Bosch partners Audi for Virtual Cockpit in the new TT

German automotive component make Bosch has partnered Audi in developing the new Audi TT sports car’s innovative display and operating concept. A display-based instrument cluster replaces the previous technology and bundles all of the instrument, navigation, and multimedia information right in the driver's field of vision. Audi calls this driver-oriented concept the ‘Virtual Cockpit’. Bosch is the system supplier for this instrument cluster.

The crystal-clear, high-contrast TFT display features extraordinary luminous intensity of 800 candela (cd) for perfect readability under all light conditions. The screen has a diagonal size of 12.3 inches, particularly high resolution of 1440 x 540 pixels, and colour depth of 24 bits.

One of the big advantages of a display-based instrument cluster is its versatility in displaying content. The new Audi TT comes with two basic display modes. The traditional mode shows large, digitally produced round gauges – but there are no mechanical pointers or other moving parts. The second mode trims down the virtual round speedometer and tachometer and shifts them to the lower corners, leaving plenty of room for a large navigation display, music selections or telephone connections. However, the flexibility inherent in the system would permit other displays as well, even allowing differences in the various vehicle models.

Three-dimensional reproduction of objects
The extremely high overall design quality of the display-based instrument cluster is in total compliance with the development requirement for the very best in display quality. It is achieved by the use of a high-performance dual-process architecture. One processor takes care of the graphics while the other handles the remaining functions. Thanks to the exceptionally high computational power, up to 60 frames per second can be generated so that even very fast changes are displayed in a completely seamless flow without any artifacts – an essential requirement for reflecting the specific driving dynamics of a sports car.

In addition, the available computer power is used for the three-dimensional display of objects on the monitor. The most striking visual effect results from the complex, spatial graphics of the round gauges, including shadows, so that they appear to be almost real. The graphics module (VCM – visual computing module) has been especially modified for use in the car.

One special design feature is the display shape with the cropped corners corresponding to the installation space planned for the new Audit TT and a complex housing moulded to match. The instrument cluster is connected via CAN (controller area network) and MOST (media-oriented systems transport) buses.
Bosch also supplies radar and video sensors, lambda sensors, gasoline direct injection systems, and fuel pumping modules for the new Audi TT.