Ford Motor Company has filed a patent for articulated touchscreens that could wind up being used in future Ford vehicles, Ford Authority has learned.
The patent was filed on August 5th, 2022, published on September 26th, 2023, and assigned serial number 11766939.
The Ford Authority Take
The concept of utilizing screens in vehicles that can move is nothing terribly new, as certain models – like the Fisker Ocean and forthcoming Ford Explorer EV – come equipped with screens that move in some way, shape, or form. However, while FoMoCo has created screens in both portrait and landscape configurations, there are always people who prefer one layout over the other, and that’s precisely why this patent – recently filed for an articulated touchscreen design – aims to potentially offer customers a choice of both.
In this patent, the articulating touchscreen is mounted to a stand of sorts that contains a ball joint that enables it to move around into different positions, then lock into place when the desired position is achieved. This could certainly be a useful feature for drivers or passengers that prefer having the screen tilted more toward them, which could make it easier to see – particularly in different lighting positions.
At the same time, such a display could solve the debate between landscape and portrait screens as well by offering customers a choice of both. This is particularly notable as most automakers – including Ford – can’t seem to figure out which type of screen is best for any particular vehicle, as they employ both, sometimes in the very same model. As such, this idea seems to have a lot of merit in future Ford vehicles, even if it does introduce another mechanical element that could potentially break at some point.
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Comments
Portrait is easier to handle with close hand movements, but harder to read since the display flows downward. Landscape can show more useful information toward the side, but needs longer arm stretching to reach other areas. I prefer landscape.
No touchscreens for me, thank you. I’ve had it up to my neck with screens at fill-up, grocery check out cell phone, laptop everywhere I go there’s a screen.
Great Idea
Ford Touch Screens: Works fine if touch screen controls can be duplicated with physical buttons. 2021-23 Ford Edge touch control are a mess. Early Consumer Report test data reveal touch screens (only) controls such as Honda and Toyota are a distraction and hazard to normal (eyes on the road driving), requiring additional time and confusion using simple finger/eye controls. Just another ploy for the big 4 to diet car costs giving consumers less. Otherwise I will be looking into alternate car models to buy like (Hyundai, Nissan, Volvo, BMW, MB, VW, Chrysler) who seem to get it for better ergonomics from climate to non-essential dash controls. Maybe next generation cars steering wheels could be replaced with joysticks like Airbus technology for simple car steering saving dashboard space.