MX-5 has an indicator panel which is showing only the passenger air bag status and I find it a little bit annoying. While working with this unit to add extra button I found there is enough space to fit other types of displays.
One idea is to put an indicator for the front parking sensors. On eBay there are lots of options with similar type of display. It fits perfectly inside, without interfering with existing parts. I just need to design a 3D printed bracket and an acrylic cover plate.
Another option I’ve been working on for a while is adding small LED screens to show other information, like clock/timer and cabin temperature or anything else. One little display can show 128×32 pixels, I can fit two of them. To control these displays, I’m using popular low-cost WiFi microcontroller – ESP8266, which will allow information to be sent without the need to add additional wiring to this unit. This project is still in the development stage, and requires some software work.
While still working on this project, I made a few cover plates with popular logos. Ponoko has two color acrylic, black with white etching. And they display well. To install this plate, all you need is to remove original plastic insert and place the 3D printed bracket and acrylic plate instead. White acrylic lettering is kind of translucent, it will glow if red warning sign is on behind the plate.
Some other plate design options:
And some new idea from Miata forum for RF owners.
Installed in my car:
I made a few options for Fiat 124 as well.
Replacing indicator unit overlay instruction.
For us 124 Spider owners, that might be a great spot for a turbo gauge!
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Done: https://www.124spider.org/threads/airbag-indicator-panel.23586/post-523680
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It’d be even cooler if you could integrate a display similar to Ferrari’s Passenger Display module – http://wpmedia.driving.ca/2013/08/65174251.jpg?quality=70&strip=all&w=620&h=400&crop=1
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Curious if you could print these as blanks in white only then do custom vinyl overlays on them? I think it would allow for even more customization on the fly! Could easy do orders with printed names or what have you. Has that been explored at all?
Just installed mine this morning and love it btw!
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the idea to put an indicator for the front parking sensors is genial. I hope you can terminate this project. thx a lot to your job
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I think having front camera instead is more practical
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A trip timer would be great. I am not inclined to spend $25 for a different light up option, but getting more (useful) information would be great. Getting the tire pressure or a compass in one of the displays would be good.
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