Custom Console for sale.... gauging interest

[ZS]

Originally Posted by Smokey

The console would be designed so that the tablet would not be modified structurally so could be removed and replaced should that time come or an upgrade was desired. It would also then, keep it's warranty.

Originally Posted by Smokey

Console without tablet....possible but there will be issues regarding buttons. Most tablets have a lock button (at least) on the side which needs to be used to unlock the tablet. I plan to install a switch and a solenoid to activate this button as there would be no other access. If you chose the tablet and I ordered it, then fine, I could do that but I couldn't supply the console without having the tablet in my possession without there being extra work needed. Also the screen size, although similar, vary depending on each 7" tablet.

Wouldn't your second comment there mean that it would not be easy to upgrade the tablet as in your first comment? - Not criticising just wondering.

I have two 7" tablets sitting at home, if I could use one of these with a console that you provide that would be perfect for me... Of course if that required posting you the tablet first so that you can build the console around it then that's fine as well.

Oooo if you were to corner very hard could the G forces make the screen turn 90 degrees? (How many people will try that!?! lmao)

[Smokey]

I can see how contradictory that sounds! To explain....

Doing the console without a tablet to work from means that it won't be completely plug and play due to the solenoid needing to be in the right position to activate the lock switch. This means that it wont be as plug'n'play. What I would propose to do in these circumstances is supply the solenoid connected to a rail (allowing the solenoid to move horizontally) and it would be up to the end user to position the rail perfectly for their chosen tablet.

Here is a basic diagram which I hope explains it:



I would supply the screws to allow for fitting without coming through the front of the console lol!

[Smokey]

Also, I use rotation locker so won't have the 'g' turning my screen lol!

[Smokey]

What I have discovered (after returning 2 tablets) is that cheap tablets are no use if you want sat nav as very few include gps or bluetooth. The cheapest, reliable and decent one is the Nexus 7 which has wifi, bluetooth, gps and 3G with a dongle. It has a great screen, good hdd capacity and runs smoothly. It's £169 on ebay which sadly makes my project prices go up if its the one of choice. Budget one would be Freelander PD20 which has great GPS (even out here in Crieff when my phone loses signal!) but not great screen resolution but it's £100 so makes for a cheaper option.

All up to the end user and what they want out of it though!

[magpie67]

be defo interested in seeing a mk1 variant

[Smokey]

This will happen when I get the mk1 back to my house. I will strip out the console and see what's what!

[Smokey]

Right, been rethinking this to make it more "universal"

Would there still be the same interest if, instead of smoothed fit console as mine looks at the moment, I was thinking of doing it "tape deck" style design. This would work on a rack and pinion type set up just like old school tapes, except you would be putting your tablet in the slot.

PRO'S

No need for buyer to 'adjust' things to suit
I wouldn't need to make them different depending on tablet
Allows user to remove tablet at will from car to use at home etc
Great anti-theft setup
Access to all buttons on tablet instead of buttons added to console
Any 7" (or less) tablet could be used

CON'S

Wouldn't look as smooth/built in


All I would need from the buyer is the exact dimensions of the "window" for the tablet to be viewed.

I could go in to tiny build details but want opinions on this first. Basically, if I did it to my current setup, it would look more like the attached picture, ie. it will have a small gap around the screen

[POMPSKI]

Id be extremely interested in that, tape deck idea is superb to be fair.

[Smokey]

Cheers Pompski. My Google Nexus 7 will arrive in a couple of days so I will be making proper headway into my own one. Thinking I'm going to go the 'tape deck' route for my own too as I will probably end up using the tablet in the house and I can add stuff via PC easier.

[Smokey]

Also, with this "tape deck" method, I can easily do mk1 dashes and mk2 with dial controls by relocating the switches on the top row to lower down the console whilst keeping the dials in their original position.