[/insert_php]
Update: Version2 now available. More info…
Idea conception:
Audi C5 models (’98-04 A6 & ’99-05 allroad) come from the factory with various tech and tools however they lack an easy access to the cigarette/12v outlet in order to plug in a telephone/tablet/USB Charger. The OEM outlet is located in a slide out “drawer” in the center console right in front of the shifter. Its cumbersome to have anything plugged into the outlet since it somewhat interferes with the gear shifter. This is more prominent in the 6-speed/manual transmission models.
These models also comprise a pop-up cup holder or pocket or old style navigation controls to the right of the e-brake lever. It was deemed this would be a perfect area to create a panel comprising USB charging ports especially since the pop-up cup holder usually breaks and is often deemed useless.
Here is the target location which displays a “cover” panel I produced for my personal vehicle:
Prototype phase:
I began to brainstorm and create a few CAD drawings of what was envisioned for the panel. The entire panel will consist of multiple pieces combined together to “snap” into the console area. The top panel would be engraved with a customer’s custom engraving.
Here are the renderings:
The charger needed to be compatible with newer smartphones so a 3.1A port was necessary. The chosen charger specs are as follows:
3.1A [15W] Dual-Port Turbo USB Car Charger charges two electronic devices simultaneously, eg. iPad, iPhone, iPod, MP3 Players, Digital Cameras, PDAs, Mobile Phones and other devices.
Support: MP3 players, ipods, iphone 4s, iphone 4s, iphone 3G, Apple iPad, Mobile phones, PDA, GPS, MP4, Portable wifi, Amazon Kindle fire / DX and other kindles.
– Apple: iPhone 5 4S 4; iPads and iPods @1A to 2.4A Max
– Android Phones: Samsung Galaxy S4 S3 S2, Galaxy Note 2, Motorola Droid RAZR MAXX, HTC One X V S; All models @1.0A to 2.0A Max
– Other Devices: GPS, PSP / Nexus 7, Nexus 10 etc. @0.5A to 2.0A Max (NOT compatible with Samsung Galaxy Tabs)
The 3.1A is divided among the two USB ports with the top port charging at 1A Max and the bottom charging @ 3.1A Max if and only if it is solely being utilized. If both ports are being utilized then the bottom port will charge @ 2.1A Max.
Here are some photos of the prototype:
Fitment & Testing:
Here are some photos of test fitment:
Production
Final Product
