instrumentpanel

[Harold]

Hi

Well, the building started an as going smooth so far. I found a nice used disability scooter with an electric motor and diff.axle. It also has a EGIS controller (with automatic brake) and a instrumentpanel with integrated switches (light, speed, etc). Off course I do not want to use any of these switches. The TL should have a normal light switch and the power switch must be changed to some kind of key switch. But is there anyone who knows if I can cut the wires and changes the switches? Or am I then destroying the whole electronic steering system in the controller?

Thanks.
Harold

[markh15]

Hi Harold,

When you say the scooters 'Instrument Panel' has integrated switches, are they the flat 'Diaphram / Membrain' type ones found on something like a calculator?

If they are, then you might have problems replacing them with ordinary switches, as these (usually) mount on a printed circuit board, and it's the membrain (which I think is made of carbon), which makes the contact on the printed curcuit, and opens it.

It sounds like you have found one of the more modern scooters, with a 'Digital' headstock.
If you can, open up the panel and have a look at the wiring, this will give you a better idea of what you're dealing with.
You could also post a picture of it, so we can see the problem, but I'd like to bet that someone on here will be able to give you a better solution.

Not having seen one, I wouldn't like to make any other suggeations, but I would guess that the switch circuits can be traced (and the membrain switches substituted), either with a 'Multi-meter', or by eye, but it's going to be a long, tricky task.

It will depend on your ability to read circuit boards (not something I can do too well), but someone like Walter (multisync) or Brian, who are good with electrical stuff, might be able to help you out, or point you in the right direction.

Sorry I can't be a bit more help.

Keep Busy,
Regards,
Mark.

[multisync]

Hi
Yes....it can usually be done but...............
I have two scooters, one has the panel like you describe, the other has ordinary switches, but luckily they both had the same model of controller.
I have wired the one from the model with the panel, just using the diagram from the other one and it works ok. But it would be a bit difficult not knowing the connections on the controller.
If you can post a picture it may help, especially if its like one that I have used.
Regards
Walter

[Harold]

Hi guys

Thanks for your replies. Let's see if I manage to get some pictures here.
It's indeed a printed ciruit board with flat switches. Maybe the thought of cutting away the complete panel is just a little too easy. The battery condition lights give information about the controller as well, so it might be necessary to at least use them. I'm not an expert in electronics (I should have finished this home study which is still laying on the bookshelf getting dusty  )., but I'm able to "read" the board and to trace the wires, but there some parts of it which I'm not sure about what it might be. And these might also be necessary for correct functioning of the controller. I think changing out the potmeter isn't a problem at all, because the wires are quite obvious. I also might be able to use a direct/separate circuit to connect lights, blinklights, horn. I don't think it will affect the controller. But off course I like it most to use all wires from the panel.
I hope somebody is able to help me here  .

Thanks in advance.

Harold

[Images lost in forum update]

[markh15]

Hi Harold,

Wow,  what can I say!
The 3rd picture of the boards reverse side looks even more complex than I'd imagined.
Personally, I wouldn't attempt to modify it, as it looks like it's part of the scooters control system as you initially thought.

I could be wrong (and usually am) , but it looks as if the board might control the Indicator, Horn and Battery Meter as you say.

Walter might have a better idea, but as for me, I'm lost!

Over to you Welsh Wizard!

Regards,
Mark.

[multisync]

Hi Harold
I.m not familiar with that controler, and the circuit board looks a bit of a nightmare but.....
Penny and Giles are a firm in South Wales, I don't know anything about them and their website isn't very good but a phone call might get a diagram or information on the connections to the controller which would be a great help, 014 9520 2000,  www.pennyandgiles.com. Worth a try
Regards
Walter

[Harold]

Hi

Good idea  . I have sent a request to P&G and also to the supplier of the scooter. I hope they are able to help me with some info/tips. In worst case I just have to find another controller, which isn't that bad either.
And...I also found my electronics homestudy and started to read and to read and to read. So I refreshed my memory and learned something new. Now it's only to continue and hope that I have enough knowledge when the time is ready to put the electric stuff on the Toylander.
Well, and there's always one other option, some sort of backup plan. If I decide that it might me best or easiest to find another controller, then why not try to use this panel by modifying it a little . No matter if I destroy it, right?

Yesterday I searched the internet and found a wiring diagram which looks very much the same, but I have to check it a little better (oh yes, a nightmare it is). And I also found a lot of articles which might be usefull. We'll see, I've got a lot of time left to think of this .

Anyway thank you both for your efforts!
Harold

[Harold]

Hi again

And then the problem was solved  . And it isn't a nightmare at all...well, the panel still is. But P&G informed me that I can use all connections on the controller without any problem. Lights, horn and that kind of stuff have nothing to do with the controller and can be connected directly to the battery. They even sent me a fully detailed technical manuel which provides all answers to my questions. And if I use the motor the controller was programmed to (which I do) it doesn't have to be reprogrammed.
That saves a lot of trouble! Now I just will cut out the panel completely and use "normal" car switches. I see a lot of great ideas and modern modifications, but a Toylander with a instrument panel like this is just too much, I guess (Maybe I could use it in Formula 1 car later ).

Anyway, thanks again for thinking with me!

Harold

[multisync]

Hi Harold
Well done
Sounds like a big step forward
Regards
Walter

[markh15]

Hi Harold,
Glad to see that you've gotten the help and advise from P & G.

I bet that's taken a big load off your mind, Well done!!

Now stop faffing about and get it finished!!

Regards,
Mark.