Clock replacement Programmable LCD dash gauge for EFI

[jpnovak]

Years ago I built a programmable LCD gauge that interfaced with my Megasquirt EFI system. The current version has a 20Hz GPS, 3-axis accelerometer, SD card datalogging and full output parameter parsing from the MS ecu. It was fine in the stripped down interior of my ST replica and easily fit in the radio slot. I always wanted something more integrated.

Last year I bought a 3D printer and its been amazing for conceptualizing parts. I drew a CAD model of a clock replacement blank and finally modified it to fit an LCD gauge.

Here is the test print for checking dimensions. The plug has a recess in the back to flush mount the display. There are also mounting screw holes that match the PCB dimensions





Here is the LCD. Its an 8x2 character that has the same pin-out as my previous version. Its plug and play.



You can see the display fits exactly where I want it.




I painted it with some textured paint and snapped on the factory trim ring and bezel. Its currently just displaying a blank statement. I have not yet figured out what parameters I want to display besides AFR.



Next step is a full graphic LCD that is almost the full size as the clock hole. I have the display and am working out the code to interface with my microcontroller setup.

There is still room for indicator LEDs, switches and a card slot for my SD based datalogger.

[DaveMcKenz]

Extremely cool!
Dave

[onboost]

That is very cool Jamie.. can't wait to see how its finished.

[OffCamber00]

Slick! Can you tell me about your GPS/Accelerometer setup and what datalogging hardware you are running?

[porwolf]

Originally Posted by OffCamber00

Slick! Can you tell me about your GPS/Accelerometer setup and what datalogging hardware you are running?

Yeah, inquiring minds would like to know. Could also be used for a center console display for voltage CIS fuel pressure.

[jpnovak]

Search and ye shall find.

Its all home-brew based on a MBED platform. Similar to Arduino but more horsepower. And that's what we all need. more power!

Megasquirt datalogger

[jpnovak]

Here it is in action. I just did not have time to program it.

Hopefully, it will see action in a car very soon.

[Tippy]

Jamie, I want a display for my AC controls (or lack thereof) block off plate.

Can you get the displays in bigger font?

BTW, loving it!

We need to talk and discuss.

[jpnovak]

I am working on a graphic display right now. I have the display but need a breakout board for the 0.5mm pitch ZIF connector. I don't have wires small enough to solder. That would allow large fonts to be setup. You would need them large in the center console.

My car does not have a center console so the clock was a great place to install.

Sure. We can discuss.

[neilschelly]

Would you be willing to share your CAD model for the clock blank? I've had a few projects like this in mind, and that could save me a lot of time if you're willing to share. I have no idea when I'll actually get around to starting any of them, but even just a functional temperature gauge for the winter months when my clock doesn't work would be an improvement. ;-)
-N

[Pstallo]

Wow! When are you gonna start selling this thing? My clock has never worked and I would rather have some sort of useful information displayed!

[jpnovak]

Neil,

Here is a start.

http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:134411

I drew my own starting with the display. Its really only two cylinders. One to match the clock gauge lip and a second for the clock gauge "body". Take your clock apart and measure. I am going to revise this so that the LCD mount sits inside the drop trim ring. This will allow for back edge lighting using the existing lights. Just a more uniform look in the dark.

@Pstallo - I can make one but it will not talk to Motronic. That feedback loop does not exist easily. I have sold them in the past but my datalogger boards are all sold except for the development system I keep. I guess if there is enough interest I could run another batch. The problem is that small board runs are expensive. Typically more expensive that most want to pay. Been there. Done that.

[Pstallo]

I understand. I'm a programmer (but fortunately, don't have to deal with board logic).

The point is, for a clean data display that provided info and log-able info in the place of a universally-useless clock, I would tear out the Motronic and install a different control unit. I think a lot of people would do that.

You definitely have a market and are on the brink of something extremely cool. Keep going.

[frankc]

Very cool, Jamie. Let me know if you need any help with the embedded development side of things.

[dicklague]

I have a similar instrument that contains a Daytona-Sensors AFR gauge and a clock, stopwatch, voltmeter, oil temp bauge.

I will find a photo. I would love to use a 3d printer for this work.

[jpnovak]

Dick, Send me some dimensions. We can talk about a gauge pod for the clock hole.

[dicklague]

Originally Posted by jpnovak

Dick, Send me some dimensions. We can talk about a gauge pod for the clock hole.

I will dig up some photos tomorrow so you can see what I am talking about. Will also give you some dimensions.

THANKS A BUNCH

[Craig_D]

Very very cool!