The pictured diagram illustrates the main components of the Reconfigurable Tactile Display. These components combine to create a multifunctional control interface that safely integrates telematics and advanced electronic functions, while reducing the parts count and assembly cost.

The projector displays graphical or video images on the screen. Images can take the form of standard displays (such as maps) or these images combine with the physical controls (knobs, buttons and sliders) to create devices. The physical controls operate the device displayed adjacent to them, maximizing the instrument panel real estate. For example, the same controls can operate both Audio and HVAC units.

The camera senses the position of the controls, or the user’s touch of the screen, eliminating wires and electrical components found in conventional instrument panels.

The method of sensing the controls and touch, along with the projector, enables a plastic surface to be used as the RTD’s display and control surface, eliminating the cost and complexity of standard touch screens, while allowing the surface to be curved or irregularly shaped. In addition, the projector can display images through a clear control. A knob, for example, may display a label directly on its face, which changes when the device is changed. The control surface uses beaded rear-projection film to provide a high contrast, high resolution image.