <NUM> with a bonded marine information display <NUM> installed featuring three user interface displays 106a, 106b, 106c, where two of the user interface displays 106a, 106c are larger and the same size, and the other user interface display 106b is smaller and centrally located within the bonded marine information display <NUM>. <FIG> shows a helm <NUM> with a bonded marine information display <NUM> installed featuring three user interface displays 106a, 106b, 106c of the same size as well as bore holes formed into the lower front face of the bonded marine information display <NUM>. <FIG> shows a different angle of the helm <NUM> and bonded marine information display <NUM> of <FIG>. <FIG> shows a different angle of the helm <NUM> and bonded marine information display <NUM> of <FIG>. <FIG> shows a helm <NUM> with a bonded marine information display <NUM> installed featuring four user interface displays 106a, 106b, 106c, 106d, where two of the user interface displays 106a, 106d are larger and the same size, and the other two user interface displays 106b, 106c are smaller, the same size, and centrally located within the bonded marine information display <NUM>. <FIG> shows a closer view and different angle of the bonded marine information display <NUM> installed on the helm <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>. Other layouts and configurations of the user interface displays <NUM> and bonded marine information displays <NUM> are possible, such as illustrated and described further with respect to <FIG>.

<FIG> shows an example bonded marine information display <NUM> installed in a backboard <NUM> of the helm <NUM> of a vessel. In some embodiments, the width <NUM> of the bonded marine information display <NUM> may span across substantially the entire width <NUM> of the helm backboard <NUM>. The periphery shape of the bonded marine information display <NUM> may complement the shape and contour of the helm <NUM> and/or the helm backboard <NUM>. In some embodiments, the width <NUM> of the periphery shape of the overlay pane may extend beyond the width <NUM> of the user interface display 204a.

<FIG> illustrate example bonded marine information displays <NUM>, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. The bonded marine information display may have a rectangular periphery 202A, as depicted in <FIG>, or may have a custom-shaped periphery 202B, as depicted in <FIG>. The custom-shaped periphery may be formed in any shape to facilitate installation into any helm <NUM> or other location on a vessel. In addition to the periphery customization, the bonded marine information displays may have curvatures, bends, and/or other topographies in the depth dimension or z-axis to provide even greater form fitting opportunities. For example, the overlay pane may include a <NUM>° or other bend near the center of the bonded marine information display that provides a user with two or more user interface displays oriented at <NUM>° to each other. This example configuration may allow the user to see more detailed information with a head turn or glance, rather than having to move laterally to be closer to another screen. This example configuration may also provide space-saving opportunities to the watercraft manufacturer.

<FIG> illustrates example bonded marine information displays <NUM> in various layouts and configurations, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. The bonded marine information displays <NUM> may include one or more user interface displays <NUM> of one or more sizes including, but not limited to <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM> - respectively <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, or other sizes. As depicted, the bonded marine information displays <NUM> may include two or more of the same size user interface displays <NUM>, different size user interface displays <NUM>, centered user interface displays <NUM>, offset user interface displays, or any other configuration. The bonded marine information display <NUM> may include one or more mechanical elements to retain electronics, such as the user interface displays <NUM> and provide some environmental protection, such as IPX2 water resistance for a back side of the bonded marine information display and IPX6 water resistance for a front side. In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display <NUM> may include one or more mechanical strengthening elements, such as where the bonded marine information display <NUM> is relatively large.

<FIG> shows an exploded view of an example overlay pane <NUM> and user interface displays <NUM>. The overlay pane <NUM> may be optical grade float glass, for example, able to withstand an IK07 impact test. The overlay pane <NUM> may be silk-screened with black in regions <NUM> of the information display layout without user interface displays <NUM> or other instruments, as shown in <FIG>. The silk-screen material may be ceramic frit, which is then oven-cured. A logo <NUM> and/or other indicia may be etched out of the silk-screened area and printed with white and/or other contrasting ink. The printed ink may be UV, salt, and fog resistant (e.g., ISO <NUM>-<NUM>, ASTM B117), bear appropriate adhesive properties (e.g., ASTM D3359), as well as resilient to environmental temperature cycling (e.g., -<NUM> - <NUM>). Ink may be additionally printed on the rear side of the black silk-screened areas <NUM> in order to indicate the alignment of the user interface displays <NUM> in the particular layout, as shown in <FIG>.

The overlay pane <NUM> includes a front face 416a and a rear face 416b. The user interface display <NUM> may include a front face (e.g., front face 204a shown in <FIG>) that may correspond with a screen of the user interface display <NUM>. To form the bonded marine information display, the front face of the user interface display <NUM> is bonded to the rear face 416b of the overlay pane <NUM>, such as described herein. When formed, the screen of the user interface display <NUM> may be visible through corresponding portion of the overlay pane <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a protective film <NUM> may be laminated to the rear face of the overlay pane <NUM> to strengthen the overlay pane <NUM> and provide safety in the event of breakage. The transparent protective film <NUM> may be about <NUM> thick, for example, UV-stabilized with a matte finish, and be adhered using <NUM> mil adhesive transfer tape.

In some embodiments of the bonding process for manufacturing the bonded marine information displays <NUM>, a touch capacitive sensor <NUM> is bonded to the overlay pane <NUM>, and an LCD/LED/OLED screen <NUM> is then bonded to that. Appropriate wiring may be connected to the touch capacitive sensor <NUM> and LCD/LED/OLED screen <NUM>. Finally, a display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM> may be connected and bonded.

In some embodiments, as shown in the exploded view of an example overlay pane <NUM> and user interface displays <NUM> of <FIG>, the display housing <NUM> may be assembled using a display housing front portion 624a and a display housing rear portion 624b. The display housing front portion 624a may be bonded to the rear face 416b of the overlay pane <NUM>. Wiring and other electronics (e.g., processor, data and power ports/interfaces, printed circuit board) may be included in and/or inserted into the display housing front portion 624a. Additionally or alternatively, the wiring and/or electronics may be included in and/or inserted into the display housing rear portion 624b. Finally, the display housing rear portion 624b may be connected and/or sealed to the display housing front portion 624a.

The bonding process for manufacturing the bonded marine information displays <NUM> may allow multiple displays or other instruments to be mounted to the overlay pane <NUM> according to various layouts. The multi-instrument mounting may be enabled by using a universal positioning jig for aligning the displays and/or other instruments to a pre-determined information display layout. Optical clear adhesives and/or resins, for example, may be used for any of the bonding steps in the manufacturing process.

<FIG> and <FIG> show rear views of user interface displays <NUM> bonded to overlay panes <NUM>, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. As seen in <FIG>, the user interface displays <NUM> may include one or more mounting connectors <NUM> disposed on a back side of the display housing <NUM> of each of the user interface displays <NUM>. The mounting connections may include a threaded aperture or any other suitable connector. In some embodiments, the mounting connectors may be portions of the housing of the user interface displays that are configured to receive a corresponding compression bracket (as described herein) and, in some cases, may not necessarily include a specific structural connection feature.

<FIG> illustrate example mounting connector <NUM> configurations for user interface displays <NUM>, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. <FIG> depicts a first mounting connector configuration including a mounting connector <NUM> disposed proximate to each corner of the back side of the user interface display <NUM>. <FIG> depicts a second mounting connector configuration including two mounting connectors <NUM> disposed proximate to, and offset from, each corner of the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM>. A power connector <NUM> may be disposed on the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM>. Additionally, one or more data connectors <NUM>, such as Ethernet connections, may be disposed on the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM>.

A compression bracket <NUM> may be connected to one or more of the mounting connectors <NUM> to utilize the bonded user interface display <NUM> to press a protective mounting frame <NUM> against the overlay pane <NUM>, as discussed below in reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrate an installation of a user interface display <NUM> into a protective mounting frame <NUM> of the bonded marine information display, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. As depicted in <FIG>, the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM> may be inserted through the protective mounting frame <NUM>. The user interface display <NUM> may include a retention lip <NUM> configured to be larger than the aperture in the protective mounting frame <NUM>, thus preventing a front side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM> from passing through the protective mounting frame <NUM>.

One or more compression brackets <NUM> may be installed in one or more mounting connectors <NUM> on the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM>. The compression brackets <NUM> may be configured to be pivot about the mounting connectors <NUM>. The compression brackets <NUM> may be oriented in an installation position, as shown in <FIG>. In the installation position, the compression brackets <NUM> may not extend into the area defined by the retention lip <NUM>, such that the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM> may pass through the protective mounting frame <NUM> unobstructed by the compression brackets <NUM>. Once the one or more user interface displays <NUM> are inserted into the protective mounting frame <NUM>, such that the retention lip <NUM> abuts the protective mounting frame <NUM>, the one or more compression brackets <NUM> may be rotated or pivoted into a capture position. In the capture position, a portion of the protective mounting frame <NUM> may be disposed between the retention lip <NUM> and a portion of the compression brackets <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of a compression bracket <NUM>, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. The compression bracket <NUM> may include a bracket body <NUM> including a connector <NUM>. In the depicted example, the connector <NUM> comprises a screw (e.g., a wing nut screw) including threads complementary to the mounting connectors <NUM> in the user interface display <NUM>. Although not shown, the connector <NUM> may also include a washer or other appropriate connection adapter, such as to prevent or minimize any deformation to the bracket body <NUM> during assembly. The bracket body <NUM> may include a connector aperture <NUM> configured to accept the connector <NUM> therethrough. In some embodiments, the compression bracket <NUM> may include a biasing element <NUM>, such as a coil spring, for example, disposed between a head of the connector <NUM> and the bracket body <NUM> and configured to bias the bracket body <NUM> toward the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM>, to limit rotation of the bracket body <NUM> during installation of the user interface display <NUM> into the protective mounting frame <NUM>, prior to tightening the connector <NUM>. In some embodiments, the bracket body <NUM> may include one or more detents <NUM> disposed on a surface facing the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM> to further increase the resistance to rotation during installation of the one or more user interface displays <NUM> into the protective mounting frame <NUM>. Additionally, in some embodiments, the back side of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM> may include one or more complementary grooves, such as grooves at <NUM> degrees, for example, to accept the detents <NUM>.

The protective mounting frame <NUM> includes a display recess <NUM> complementary to the retention lip <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a seal <NUM>, such as a foam, rubber, and/or silicone seal, for example, may be disposed between the retention lip <NUM> and the display recess <NUM> to provide a barrier to particles and/or water entry. The compression bracket <NUM> may include a compression element configured to exert a pressure on the back side of the protective mounting frame <NUM>, which in turn applies pressure between the retention lip <NUM> and the display recess <NUM>. This mounting arrangement may enable the use of smaller sized overlay panes <NUM>. The mounting arrangement may also be service-friendly, in that the user interface displays <NUM> may be relatively easy to remove by loosening the compression brackets <NUM>. The seal <NUM> may be decompressed and recompressed without replacement, unlike an adhesive seal.

As discussed above, the compression bracket <NUM> may also include a compression element <NUM> configured to apply pressure to a back side of the protective mounting frame <NUM>. The compression element <NUM> may include a threaded screw <NUM> (e.g., a wing screw) configured to engage complementary threads disposed in a compression aperture <NUM> in the bracket body <NUM>. Rotation of the threaded screw <NUM>, in a tightening direction may cause a distal end of the threaded screw <NUM> to extend through and away from the bracket body <NUM> toward the back side of the protective mounting frame <NUM>. The distal end of the threaded screw <NUM> may engage the back side of the protective mounting frame <NUM> and exert force thereon, which in turn may cause a force to be between the retention lip <NUM> and the display recess <NUM>. In some embodiments, a foot, or boot <NUM> may be disposed on the distal end of the threaded screw <NUM>. The boot <NUM> may increase the surface area of the distal end of the threaded screw <NUM> and have a relatively smooth surface to prevent marring or damage to the back side of the protective mounting frame <NUM>.

The compression element <NUM> may also include a lock <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the lock <NUM> may comprise a nut (e.g., wing nut) disposed on the threaded screw <NUM>. The lock <NUM> may be tightened against the bracket body <NUM> to prevent or limit rotation of threaded screw <NUM>, such as after installation of the user interface display <NUM> into the protective mounting frame <NUM>. The lock may prevent vibrations, such as those due to operation of the vessel, from inadvertently loosening the compression element <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a cross-sectional view of a bonded marine information display <NUM> with one or more user interface displays <NUM>, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. The front face 402a of the display housing <NUM> of the user interface display <NUM> is substantially flush with a front face 408a of the protective mounting frame <NUM> when the retention lip <NUM> is seated in the display recess <NUM>. The overlay pane <NUM> may be disposed over the front face of the protective mounting frame <NUM> and the user interface display <NUM>, such that the front face 402a of the user interface display <NUM> and the front face 408a of the protective mounting frame <NUM> abut a rear face 416b of the overlay pane <NUM>. In some embodiments, the overlay pane <NUM> may be disposed with a clearance between the front side of the protective mounting frame <NUM> and the overlay pane <NUM>, thereby limiting or preventing clamping pressure or stress from being applied to the overlay pane <NUM>.

<FIG> are cross-sectional views of example bonded marine information displays with different protective mounting frame <NUM> depths, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. As depicted in <FIG> the compression element <NUM> may be tightened or loosened to accommodate protective mounting frames <NUM> of different depths, such as about <NUM> and about <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the compression brackets <NUM> may include bracket bodies <NUM> of differing sizes to accommodate a larger range of depths of protective mounting frames <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, accommodating about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the protective mounting frame <NUM> may include a mounting ring <NUM> disposed about the periphery of the overlay pane <NUM>, when user interface displays <NUM> are installed into the protective mounting frame <NUM>. In some embodiments, the edge of the overlay pane <NUM> is exposed, as depicted in <FIG>. The exposed edge may reduce the risk of accumulation of unwanted substances, such as water, ice, dirt, and dust. Additionally, where the entirety of the edge of the overlay pane <NUM> is exposed, fit tolerance of the overlay pane <NUM> into an installed position is not a critical factor. In alternative embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, at least a portion of the edge of the overlay pane <NUM> is covered, such that the overlay pane <NUM> is recessed into an overlay pane pocket of the protective mounting frame <NUM>. In configurations with at least a portion of the edge of the overlay pane <NUM> covered, the risk of damage to the corner of the overlay pane <NUM> may be reduced.

<FIG> show rear views of example bonded marine information displays <NUM> installed into a helm <NUM> on a vessel. Installation of the single information display dashboard assembly to the backboard of the helm <NUM> may be achieved using a mounting bracket <NUM> or any other suitable attachment methods. For example, the mounting bracket <NUM> shown in <FIG> may utilize a screw or other connector engaged with the protective mounting frame <NUM> of the bonded marine information display assembly <NUM> and another screw or other connector engaged with the backboard of the helm. <FIG> also show possible wiring connections to the bonded marine information display <NUM> and to the user interface displays <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate example interconnections between the bonded marine information display and peripheral devices.

<FIG> is a schematic of an example integration hub <NUM> of the bonded marine information display <NUM> and its connectivity with peripheral systems. The interfacing capabilities of the integration hub may allow the bonded marine information display system to understand the data received from other systems rather than just displaying it. For example, the integration hub may be in communication with an onboard air conditioning system, and-regardless of the air conditioning manufacturer-the integration hub may identify the power (e.g., on/off) state and the temperature setting of the air conditioning system. The integration hub may include an associated application programming interface (API) that provides manufacturers the ability to access features or data of the software installed on the integration hub. Using this deep API integration functionality, the marine information display may provide a user with alerts, for example, based on the incoming data (e.g., oil pressure) from peripheral systems without the peripheral systems having to provide the alert state. As illustrated, the example integration hub <NUM> is connected to periphery devices such as sonar, radar, autopilot, navigation, motor controllers, and other components.

<FIG> is a schematic of another example integration hub <NUM> and its interconnectivity with other vessel systems. The integration hub may drive the displays, connect to control systems, and run operating system navigation and control software. For example, the integration hub <NUM> may connect to example periphery devices, such as other user interfaces/marine electronic devices, radar, sonar, navigation, autopilot, VHF/AIS, various electric-based devices/systems (e.g., lighting, refrigeration, pumps, etc.), various comfort-based devices/systems (e.g., heating, air-conditioning, water heater(s), anchor(s), cover(s), fuel and other tanks), various electric power devices/systems (e.g., starter battery, board battery, charger, shore power, inverter, generators, etc.), and/or various steering/engine devices/systems (e.g., throttle, trim tabs, steering wheel, engine, etc.). In some embodiments, digital switching may be utilized to gather data from various connected devices/systems, such as the auxiliary electric devices/systems and/or the comfort-based devices/systems.

<FIG> is a schematic of an example bonded marine information display <NUM>, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. The bonded marine information display <NUM> may include one or more user interface displays <NUM> (e.g., LCD/LED/OLED/electronics modules), as discussed above. The user interface displays <NUM> may be in data communication with an integration hub, processing circuitry, or a communication interface <NUM>, such as via Ethernet cabling (indicated in <FIG> by dashed lines). Alternatively, the user interface displays <NUM> may be in data communication with the integration hub <NUM> via a video only connection, HDMI connection, display port, or the like.

In some embodiments, the integration hub <NUM> may be separate from the user interface displays <NUM>, however, the integration hub <NUM> may be disposed within one of the user interface displays <NUM> and/or be distributed between two or more user interface displays <NUM>. Alternatively, the integration hub <NUM> may be located remotely from the bonded marine information display assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the user interface displays <NUM> may be daisy-chained together using serially connected display ports or Ethernet connections.

In some embodiments, the integration hub <NUM> may include a processor <NUM> and a communication interface <NUM>, as described in further detail in reference to <FIG>. The processor <NUM> may be an Advanced RISC Machines (ARM) CPU, such as iMX61. The communication interface <NUM> may include a network connection and/or a digital display connection, such as HDMI or Display port, for example. In some embodiments, two or more user interface displays <NUM> may be connected to a single network connection with internal Ethernet switching. Utilizing a single network connection and Ethernet switching may allow easier integration of multiple user interface displays <NUM> and may require significantly less cabling.

The integration hub <NUM> may be in data communication with one or more peripheral components and/or networks, including but not limited to an Ethernet port <NUM>, a computer area network (CAN) <NUM>, a global position system (GPS) <NUM>, and a video port <NUM>. For example, the integration hub <NUM> may be configured to connect with remote controls (e.g., thumb buttons) built-in to a steering wheel on the helm to allow the user to control the operations of the vessel without having to reach over and engage a touchscreen.

In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display <NUM> may include a power supply <NUM> configured to provide electrical power to the one or more user interface displays <NUM> and the integration hub <NUM>. The bonded marine information display <NUM> may include an Ethernet and a power cable connection that is distributed internally to the one or more user interface displays <NUM> and the integration hub <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the integration hub <NUM> may be configured to execute computer program code, stored on a non-transitory storage medium (e.g., a memory) configured to detect a vessel type, model, and/or peripheral devices. Automatic detection may reduce configuration set-up time and management requirements.

In some embodiments, the integration hub <NUM> and/or one or more of the user interface displays <NUM> may include an accelerometer for measuring acceleration data, which may be logged by the integration hub <NUM>. The acceleration data may be utilized for maintenance, warranties, accident investigation, and/or product data collection for quality control. In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display <NUM> may include an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and/or a magnetometer, which may be portions of a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS). In some embodiments, the accelerometer may be a variable capacitive (VC) MEMS accelerometer, a piezoresistive (PR) MEMS accelerometer, or the like. The gyroscope may be configured to measure angular velocity. In some embodiments, the gyroscope may be a vibrating structure MEMS gyroscope including gyroscopic sensors oriented in a plurality of axes. The magnetometer may be configured to measure magnetic field strength, which can be used to find magnetic north and/or heading angle. In some embodiments, the magnetometer may be a Lorentz force based MEMS sensor, electron tunneling MEMS sensor, MEMS compass, or the like.

In some embodiments, the integration hub <NUM> may also be configured to operate in a low power mode, such as after a predetermined operating time without a user input, for example. The low power mode may reduce the power consumption of the bonded marine information display <NUM> in a variety of ways, such as by lowering the brightness of one or more of the user interface displays <NUM>, for example. The low power mode may extend running times with minimal drain to any onboard batteries of the vessel <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the integration hub <NUM> may manage the power drain of the batteries by adjusting the ratio of the time in low power mode versus the time in full power mode.

<FIG> is a block diagram of an example bonded marine information display system <NUM>, which may be used with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in <FIG>, the bonded marine information display system <NUM> may include a plurality of different modules or components. Each different module or component may comprise any device or means embodied in either hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software configured to perform one or more corresponding functions. For example, such as described in various embodiments herein, the bonded marine information display system <NUM> may include an integration hub along with a marine electronics interface <NUM> (and the integration hub may include various components of the illustrated marine electronics interface <NUM>). In some embodiments, such as described in various embodiments herein, the bonded marine information display system <NUM> may include multiple marine electronics interfaces <NUM>.

The marine electronics interface <NUM> (e.g., a user interface display) may include a processor <NUM>, a memory <NUM>, a user interface <NUM>, a display <NUM>, one or more sensors (e.g., a position sensor <NUM>, other sensors <NUM>, a sonar transducer <NUM>), and a communication interface <NUM>. The processor <NUM> and memory <NUM> may form processing circuitry <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may be any means configured to execute various programmed operations or instructions stored in a memory, such as a device and/or circuitry operating in accordance with software or otherwise embodied in hardware or a combination thereof (e.g., a processor operating under software control, a processor embodied as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or field programmable gate array (FPGA) specifically configured to perform the operations described herein). The processor <NUM> may configure the device and/or circuitry to perform the corresponding functions of the processor <NUM> as described herein. In this regard, the processor <NUM> may be configured to analyze electrical signals communicated thereto to provide, for example, route data for navigation of the vessel. In some embodiments, the processor <NUM> may be configured to receive route data and/or user input associated with route data to generate and/or modify a route for display to a user (e.g., on the display <NUM> and/or user interface <NUM>). Additionally or alternatively, the processor <NUM> may be configured to generate and/or send route data including instructions to an autopilot <NUM> to operate a maneuvering system <NUM> to cause the vessel to travel along the route.

In some embodiments, the processor <NUM> may be further configured to implement signal processing and/or enhancement features to improve the display characteristics, data, and/or images, to collect and/or process additional data (e.g., time, temperature, GPS information, waypoint designations), and/or to filter extraneous data to better analyze the collected data. In some embodiments, the processor <NUM> may further implement notices and/or alarms (e.g., alerts determined or adjusted by a user) to reflect depth measurements, the presence of fish, the proximity of other watercraft, status or notifications for peripheral devices/systems, etc..

The memory <NUM> may be configured to store instructions, computer program code, marine data (e.g., sonar data, chart data, location/position data), and/or other data associated with the bonded marine information display system <NUM> in a non-transitory computer readable medium for use by the processor, for example. In some embodiments, the bonded marine information display system <NUM> may include several types of memory, such as random access memory (RAM), flash or other electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), embedded Multi-Media Controller (eMMC) memory, etc..

The marine electronics interface <NUM> may also include one or more communication interfaces <NUM> configured to communicate via any of many known manners, such as via a network, for example. The processing circuitry <NUM> and communication interface <NUM> may form a processing circuitry/communication interface <NUM>, which may be similar to the integration hub/processing circuitry/communication interface <NUM> discussed above with reference to <FIG>. The communication interface <NUM> may include one or more of a plurality of different communication backbones or frameworks, such as Ethernet, USB, CAN, NMEA <NUM>, GPS, Sonar, cellular, WiFi, and/or other suitable networks, for example. The communication interface <NUM> may be configured to enable connections to external systems (e.g., an external network <NUM>). In this manner, the marine electronics interface <NUM> may retrieve stored data from a remote, external server via the external network <NUM> in addition to or as an alternative to the onboard memory <NUM>. The external network <NUM> may support other data sources, such as GPS, autopilot, engine data, compass, radar, etc..

The position sensor <NUM> may be configured to determine the current position and/or location of the marine electronics interface <NUM>. For example, the position sensor <NUM> may comprise a GPS, bottom contour, inertial display, such as a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) sensor, a ring laser gyroscope, and/or other location detection system.

The display <NUM> may be configured to display images and may include or otherwise be in communication with a user interface <NUM> configured to receive input from a user. The display <NUM> may be, for example, a conventional liquid crystal display (LCD), LED/OLED display, touchscreen display, mobile device, and/or any other suitable display known in the art, upon which images may be displayed.

In some embodiments, the display <NUM> may present one or more sets of marine data and/or images generated therefrom, as shown in <FIG>. Such marine data may include chart data, radar data, weather data, location data, position data, orientation data, sonar data, and/or any other type of information relevant to the vessel. In some embodiments, the display <NUM> may be configured to present marine data simultaneously as one or more layers and/or in split-screen mode. In some embodiments, the user may select various combinations of the marine data for display. In other embodiments, various sets of marine data may be superimposed or overlaid onto one another. For example, a route may be applied to (or overlaid onto) a chart (e.g., a map or navigation chart). Additionally or alternatively, depth information, weather information, radar information, sonar information, and/or any other display inputs may be applied to and/or overlaid onto one another.

The user interface <NUM> may include, for example, a keyboard, keypad, function keys, mouse, scrolling device, input/output ports, touch screen, and/or any other mechanism by which a user may interface with the bonded marine information display system <NUM>.

Although the display <NUM> of <FIG> is shown as being directly connected to the processor <NUM> within the marine electronics interface <NUM>, in some embodiments, the display <NUM> may be located remotely from the processor <NUM> and/or marine electronics interface <NUM>. Likewise, in some embodiments, the position sensor <NUM> and/or user interface <NUM> may be located remotely from the marine electronics interface <NUM>. Similarly, the autopilot <NUM> is depicted in <FIG> as remote from the marine electronics interface <NUM>, but may be directly connected to the processor <NUM> within the marine electronics interface <NUM>.

The marine electronics interface <NUM> may include one or more other sensors <NUM> (e.g., an air temperature sensor, a water temperature sensor, a current sensor, a light sensor, a wind sensor, a speed sensor) configured to measure environmental condition parameters.

In some embodiments, the sonar transducer <NUM> may be castable or housed in a trolling motor housing attached to the vessel. The sonar transducer <NUM> may be configured to gather sonar data (e.g., sonar returns) from the underwater environment relative to the vessel. Accordingly, the processor <NUM> may be configured to receive the sonar data from the sonar transducer <NUM> and process the sonar data to generate an image including a sonar image based on the gathered sonar data. In some embodiments, the marine electronics interface <NUM> may be used to determine depth and bottom contours, detect fish, locate wreckage, etc. Sonar signals, beams, and/or pulses from the sonar transducer <NUM> may be transmitted into the underwater environment, reflect off objects (e.g., fish, structures, sea floor bottom), and return to the transducer assembly, which converts the sonar returns into sonar data, which may be used to produce an image of the underwater environment.

In some embodiments, the autopilot <NUM> may include processing circuitry, such as a processor and a memory, for example, configured to operate the maneuvering system <NUM>. The autopilot <NUM> may be configured to operate the maneuvering system automatically (e.g., without user interaction) causing the vessel to travel along the navigable route. The autopilot <NUM> may generate instructions to operate the maneuvering system <NUM> based on a vessel position, the navigable route, and/or the like. The maneuvering system <NUM> may include one or more propulsion motors or engines, such as outboard motors, inboard motors, trolling motors, main engines, and/or emergency propulsion motors, for example. Additionally, the maneuvering system <NUM> may include one or more control surfaces (e.g., rudders, planes) configured to steer the vessel.

Embodiments of the present invention provide methods for receiving, processing, and/or displaying marine data. Various examples of the operations performed in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure will now be provided with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> shows an example bonded marine information display system <NUM> with a custom-shaped periphery and two user interface displays. Depicted on the user interface display screens is a customized user interface. A watercraft builder may customize the design and menus of the user interface via the software configured in the bonded marine information display system <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the software may include a boat personality file or profile defined for the network of one or more displays and an integration hub of the bonded marine information display system <NUM>. The configuration for the vessel may be loaded onto the integration hub. The boat profile may be generated by the watercraft builder to be unique to a series or specific model of vessel. Additionally or alternatively, the boat profile may be specific to a particular installation. The boat profile may define the number of user interface displays on the network, orientations of the user interface displays (e.g., right-hand, middle, left-hand), predefined activities accessible from an activity bar, and/or the software update process.

In some embodiments, the user interface may be experience-based and include a control bar <NUM> along the edge of one user interface display screen and an activity bar <NUM> along the edge of another user interface display screen. The control bar <NUM> may allow the user to control the contextual or situational mode of the user interface. Changing the situational mode on the control bar <NUM> on one screen may cause one or more user interface displays to display predefined user interface screens that correlate with the situational mode by displaying all the relevant data for the selected boating situation. In addition to changing the graphical user interface display, selecting a particular situational mode may automatically trigger operational actions on the vessel itself (e.g., starting an engine or generator, powering on radar or lights). The software may allow one or more customized modes to be configured by the user or watercraft builder to best visually communicate the utilities of a specific vessel or the user's preferred data at any moment in time.

In some embodiments, the situational modes may include a prepare mode, a cruise mode, an anchor mode, and/or a water sports mode. The prepare mode may allow the user to easily check all the systems in the vessel, such as by using digital switches and level indicators, for example. The cruise mode may display only the critical information on the user interface display screens, thus not distracting the user with extraneous data. For example, in cruise mode, one screen may be designated as a navigation display (e.g., showing a full screen navigational chart, map overlays, auto-routing/pilot, etc. with split-screen options), while another screen may be designated as a vessel information display (e.g., showing critical vessel data, digital switches, gauges, audio control, etc.). The anchor mode may cause the user interface displays to display all the relevant controls and alarms at once, allowing the user to more easily anchor the vessel. The water sports mode may integrate a rear view camera display on the user interface display screens along with relevant charts to allow the user to keep an eye on a skier, for example, while navigating. The bonded marine information display system software may include a dockside mode, which displays controls related to the thermostat, stereo, fresh water pump, etc. The bonded marine information display system software may include an underway mode, which when selected turns on the radar, starts the generator, and displays controls related to the radar, chart, engine gauges, navigation lights, etc. Many more modes are possible (e.g., system check, store display) and may depend on the utilities and peripherals of the particular vessel.

The bonded marine information display system <NUM> may start-up in a particular situational mode to allow the user to see the most relevant data and controls before operation of the vessel. In some embodiments, some situational modes may be automatically triggered by sensors or other data received by the bonded marine information display system <NUM>, such that the user does not have to manually select to change modes.

The software update process may be managed by the integration hub. In some embodiments, the integration hub may inform the user on one or more user interface displays that the software update process will commence, the status/progress of the update, and/or the implications of the update process. The integration hub may update every element of the bonded marine information display system <NUM>. The integration hub may be configured to detects errors and/or other failures and to perform rollbacks accordingly.

In some embodiments, the integration hub may include a Bluetooth proxy. The user interface displays may utilize the Bluetooth proxy to give the appearance that each user interface display has its own Bluetooth, while actually sharing the same Bluetooth physical interface. In some embodiments, a user may control a cursor that spans across multiple user interface display screens.

Embodiments of the bonded marine information display provided herein provide customizable options for modern, consistent, and attractive industrial design for any vessel. The bonded marine information display dashboard assemblies provide flexibility through configurable periphery contours, layouts, and user interface software designs, which may enable watercraft builders to differentiate their brands of vessels while still remaining cost-effective. The disclosed bonded marine information display systems may also enable integration of functions of helms previously performed by multiple separate components into a single component and reduction of costs by avoiding unnecessary expenses, such as waterproofing.

Embodiments of the present invention provide methods for manufacturing example bonded marine information displays, such as described herein. Various examples of the operations performed in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention will now be provided with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a flowchart according to an example method for manufacturing an example bonded marine information display according to an example embodiment. The method <NUM> may include forming an overlay pane, such as according to a periphery shape at operation <NUM>. At operation <NUM>, the method comprises bonding the front face of one or more user interface displays to the rear face of the overlay pane. In some cases, intermediary surfaces can be positioned between the two faces, such as protective laminate or other layers. Example bonding agents include optical clear adhesive and resin. In some embodiments, such as illustrated in <FIG>, the touch sensor can be bonded to the rear face of the overlay pane, then the screen of the user interface display can be bonded to the touch sensor, and the housing for the user interface display can then be attached. At operation <NUM>, the protective mounting frame can be positioned around the user interface displays. In some embodiments, mounting features, such as compression brackets can be used to hold the protective mounting frame in place, such as abutting the rear face of the overlay pane. In some embodiments, the method further comprises attaching the now single-piece bonded marine information display to a marine vessel.

Claim 1:
A marine information display assembly (<NUM>) for installation on a marine vessel (<NUM>), the marine information display assembly comprising:
a plurality of user interface displays (<NUM>) for displaying marine data to a user, wherein each of the plurality of user interface displays includes a front face (402a) and a screen;
an overlay pane (<NUM>) defining a front face (416a) and a rear face (416b), wherein the rear face of the overlay pane is bonded to the front face of each of the plurality of user interface displays such that each screen of the plurality of user interface displays is visible through the overlay pane; and
a protective mounting frame (<NUM>) configured to surround the plurality of user interface displays and abut the rear face of the overlay pane such the front face of each of the plurality of the user interface displays is substantially flush with a front face of the protective mounting frame when a retention lip (<NUM>) of each of the plurality of the user interface displays is seated within a corresponding display (<NUM>) recess of the protective mounting frame, wherein the protective mounting frame extends along the rear face of the overlay pane between at least two of the plurality of user interface displays.