Test & Measurement
New Clusters For Motorcycle Industry
MTA, showcased its new displays developed for BMW Motorrad's maxi scooters C600 Sport and C650 GT at this months Electronica. For both scooter models, MTA supplied a highly flexible technology platform capable of supporting the broad range of functionality of the customer's product. The cluster was adapted for the C600 Sport and C650 GT version with a few cosmetic tricks and thanks to the flexibility of the control software. In addition, MTA customized the product for the different markets (Europe and USA versions), creating no less than four different dedicated solutions from the same platform.
Bothkmh and mph readouts). Part of the display area is reserved for pop-up messages and warnings,
including ice, low tire pressure, or any headlight malfunction warnings. Software flexibility made it
possible to manage the different configurations and optional contents available on each vehicle,
customizing the LCD for each version.
The innovation introduced by MTA product enabled BMW to centralize every vehicle control in the
cluster, with great benefits in terms of overall engineering, as a lesser number of dedicated control
modules makes for leaner systems.
The new cluster doubles as display and on-board computer to control the different scooter
functionalities. The task is complex as BMW vehicles offer a broad range of features, such as heated
grips and seat control, key recognition and power windscreen control on the GT version. And the
customer's requirement to eliminate specific control modules for electric components, such as
headlights and turn indicators, added yet another level of complexity.
The cluster developed by MTA can be adapted by riders to suit their personal preferences and be
able to monitor all functions, including the state of LED lights (OPT version) and rear brake lights. The
cluster also incorporates the control system for the latest-generation electronic key fob that – together with the anti-theft system – prevents cloning and unauthorized starting.
More evidence of the strong innovation content of all MTA products is found in the special anti-fog
treatment used for the cluster lens. Thanks to an important study in collaboration with industry leading manufacturers, MTA was able to equip its manufacturing line with a new, fully automated coating system for the controlled application of an anti-fog coating to the inner face of cluster lens – a useful plus in motorcycle applications.