CN104954001A - Proximity switch assembly and tuning method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

A proximity switch assembly and a method for detecting the activation of a proximity switch assembly and tuning the assembly. The assembly comprises proximity switches, each of which comprises a proximity sensor that provides a sensing activation field and a control circuit to process the activation field for sensing activation. The tuning method includes generating an activation field with a proximity sensor, generating a signal in response to the activation field, detecting the signal associated with noise, and the adjusting parameters based on detected noises, wherein the parameters are used for the detection of a proximity state, for example, the activation of the proximity switch.

Description

Proximity switch assembly and tuning methods thereof

Cross-reference to related applications

The application is the U.S. Patent Application No. 13/747 submitted on January 23rd, 2013, the name of 578 is called the part continuity of " proximity switch assembly and its calibration steps (PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND CALIBRATION METHOD THEREFOR) ", it is the U.S. Patent Application No. 13/721 submitted on December 20th, 2012, the name of 886 is called the part continuity of " Activiation method (PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND ACTIVATION METHOD USING RATE MONITORING) of proximity switch assembly and operating speed monitoring ", it is the U.S. Patent Application No. 13/444 submitted on April 11st, 2012, the name of 374 is called the part continuity of " proximity switch assembly and Activiation method (PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND ACTIVATION METHOD) ".Above-mentioned related application is herein incorporated by way of reference.

Technical field

Present invention relates in general to switch, and the proximity switch that the switch activator relating more specifically to have enhancing judges.

Background technology

The switch that motor vehicles are equipped with various user to actuate usually, such as operating the switch of device comprising power windows, headlamp, windscreen wiper, glass sunroof or skylight, body light, radio broadcasting and entertainment information device and other devices various.Usually, need the switch of being actuated these types by user, to activate or forbidden device or perform the controlling functions of some type.The such proximity switch of such as capacitance switch adopt one or more proximity transducer with generate sensing and activate field and sensing instruction usually by user finger closely or the user of switch that causes of the contact pickup change of activation field of actuating.Capacitance switch is usually configured to activate field based on sensing and actuates with the user comparing to come sense switch of threshold value.

Switch assembly often adopts multiple capacitance switch very close to each other and usually needs user to select single required capacitance switch to perform expection operation.Such as using in the car in some such application, due to driver distraction, the driver of vehicle checks the limited ability of switch.In such an application, allow user to explore the switch assembly being used for specific button avoids the too early judgement of switch activator to be desirable simultaneously.Therefore, distinguish user be intended to activator switch or be absorbed in such as drive such higher priority task while only to explore specific shift knob or do not intend activator switch be desirable.

Thin film technique can be used to manufacture capacitance switch, in thin film technique, print and solidify with the electrically conductive ink of solvent with realizing circuit layout.Capacitance switch adversely can be subject to the impact of condensation drop.Such as, when humidity changes, the change of condensation drop can change capacitance signal.The change of condensation drop can be enough to the activation of trigger erroneous.

Therefore, the proximity switch of the use of the proximity switch improved by the such individual of the driver of such as vehicle is provided to arrange it is desirable.There is provided and reduce or stop the proximity switch by the erroneous activation owing to condensation drop event to arrange it is preferable.

Summary of the invention

According to an aspect of the present invention, a kind of method of tuning proximity transducer is provided.Method comprises with proximity transducer generation activation field with in response to the step activating field generation signal.Method also comprises the detection noise relevant with signal and the step based on the noise regulating parameter detected, wherein parameter is for detecting proximity state.

According to a further aspect in the invention, a kind of proximity transducer assembly is provided.Proximity transducer assembly comprises provides activation field and the proximity transducer generating signal.Proximity transducer assembly also comprises in response to activation field generation signal, detects the noise relevant with signal and the control circuit based on the noise regulating parameter detected, wherein parameter is for detecting proximity state.

By studying following specification, claim and accompanying drawing, these and other aspect of the present invention, object and feature will be readily appreciated by one skilled in the art and understand.

Accompanying drawing explanation

In the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1 adopts the perspective view with the passenger compartment of the motor vehicles of overhead console according to the proximity switch assembly of an embodiment;

Fig. 2 is the zoomed-in view of the overhead console shown in Fig. 1 and proximity switch assembly;

Fig. 3 is the amplification sectional view obtained by the line III-III in Fig. 2, and it shows the array of the proximity switch of the finger relative to user;

Fig. 4 is the schematic diagram of the capacitance sensor adopted in each capacitance switch shown in Fig. 3;

Fig. 5 is the block diagram of the proximity switch assembly illustrated according to an embodiment;

Fig. 6 is the curve chart of the signal-count illustrated about relevant with capacitance sensor passage, and it shows to activate curve movement;

Fig. 7 is the curve chart of the signal-count illustrated about relevant with capacitance sensor two passages, and it shows the exploration/searching moving curve that slides;

Fig. 8 is the curve chart of the signal-count illustrated about the signalling channel relevant with capacitance sensor, and it shows slowly to activate curve movement;

Fig. 9 is the curve chart of the signal-count illustrated about relevant with capacitance sensor two passages, and it shows quick sliding exploration/searching moving curve;

Figure 10 is the curve chart of the signal-count about relevant with the capacitance sensor under exploration/search pattern three passages illustrated according to an embodiment, and it illustrates that the stable pressing when peak value activates;

Figure 11 is the curve chart of the signal-count about relevant with the capacitance sensor under exploration/search pattern three passages illustrated according to another embodiment, and it illustrates and drops to lower than stable pressing activation during peak value at signal;

Figure 12 is the curve chart of the signal-count about relevant with the capacitance sensor under exploration/search pattern three passages illustrated according to another embodiment, and it illustrates that the steady pressure of increase is on a keypad with activator switch;

Figure 13 be illustrate according to another embodiment about the curve chart with the capacitance sensor under exploration pattern and the signal-count based on relevant three passages of the selection of the keypad of the steady pressure increased;

Figure 14 is the state diagram of five kinds of states of the capacitance switch assembly with state machine enforcement illustrated according to an embodiment;

Figure 15 is the flow chart of the program of the method for the switch for performing activator switch assembly illustrated according to an embodiment;

Figure 16 is the flow chart of the process that switch activator and switch release are described;

Figure 17 illustrates at the flow chart without the logic switched between switch and switch activity state;

Figure 18 is the flow chart illustrated for switching to the logic without switch or switching threshold state from switch activity state;

Figure 19 illustrates the flow chart for the program switched between switching threshold and switch search condition;

Figure 20 is the flow chart that the virtual push button method implementing switch search condition is described;

Figure 21 is the curve chart of the signal-count illustrated about the signalling channel relevant with the capacitance sensor experiencing the drips that condenses;

Figure 22 illustrates the curve chart about the signal-count with the signalling channel adopting the capacitance sensor monitored based on the speed of threshold value relevant according to an embodiment;

Figure 23 is the flow chart of the program of the speed monitoring for performing the activation for enabling proximity switch illustrated according to an embodiment;

Figure 24 is the flow chart of the instant calibration procedure again for the quick counting of calibrating signal again illustrated according to an embodiment;

Figure 25 illustrates the flow chart for providing lasting drift-compensated real time calibration program to signal-count according to an embodiment;

Figure 26 A and 26B is the curve chart of an example of the signal-count illustrated about multiple signalling channel, and it shows to utilize the instant of instant calibration procedure again to calibrate just again;

Figure 27 A and 27B is the curve chart of another example illustrated about multiple passage, and it illustrates and utilizes the negative of instant calibration procedure again to calibrate again;

Figure 28 is the curve chart illustrated according to the noise with varying level of an embodiment and the signalling channel of adjustment or tuning threshold level;

Figure 29 is the curve chart of the signal of the regional area estimated value of the noise having noise and determine in multiple region illustrated according to an embodiment;

Figure 30 illustrates the flow chart carrying out the method for tuning proximity transducer based on noise estimation value according to an embodiment;

Figure 31 illustrates the flow chart determining the method for the local noise region estimated value of tuning proximity transducer;

Figure 32 illustrates the flow chart carrying out the method for estimating noise based on the local noise region estimated value for tuning proximity transducer.

Embodiment

According to the rules, in these open specific embodiments of the invention; But should be appreciated that disclosed embodiment is only exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it can embody with various and alternative form.Accompanying drawing is detailed design not necessarily; Some schematic diagram can zoom in or out to be summarized with Presentation Function.Therefore, concrete structure disclosed by the invention and function detail should not be interpreted as restriction, and are only differently use representative basis of the present invention as instruction those skilled in the art.

With reference to Fig. 1 and 2, the inside with the motor vehicles 10 of the switch assembly 20 of passenger compartment and the multiple proximity switch 22 of employing according to an embodiment is described generally, proximity switch 22 has switch activator monitoring and judges and switch calibration.Vehicle 10 generally include be assemblied in vehicle's passenger compartment top roof or ceiling on the downside of ceiling on overhead console 12, it is usually above front passenger seat district.According to an embodiment, switch assembly 20 has multiple proximity switches 22 of setting closer to each other on overhead console 12.Various proximity switch 22 can control any one in some vehicle fittings and function, such as control the motion of skylight or glass sunroof 16, control the motion of dormer window sunshading board 18, control the activation of such a or multiple lighting device of such as internal map/reading lamp and ceiling light 30, and control other devices various and function.But, it is to be appreciated that, proximity switch 22 can be positioned at other positions of vehicle 10, is such as arranged in instrument board, is arranged in and is integrated into for other such control desks of the such as central control board of the such as touch screen displays 14 of navigation and/or the such radio broadcasting of audio display or information entertainment or other positions being positioned at vehicle 10 according to the application of different vehicles.

According to an embodiment, proximity switch 22 represents at this and is described as capacitance switch.Each proximity switch 22 comprises at least one proximity transducer, proximity transducer provides sensing to activate field with sensing relative to the contact of the user of one or more proximity transducer or close proximity (such as within 1 millimeter), as by the sliding action of the finger of user.Therefore, it is capacitive field that the sensing of each proximity switch 22 in the exemplary embodiment activates field, and what it should be obvious that those skilled in the art is, the finger of user has conductivity and dielectric property, and it causes sensing to activate change in field or disturbance.But, those skilled in the art it is to be appreciated that, also can use in addition or the proximity transducer of alternative type, such as but not limited to, inductive pick-up, optical pickocff, temperature sensor, resistance sensor etc. or its combination.On April 9th, 2009 touch sensor design guidelines (Touch Sensors Design Guide), 10620D-AT42-04/09, in describe exemplary proximity sensor, the full content of this list of references is incorporated into this by reference.

Proximity switch 22 shown in Fig. 1 and 2 provides the control to vehicle assembly or device separately, or provides the controlling functions of specifying.One or more proximity switch 22 can be exclusively used in the motion controlling skylight or glass sunroof 16, to impel the side that glass sunroof 16 is opening or closing to move up based on control algolithm, make glass sunroof tilt or stop the movement of glass sunroof.Other proximity switches 22 one or more can be exclusively used in and control glass sunroof sunshading board 18 motion between the open and closed positions.Glass sunroof 16 and sunshading board 18 is each can be actuated by motor in response to corresponding actuating of proximity switch 22.Other proximity switches 22 can be exclusively used in and control other devices, such as, open internal map/reading lamp 30, close internal map/reading lamp 30, open or close ceiling light, unlock luggage case, open tail gate or eliminate door lamp switch.Can be comprised by other controls of proximity switch 22 and actuate the rising of automobile door electric window and decline.Other controller of vehicle various can be controlled by proximity transducer 22 described in the invention.

With reference to figure 3, the part had relative to the proximity switch assembly 20 of the array of be closely related each other three of the finger 34 of user proximity switches be arranged in series 22 between the operating period of switch assembly 20 is described.Each proximity switch 22 comprises one or more proximity transducer 24 activating field for generating sensing.According to an embodiment, each proximity transducer 24 can be formed by upper surface electrically conductive ink being printed on polymer overhead console 12.An example of the printing-ink proximity transducer 24 generally with drive electrode 26 and collecting electrode 28 has been shown in Fig. 4, and drive electrode 26 and collecting electrode 28 have the interdigital portion for generating capacitive field 32 separately.It is to be appreciated that, otherwise can making each proximity transducer 24, such as, according to other embodiment, making each proximity transducer 24 by prefabricated conducting channel being followed the tracks of to be assembled on substrate.Drive electrode 26 receives with voltage V _ithe square wave driving pulse applied.Collecting electrode 28 has for generating output voltage V _ooutput.It is to be appreciated that, electrode 26 and 28 can be set to other structures various, to generate the capacitive field as activated field 32.

In the embodiment illustrated herein and describe, the drive electrode 26 to each proximity transducer 24 applies the voltage input V as square-wave pulse _i, square-wave pulse has the charging pulse cycle being enough to collecting electrode 28 is charged as required voltage.Therefore collecting electrode 28 is used as measurement electrode.In an illustrated embodiment, it is slight overlapping that the adjacent sensing that adjacent proximity switch 22 generates activates field 32, but, according to other embodiment, can not overlap be there is.When the such user of the finger 34 of such as user or operator enter activate field 32 time, proximity switch assembly 20 detects by the disturbance caused to the finger 34 activating field 32, and determines whether disturbance is enough to activate corresponding proximity switch 22.By the charge pulse signal that process is relevant with corresponding signalling channel, detect the disturbance activating field 32.When the finger 34 of user contacts two activation fields 32, the disturbance of the activation field 32 that proximity switch assembly 20 is contacted by independent channel detection two.Each proximity switch 22 have himself special generation charging pulse counting signalling channel, as this institute process with discussing charging pulse count.

With reference to figure 5, according to an embodiment, proximity switch assembly 20 is described.Show multiple proximity transducer 24 and provide input to the controller 40 that such as microcontroller is such.Controller 40 can comprise the such control circuit of such as microprocessor 42 and memory 48.Control circuit can comprise sensing control circuit, and sensing control circuit is activated with the user sensing respective switch by activation field activation field signal being processed compared with the one or more threshold values according to one or more control program each transducer 22.It is to be appreciated that other simulations and/or digital control circuit also may be used for processing each activation field, judge that user activates, and initiate action.According to an embodiment, controller 40 can adopt available QMatrix acquisition method (QMatrix acquisition method).ATMEL acquisition method adopts host C/C++ compiler and debugging routine WinAVR are to simplify the test of exploitation and hawkeye utility program, and hawkeye utility program allows the internal state of key variables in watch on-line and collects the data logging being used for reprocessing.

Controller 40 provides output signal to one or more device, and one or more device is configured to correct activation in response to proximity switch to perform specific actions.Such as, one or more device can comprise having and makes glass sunroof panel open and close the glass sunroof sunshading board 18 of glass sunroof 16, between the open and closed positions movement of motor of movement between position and obliquity and the lighting device 30 that can open and close.Can control such as performing open and close function, volume controls, the radio system of scanning and for such other devices of the device of the other types performing other special functions.One in proximity switch 22 can be exclusively used in actuate glass sunroof close, another proximity switch 22 can be exclusively used in actuates glass sunroof and opens, and another switch 22 can be exclusively used in and actuates glass sunroof to obliquity, all proximity switches all can make motor that glass sunroof is moved to desired location.Glass sunroof sunshading board 18 can be opened in response to a proximity switch 22, and can close in response to another proximity switch 22.

Controller 40 is shown as analog to digital (A/D) comparator 44 having and be coupled to microprocessor 42 further.The voltage that A/D comparator 44 receives from each proximity switch 22 exports V _o, analog signal is converted to digital signal, and digital signal is supplied to microprocessor 42.In addition, controller 40 comprises the pulse counter 46 being couple to microprocessor 42.The charging signals pulse of pulse counter 46 to each drive electrode being applied to each proximity transducer counts, and performs the counting of required pulse to charge until voltage exports V to capacitor _oreach predetermined voltage, and counting is provided to microprocessor 42.Step-by-step counting is the instruction of the capacitance variations of corresponding capacitance sensor.Controller 40 is shown as further and drives buffer (pulse width modulated drive buffer) 15 to communicate with pulse width modulation.Controller 40 drives buffer 15 to provide pulse width modulating signal, to generate the squared pulse trains V of each drive electrode being applied to each proximity sensors/switches 22 to pulse width modulation _i.Controller 40 processes the one or more control programs 100 be stored in memory 48, to monitor and to make the judgement of the activation about in proximity switch.Control program can comprise monitors the method for activation proximity switch to reduce or eliminate the program of the adverse effect caused by condensation drop for performing use speed.Controller 40 process further be stored in calibration procedure 400 and 500 in memory 48 with calibration and again calibrating signal counting to reduce or eliminate the adverse effect caused by condensation drop further.According to an embodiment, calibration procedure can comprise instant calibration procedure 400 and real time calibration program 500 again, and it can be considered as independent calibration module.When there is the adverse effect of condensation drop, calibration procedure is calibrated the signal relevant with proximity switch rapidly and is activated to allow the delay of the proximity switch locked owing to minimum switch rapidly.

In Fig. 6-13, illustrate that the Δ transducer that the change of transducer charging pulse counting is shown as about the relevant multiple signalling channels of the multiple proximity switches 22 with more such than three switches 22 as shown in Figure 3 counts (Δ Sensor Count) according to various example.The change of transducer charging pulse counting appears at difference between initial reference count value when activating in field and respective sensor reading without any finger or other objects.In these examples, when the finger movement of user is by switch arrays, the finger of user enters and each the relevant activation field 32 in three proximity switches 22, and general one next sensing unlatching field has the overlap between adjacent activation field 32.Passage 1 is the change (Δ) that the transducer charging pulse relevant with the first capacitance sensor 24 counts, passage 2 is changes that the transducer charging pulse relevant with the second adjacent capacitance sensor 24 counts, and passage 3 is changes that the transducer charging pulse relevant with the 3rd capacitance sensor 24 of adjacent second capacitance sensor counts.In the embodiment disclosed, proximity transducer 24 is capacitance sensors.When finger contact or the close proximity transducer 24 of user, finger changes the electric capacity that respective sensor 24 place is measured.Electric capacity is parallel to the sensor pads parasitic capacitance (sensor pad parasitic capacitance) do not contacted, and therefore, measured value is as side-play amount.The electric capacity of user or operator's induction points to user or the dielectric constant of other body parts, the surface that is exposed to electric capacity keypad are directly proportional, and are inversely proportional to the distance of user's limbs to shift knob.According to an embodiment, by pulse width modulation (pulse width modulation, PWM) electronic equipment, use each transducer of series of voltage pulse excitation, until transducer to be charged to the electromotive force of setting.Collecting electrode 28 is charged to known electromotive force by such acquisition method.Repeat this circulation, until reach predetermined voltage by the voltage measuring electric capacity.The finger of user is placed in the contact surface of switch 24, introduces the external capacitive increasing the quantity of electric charge that each circulation is transmitted, thus minimizing measurement electric capacity reaches the circulation sum needed for predetermined voltage.The change that the finger of user causes transducer charging pulse to count increases, because this value deducts sensor reading based on initial reference counting.

---especially point---during close proximity proximity transducer 22 when hand, proximity switch assembly 20 can identify that the hand of user moves, to distinguish that user's is intended that activator switch 22, be absorbed in such as drive such higher priority task while explore specific shift knob or such as adjust rearview mirror such with the result of actuating irrelevant task of proximity switch 22.Proximity switch assembly 20 can run under exploration or search pattern, its enable user by when the activation not having trigger switch by finger close proximity through or slide past switch and explore keyboard or button until determine the intention of user.Proximity switch assembly 20 monitors the amplitude of the signal generated in response to activating field, determines the differential variation generating signal, and generates activation output when differential signal exceeds threshold value.Therefore, allow the exploration close to switch assembly 20, make user can freely explore switch interface keypad and can not inadvertent free event with their finger, the response time at interface is rapid, activate when finger contact surface panel, and prevent or reduce the unintended activation of switch.

With reference to figure 6, when the finger 34 of user is close to the switch 22 relevant with signalling channel 1, finger 34 enters the activation field 32 relevant with transducer 24, and this causes the disturbance of electric capacity, thus cause transducer to count to increase, as there is typical activation curve movement signal 50A shown in.According to an embodiment, inlet slope Slope Method determination operation person can be used whether to intend press the button or explore interface, it is based on the slope of the inlet slope in the signal 50A of passage 1 signal, and namely signal 50A rises to signal 50A through the slope the point 54 that threshold level (LVL_THRESHOLD) counts through the point 52 that movable level (LVL_ACTIVE) counts.The slope of inlet slope is the differential variation of the signal of the generation between point 52 and 54, and it occurs in time t _thand t _acbetween time cycle during.Because usually only have when detecting that gloves exist hour counter threshold level-movable level and just change, otherwise be constant, so slope just may be calculated reach threshold level institute elapsed time from movable level, be called for short t _{active2threshold}, it is time t _thand t _acbetween difference.Direct pull switch keypad usually occurred in the time cycle within the scope of about 40 to 60 milliseconds, was called t _directpush.If time t _{active2threshold}be less than or equal directly to promote time t _directpush, so judge the activation that switch occurs.Otherwise, judge that switch is in exploration pattern.

According to another embodiment, the slope of inlet slope may be calculated the time t at a little 52 places _acwith the time t reaching peak counter values at point 56 place _pktime difference, be called t _active2peak.Time t _active2peakcan with referred to as t _{direct_push_pk}direct promotion peak value compare, according to an embodiment, t _{direct_push_pk}the value of 100 milliseconds can be had.If time t _active2peakbe less than or equal t _{direct_push_pk}, then the activation that switch occurs is judged.Otherwise switch assembly operates under exploration pattern.

In example in figure 6, display channel 1 signal increases with electric capacity disturbance and strengthens, and rises to rapidly the peak value at a little 56 places from point 52.Proximity switch assembly 20 inlet slope slope is judged to be signal from first threshold point 52 rise to or put 54 Second Threshold or point 56 places peak threshold or time cycle t _{active2threshold}or t _active2peak.Then the slope generated in signal or differential variation are used for directly promoting threshold value t with typical case _{direct_push}or t _{direct_push_pk}relatively, to judge the activation of proximity switch.Particularly, as time t _active2peakbe less than t _{direct_push}or t _{active2threshold}be less than t _{direct_push}time, judge the activation of switch.Otherwise switch assembly remains on exploration pattern.

With reference to figure 7, through two switches slide/explore examples of motion be illustrated as finger by or slide past the activation field of two adjacent proximity transducers, it is shown as the signalling channel 1 being labeled as 50A and the signalling channel 2 being labeled as 50B.When the finger of user is close to the first switch, finger enters the activation field relevant with the first switch sensor, causes the transducer change in count of signal 50A with comparatively jogging speed rising, makes the differential variation judging the minimizing generated in signal.In this illustration, the curve of signalling channel 1 is being not less than or is equaling t _{direct_push}time t _active2peakexperienced by change, thus cause entering search or exploration pattern.According to an embodiment, because t _{active2threshold}instruction generates the slow differential variation of signal, so do not initiate the activation of shift knob.According to another embodiment, because time t _active2peakbe no less than or equal t _{direct_push_pk}, instruction generates the slow differential variation in signal, according to another example, does not initiate to activate.The secondary signal passage being labeled as 50B is shown as and becomes peak signal at transition point 58 place, and its Δ transducer counting has the change of rising, and the differential variation in signal is similar to the differential variation of signal 50A.Therefore, the first and second passage 50A and 50B reflect finger through the sliding action of two capacitance sensors under exploration pattern, and result does not activate any one switch.When the capacitance level of proximity switch reaches signal peak, cycle service time t _{active2threshold}or t _active2peak, the judgement activating or do not activate proximity switch can be made.

For than slowly direct pushing action as shown in Figure 8, extra process can be adopted to guarantee not being deliberate activation.As found out in Fig. 8, the signalling channel 1 being denoted as signal 50A is presented at time cycle t _{active2threshold}or t _active2peakperiod rises all more lentamente, and this will cause entering exploration pattern.When such slip/exploration state being detected, time t simultaneously _{active2threshold}be greater than t _{direct_push}if channel failure, its condition is that the first signalling channel enters exploration pattern, and when its electric capacity drops to the LVL_KEYUP_Threshold lower than point 60 place, it is still largest passages (having the passage of maximum intensity), then initiate the activation of switch.

With reference to figure 9, it illustrates the quick acting of finger through proximity switch assembly of user, simultaneously without the activation of switch.In this example, for both the passages 1 and 2 represented by line 50A and 50B respectively, detect about passage 1 with 2 the relative large differential variation of generation signal.Switch assembly adopts cycle time of delay to postpone and activates and judges until transition point 58, and at transition point 58, secondary signal passage 50B rises to higher than the first signalling channel 50A.According to an embodiment, time delay can be set to equal time threshold t _{direct_push_pk}.Therefore, by adopting cycle time of delay before the activation judging switch, the unintended activation of switch is prevented close to keyboard exploration quickly.Introducing time delay in the response can make interface more insensitive, and can work better when the finger motion of operator is even in fact.

According to an embodiment, if the threshold event before not causing activating detected recently, then can automatically enter exploration pattern.Therefore, be not intended to actuate once detect and have rejected, can be more careful within a period of time of the pattern of exploration.

The another kind of mode allowing operator to enter exploration pattern is, use on the switch panel surface relevant with special proximity switch one or more suitably mark and/or veined region or keypad, special proximity switch has the function blindly exploring the signal be intended to proximity switch assembly transmit operation person.One or more exploration engagement keypad can be positioned at and be easy to touch and the unlikely position utilizing other signalling channel generation activities.According to another embodiment, the unlabelled larger exploration engagement keypad around whole switch interface can be adopted.When the hand edging searching mark slid past on overhead console of operator---is explored the blindness close to switch assembly---from this mark, first touch such exploration keypad possibly.

As soon as the increase of proximity transducer assembly determine sensor change in count is switch activator or the result exploring action, total performance continues to judge whether should stop in the activation of proximity switch and how stop exploration action.According to an embodiment, the stable pressing of proximity switch assembly search to shift knob continues minimum predetermined time amount.In a specific embodiment, predetermined time amount is equal to, or greater than 50 milliseconds, is more preferably about 80 milliseconds.The example of the switch assembly operation adopting method stabilization time is described in Figure 10-13.

With reference to Figure 10, the exploration to three proximity switches corresponding to the signalling channel 1-3 being labeled as signal 50A-50C is respectively described, points in exploration pattern lower slider through the first and second switches, the 3rd switch that then activation is relevant with signalling channel 3 simultaneously.When point explore relevant with passage 1 and 2 first and second switch time, due on line 50A and 50B without stabilization signal, judgement does not activate.Start with maximum signal level about the signal on the line 50A of passage 1, until the passage 2 on line 50B becomes maximum, and last passage 3 becomes maximum.The steady change that channel indication signal 3 has transducer counting near peak value continues such as 80 milliseconds such long enough time cycle t _stable, time cycle t _stablebe enough to the activation initiating corresponding proximity switch.When meeting level threshold shooting condition and reached peak value, the level of stable level method on switch is limited in a narrow range and continues at least time cycle t _stableactivator switch afterwards.This allows that operator explores different proximity switches, and, as soon as find that the finger of user remains on the lasting cycle stabilization time t in position of adjacent switch _stable, the switch needed for just activating.

With reference to Figure 11, it illustrates another embodiment of stable level method, and in this embodiment, the 3rd signalling channel on line 50C has the transducer change in count in signal declines with stable state.In this example, the transducer change in count about third channel exceeds threshold level, and has about time cycle t _stablethe stable pressing detected, therefore judges the 3rd switch activator.

As shown in figs. 12, according to another embodiment, proximity switch assembly can adopt virtual push button method, and it searches the initial spike of the transducer change in count when the pattern of exploration, rise at the additional continuous of this initial spike heel along with transducer change in count, make the judgement of activator switch with this.In fig. 12, the 3rd signalling channel on line 50C rises to initial spike, then rising transducer change in count C further _vb.The finger sliding that this equates as user clips switch assembly surface gently through switch assembly, touch required button, then press on virtual machine switch, make the finger of user by switch contact surface, and increase the volume that user points close switch.When finger tip is squeezed in keypad surface, the finger tip surface of increase causes the increase of electric capacity.Increase electric capacity can in fig. 12 shown in peak value detection after occur at once, or can as illustrated in fig. 13 transducer change in count decline after occur.Proximity switch assembly detects initial spike, and this initial spike heel is along with being in stable level or cycle stabilization time t _stablebe expressed as electric capacity C _vbthe change of further rising of transducer counting.The stable level detected means the change without transducer count value noiseless (sensor count value absent noise) generally, or the little muting change of transducer count value, and it can pre-determine in a calibration process.

It is to be appreciated that, shorter time cycle t _stableunexpected activation can be caused, especially after the reversion of finger motion direction, and longer time cycle t _stablemore insensitive interface can be caused.

Also it is to be appreciated that, stationary value method and virtual push button method can be used simultaneously.In this case, because with virtual push button method trigger button, operator can need not wait for that stable compressing time terminates all the time, therefore can by t stabilization time _stablecan relax to longer, such as 1 second.

Proximity switch assembly can adopt robust noise to suppress (robust noise rejection) to prevent the accident of disturbing people from actuating further.Such as, utilize overhead console, should avoid surprisingly opening and closing glass sunroof.Too much noise suppressed finally can be refused should by the activation had a mind to avoided.Whether simultaneously the method for restraint speckle checks multiple adjacency channel report triggering event, and if be, then selection has the signalling channel of highest signal and activates it, thus ignores every other signalling channel until the signalling channel of release selection.

Proximity switch assembly 20 can comprise characteristic noise and suppress method (signature noise rejection method), it is based on two parameters, i.e. characteristic parameter (signature parameter), it is passage (max_channel) between maximum intensity and the ratio between overall accumulated level (sum_channel), and dac parameter, it is the number of the minimum proportional passage with max_channel.In one embodiment, dac α _dac=0.5.Characteristic parameter can be defined by following equation:

Dac parameter can be defined by following equation:

$\mathrm{dac}=\∀{\mathrm{channels}}_i>{\mathrm{\α}}_{\mathrm{dac}}\max \_\mathrm{channel}.$

According to dac, activate for not unaccepted identification, usually must empty passage, namely characteristic parameter must higher than predefined threshold value.In one embodiment, α _dac=1=0.4 and α _dac=2=0.67.According to an embodiment, if dac is greater than 2, then refuse to activate.

When make in the decline stage of curve activate or the judgement of not activator switch time, so their peak value peak_max_channel and peak_sum_channel of alternative max_channel and sum_channel can be used to carry out calculated characteristics parameter.Characteristic parameter can have following equation:

Noise suppressed triggering searches pattern can be adopted.When refusing due to unsharp feature the activation detected, search or exploration pattern automatically should be used.Like this, when blindly exploring, user can use all fingers that stretches to touch, and to setting up referential, starts search thus.This can trigger multiple passage simultaneously, thus causes poor feature.

With reference to Figure 14, show the state diagram according to the proximity switch assembly 20 in the state machine implementation of an embodiment.The execution mode of state machine is shown as has five kinds of states, comprises SW_NONE state 70, SW_ACTIVE state 72, SW_THRESHOLD state 74, SW_HUNTING state 76 and SWITCH_ACTIVATED state 78.SW_NONE state 70 is states sensor activity not detected.SW_ACTIVE state be by transducer detect some movable but at this moment between point is not enough to the state that trigger switch activates.SW_THRESHOLD state is the state that activity that transducer is determined is high enough to ensure the activation of switch assembly, search/exploration or random operation.When the activity pattern that switch assembly is determined is consistent with exploration/search reciprocation, enter SW_HUNTING state 76.SWITCH_ACTIVATED state 78 is the states having confirmed switch activator.In SWITCH_ACTIVATED state 78, shift knob by maintenance activity, and no longer can carry out other selections, until discharge corresponding switch.

The state of proximity switch assembly 20 changes according to the detection of sensing signal and process.When being in SW_NONE state 70, when being detected that by one or more transducer some is movable, system 20 may be advanced to SW_ACTIVE state 72.If detect be enough to ensure to activate, search or the activity of random operation, then system 20 can directly enter SW_THRESHOLD state 74.When being in SW_THRESHOLD state 74, system 20 can enter SW_HUNTING state 76 when the pattern that instruction is explored being detected, or system 20 can directly enter SWITCH_ACTIVATED state 78.Switch activator in SW_HUNTING state time, can detect that the activation of switch is to change to SWITCH_ACTIVATED state 78.If refusal signal and when no intention action being detected, then system 20 can turn back to SW_NONE state 70.

With reference to Figure 15, it shows the main method 100 when exported with proximity switch layout generation activation according to monitoring and the judgement of an embodiment.Method 100 starts from step 102, then proceeds to step 104 and performs initial calibration, and initial calibration can perform once.In step 106, by deducting reference value from initial data, calculate the signalling channel value of calibration from raw channel data and calibration reference value.Then, in step 108, calculate the summation of the highest count value being called max_channel and all channel sensor readings being called sum_channel from all signalling channel sensor readings.In addition, the number of active tunnel is determined.In step 110, method 100 calculates the Near Range of max_channel and sum_channel, so that whether acts of determination is underway subsequently.

After step 110, method 100 proceeds to determination step 112, to determine whether any one switch activity.If without switch activity, then method 100 proceeds to step 114 to perform online real time calibration, then proceeds to step 115 and immediately calibrates to process again.Instant calibration again to may be used for when starting initialization rapidly and calibration proximity switch and when signal card or high or low time at once again calibrating signal count.This comprises immediately calibration just again and bears immediately calibrates again.Program real time calibration step 114 provides slower lasting drift compensation to provide continuous print drift compensation, and it can comprise ultrafast drift compensation, drift compensation locking and without dual compensation deals.Otherwise method 116 processes switch release in step 116.Therefore, if switch is movable, so method 100 proceeds to a module, waits for and lock all activities until its release at this.

After real time calibration, method 100 proceeds to determination step 118, to determine whether to indicate any passage locking activated recently, and if be, then proceed to step 120 and determines timer (channel lockout timer) to reduce passage lock.If do not detect that passage locks, then method 100 proceeds to determination step 122 to find new max_channel.If current max_channel changes, make new max_channel, then method 100 proceed to step 124 with reset max_channel, computer capacity summation and threshold level is set.Therefore, if determine new max_channel, then method resets nearest range of signal, and, if needed, more new search/exploration parameter.If switch_status (on off state) is less than SW_ACTIVE, then will search for/explore mark (hunting/exploration flag) to be set to equal true (true value) (hunting/exploration_on=true), further, on off state is set to equal SW_NONE.In addition, rate indicator is reset in step 124.After step 124, program 100 proceeds to step 131 with renewal rate mark.When the rate of change of the such Δ signal-count of the such as average rate of change monitored exceedes effective activity ratio, the activation of rate indicator starting switch, thus prevent the erroneous activation owing to the change of condensation drop.When arranging rate indicator, allow the activation of switch.When not arranging rate indicator, prevent the activation of switch.

If current max_channel does not change, then method 100 proceeds to step 126 and points state to process max_channel bare (without gloves).This can comprise the logic between the different conditions of process as shown in the state diagram of Figure 14.After step 126, method 100 proceeds to determination step 128 to have determined whether any switch activity.If switch activator do not detected, then method 100 proceeds to step 130 to detect the existence of the possible gloves on hand of user.The change that can reduce based on C meter numerical value detects the existence of gloves.Then method 100 proceeds to step 131 with renewal rate mark, then proceeds to step 132 to upgrade the past medical history of max_channel and sum_channel.Then, before step 136 place stops, in step 134, movable switch index (index of the active switch)---is outputted to hardware and software module if any---.

When switch activity, activate the process switch release procedure shown in Figure 16.Process switch release procedure 116 starts from step 140, then proceeds to determination step 142 to judge whether active tunnel is less than LVL_RELEASE, and if be, terminates in step 152.If active tunnel is less than LVL_RELEASE, then program 116 proceeds to determination step 144 to judge whether LVL_DELTA_THRESHOLD is greater than 0, and if be no, if signal is comparatively strong, then proceeds to step 146 and improves threshold level.This can realize by reducing LVL_DELTA_THRESHOLD.Step 146 also arranges threshold value, release level and movable level.Then program 116 proceeds to step 148 to reset the maximum and summation history timer of passage for signal search steady in a long-term/exploration parameter.Before step 152 place stops, in step 150, on off state is set to equal SW_NONE.In order to exit process switch release module, it is adaptive threshold that the signal of active tunnel must drop to lower than LVL_RELEASE, LVL_RELEASE, and when detecting that gloves are interactive, this adaptive threshold will change.When shift knob discharges, reset all inner parameters, and open locking timer, before such as 100 milliseconds such specific latency disappear, to stop and to activate further.In addition, whether threshold level is regulated according to the appearance of gloves.

With reference to Figure 17, the program 200 of the SW_ACTIVE state of changing into from SW_NONE state for decision state according to an embodiment is described.Program 200 starts from step 202 with treatment S W_NONE state, then proceeds to determination step 204 to judge whether max_channel is greater than LVL_ACTIVE.If max_channel is greater than LVL_ACTIVE, then proximity switch assembly changes state, changes into SW_ACTIVE state, and terminate in step 210 from SW_NONE state.If max_channel is not more than LVL_ACTIVE, then, before step 210 place stops, program 200 checks whether in step 208 and resets search sign.Therefore, when max_channel triggers above-mentioned LVL_ACTIVE, state changes into SW_ACTIVE state from SW_NONE state.If passage keeps below this level, then after certain stand-by period, if be provided with search mark, then search for mark and be re-set as without search, this is one of method leaving search pattern.

With reference to Figure 18, the method 220 changing into SW_THRESHOLD state or SW_NONE state according to the treatment state of an embodiment from SW_ACTIVE state is described.Method 220 starts from step 222, and proceeds to determination step 224.If max_channel is not more than LVL_THRESHOLD, then method 220 proceeds to step 226 to judge whether max_channel is less than LVL_ACTIVE, and if be, proceeds to step 228, on off state is changed into SW_NONE.Therefore, when max_channel signal is reduced to below LVL_ACTIVE, the state of state machine moves to SW_NONE state from SW_ACTIVE state.Δ value can also be deducted from LVL_ACTIVE, delayed to introduce some.If max_channel is greater than LVL_THRESHOLD, then program 220 proceeds to determination step 230, to judge whether nearest threshold event or gloves to be detected, and if be, be set to equal true (true) by the search of mark in step 232.Before step 236 place stops, State Transferring is SW_THRESHOLD state in step 234 by method 220.Therefore, if max_channel triggers above-mentioned LVL_THRESHOLD, then state changes into SW_THRESHOLD state.If gloves detected, or the previous threshold event not causing activation detected recently, then automatically can enter search/exploration pattern.

With reference to Figure 19, the method 240 from SW_THRESHOLD condition judgement switch activator according to an embodiment is described.Method 240 starts from step 242 with treatment S W_THRESHOLD state, and proceeds to decision box 244, with decision signal whether stable or signalling channel whether be in peak value, and if no, stop in step 256.If signal stabilization or signalling channel are in peak value, then method 240 proceed to determination step 246 with judge search or exploration pattern whether movable, and if be, then jump to step 250.If search or the pattern of exploration inertia, then method 240 proceeds to determination step 248, whether clear and whether Fast Activities is greater than threshold value with decision signal passage, and if be, proceed to step 249 to determine whether to arrange rate indicator, and if be, in step 250, switch_active is set to equal maximum_channel.If signalling channel is unintelligible and Fast Activities is not greater than threshold value, then method 240 directly proceeds to step 252.Equally, if do not establish rate indicator, then method 240 directly proceeds to step 252.At decision box 252, method 240 determines whether to there is switch activity, and if be, then stops in step 256 place.If without switch activity, then method 240 proceeds to step 254, with before stopping in step 256 place by search variables SWITCH_STATUS Initialize installation for equaling SWITCH_HUNTING (SW_EXPLORATION/HUNTING), and by PEAK_MAX_BASE Initialize installation for equaling MAX_CHANNELS.

In SW_THRESHOLD state, do not judge, until the peak value of MAX_CHANNEL detected.Detect that the condition of peak value is the reversion of sense, or MAX_CHANNEL and SUM_CHANNEL kept stable (being limited in a scope) within such as 60 milliseconds such at least one cycles of fixing time.As soon as peak value detected, then check search sign.If search pattern is closed, then apply inlet slope Slope Method.If SW_ACTIVE to SW_THRESHOLD is less than such as 16 milliseconds such threshold values, and the feature of noise suppressed method indicates it to be effective trigger event, then proceed to step 249, otherwise jump to step 252.In step 249, if arrange rate indicator, then state changes into SWITCH_ACTIVE, and program moves to PROCESS_SWITCH_RELEASE module, otherwise is set to equal true by search sign.If employing delay activation method instead of immediately activator switch, then state-transition is SW_DELAYED_ACTIVATION, wherein enforces delay, at the end of delay, if current MAX_CHANNEL index does not change, then and activator button.

With reference to Figure 20, the virtual push button method of the enforcement SW_HUNTING state according to an embodiment is described.Method 260 starts from step 262 with treatment S W_HUNTING state, and proceed to determination step 264 to judge whether MAX_CHANNEL has dropped to lower than LVL_KEYUP_THRESHOLD, and if be, then in step 272, MAX_PEAK_BASE (peak-peak radix) is set to equal MIN (MAX_PEAK_BASE, MAX_CHANNEL).If MAX_CHANNEL has dropped to lower than LVL_KEYUP_THRESHOLD, then method 260 has proceeded to step 266 to adopt first passage triggering searches method to check whether this event should activate by trigger button.This depends on and determines whether to cross first and unique passage and whether signal is clear.If, method 260 proceeds to determination step 269 to determine whether to arrange rate indicator, and if be, in step 270, switch_equal is set to equal maximum_channel, and in step 271, skip calibrations mark is set, and before step 282 place stops, in step 273, skip calibrations timer is set to equal NS.If rate indicator is not arranged, then method 260 terminates in step 282.If if do not cross first and unique passage or poor TV signal clear, then method 260 proceeds to step 268 to abandon and to judge to be not intended to actuate, and step 282 place stop before SWITCH_STATUS is set to equal SW_NONE state.

After step 272, method 260 proceeds to determination step 274 to determine whether to choose (clicked) passage.Whether this can be greater than MAX_PEAK_BASE by MAX_CHANNEL adds that Δ value (delta) judges.If choose passage, then whether method 260 to proceed to determination step 276 stable and clear with decision signal, and if be, proceed to determination step 279 to determine whether to arrange rate indicator, and if be, before step 282 place stops, in step 280, switch activity state is set to largest passages.If do not choose passage, then method 260 proceed to determination step 278 to check whether signal is grown, stable and clear, and if be, then proceed to determination step 279 then to determine whether to arrange rate indicator, and if be, proceed to step 280 to be set to equal maximum_channel by switch_active, skip calibrations step is set in step 271, in step 273, skip calibrations timer is set to equal NS, then stops in step 282 place.If do not arrange rate indicator, then method 260 stops in step 282 place.

Therefore, proximity switch monitoring and decision procedure judge the activation of proximity switch valuably.Program allows user to explore proximity switch keypad valuably, and this can be useful especially in motor vehicles application, can avoid driver's dispersion attention.

Thin film technique can be used to manufacture proximity transducer, and thin film technique can comprise the electrically conductive ink of printing and solvent to realize required circuit layout.Printing-ink can form thin plate, and it uses the light and heat of collection/hot gating to solidify to remove solvent in the curing process.Change in existing solidification process can cause residual solvent to stay in electric outlet, and this can cause the transducer to temperature and humidity sensitive.When condensation water drop in proximity transducer is formed time, original capacitance signal and Δ signal-count can change.Condensation drop is formed and can occur in vehicle, and such as, when driving in heavy rain before opening defrosting device or when in sweltering heat, moist summer when entering vehicle, and moisture blows on switch by HVAC fan.Equally, when condensation water drip-dry is dried up, original capacitance signal and Δ signal-count can change with contrary direction.Figure 21 shows an example of the Δ signal-count change at condensation drop During.Display 50 increases at numerical value due to the condensation drop of change, the minimizing of the drop that such as condenses, if signal 50 reaches specific threshold value, it can the activation event of trigger erroneous.When condensation water increases, the triggering of the activation event that it also can lead to errors, Δ transducer count signal 50 can reduce equally.In order to compensate condensation drop and prevent or reduce erroneous activation, proximity switch assembly 20 and method 100 adopt speed monitoring program to judge effective switch activator with the condensation drop event according to mistake, and also adopt one or more calibration procedure to minimize to make those adverse effects such as caused by condensation drop changes.

With reference to Figure 22, to illustrate during potential switch activator and there is the Δ signal-count signal 50 of the signal specific sample rate using the sample of signal obtained continuously.Sample of signal comprises current demand signal sample C ₀, previously monitoring sample of signal C _-1, next previously monitoring sample of signal C _-2, and the sample of signal C of next previously monitoring _-3.Therefore, speed monitoring program is monitored and is adopted the history of the sample of Δ transducer count signal 50.Speed monitoring program monitoring in response to activate field generate signal amplitude, determine generate signal rate of change, by rate of change with threshold rates compared with and based on rate of change exceed threshold rates generate output.Then the output generated adopted by the method activating proximity transducer.In one embodiment, when when not arranging rate indicator arrange and when preventing the activation of proximity transducer, rate indicator enables the activation of proximity transducer.Rate of change can be obtain such as sample C ₀-C _-3the change rolling average ratio more than the signal sample of two like this.In order to eliminate or remove the noise from signal rise estimation value, can as by low pass filter moving average calculation to enable the activation of transducer and to prevent the erroneous activation owing to condensation drop from carrying out moving average calculation.By calculating the difference between the first count signal and the second count signal, can moving average calculation, wherein obtain the first and second count values comprising in the time cycle more than two samples.In addition, speed monitoring program can judge such as sample C ₀and C _-1the incremental rate of the changing value between such continuous signal sample, and further by the continuous speed of changing value compared with step rate threshold value, wherein when the continuous speed of variable signal exceedes step rate threshold value, generate activate export.In addition, according to an embodiment, the rate of change generating signal can be such as sample C _-0and C _-1difference between two continuous signal countings like this compares with quick active speed.It is generally known that when reaching threshold determination value due to condensation drop, condensation drop, by rise than the speed slow by the activation of user, makes to stop activated sensors compared with the activation of slow rate.

Speed monitoring program 300 shows the renewal rate mark program being embodied as and starting from step 302 in fig 23.Program 300 proceeds to determination step 304 to calculate difference between current maximum Δ transducer count value MAX_CH (t) and the maximum Δ transducer count value MAX_CH (t-3) previously determined and to judge whether the difference calculated is greater than effective activation rate.Difference between maximum Δ transducer count value higher than such as the continuous sampling time t, t-1, t-2 and t-3 obtain four sample C ₀-C _-3multiple sample of signal like this.Equally, difference provides the moving average that Δ transducer counts.If moving average is greater than activation rate, then method 300 proceeds to determination step 306.At determination step 306, each increments of change of maximum Δ transducer count signal MAX_CH (t) between the sample of program 300 monitoring relatively continuously and by incremental difference compared with step rate value.This comprise by current largest passages signal MAX_CH (t) compared with previous largest passages signal MAX_CH (t-1) to check whether difference is greater than step rate, by previous largest passages signal MAX_CH (t-1) compared with the second previous largest passages signal MAX_CH (t-2) to check whether difference is greater than step rate, and by the second previous largest passages signal MAX_CH (t-2) compared with the 3rd previous largest passages signal MAX_CH (t-3) to check whether difference is greater than step rate value.If the difference of each increment signal passage is greater than step rate value, then method 300 proceeds to step 310 and arranged rate indicator before stopping in step 312 place.If any difference of increment signal passage is not more than step rate value, then program stops in step 312 place.As soon as arrange rate indicator, just enable monitoring program and export with activated sensors.The setting of rate indicator reduces or eliminates may owing to the erroneous activation of condensation impact.

Program 300 comprises determination step 308, if Δ transducer count value does not exceed effective activation rate, then implements determination step 308.Determination step 308 by the difference of current largest passages signal MAX_CH (t) and previous largest passages signal MAX_CH (t-1) compared with effective quick active speed.If difference exceedes effective quick active speed, then method 300 proceeds to and arranges rate indicator in step 310 place.The quick increase difference that determination step 308 allows the Δ transducer about the current demand signal sample from previous signals sample to count, activates to enable and ignores previous sample history.Therefore, if the Δ transducer count value instruction speed very fast that two nearest, then rate indicator is set.

In one embodiment, effective activation rate can be set to the value of 50 countings, and step rate can be set to the value of 1 counting, and effectively quick active speed can be set to the value of 100 countings.Therefore, according to an embodiment, about large than the effective activation rate twice of effective quick active speed.Effective quick active speed is greater than effective activation rate.But, it is to be appreciated that according to other embodiment, effective activation rate, effectively quick active speed and step rate can be set to different values.

According to shown embodiment, speed monitoring program 300 monitors peak signal channel value and the rate indicator arranging or reset for peak signal passage.By monitoring peak signal passage, most possibly there is the signal of activation constantly monitored and minimize to make the impact of condensation drop for enabling rate indicator.It is to be appreciated that, according to other embodiments, any signalling channel except peak signal passage can be monitored.Speed monitoring program 300 arranges and resets the rate indicator for peak signal passage, but according to another embodiment, speed monitoring program 300 arranges and reset the rate indicator for other signalling channels except peak signal passage.Should understand further, can change for the sampling rate obtaining Δ count signal sample.Sampling rate judges to activate by being provided for and determines the speed of the increase of the existence of condensation drop faster.Signal monitoring can be continuous, and noise filtering may be used for stress release treatment.

Therefore, and if the rate of change speed that speed monitoring program 300 monitors Δ transducer counting is enough values, the activation of switch is enabled.This enables to be avoided owing to the erroneous activation of condensation drop and other potential impacts.Thus proximity switch assembly can generate the output signal of indicator cock activation based on the rate indicator just arranged and prevent the activation when not arranging rate indicator.

Speed monitoring program advantageously reduces or eliminates the erroneous activation caused by condensation drop.But when signal-count occurs along with condensation drop event and rises or decline, proximity switch can become reactionless until signal-count is reverted to zero by lasting drift compensation again.Conventional calibration procedure typically slowly compensates condensation drips usually, and therefore causes unsuitable time delay, and during unsuitable time delay, proximity switch can not activate and substantially lock.In order to reduce lock-up cycle, senior calibration procedure may be used for calibrating the Δ transducer count signal for each proximity switch again.The calibration procedure or do not have with speed monitoring program 300 may be used for advantageously making the impact of condensation drop minimize and any locking time is minimized.

According to an embodiment, calibration procedure comprise by make lentamente signal-count return to predefined value come offset drift continue calibration procedure, predefined value is null value.During calibration phase, proximity switch assembly can lock and reactionless to the touch by user usually, and therefore can not activate one or more switch.Calibration procedure comprises instant calibration further, and when starting initialization and calibration proximity switch and at once calibrate Δ transducer count signal again when signal card high or low.

Instant calibration again comprises just is calibrating and negative calibration immediately immediately.Peak signal passage during the such as continuous 4 seconds such cycles very first time higher than too high first threshold after and after peak signal passage reaches its peak value, occur to calibrate just more immediately.According to an embodiment, all positive signalling channels calibrate to the so predefined value of such as null value at once again.Wait for that the peak value of peak signal prevents a kind of situation, in this case, quick continuous print is immediately calibrated again and is caused signal peak.

All signals are negative while minimum signal during such as continuous 1 second such the second time cycle lower than too low Second Threshold after and after minimum signal passage reaches its bottom, occur negatively immediately to calibrate again.According to an embodiment, all signalling channels calibrate to the so predefined value of such as null value at once again.Wait for that the bottom of smallest passage prevents a kind of situation, in this case, quick continuous print is immediately calibrated again and is caused signal peak.

The real time calibration continued performs continuous print drift compensation to remain ahead in condensation droplet drift and can to comprise in following characteristics one or more.According to an embodiment, lasting drift compensation can comprise ultrafast drift compensation, and in ultrafast drift compensation, compensate for rate activates close to typical.According to an example, it is per second that offset drift can be set to 100 countings, typically activates the signal generating in about half second and have 200 Δ transducer countings simultaneously.Such problem is advantageously eliminated in drift-compensated increase, the such as potential activation of hidden switch, dark field sensor, the hand as by mobile user is close and do not contact ceiling light and reduce the minimum time cycle being extremely such as less than 5 seconds locking time caused by the event that seriously compensates.

The drift compensation continued adopts drift compensation to lock to prevent situation further, and in this case, operator hovers more lentamente to find simultaneously and can make the nonreactive switch of system.When fast rise signals being detected, drift compensation locking temporarily stops drift compensation.In order to prevent drift compensation from ad infinitum locking, count down timer may be used for reactivating drift compensation.In order to reactivate drift compensation locking after countdown in 4 seconds, first maximum signal must drop to zero, and then rises.When the switch is activated, also drift compensation can be stopped.If switch is considered as being stuck in state of activation, then can there is instant calibration more immediately and can disable switch.

The drift compensation program continued can adopt without double compensation subroutine further to prevent overcompensate.If for passage Δ transducer count signal than drift compensation speed in the cards soon towards zero, then drift compensation can suspend individual signals passage.When the drift compensation that exceeds the speed limit occurs, this prevents the again calibration value of signalling channel more than zero.

The process of the instant calibration procedure 400 again starting from step 402 is described in fig. 24.Program 400 proceeds to determination step 404 to judge whether peak signal passage (MAX_CH) is greater than too high threshold (TOO_HIGH_THRESLD) and continues the such as 4 seconds such cycles very first time.If peak signal passage is greater than too high threshold be continued above 4 seconds, then program 400 proceeds to determination step 406 to judge whether peak signal passage has reached its peak value, and if be, before step 418 place stops, perform the instant of all positive signal passages of zero threshold value be greater than in step 408 and calibrate just again.If peak signal passage does not also reach peak value, then program 400 will proceed to and stop step 418, the beginning being back to program 400 in step 418 program 400 with repetitive cycling until reach peak value and perform and immediately calibrate again.

If peak signal passage is not more than the cycle very first time that too high threshold continues to be greater than 4 seconds, then program 400 proceeds to determination step 410 to process negative signal count signal.Determination step 410 comprises and judges whether largest passages is less than too Low threshold (TOO_LOW_THRESLD) and continues to be greater than such as 1 second such the second time cycle.If largest passages is less than the second time cycle that too Low threshold continues to be greater than 1 second, so program 400 proceeds to determination step 412 to determine whether peak signal passage touches the bottom, and if be, proceed to determination step 414 to judge whether all signalling channels are less than negative threshold value (NEG_THRESLD).If largest passages is less than too Low threshold and continues to be greater than 1 second and peak signal passage touches the bottom and all passages are less than negative threshold value, then program 400 is advanced, and before step 418 place stops, performs the instant negative of all signalling channels calibrate in step 416.According to an embodiment, instant positive and negative again calibration steps 408 and 416 comprises and regulates the Δ count value of all signalling channels to be null value.If it is determined that any one in frame 410,412 and 414 causes negative judgement, then program 400 stops in step 418, and step 418 is back to the beginning of program 400 with repetitive routine step.

The process starting from the real time calibration program 500 of step 502 is described in fig. 25.Program 500 proceeds to determination step 504 to judge whether skip calibrations timer (SKIP_CALIB_TIMER) is greater than zero, and if be, before step 530 place stops, reduces skip calibrations timer in step 506 as by time rate.If skip calibrations timer is not more than zero, then program 500 proceeds to determination step 508 to determine whether to arrange skip calibrations mark (SKIP_CALIB_FLAG), and if be, proceed to determination step 510 to judge that largest passages is inactive.If largest passages is inactive, then program 500 is advanced, and before proceeding to determination step 524, resets skip calibrations mark in step 512.If largest passages is movable, then program 500 proceeds to determination step 514 to judge that whether time cycle Delta Time disappears after the last time calibration, and if no, stops in step 530.If disappeared since the last time calibrates later Delta Time, then program 500 advances add increment reference (DELTA_REF) of parameter signal in step 516 calculating and calculate increment signal passage (DELTA_CH) for the signal difference between current demand signal passage and previous signals passage in step 518.Thereafter, program 500 proceeds to determination step 520 to judge whether increment channel is greater than increment reference, and if be, stops in step 530.If increment channel is not more than increment reference, then program 500 proceeds to step 522 to equal to be used in the reference that before step 530 place stops, increment reference amounts to reference to being set to.

At determination step 524, program 500 determines whether to arrange rate indicator, and if be, then advances, before step 530 place stops, to arrange skip calibrations mark in step 526 and in step 528, skip calibrations timer to be set to value NS.If do not arrange velocity calibration mark, then program 500 proceeds to determination step 514.In termination step 530, program 500 turns back to and starts with repetitive routine step.

With reference to figure 26A and 26B, the Δ transducer count value be used for according to the instant just again between alignment epoch of instant calibration procedure five signalling channels relevant with five proximity switches is described.In this illustration, show tags is five signals of signal 550A-550E, has the positive signal risen due to the change of the condensation drop on proximity switch assembly in the middle of each Signal aspects.Peak signal passage 550A is shown as that to exceed too high threshold persisted moniker be T _pfirst or positive time cycle and reach peak value at point 560.As shown in fig. 26b, as soon as peak signal passage 550A continues the period of time T of 4 seconds higher than too high threshold _pand reach its peak value at point 560, all positive signalling channels are just calibrated to zero more immediately as shown in line 570.Therefore, the impact of drop change of condensing is made zero rapidly due to instant calibration just again, thus allows not many lingeringly use proximity switch assemblies due to lock-out state.The real-time drift compensation continued can provide additional ultrafast drift compensation further, thus reduces any potential locking time further.

In the curve chart shown in Figure 27 A and 27B, illustrate that being used for experiencing the negative immediately of five signalling channels of negative Δ transducer counting due to the change of the drop that condenses calibrates again.Five signalling channel 650A-650E be all shown as have due to the change of the drop that condenses by proximity switch experience from the subzero signal value dropping to negative value.When all signalling channels continue second or negative period of time T for negative and lowest signal passage 650B drops to lower than too Low threshold _nand lowest signal passage 650B is when point 660 reaches its bottom, as shown in the line 670 in Figure 27 B, all signalling channel 650A-650E calibrate immediately again and are back to zero.Wait for the bottom value of lowest signal passage or the peak value of highest signal passage, prevent a situation, in this case fast continuous print again calibrating signal otherwise can cause signal peak.Instant negative calibration more advantageously reduces the time that switch can lock due to the change of condensation.It is to be appreciated that instant negative calibration procedure can supplement with ultrafast drift compensation, and it can reduce the time of any switch locking further.

Therefore, the method for proximity switch assembly and calibration proximity switch advantageously adopts calibration procedure, and calibration procedure is calibrating signal again, thus avoids the unsuitable delay that the locking due to the change of condensation drop causes.Calibration procedure can be combined with speed monitoring program or can adopt separately to avoid the problem relevant with the change of the drop that condenses, thus provides effective and the proximity switch assembly of response to user.

Proximity switch assembly and method can adopt the method for a tuning transducer or multiple transducer further, especially when user is just having on the gloves hiding hand and finger, when such as doing when finishing drilling in gloves pattern, provide the user of enhancing interactive.As mentioned above, proximity transducer generates and activates field and generate the signal for each signalling channel relevant with each proximity switch in response to each activation field.The signal relevant with each signalling channel can comprise noise, and noise can the interrupt source such according to other electronic installations inside such as vehicle and changing.When noise amplitude increases, especially having on compared with when arranging during muffler that fixing activation threshold level is enough low to be operated with guarantee, it can generate unwanted activation.In order to overcome these shortcomings, proximity switch assembly can adopt the method for the tuning proximity transducer of real-time estimated value based on noise level.Activate the fixed multiplication factor that release threshold value constantly can regulate to equal the noise level estimated.According to an embodiment, multiplication factor will be greater than the value of 1.0 usually.Usually, higher multiplier will provide better noise immunity and lower multiplier will provide more responsive compared with user's pressing of muffler by having on.

Proximity transducer assembly can comprise providing and activates field and generate the proximity transducer of signal, and for the treatment of the control circuit of signal.Control circuit and method can comprise with proximity transducer generation activation field and generate signal in response to activation field.Method can comprise the detection noise relevant with signal, and based on the noise regulating parameter detected.Parameter is used for the proximity state of detecting sensor.In one embodiment, the amplitude of method detection signal exceedes threshold value and detects the activation of the proximity switch when signal amplitude exceedes threshold value.The noise detected can be the noise of the estimation be multiplied by the parameter as multiplier.The noise estimated can by by noise calculation be multiple scope each in scope in maximum signal amplitude and minimum signal amplitude between difference determine, the noise of wherein minimum calculating is used as the noise estimated.Tuning methods can the proximity transducer of tuning ratio as capacitance sensor.Should understand further, the tuning proximity switch that can be applied to the type such as adopting one or more capacitance sensor such.Although there is the proximity switch assembly of one or more capacitance sensor in this display and description, it is to be appreciated that the sensing that proximity transducer can comprise other types is arranged.

With reference to Figure 28, the example that the dependence noise threshold of one or more proximity switch is tuning is described.When there is large noise, it is too high that threshold value increases, so that be possible without the activation of gloves; But, the unwanted activation that triggered by noise can be prevented and the activation of exposed finger keeps operating.In this illustration, relevant from proximity switch signalling channel signal 50 is shown as the noise with different amount.For low noise level, low first threshold A can be adopted.To middle noise level, the second intermediate threshold B can be adopted.For the 3rd larger noise level, third high threshold level C can be adopted.When large noise level being detected on signal 50, the height that threshold value can be arranged to be possible without wearing gloves activation, but will advantageously prevent the unwanted activation triggered by noise.

Noise is estimated to be performed by one or more processor or other control circuits and can be performed in real time.Tuning methods provides period of time T as shown in Figure 29 _nEthe renewal of the noise estimation value in scope.Each period of time T _nEbe divided into multiple onesize partial noise estimated value period of time T _iE, such as by five (5) the individual period of time T being labeled as scope 1-5 _iEshown in.For each partial noise estimated value period of time T _iE, obtain minimum signal C _minwith peak signal C _maxsignal level, and noise section region estimated value N _pREas being calculated as difference therebetween as shown in following equations: N _pre=C _max-C _min.

For each period of time T _nE, noise section region estimated value N _pre(1-5) minimum value is determined and is used as current noise region estimated value N _re.Equally, current (i) noise region estimated value N _re=min N _{pre (i)}for given period of time T _nE.In Figure 29, the noise estimation value shown in multiple regional extent is determined by the difference obtained between peak signal (max) and minimum signal (min).Equally, in region (1), the peak signal C in that regional extent _maxdeduct the minimum signal C in that regional extent _min, be calculated as the noise section region estimated value N about region (1) _pre(1).For each region 2,3,4 and 5 etc., repeat this process to determine respective noise section region estimated value N _pre(2), N _pre(3), N _pre(4), N _pre(5) etc.In one example, can by part-time cycle T _iEbe set to equal one second and ten cycles continuous time in ten regions can analyze the period of time T of lasting about 10 seconds _iE.The each part-time cycle T of process within the scope of the 1-5 of region _iE, and respective partial noise estimated value N _prebe calculated as peak signal C _maxwith minimum signal C _mindifference between value, and from period of time T _iEthe least part noise estimation value N in all regions in scope _predetermined and be used as estimate noise N _re.The error N estimated _rethen may be used for regulating the one or more parameters detecting proximity state, so that tuning proximity transducer or tuning multiple proximity transducer.The tuning of proximity transducer can comprise the noise N that will estimate _rebe multiplied by multiplier to be provided for determining the activity threshold of the activation of proximity switch.Equally, activation threshold thus based on the noise level N of the estimation detected _reand change actively.

Except one that adjustment activity threshold is in parameter, noise estimation value also may be used for regulating other parameters regulating the regional value for being formed stability region pressing, adjustment release threshold value, regulating rate of calibration and regulations speed monitoring threshold value.When signal to noise ratio (SNR) is high especially, speed monitoring and quickly calibrated scheme can compensate highstrung execution mode.When occurring at this moment, the finger of the user of adjacent proximity transducer movement may generate change enough in electric capacity to contrast activation threshold.Quickly calibrated and speed monitoring only can allow signal intensity fast to being enough to form effective pressing.In addition, it is tight as much as possible that stability region can arrange as current noise level conditions permit, therefore makes exploration more sane.

With reference to Figure 30, illustrate and be used for generted noise estimated value and use noise estimation value as multiplier with the tuning program 700 of adjusting proximity transducer.Program 700 starts from step 702, before step 714 stops, proceed to step 704,706 and 708.In step 704, program 700 performs the pressing detection of proximity transducer.In step 706, program 700 performs the speed monitoring of proximity transducer.In step 708, program 700 performs the calibration of proximity transducer assembly.The step of pressing detection 704, speed monitoring 706 and calibration 708 can perform activation for detecting proximity switch and for monitoring speed and performing the calibration of proximity switch assembly as said.

In addition, program 700 comprises estimation by value N _rethe step 710 of shown noise estimation value.At estimating noise N _reafterwards, the noise N of estimation _reuse as multiplier is to regulate various parameter in step 712, various parameter may be used for detecting proximity state in proximity transducer assembly.Noise estimation value N _reas equation n1 × N _rethe shown multiplier that is used as is with tuning activity threshold, and activity threshold is in the activation determining a proximity transducer or multiple proximity transducer, and wherein n1 is threshold value steady state value.Noise estimation value N _realso as equation n1/2 × N _rethe shown multiplier that is used as is with tuning release threshold value.Equally, in this illustration, the half that threshold value is the value of activity threshold is discharged.Release threshold value can be the horizontal releasing value LVL_release compared with the active tunnel in the determination step 142 of Figure 16.In addition, noise estimation value N _reas equation n3 × N _reshown in as tuning with modification stability region of multiplier, wherein n3 is stability region constant.Stability region can be stable amplitude areas, at time cycle t _stableperiod determines stabilization signal within the scope of it.In addition, noise estimation value N _reas equation N _remultiplier is used as to regulate rate of calibration shown in/100 milliseconds.Rate of calibration can be the DELTA_REF as shown in the step 520 of Figure 25.Finally, noise estimation value N _reas equation n4 × N _rethe shown tuning speed that is used for monitors threshold value, and wherein, n4 is speed monitoring constant.According to an embodiment, speed monitoring threshold value can be 1 step rate shown in step 304 and 306 of effective activation rate or Figure 23.After tuning proximity transducer assembly, program 700 proceeds to and stops in step 714 place.

With reference to Figure 31, illustrate and be used for estimating part noise estimation value N _pre(is) program 720.Program 720 starts from step 722 with beginning noise estimation value N _pre(is) estimation, wherein (is) is regional value.Then, in step 724, method 720 is by signal value C _minbe set to equal maximum signal level (max), by signal value C _maxbe set to equal negative maximum signal level (-max) and parameter ic is set to equal zero.Value (ic) is at each scope T _nEin time counting.Then, in step 726, method 720 obtains new signal value C (ic).Proceed to determination step 728, program 720 judges whether current demand signal C (ic) is less than minimum signal value C _minand if be, proceed to step 730 with by minimum signal value C _minbe set to equal current signal value C (ic).If current demand signal C (ic) is not less than minimum signal C (ic), then program 720 proceeds to determination step 732 to determine whether current demand signal C (ic) is greater than peak signal C _maxand if be, in step 734 by C _maxbe set to equal current demand signal C (ic).Otherwise program 720 proceeds to step 736 to make counting ic added value 1.Then, program 720 proceeds to determination step 738 to judge whether count value ic is less than tale continuous time period T _nEand if be, then turn back to step 726.If count value ic is not less than total ic count (ic_tot), indicate processing time period T _nEall regions in scope, then program 720 proceeds to step 740, step 742 place stop before, calculate about each region (is) as the peak signal C in each regional extent _maxwith minimum signal C _minbetween the partial noise estimated value N of function of difference _pre.

With reference to Figure 32, display is used for based on partial noise estimated value N _preestimating noise N _reprogram 750.Program 750 starts from step 752, and proceeds to step 754 with by temporary realm estimated value N _{tMP_RE}be set to equal maximum and parameter (is) is set to equal one (1).Value (is) is about each individual region T _nEinstruction.Then, in step 756, program 750 estimates the partial noise estimated value N being used for each region (is) _pre.At determination step 758, program 750 judges the subregion estimated value N being used for current region (is) _pre(is) temporary realm estimated value N whether is less than _{tMP_RE}and if be, by temporary realm estimated value N _{tMP_RE}be set to equal the current portions noise region estimated value N about region (is) _pr.Program 750 proceeds to step 762 to make counting (is) added value 1.Then, at determination step 764, program 750 judges whether count value (is) is less than or equal to total subregion is_pre of use, and if no, then turns back to step 756.If value is less than is_pre, then program 750 proceeds to step 766 with by noise estimation value N _rebe set to equal temporary realm estimated value N _tMP, and stop in step 768 thereafter.

Therefore, proximity switch assembly and method determine the subregion estimated value in each regional extent of service routine 720, and service routine 750 is from subregion estimated value determination noise estimation value.Then noise region estimated value 750 is used as multiplier to regulate or the various parameter of tuning ratio as comprised the threshold value of activity threshold as shown in Figure 30.In addition, noise estimation value N _rEmultiplier can be used as equally and discharge with adjustment or tuning comprising other parameters that threshold value, stability region, rate of calibration and speed as shown in figure 30 monitor threshold value.By determining noise estimation value, the user that proximity switch assembly and method advantageously provide the enhancing for avoiding the negatively influencing caused by noise is interactive.

It should be understood that, can make changes and modifications said structure and method when not deviating from design of the present invention, will be further appreciated that such design is intended to covered by claim, unless these claims separately have clear and definite definition by its language.

Claims (18)

1. a method for tuning proximity transducer, comprises:

Generate with proximity transducer and activate field;

Signal is generated in response to activation field;

Detect the noise relevant with signal; And

Based on the noise regulating parameter detected, wherein parameter is for detecting proximity state.

2. the method for claim 1, wherein parameter comprises threshold value, and wherein the amplitude of method detection signal further exceedes threshold value and detects the activation of proximity switch when signal amplitude exceedes threshold value.

3. the method for claim 1, the noise wherein detected is the value be multiplied by parameter.

4. the method for claim 1, wherein the step of detection noise comprises the estimation noise relevant with signal.

5. method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the step of estimating noise comprises noise calculation the difference between maximum signal amplitude in each scope being multiple region and minimum signal amplitude, and the noise of wherein minimum calculating is used as the noise estimated.

6. the method for claim 1, wherein method comprises each activation field generated about multiple proximity transducer and each signal generated about multiple proximity transducer, and wherein regulating step comprises each relevant parameter regulated to multiple signal.

7. the method for claim 1, wherein proximity switch is arranged on vehicle for the passenger in vehicle.

8. the method for claim 1, wherein parameter is for detecting the activation of proximity switch.

9. method as claimed in claim 8, wherein proximity switch comprises capacitance switch, and capacitance switch comprises one or more capacitance sensor.

10. a proximity transducer assembly, comprises:

There is provided and activate field and the proximity transducer generating signal; And

Generate signal in response to activation field, detect the noise relevant with signal and the control circuit based on the noise regulating parameter detected, wherein parameter is for detecting proximity state.

11. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 10, wherein parameter comprises threshold value, and wherein the amplitude of control circuit detection signal further exceedes threshold value and detects the activation of proximity switch when signal amplitude exceedes threshold value.

12. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 10, the noise wherein detected is the value be multiplied by parameter.

13. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 10, wherein the step of detection noise comprises the estimation noise relevant with signal.

14. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 13, wherein the step of estimating noise comprises noise calculation is maximum signal amplitude in each scope in multiple region and the difference between minimum signal amplitude, and the noise of wherein minimum calculating is used as the noise estimated.

15. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 10, wherein assembly comprises for generating the multiple proximity transducer activating field and each signal generated for multiple proximity transducer and regulating and the control circuit of each relevant parameter of multiple signal.

16. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 10, wherein control circuit is based on the activation of parameter detecting proximity switch.

17. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 16, wherein proximity switch comprises capacitance switch, and capacitance switch comprises one or more capacitance sensor.

18. proximity transducer assemblies as claimed in claim 17, wherein proximity switch is arranged on vehicle for the passenger in vehicle.