JP2010235035A - Capacitance type input device and on-vehicle apparatus control device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To accurately and surely accept operation input by the human body to an on-vehicle apparatus mounted on a vehicle and an operation input part of this on-vehicle apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: This capacitance type input device includes a capacitance sensor part 10 arranged in the operation input part of the on-vehicle apparatus arranged on an instrument panel 2 of the vehicle 1, and a circuit part 20 for determining whether or not hands and fingers exist in a detecting range Z based on output from this capacitance sensor part 10. The capacitance sensor part 10 includes a sensor electrode 11, a shield electrode 12 and an auxiliary electrode 13. Directivity is set by using a first capacitance value C1 detected only by the sensor electrode 11 and a second capacitance value C2 detected by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13, and the operation input is accepted by detecting the hands and fingers by forming the detecting range Z on the sensor electrode 11. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile, and a capacitive input device that receives an operation input by a human body to an operation input unit of the in-vehicle device, and an in-vehicle device control device.

  As what performs operation input, without applying stress with respect to operation input parts, such as a vehicle-mounted apparatus, for example, an electrostatic capacitance type switch, an electrical component for vehicles, a meter for vehicles, and an interior lighting device (for example, patent documents 1 (the 4th) (See page -9, Fig. 1-12)). This capacitance type switch includes a transparent electrode that detects the proximity of a detection target to the transparent protective panel, and a capacitance detection circuit that uses the capacitance detected by the transparent electrode as a detection signal.

  And this electrostatic capacitance type switch is supposed to receive the proximity | contact of the detection target object to a transparent protection panel as an operation input signal, and to output it to the control part of vehicle equipment.

JP 2007-80808 A

  However, in the electrostatic capacitance type switch disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above, the proximity of the detection target is detected over a wide range by the transparent electrode arranged inside the transparent protective panel. For this reason, when the operation input unit has a complicated configuration or is fine, the operation input may be erroneously detected, and accurate input information may not be accepted.

  In order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention can accurately and surely accept an operation input by a human body to an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle or an operation input unit of the in-vehicle device. An object of the present invention is to provide an input device and an in-vehicle device control device.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a capacitance-type input device according to the present invention includes an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle and a sensor electrode disposed in at least one of an operation input unit of the in-vehicle device. , An auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode, at least the sensor electrode is connected, a detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the connected electrode, and the detection of the auxiliary electrode A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state not connected to the circuit and a second connection state connecting the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit; and from the detection circuit in the first connection state Based on a comparison value comparing the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state, and the first or second capacitance value, Human body Determines whether within the detection range of the serial sensor electrode, characterized by comprising an operation input receiving means for receiving an operation input by the human body with respect to the vehicle equipment based on the determination result.

  The change-over switch is configured to be able to open, connect to the ground, or to a predetermined potential, for example, when the auxiliary switch is in the first connection state.

  The shield switch further includes a shield drive circuit that applies a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode, and the changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit, for example, in the first connection state. ing.

  Further, the capacitance type input device according to the present invention includes an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle, a sensor electrode disposed in at least one of the in-vehicle device, an auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode, A detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the sensor electrode; a shield drive circuit for applying a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode; and a first circuit for connecting the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit. A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential, and a first switch from the detection circuit in the first connection state. 1 based on a comparison value comparing the capacitance value of 1 and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state, and the first or second capacitance value. Wherein it is determined whether it is within the detection range of the sensor electrode, characterized by comprising an operation input receiving means for receiving an operation input by the human body with respect to the vehicle equipment based on the determination result.

  Furthermore, the capacitance-type input device according to the present invention includes a sensor electrode disposed in at least one of an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle and an operation input unit of the in-vehicle device, and an auxiliary provided near the sensor electrode. An electrode, a detection circuit that detects a capacitance value based on capacitance from the connected electrode, a first connection state in which the sensor electrode is connected to the detection circuit, and the sensor electrode to the detection circuit A first changeover switch that can selectively switch between a second connection state that is not connected and the first switch without connecting the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit when the sensor electrode is in the first connection state. A second changeover switch that can be switched to connect the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit when the switch is in the second connection state; and a first switch from the detection circuit in the case of the first connection state. Based on the comparison value comparing the capacitance value and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case of the second connection state, and the first or second capacitance value, the human body It is characterized by comprising an operation input receiving means for determining whether or not it is within a detection range on the sensor electrode and receiving an operation input by a human body for the in-vehicle device based on the determination result.

  The first changeover switch is configured to be able to open, connect to the ground or a predetermined potential of the sensor electrode in the second connection state, for example, and the second changeover switch is, for example, in the first connection state. Sometimes, the auxiliary electrode is open, grounded, or connectable to a predetermined potential.

  A shield driving circuit that applies a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode or a potential equivalent to the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode; and the first changeover switch is, for example, in the second connection state Sometimes the sensor electrode is configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit, and the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit, for example, in the first connection state. .

  A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equivalent to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode is further provided, and the first changeover switch opens the auxiliary electrode, for example, is connected to ground or a predetermined potential in the second connection state. The second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state, for example.

  A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equivalent to that of the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode is further provided, and the first changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield driving circuit in the second connection state, for example. For example, the second changeover switch is configured to be able to open the auxiliary electrode, connect to the ground, or to a predetermined potential in the first connection state.

  The auxiliary electrode is disposed, for example, so as to surround the sensor electrode.

  The sensor electrode and the auxiliary electrode are made of a transparent electrode provided on, for example, a translucent protective cover member, and the operation input unit of the in-vehicle device is visible at a predetermined position in the vehicle, for example, via the translucent protective cover member. Provided with a display means so that the state and the invisible state can be changed, the display means, for example, when it is determined by the operation input reception means that the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, The operation input unit is displayed in a visible state.

  An in-vehicle device control device according to the present invention includes the capacitance-type input device according to the above-described invention, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the in-vehicle device according to information from the capacitance-type input device. When the operation input accepting unit accepts an operation input by a human body to the on-vehicle device, the operation control unit executes the operation of the on-vehicle device corresponding to the operation input. It is characterized by that.

  The in-vehicle device is at least one of a ceiling lighting device, a cup holder operating device, an ash tray operating device, a window opening / closing device, and a door opening / closing device mounted on a vehicle, for example.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the electrostatic capacitance type input device and vehicle equipment control apparatus which can receive correctly and reliably the operation input by the human body to the vehicle equipment mounted in the vehicle and the operation input part of this vehicle equipment are provided. be able to.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and the electric force line at the time of the detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the operation input reception process procedure by the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and a circuit part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning other embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the operation input reception process procedure by the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and a circuit part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning further another embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 1st detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and an electric-force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 1st detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and an electric-force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 1st detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and an electric-force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 2nd detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and an electric force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 2nd detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and an electric force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 2nd detection operation | movement of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and an electric force line. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning further another embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the electrostatic capacitance type input device, and a circuit part. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the vehicle equipment which has a vehicle equipment control apparatus provided with the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the other vehicle equipment which has a vehicle equipment control apparatus provided with the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the other vehicle equipment which has a vehicle equipment control apparatus provided with the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the other vehicle equipment which has a vehicle equipment control apparatus provided with the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the other vehicle equipment which has a vehicle equipment control apparatus provided with the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning one Embodiment of this invention.

  Exemplary embodiments of a capacitance-type input device and a vehicle-mounted device control device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a capacitive input device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an overall configuration of a capacitive sensor unit and a circuit unit of the capacitive input device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of. As shown in FIG. 1, the capacitive input device according to the present embodiment includes, for example, operation buttons B <b> 1 that are operation input units of an in-vehicle device (not shown) arranged on an instrument panel 2 in front of the vehicle. The electrostatic capacity sensor unit 10 is provided at B2 and B3 and can detect an operation input by a human body (occupant) to the operation buttons B1 to B3 by detecting a hand or a finger.

  Further, the capacitance type input device determines whether or not a hand or a finger is within the detection range on the sensor electrode based on the output from the capacitance sensor unit 10, and operates the on-vehicle device. The circuit unit 20 is configured to receive an input. Information relating to the operation input received by the circuit unit 20 (hereinafter referred to as “input information”) is output to, for example, a vehicle-mounted device control device (not shown) that controls the operation of the vehicle-mounted device mounted on the vehicle 1. .

  As shown in FIG. 2, the capacitance sensor unit 10 is configured such that a detection range Z exists in a detection region on the detection surface side, and a sensor electrode 11 formed in a rectangular flat plate shape, and a back surface of the sensor electrode 11. The shield electrode 12 is formed on the side, and the auxiliary electrode 13 is formed on the same plane as the sensor electrode 11 and formed in a square shape so as to surround the sensor electrode 11.

  The sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are disposed so as to be insulated from each other. The shield electrode 12 is preferably larger than the sensor electrode 11 in order to reduce the sensor sensitivity on the back side.

  The sensor electrode 11 detects a hand or a finger within the detection range Z of the detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 shields them from being detected on the back side of the sensor electrode 11. The auxiliary electrode 13 is used to vary the equal capacitance line (surface) on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11 so that the capacitance sensor unit 10 has directivity. In addition, the shield electrode 12 may be provided in the outer peripheral side of the auxiliary electrode 13 together with the aspect mentioned above, for example.

  The circuit unit 20 is connected to the capacitance sensor unit 10 and includes, for example, a CV conversion circuit 21 directly connected to the sensor electrode 11, an A / D converter 22, and a CPU 23. Here, a shield drive circuit 12 is further provided, and a changeover switch SW for switching the connection of the auxiliary electrode 13 between the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24 is provided.

  The CV conversion circuit 21 converts a capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 or the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 into a voltage (Voltage). The A / D converter 22 converts an analog signal indicating a voltage from the CV conversion circuit 21 into a digital signal.

  The CPU 23 controls the entire capacitance-type input device and controls the changeover switch SW, determines the detection (presence / absence) of a detection object (such as a hand or a finger) within the detection range Z of the detection area, An operation input for the in-vehicle device is accepted based on the determination result. The shield drive circuit 24 drives, for example, the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 to the same potential as the sensor electrode 11.

  The circuit unit 20 includes a storage unit (not shown) such as a RAM used as a temporary storage area of the CPU 23 or a ROM for storing data. In addition, the capacitance sensor unit 10 is formed on a substrate (not shown), for example. As this board | substrate, any board | substrate of a flexible printed circuit board, a rigid board | substrate, and a rigid flexible board | substrate is employable, for example.

  Furthermore, the circuit unit 20 may be mounted and integrally provided on the same surface side or the back surface side of the substrate on which the capacitance sensor unit 10 is formed. In this case, a plurality of circuit units 20 may be provided so as to correspond to the number of capacitance sensor units 10.

  The sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13 are substrates made of an insulator such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyimide (PI), polyamide (PA), glass epoxy resin, or ceramic. It can be composed of copper, a copper alloy, a metal member (conductive material) such as aluminum or iron, an electric wire, or the like patterned on top.

  In addition, depending on the arrangement | positioning aspect of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part 10, it may be necessary to arrange | position so that it may not stand out with respect to a passenger | crew. In such a case, the substrate may be formed of a transparent panel or film, and the electrodes 11 to 13 may be transparent electrodes. The transparent electrode can be composed of, for example, tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) or a conductive polymer. As the conductive polymer, for example, PEDOT / PSS (polyethylene dioxythiophene / polystyrene sulfonic acid), PEDOT / TsO (polyethylene dioxythiophene / toluene sulfonate), or the like can be used.

  Next, the detection operation of the capacitive input device configured as described above will be described. First, an operation (operation 1) when the changeover switch SW is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 side under the control of the CPU 23 will be described. In the case of this operation 1, the connection state between the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 of the capacitance sensor unit 10 and the circuit unit 20 is as shown in FIG.

  That is, only the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. The capacitance C is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21. At this time, the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is covered with the shield electrode 12 connected to the shield drive circuit 24. For this reason, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is almost equal, and this is also the case with the operation 2 described later.

  Further, both detection objects A and B are at substantially the same distance from the sensor electrode 11. However, due to the influence of the auxiliary electrode 13 connected to the shield drive circuit 24, the above-described equal capacitance line (surface) M is in a state as shown in FIG. Lower than the sensor sensitivity to.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 4A, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection object A existing near the center of the sensor electrode 11 are the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13. ) Is small. However, as shown in FIG. 4B, the electric force lines P <b> 1 from the sensor electrode 11 to the detection object B existing outside the sensor electrode 11 are the electric force lines P <b> 2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13. It can be said that it is easily affected.

  For this reason, in the operation 1, both the detection objects A and B exist at the same distance from the sensor electrode 11, but the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is the detection object of the detection object A. It becomes larger than the object B. The first capacitance value C1 detected during such operation 1 is stored in the storage unit by the CPU 23.

  In the case of this operation 1, by connecting the auxiliary electrode 13 to the shield drive circuit 24, the sensor at the electrode end (end on the auxiliary electrode 13 side) of the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the sensor sensitivity at the center of the sensor electrode 11 is detected. Sensitivity can be lowered. Thereby, it is possible to give the capacitance sensor unit 10 a slight directivity.

  However, in this operation 1, the sensor sensitivity of the electrode end of the sensor electrode 11 is only slightly reduced. Therefore, for example, the capacitance value of the detection object C (see FIG. 3) located closer to the sensor electrode 11 than the detection object B shown in FIG. 4B is the capacitance value of the detection object A. It becomes almost equal. At this time, the equal capacitance line (surface) M is in a state as shown in FIG. For this reason, the difference between the detection objects A and C cannot be determined, and it must be said that this is a state in which a stronger directivity cannot be provided.

  Next, an operation (operation 2) when the changeover switch SW is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 side under the control of the CPU 23 will be described. In the case of this operation 2, the connection state between the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13 of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is as shown in FIG.

  That is, since the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the capacitance between the detection objects A and B is changed by the CV conversion circuit 21 by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13. Detected. At this time, as described above, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is almost equal, but the equicapacitance line (surface) M on the detection surface side (front surface side) of the sensor electrode 11 is in the state shown in FIG. Thus, it can be said that there is no directivity in the 180 ° range on the detection surface side.

  For this reason, in the operation 2, substantially the same capacitance value is detected for both detection objects A and B existing at substantially the same distance from the sensor electrode 11. Then, the second capacitance value C2 detected during such operation 2 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23 in the same manner as the first capacitance value C1.

  As described above, the operation 1 and the operation 2 described above can vary the equicapacitance line (surface) M on the detection surface side by the sensor electrode 11. Thus, the first capacitance value C1 detected when there is a slight directivity on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11 and the second capacitance detected when there is no directivity on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11. Is obtained.

  Thereafter, in the capacitive input device of this example, the following operation is performed. First, the first capacitance value C1 stored in the storage means by the CPU 23 is compared with the second capacitance value C2. For example, in the case of the operation 2 described above, since the capacitance values detected from both the detection objects A and B are substantially the same value, the detection objects A and B are at an approximately equal distance from the sensor electrode 11. It turns out that there is.

  Next, in the case of the operation 1, since the electrostatic capacitance value of the detection target B is smaller than the detection target A, the detection target B should be outside the detection electrode A with respect to the sensor electrode 11. Becomes clear. Based on these considerations, the CPU 23 compares the second capacitance value C2 with the first capacitance value C1 to determine how much the detection target is outside the central portion of the sensor electrode 11. (That is, whether or not the detection target is within a predetermined range including at least a region facing the detection surface of the sensor electrode 11 (hereinafter, may be abbreviated as “in the detection range”)). ) Can be determined.

  According to the capacitive input device configured and operated as described above, as shown in FIG. 1, for example, the operation buttons B <b> 1 to B <b> 3 of the in-vehicle devices arranged on the instrument panel 2 by the capacitive sensor unit 10. It is possible to determine whether or not there is an occupant's hand or finger in the detection range Z formed on the surface of the vehicle. The detection range Z is determined by the set directivity. For this reason, for example, even if the operation buttons B1 to B3 are small and densely arranged, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not there is a hand or a finger on the surface of each operation button B1 to B3. The detection range Z is set to an area on the sensor electrode 11.

  Based on the determination result, for example, when a hand or finger is detected, it is assumed that there is an operation input for executing the function assigned to the operation buttons B1 to B3. Outputs input information indicating operation input. The in-vehicle device control device controls the in-vehicle device to perform the operation executed by the operation input indicated by the input information. In this way, it is possible to accurately and surely accept an operation input by an occupant, and it is possible to control the operation of the in-vehicle device using input information indicating the accepted operation input.

  In addition, it is assumed that there is an operation input when a hand or a finger is detected. In this case, it is assumed that there is an operation input for the operation buttons B1 to B3. The corresponding operation button in B3 is highlighted, and the capacitance value based on the capacitance when the occupant's hand or finger actually presses or touches the operation buttons B1 to B3 is detected. Or the like, the operation input may be accepted for the first time. Here, the operation input reception process will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation input receiving process procedure by the capacitance type input device. In the following description, the same parts as those already described are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof may be omitted, and the parts not particularly related to the present invention may not be specified.

  Here, the capacitance type input device, for example, causes the ignition switch of the vehicle 1 to act as a trigger for determining whether or not to start the operation input reception process, and whether or not this is electrically ON. When this is electrically turned on, the operation input acceptance process is started.

  Specifically, the electrostatic capacitance type input device determines whether or not the ignition switch is switched from the OFF state to the accessory, ON, or start state and turned on electrically. Here, it is assumed that power is already supplied to the capacitive input device and is electrically turned on, and the operation input reception process is started.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 6, first, when the processing is started, the capacitive input device controls the connection state of the auxiliary electrode 13 by the changeover switch SW under the control of the CPU 23 of the circuit unit 20. Switch to the second connection state. Thus, the capacitance value (first and second capacitance values C1, C2) is detected in the capacitance sensor unit 10 (step S102), and these are compared to calculate a comparison value (step S103). .

  Then, based on the first capacitance value C1 or the second capacitance value C2, it is determined whether or not a detection target (hand, finger, etc.) is close to the sensor electrode 11 (step S104). ). At the same time, it is determined whether or not the calculated comparison value is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value set in advance (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value, for example) (step S105).

  When it is determined that a hand or a finger is in proximity (Y in step S104) and the comparison value is determined to be equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (Y in step S105), the hand or finger is detected. (Step S106), and accepting an input for accepting an operation input (Step S107). In addition, if input reception is performed in this step S107, the input information which shows operation input will be output with respect to a vehicle equipment control apparatus.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the hand or finger is not in proximity (N in step S104), or when it is determined that the comparison value is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold (N in step S105), the hand or finger Are determined not to be detected (step S108). Then, after receiving the input in step S107 or after determining that it is not detected in step S108, based on the ignition switch as described above, whether or not the capacitive input device is in an electrically OFF state. It is determined whether or not the process is terminated (step S109).

  If it is determined that the process is to be terminated (Y in step S109), the series of operation input acceptance processes according to this flowchart is terminated. When it is determined that the process is not ended (N in Step S109), the process proceeds to Step S102, and the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 of the capacitance sensor unit 10 are detected. Repeat the process.

  Specifically, for example, in step S104, when the first capacitance value C1 is larger than the predetermined threshold value Th1, it can be determined that a hand, a finger, or the like has approached the sensor electrode 11. Set it. At this time, for example, in step S105, the comparison value α or the comparison value β calculated by a calculation formula such as the comparison value α = (a × C1) − (b × C2) or the comparison value β = d × C1 / C2. Is smaller than the arbitrary threshold value Th2 as a predetermined threshold value set in advance, it is set so that it can be determined that it is outside the detection range Z.

  Only when the hand or finger is close (Y in step S104) and the comparison value is equal to or greater than the threshold Th2 (Y in step S105), the hand or finger is determined to be detected. (Step S106). Thus, according to the capacitance type input device of this example, the detection range Z on the surface of the operation buttons B1 to B3 of the in-vehicle devices arranged on the instrument panel 2 of the vehicle 1 (on the sensor electrode 11). An operation input can be received by accurately and reliably detecting the proximity of a hand or a finger to the inside. If the received input information is used in the in-vehicle device control apparatus, it is possible to accurately execute the operation of the in-vehicle device corresponding to the operation input.

  Note that the coefficients a, b, and c in the comparison values α and β, the calculation formulas of the comparison values α and β, the values of the threshold values Th1 and Th2, and the like may be as follows. That is, these change depending on factors such as the sensor shape of the capacitance sensor unit 10, the surrounding environment of the installation, and the characteristics of the detection target. For this reason, what is necessary is just to set it sequentially, taking a profile, when these each factor is decided.

  Further, in the above-described example, the proximity of the hand or the finger is determined by comparing using the value obtained by dividing the first capacitance value C1 by the second capacitance value C2. In addition, for example, the first capacitance value C1 is compared using a value obtained by dividing the first capacitance value C1 by the sum of the first capacitance value C1 and the second capacitance value C2, or other calculations are performed. You may make it determine proximity | contact using a method.

  Thus, according to the capacitance type input device of the present example, for example, when the threshold Th2 is large, the intensity of directivity of the sensor sensitivity of the capacitance sensor unit 10 is high, and when the threshold Th2 is small, the capacitance is low. Can do. Accordingly, it is possible to arbitrarily set the detection range Z on the surface of the operation buttons B1 to B3 of the in-vehicle devices arranged on the instrument panel 2 by arbitrarily adjusting the directivity, and to have a desired directivity. Only hands and fingers in the detection range Z can be detected reliably and accurately.

  The CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 20 described above uses, for example, a known timer IC in which the duty ratio of the output pulse is changed by a resistor and a capacitor, but is not limited to this.

  That is, for example, a method in which a sine wave is applied to directly measure an impedance from a voltage change or a current value due to a capacitance value, a method in which an oscillation circuit is configured including a capacitance value to be measured, and an oscillation frequency is measured, RC A charge / discharge circuit is configured to measure the charge / discharge time, a charge charged with a known voltage is transferred to a known capacity and the voltage is measured, or an unknown capacity is charged with a known voltage and the charge is charged. There is a method to measure the number of times until the known capacity is charged to a predetermined voltage by moving it to a known capacity multiple times, setting a threshold value for the detected capacitance value, or a waveform of the capacitance May be processed as a trigger when the corresponding capacitance waveform is obtained.

  In addition, it is assumed that the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 20 converts the electrostatic capacity into a voltage, but it is only necessary to convert the data into data that can be handled electrically or as software. For example, the electrostatic capacity is converted into a pulse width. It may be converted or directly converted into a digital value.

  Furthermore, in the capacitance type input device described above, the operation buttons B1 to B1 of the in-vehicle device in which the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13 of the capacitance sensor unit 10 are arranged on the instrument panel 2 of the vehicle 1 are used. Arranged in B3 respectively. An example in which detection of a hand, a finger, or the like is determined by comparing the first capacitance value C1 of only the sensor electrode 11 with the second capacitance value C2 of the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 is given. For example, the following may be used.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the circuit unit of the capacitance type input device. The electrostatic capacity type input device of this example has a configuration in which a dummy sensor electrode (dummy electrode) 19 is arranged in addition to the sensor electrode 11, and the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 20 operates differentially. It is configured as.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the plus side input end of the differential amplifier circuit, and the dummy electrode 19 is connected to the minus side input end, so that the electrostatic capacitance Ca is determined from the value of the capacitance Ca. The value of the capacitance Cb is subtracted. Then, the output value is compared with a threshold value by a comparator or the like to detect the hand, finger 49, or the like.

  As an operation of such a CV conversion circuit 21, for example, when the switch S1 is open (OFF), the switch S2 is grounded (GND), and the switch S3 is closed (ON), the switch S3 is operated. Open (OFF), switch S2 is switched to Vr, and switch S1 is connected to the inverting input of the operational amplifier. Then, the capacitances Ca and Cf are charged with CaVr, and the capacitances Cb and Cf are charged with CbVr.

  Next, after the switch S1 is opened (OFF) and the switch S2 is grounded (GND), the output voltage V when the switch S1 is grounded (GND) is measured. The voltage at this time is V / Vr = {(Cf + Ca) / Cf} − {(Cf + Cb) / Cf}, and a voltage corresponding to the ratio between the capacitance Ca and the capacitance Cb is output.

  As described above, the CV conversion circuit 21 is configured to perform a differential operation (differential circuit), so that the temperature characteristics of the circuit can be offset and common mode noise can be reduced. At this time, for example, the dummy electrode 19 is connected to the negative input end of the differential amplifier circuit. However, if the dummy electrode 19 is capacitively coupled to the hand or the finger 49, the sensitivity of the sensor itself is lowered.

  For this reason, the area of the dummy electrode 19 is made sufficiently small with respect to the sensor electrode 11, or another shield electrode 47 having the same potential is provided between the dummy electrode 19 and the hand or the finger 49, etc. It is necessary to reduce the capacitive coupling with the finger 49 and the like.

  In the shield drive circuit 24 described above, when the duty ratio changes according to the capacitance C, the output waveform of the sensor electrode 11 changes depending on the measured capacitance. To do. For this reason, a 1 × amplifier circuit may be configured with a voltage follower such as an operational amplifier or a source follower such as an FET, and the output of the sensor electrode 11 may be input and the output connected to the shield electrode 12 or the like. .

  Further, when the CV conversion circuit 21 operates differentially, the shield drive circuit 24 has a rectangular waveform with the voltage Vr and GND as the output waveform of the sensor electrode 11 and the frequency becomes the switching frequency of the switch. For this reason, since it does not vary depending on the capacitance value, the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier shown in FIG. 7 may be connected to the shield electrode 12 or the like. However, when a driving current is required, a rectangular wave of Vr and GND may be separately generated through an operational amplifier with a high output current.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the shield electrode 12 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24, and the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the shield electrode 24 or C via the changeover switch SW. It was configured to be connected to the −V conversion circuit 21. In addition, for example, when the CV conversion circuit 21 operates differentially, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the negative side input end shown in FIG. 7, the shield electrode 12 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24, and You may comprise so that the auxiliary electrode 13 may each be connected to a plus side input end.

  In this case, in the operation 2 described above, the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the sensor electrode 11 and there is almost no directivity. However, in the operation 1 described above, the capacitance coupling value between the auxiliary electrode 13 and the hand or the finger 49 is subtracted from the capacitance value of the sensor electrode 11, resulting in a loose directivity. It becomes. Similar to the case described above, the same effect can be obtained by comparing the detection values in the operation 1 and the operation 2.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the auxiliary switch 13 is configured to be connected to the shield drive circuit 24 during the operation 1 and connectable to the CV conversion circuit 21 during the operation 2 by the changeover switch SW. In the case of 1 and operation 2, the equal capacitance line (surface) M is made variable.

  In addition, the auxiliary electrode 13 is configured to be connected to the shield drive circuit 24 at the time of operation 1, for example, to be open, grounded, or connectable to a predetermined potential at the time of operation 2, or for example at the time of operation 1 Can be connected to an open, grounded or predetermined potential, and can be connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 in the operation 2 to obtain the same effect. In this way, the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the open state by the changeover switch SW, or connected to the ground or other potential (including a potential equivalent to the ground, pulse, charging voltage, sine wave, etc.). May be.

  Note that the change-over switch SW only needs to have a structure capable of switching electrical connection. For example, an electronic circuit switch such as an FET or a photo MOS relay or a mechanical switch such as a contact switch can be employed. In addition to the above-described shape, the sensor electrode 11 may have various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, a rectangle, and a polygon. For example, when the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is also within the detection range Z. If the shield electrode 12 is not provided.

  The auxiliary electrode 13 is arranged so as to surround the entire periphery of the sensor electrode 11. However, as long as the detection range Z can be set, the auxiliary electrode 13 is in a state of surrounding a part or arranged in a part adjacent to the sensor electrode 11. Or you may. Further, for example, when the sensor electrode 11 is surrounded, the sensor electrode 11 may be arranged concentrically (the center is the same).

  Next, a capacitance sensor unit and a circuit unit of a capacitance type input device according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the capacitance-type input device according to the above-described embodiment, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 20 is the second static value indicating the capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13. Either the capacitance value C2 or the first capacitance value C1 indicating the capacitance detected only by the sensor electrode 11 is obtained.

  For this reason, the capacitance value detected by the structure around the installation place of the sensor electrode 11 (including the capacitance sensor unit 10) may differ. In such a case, the comparison result obtained by comparing the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 may change depending on the structure around the place where the sensor electrode 11 is installed. In order to avoid such a situation, the internal configuration of the circuit unit 20 may be further set as follows, for example.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit 10 and the circuit unit 20 of the capacitance type input device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is the capacitance type input device. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit 10 and the circuit unit 20 of the capacitance type input device. In the following description, parts that are the same as those already described are denoted by the same reference numerals, description thereof is omitted, and parts not particularly related to the present invention may not be specified.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the circuit unit 20 of this example, in addition to the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24 described above, a determination circuit 25 made of, for example, a CPU and a hand, a finger 49, and the like approach each other. An initial capacity storage device 26 that stores an electrostatic capacity value (initial capacity) when not, a switch control circuit 27 that controls the switching operation of the selector switch SW, and a buffer 28.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the capacitance type input device having the circuit unit 20 configured as described above, for example, the operation of an in-vehicle device in which the capacitance sensor unit 10 is similarly arranged on the instrument panel 2 of the vehicle 1 is used. Installed on buttons B1-B3. Thereafter, the capacitance value (initial capacitance) in the operation 1 and the operation 2 when the hand or the finger 49 is not approaching the capacitance sensor unit 10 is switched by the control of the switch control circuit 27. Detect each.

  Then, these values are stored in the initial capacity storage device 26, and the initial capacity is determined from the first and second electrostatic capacitance values C1 and C2 in the actual operations 1 and 2 described above in the determination circuit 25. These initial capacities stored in the storage device 26 are subtracted and compared. Based on the comparison result thus obtained, it is determined whether or not the hand, the finger 49 and the like are within the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11.

  More specifically, the initial capacity is stored as the first initial capacity when the changeover switch SW is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 side by the control of the switch control circuit 27 as the first initial capacity. It is stored in the device 26. In addition, the operation at the time of the operation 2 when the changeover switch SW is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 side is stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 as the second initial capacity.

  Then, in the actual operation 1, the determination circuit 25 subtracts the first initial capacity stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 from the detected first capacitance value C1 and performs the first detection. Value (detection value 1). In the actual operation 2, the second detection value (detection value 2) is obtained by subtracting the second initial capacitance stored in the initial capacitance storage device 26 from the detected second capacitance value C2. ).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 9, first, the capacitance-type input device 100 is configured as described above based on the output from the capacitance sensor unit 10 when processing is started as described with reference to FIG. 6. The first detection value and the second detection value are calculated (step S202), and these are compared to calculate a comparison value (step S203).

  Thereafter, based on the first or second detection value, it is determined whether or not the hand or the finger 49 is close (step S204). At the same time, whether the comparison value of the first detection value and the second detection value is, for example, a predetermined threshold value or more (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value). It is determined whether or not (step S205).

  That is, here, it is determined whether or not there is a hand or a finger 49 in the detection range Z based on the detection values 1 and 2 and the comparison result. Note that the detection value 2 at the time of the operation 2 in which the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 is a detection value in a state where the sensor sensitivity is not directional, The output depends on the approach to the capacitance sensor unit 10 such as 49.

  When it is determined that the hand or finger 49 is close (Y in step S204) and the comparison value is determined to be equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (Y in step S205), the hand or finger 49 or the like Is detected (step S206), and input reception for receiving the operation input as described above is performed (step S207).

  If it is determined that the hand or the finger 49 is close (Y in Step S204), but the comparison value is determined not to be equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold (N in Step S205), the hand or the finger 49 or the like Is determined not to be detected (step S208). Then, for example, a non-detection signal A (for example, a high impedance, a predetermined potential, etc.) that is a disable signal indicating that the hand or the finger 49 does not exist within the detection range Z when the directivity is given is determined and output. Output as.

  Further, for example, based on the first or second detection value (or the first or second capacitance value C1, C2), it is determined whether or not the hand or the finger 49 is close (step S204). When it is determined that the hand, the finger 49, or the like is not in proximity (N in step S204), the process proceeds to step S208 and it is determined that these are not detected. Then, for example, a non-detection signal B (a signal different from the non-detection signal A) that is a disable signal indicating that the hand or the finger 49 is not within the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11 is output as a determination output.

  After determining whether the hand or finger 49 is detected and accepting input, or after determining non-detection (after step S207 or step S208), it is determined whether or not the process is ended as described above. (Step S209).

  If it is determined that the process is to be terminated (Y in step S209), the series of operation input acceptance processes according to this flowchart is terminated. When it is determined that the process is not ended (N in step S209), the process proceeds to step S202, the first and second detection values are calculated, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  In this manner, by using the output of the determination circuit 25 as an enable signal or a disable signal, for example, according to the determination result, the enable signal is buffered when the hand or the finger 49 is within the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11. The detection value 1 is output from the buffer 28. When the hand or finger 49 is not within the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11, the determination output is fixed to a predetermined voltage such as a ground voltage or a reference voltage as a disable signal, or becomes a high impedance output. .

  When the hand or finger 49 is within the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11, the detection value 2 and the first or second capacitance values C1 and C2 are output in addition to the detection value 1. May be. The detection value 1, the detection value 2, and the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 indicate values corresponding to the distance to the sensor electrode 11 such as a hand or a finger 49, for example.

  As described above, according to the circuit unit 20 configured as described above, when a hand or a finger 49 is within the detection range Z, a detection value corresponding to the distance is output, and when the hand or finger 49 is not within the detection range Z, a predetermined voltage is output. And so on. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not there is a hand or a finger 49 in the detection range Z, and if so, how long it is. That is, it is possible to increase the intensity of the directivity of the sensor sensitivity of the capacitance sensor unit 10 or to set the directivity in more detail.

  Further, as another example of a method for avoiding dependence on the structure around the place where the capacitance sensor unit 10 is installed, these can be held by adjusting the reference voltage as follows. It becomes. That is, as shown in FIG. 10, the circuit unit 20 of this example includes a reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 and a subtraction circuit 31 in addition to the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24.

  The reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 adjusts the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 to the reference potential when measuring the initial capacitances of the first and second initial capacitances as described above. Here, the reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 includes a comparator 41, a control circuit 42, a register 43, a D / A converter 44, and an adjustment unit 45.

  For example, the reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 inputs the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 from the positive input terminal of the comparator 41 and inputs the reference voltage (Reference Voltage: RV) from the negative input terminal, and compares the two. Then, the set value of the register 43 is changed under the control of the control circuit 42 based on the comparison result.

  Further, after the output of the register 43 is converted from a digital signal to an analog signal by the D / A converter 44, the voltage is adjusted by the adjusting unit 45, and the output from the adjusting unit 45 is used to adjust the voltage of the CV conversion circuit 21. Adjust the input. In this way, in the operation 1 when the hand or the finger 49 is not close to the capacitance sensor unit 10, the setting of the register 43 is performed when the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. The value is fixed and the output of the first initial capacity is used as the reference voltage, and the set value (set value 1) at that time is stored.

  At the same time, in the operation 2 when the hand or the finger 49 is not close to the capacitance sensor unit 10, the set value of the register 43 is set when the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. The second initial capacitance output is fixed as the reference potential, and the set value (set value 2) at that time is stored.

  In the actual operation 1, the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 when the set value 1 of the register 43 is fixed is input to, for example, the plus side input terminal of the subtraction circuit 31, and the reference voltage RV is minus. The value is input to the side input terminal, and the output is subtracted by the reference voltage RV to obtain the detected value 1. Further, in the actual operation 2, the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 when the register 43 is fixed to the set value 2 is input to, for example, the plus side input terminal of the subtraction circuit 31, and the reference voltage RV is minus. The value is input to the side input terminal, and the output is subtracted by the reference voltage RV to obtain the detection value 2.

  By comparing these detection value 1 and detection value 2 thus obtained, whether or not there is a hand or a finger 49 in the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11, and if so, at what distance Determine if it exists. The input to the CV conversion circuit 21 is adjusted by, for example, increasing or decreasing the input capacitance by applying the voltage of the D / A converter 44 to the adjustment unit 45 including a fixed capacitor connected to the input. Can be realized.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a capacitance sensor unit and a circuit unit of a capacitance type input device according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a diagram of the capacitance type input device. FIG. 13 to FIG. 15 are diagrams for explaining the concept of the operation during the detection operation, and FIGS. 13 to 15 illustrate the relationship between the detection object and the lines of electric force during the first detection operation (operation 3) of the capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing for doing.

  16-18 is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation (operation | movement 4) of the electrostatic capacitance type input device. It should be noted that a description overlapping the part already described in the above-described embodiment may be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the capacitive input device according to the present embodiment has the same configuration as the capacitive input device according to the above-described embodiment, and includes a capacitive sensor unit 10 and a circuit unit. 20. The capacitance sensor unit 10 includes a sensor electrode 11, a shield electrode 12, and an auxiliary electrode 13A formed in a square shape surrounding the sensor electrode 11 in the same manner as the auxiliary electrode 13. Yes.

  The sensor electrode 11 is provided mainly for detecting a hand, a finger 49, or the like existing in the detection range Z of the detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 has the above-described action. The auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A is provided mainly to vary the equal capacitance line (surface) on the equal electrostatic side on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11.

  The circuit unit 20 is directly connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 connected to the sensor electrode 11 or the auxiliary electrode 13A, the A / D converter 22, the CPU 23, and the shield electrode 12, and the sensor electrode 11 or the auxiliary electrode. And a shield drive circuit 24 connected to 13A.

  The circuit unit 20 also switches the input from the sensor electrode 11 to the CV conversion circuit 21 or the shield drive circuit 24, and the input from the auxiliary electrode 13A to the shield drive circuit 24 or the CV conversion. A second changeover switch SW2 for switching to the circuit 21 is provided. The first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2 are configured to be switchable to the A side and the B side (see FIG. 11 and the like), respectively.

  The CV conversion circuit 21 converts the capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 or the auxiliary electrode 13A into a voltage. The A / D converter 22 operates in the same manner as described above. The CPU 23 controls the entire capacitive input device and controls the operation of the alternate connection (an alternative connection to the A side or B side) of the first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2, for example. Or the detection of the detection object (the trunk 48 or the head 49) in the detection area (the proximity or presence of the trunk 48 or the head 49) is determined. The shield drive circuit 24 drives the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13A or the sensor electrode 11 to, for example, the same potential as the sensor electrode 11.

  Since the structure and configuration of the capacitance sensor unit 10 and the circuit unit 20 and the structure and configuration of the electrodes 11 to 13A are the same as those already described in the above-described embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here. . Note that the first changeover switch SW1 is configured such that, for example, when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the sensor electrode 11 can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential. The second changeover switch SW2 May be configured such that when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the auxiliary electrode 13A can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential.

  The shield drive circuit 24 is configured to give the auxiliary electrode 13A a potential equivalent to that of the sensor electrode 11, or to give the sensor electrode 11 a potential equivalent to that of the auxiliary electrode 13A. The first changeover switch SW1 is configured so that the sensor electrode 11 can be connected to the shield drive circuit 24 when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the second changeover switch SW2 is configured so that the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24. The auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A may be configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit 24 when connected to the CV conversion circuit 21.

  Further, the shield drive circuit 24 may be configured to apply a potential equivalent to that of the sensor electrode 11 to the auxiliary electrode 13A. In this case, the first changeover switch SW1 has the sensor electrode 11 connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. The auxiliary electrode 13A may be open, grounded, or connectable to a predetermined potential when not connected. The second changeover switch SW2 may be configured to connect the auxiliary electrode 13A to the shield drive circuit 24 when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21.

  The shield drive circuit 24 is configured to give the sensor electrode 11 the same potential as the auxiliary electrode 13A. In this case, the first changeover switch SW1 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. Sometimes, the auxiliary electrode 13A may be configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit 24. The second changeover switch SW2 may be configured so that the auxiliary electrode 13A can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21.

  Next, the detection operation of the capacitive input device configured as described above will be described. First, under the control of the CPU 23, both the first and second changeover switches SW 1 and SW 2 are switched to the A side, and the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. In addition, an operation (operation 3) when the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13A are connected to the shield drive circuit 24 will be described.

  In the case of the operation 3, the connection state of the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A with the circuit unit 20 is as shown in FIG. That is, as described above, only the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. Thereby, the electrostatic capacitance C with the detection objects X, Y, W is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 only by the sensor electrode 11.

  Note that the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 of the capacitance sensor unit 10 is covered with the shield electrode 12. For this reason, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is considerably lower than that on the detection surface side because only the electric lines of force that wrap around from the detection surface (front surface) of the sensor electrode 11 are detected. Here, the detection target object X is described as a detection target object existing in the detection range Z, and the detection target objects Y and W are described as detection target objects existing outside the detection range Z.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X are less affected by the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13A.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 14, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target Y at a distance substantially equal to the detection target X are affected by the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13A. In response to this, it decreases compared to the case of the detection object X. For this reason, the detection target Y is weaker in capacitive coupling with the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target X.

  As a result, it is possible to easily identify the detection objects X and Y in the operation 3 (that is, whether the detection objects are within the detection range Z or outside the detection range Z). However, as shown in FIG. 15, in the detection target W closer to the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target Y, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 are the same as those for the detection target X in FIG. , The output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is the same.

  That is, the detection target object X and the detection target object W are on the equipotential surface (line) M in FIG. 12, and the detection value (capacitance value) in the operation 3 is the same. For this reason, it is difficult to identify whether the detection object W exists within the detection range Z or outside the detection range Z only by this operation 3. In this embodiment as well, as in the above-described embodiment, the determination is not made only by the operation 3, but the electrostatic capacitance as the first capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 at the time of the operation 3 is determined. The capacitance value C1 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23.

  Next, under the control of the CPU 23, both the first and second changeover switches SW 1 and SW 2 are switched to the B side, and the auxiliary electrode 13 A is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. In addition, an operation (operation 4) when the shield electrode 12 and the sensor electrode 11 are connected to the shield drive circuit 24 will be described.

  In addition, the structure corresponding to FIG. 12 which shows the connection state with the circuit part 20 of the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A in the capacitance-type input device in the case of the operation | movement 4 is each changeover switch SW1 in FIG. , SW2 is switched to the B side. For this reason, illustration and description are omitted here.

  In this operation 4, only the auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the sensor electrode 11 are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. Thereby, the capacitance C with the detection objects X, Y, W is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 only by the auxiliary electrode 13A. It is assumed that various conditions such as the arrangement positions of the detection objects X, Y, and W with respect to the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are the same as those in the operation 3.

  In the case of this operation 4, as shown in FIG. 16, the electric force line P2 (shield) from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X has a great influence on the electric force line P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A. For this reason, the detection object X has weak capacitance coupling with the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is compared with the detection object X in the operation 3. Become smaller.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 17, the electric force line P2 (shield) from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target Y is reduced as compared with the case with respect to the detection target X, and the electric force line P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A. Increases compared to the case of the detection object X. For this reason, in the case of the operation 4, the detection target Y has a strong capacitive coupling with the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is the detection target in the operation 3. Compared to the case for the object Y, it becomes larger.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 18, the electric lines of force P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A to the detection object W are larger than the electric lines of force P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A to the detection object X in FIG. The influence of the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the electrode 11 is also small. For this reason, in the operation 4, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 in the detection target W is larger than that in the detection target X. Then, the capacitance value C2 as the second capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 during the operation 4 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23.

  If the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 are detected in this way, the CPU 23 compares these capacitance values C1 and C2 stored in the storage means. For example, in the detection object X described above, the first capacitance value C1 in the operation 3 is larger than the second capacitance value C2 in the operation 4, but in the detection object Y, the operation The first capacitance value C1 at 3 is smaller than the second capacitance value C2 at operation 4. For this reason, in the detection target W, the first capacitance value C1 in the operation 3 and the second capacitance value C2 in the operation 4 are approximately the same.

  As described above, the CPU 23 determines how far the detection target exists from the center of the sensor electrode 11 by comparing the value of the capacitance value C2 with the capacitance value C1. Is possible. At this time, if the comparison value of the capacitance values C1 and C2 is, for example, a predetermined threshold value or more (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value), the sensor electrode 11 If it is set so that it can be determined that it is within the upper detection range Z, directivity can be arbitrarily given.

  In the explanatory diagrams shown in FIGS. 12 to 18, the detection value in the operation 3 is larger than the detection value in the operation 4 for the detection target X, and the detection value in the operation 3 is the operation 4 in the detection target Y. Smaller than the detected value. In the detection target W, the detection value in the operation 3 and the detection value in the operation 4 are described as examples. However, when various conditions such as the arrangement shape and the arrangement area of the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13A change, the vertical relationship between the operation 3 and the operation 4 on the detection objects X, Y, and W changes.

  However, the ratio (C2 / C1) of the second capacitance value C2 in the operation 4 to the first capacitance value C1 in the operation 3 is always the detection object X <the detection object Y (or the detection object W). ) So that it can be distinguished. Therefore, if the comparison formula between the operation 3 and the operation 4 is changed for each condition, the detection objects X, Y, and W can be determined. Note that the comparison formulas, comparison values, various coefficients, predetermined threshold values (Th1, Th2), and the like are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted here.

  Further, although there are cases where it cannot be expressed by a mathematical expression depending on the conditions, the values of the capacitance values C1 and C2 at the position on the sensor electrode 11 of the detection target (hand, finger 49, etc.) are measured in advance and profiled. Each profile may be compared with the actual detection value.

  Thus, according to this capacitance type input device, for example, when the predetermined threshold Th2 is large, the directionality of the sensor sensitivity of the capacitance sensor unit 10 is high, and when the threshold value Th2 is small, the directionality of the sensor is high. The strength can be low. Thereby, the directivity of the sensor sensitivity can be arbitrarily set, and the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11 can be arbitrarily determined, and the detection target (hand, finger 49, etc.) can be reliably detected with a simple configuration. Will be able to.

  For example, when a hand or a finger 49 is detected based on the determination result, input information indicating the operation input is output to the in-vehicle device control apparatus, assuming that the operation input is present. In this way, it is possible to accurately and surely accept an operation input by an occupant and to output input information indicating the accepted operation input to an in-vehicle device control device or the like.

  Note that the various configurations and operations of the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 20 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted here. In the capacitance type input device according to the present embodiment, the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A are arranged, and the capacitance value C1 of the sensor electrode 11 and the capacitance value of the auxiliary electrode 13A are arranged. A description has been given of an example in which detection of a detection object is determined by comparing with C2. In addition, as described with reference to FIG. 7 in the above-described embodiment, the dummy electrode 19 may be disposed and the CV conversion circuit 21 may be configured to perform a differential operation. Since the various configurations and operations are the same as those described above, the description thereof is omitted here.

  Further, since the various configurations and operations of the modified example of the shield drive circuit 24 and the modified examples of the first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, Description is omitted.

  In the capacitive input device according to the present embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 13A is arranged so as to surround the entire periphery of the sensor electrode 11. Therefore, the capacitance sensor unit 10 has the same directivity in all directions of the detection surface of the sensor electrode 11 (that is, the detection range Z is the same in any direction with respect to the sensor electrode 11), but it is desired to have the directivity. When there is no direction, for example, the following may be performed.

  That is, the auxiliary electrode 13A is not disposed in a direction in which directivity is not desired, and the auxiliary electrode 13A is formed in a U shape, a C shape, an L shape, a semicircle, or the like, for example. It is also possible to reduce the directivity in the direction where there is no noise.

  Further, since the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 20 described above is either the first capacitance value C1 or the second capacitance value C2, the sensor electrode 11 (including the static capacitance 11) is included. The capacitance value detected may vary depending on the structure around the place where the capacitance sensor unit 10) is installed.

  Then, the comparison result obtained by comparing the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 may change depending on the structure around the place where the sensor electrode 11 is installed. In order to avoid such a situation, the configuration of the circuit unit 20 may be further configured as follows, for example.

  FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a capacitance sensor unit and a circuit unit of a capacitance type input device according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 20 is a diagram of the capacitance type input device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of an electrostatic capacitance sensor part and a circuit part. Note that, in the above-described embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to portions overlapping with the already described portions, and the description is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the circuit unit 20 includes a CV conversion circuit 21, a shield drive circuit 24, a determination circuit 25, an initial capacity storage device 26 that stores the above-described initial capacity, and a switching operation of each switch SW1 and SW2. A switch control circuit 27 for controlling the signal and a buffer 28.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the capacitance type input device having such a circuit unit 20, for example, after the capacitance sensor unit 10 is installed at a predetermined installation location, the hand, the finger 49, etc. The capacitance value (initial capacity) when not approaching 10 is detected by switching the switches SW1 and SW2 under the control of the switch control circuit 27, and these values are stored in the initial capacity storage device 26. Keep it.

  Then, the initial capacitance stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 is subtracted from the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 in the actual operation 3 and 4 described above in the determination circuit 25 and compared. Based on the comparison result, it is determined whether or not the hand, the finger 49 and the like are within the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11.

  Specifically, the initial capacity is set as the first initial capacity at the time of the above operation 3 when the respective switches SW1 and SW2 are connected to the A side under the control of the switch control circuit 27. The switch at the time of the above operation 4 when the switches SW1 and SW2 are connected to the B side is stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 as the second initial capacity.

  In the actual operation 3, the determination circuit 25 subtracts the first initial capacitance stored in the initial capacitance storage device 26 from the detected first capacitance value C1 and performs the first detection. A value (detection value 1), and in the case of operation 4, the second detection value is obtained by subtracting the second initial capacitance stored in the initial capacitance storage device 26 from the detected second capacitance value C2. (Detection value 2).

  Thereafter, the determination circuit 25 compares the detection value 1 with the detection value 2 and determines whether or not there is a hand, a finger 49 or the like in the detection range Z based on the comparison result. For example, the detection value 1 at the time of the operation 3 is an output that depends on the proximity of the hand or finger 49 to the capacitance sensor unit 10. Since subsequent operations, functions, effects, and the like are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  The first and second initial capacitances described above may be, for example, digitally converted from the voltage at the time of initial capacitance measurement by an A / D converter or the like and held in a register or a memory. Thus, it is possible to hold these by adjusting the reference voltage. That is, as shown in FIG. 20, the circuit unit 20 includes a CV conversion circuit 21, a shield drive circuit 24, a reference voltage adjustment circuit 40, and a subtraction circuit 31.

  The reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 is for adjusting the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 to the reference potential at the time of initial capacitance measurement of the first and second initial capacitances as described above. , A comparator 41, a control circuit 42, a register 43, a D / A converter 44, and an adjustment unit 45. Since these configurations, operations, and the like are also the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  The output of the first and second initial capacitors is set as a reference voltage by the reference voltage adjustment circuit 40, and the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 thus set to the reference voltage is applied to, for example, the positive side input terminal of the subtraction circuit 31. Then, the reference voltage RV is input to the negative input terminal, the output is subtracted by the reference voltage RV, and the first and second initial capacitances are subtracted. It is possible to determine whether or not, and if so, how long the distance is.

  As described above, according to the capacitance-type input device according to the above-described embodiment, whether there is an occupant's hand or finger 49 in the detection range Z on the sensor electrode 11 by the capacitance sensor unit 10. It can be determined whether or not. Then, based on the determination result, when a hand or finger 49 is detected, it is possible to output input information indicating the operation input, for example, to the in-vehicle device control device, assuming that the operation input is present.

  The in-vehicle device control device can control the in-vehicle device to perform an operation performed by an operation input indicated by input information obtained by the capacitance type input device. In this way, it is possible to receive an operation input by the occupant accurately and reliably, and it is possible to control the operation of the in-vehicle device using the input information indicating the received operation input.

  Next, an example of the in-vehicle device when the in-vehicle device control apparatus including the capacitive input device according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described. FIGS. 21-25 is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the vehicle equipment which has a vehicle equipment control apparatus provided with the electrostatic capacitance type input device concerning one Embodiment of this invention.

  As shown in FIG. 21, here, the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitive input device forms a detection range Z below the lighting device 91 in the lighting device 91 provided on the ceiling 101 of the vehicle 1. As such, it is attached to the surface or built in the ceiling portion 101. The in-vehicle device control device is configured to be able to control the operation of turning on / off the lighting device 91, for example.

  The in-vehicle device control apparatus configured as described above operates as follows, for example. That is, when an occupant or the like of the vehicle 1 holds a hand over the lighting device 91, the hand is detected within the detection range Z of the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device. Thereby, an operation input is received, input information is output from the capacitive input device to the in-vehicle device control device, and the above-described operation of the lighting device 91 based on this input information is controlled by the in-vehicle device control device.

  In this way, even if an occupant or the like moves the sun visor 102 arranged on the ceiling 101 of the vehicle 1 or wipes the windshield 103, the lighting device 91 is operated unless detected within the detection range Z. There is no. For this reason, it is possible to operate accurately without operating the operation switch or the like of the lighting device 91, and convenience can be improved.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 22, here, the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device includes a cup holder 92 and an ash tray 93 incorporated in the instrument panel 2 below the windshield 103 of the vehicle 1. Along this surface, the detection range Z (not shown) is formed in front of these surfaces so as to be built in or attached to the surface. The in-vehicle device control device is configured to be able to control the opening / closing operation of the cup holder 92 and the ash tray 93, for example.

  The in-vehicle device control apparatus configured as described above operates as follows, for example. That is, when an occupant or the like of the vehicle 1 holds a hand or the like in front of the cup holder 92 or the ash tray 93, the hand is within the detection range Z of the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device. Detected. As a result, an operation input is received, and input information is output from the capacitive input device to the in-vehicle device control device, and the in-vehicle device control device performs the above-described operations of the cup holder 92 and the ash tray 93 based on the input information. Be controlled.

  Specifically, for example, when a hand or the like is detected when these are fully closed, the cup holder 92 or the ash tray 93 is driven to be fully opened, and when these are fully open, a hand or the like is detected. Drive to be fully closed. The cup holder 92 may be fully closed only when a cup is not placed on the cup holder 92 based on information from a sensor or the like that detects the presence or absence of a separately provided cup. Since these drive mechanisms are well-known techniques, description thereof is omitted here.

  In this way, when an occupant or the like intentionally holds a hand or the like in front of the surface of the cup holder 92 or the ash tray 93, these can be opened and closed. For this reason, it becomes possible to operate them accurately without pushing and pulling them by hand or operating an operation switch provided separately, thereby improving convenience. For the ash tray 93, the detection range Z may be set so as not to detect a hand holding the shift lever 104 or the like. The sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 may be formed in a square shape and may be disposed so as to surround the surface of the cup holder 92 or the ash tray 93 in the instrument panel 2.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 23A, here, the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device has a detection range Z (on the surface of each of the plurality of operation units 94 of the side door 3 of the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 23B, it is built in the side door 3 so as to form (not shown). The in-vehicle device control device is configured to be able to control the vertical movement of the window glass 4 attached to the side door 3, for example.

  The in-vehicle device control apparatus configured as described above operates as follows, for example. That is, when a vehicle occupant or the like brings a finger 49 (not shown) close to the operation unit 94, the finger 49 is detected within the detection range Z of the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device. The In this state or by actually touching the operation unit 94, an operation input assigned to each operation unit 94 (for example, an operation input indicating rising or lowering of the window glass 4) is received, and the input information is received. It outputs to a vehicle equipment control apparatus from an electrostatic capacitance type input device, and the said operation | movement of the window glass 4 based on this input information is controlled by the vehicle equipment control apparatus.

  As shown in FIG. 23C, if the operation portion 94 is formed in a concave shape in cross section and the capacitance sensor portion 10 is built in the side door 3 along this shape, the distance of the detection range Z and The width, size, etc. can be adjusted arbitrarily. If a wide-angle capacitive sensor unit (not shown) is arranged in the vicinity of the capacitive sensor unit 10 and proximity is detected prior to receiving an operation input by the finger 49, the capacitive sensor unit Ten detection timings can also be adjusted.

  If it does in this way, unlike the operation part of the conventional window glass 4, it is not necessary to arrange | position an operation part on the armrest inside the side door 3, and space saving can be promoted and the window glass 4 can be promoted. Since it can be operated accurately, it is possible to effectively use the interior space of the vehicle and improve convenience.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 24 (a), here, the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device is provided with an arrow A in the door handle 6 attached to the outside of the side door 3 of the vehicle. On the different surfaces of the door handle 6 as shown by or B, they are arranged so as to form detection ranges Z as shown in FIG. The in-vehicle device control device is configured to be able to control the lock / unlock operation of the side door 3.

  For example, the detection range Z formed in the direction indicated by the arrow A in FIG. 24A is set as a range for detecting the lock operation input, and the detection range Z formed in the direction indicated by the arrow B in the drawing is unlocked. The range for detecting operation input. For example, as shown in FIG. 24C, the detection range Z for detecting the unlock operation input is provided in the door handle 6 so as to form the detection range Z in the direction opposite to the direction indicated by the arrow B. It may be based on the electrostatic capacitance sensor unit 10 arranged in a built-in manner.

  The in-vehicle device control apparatus configured as described above operates as follows, for example. That is, when a vehicle occupant or the like grasps the door handle 6 as shown in FIG. 24B or tries to contact the outermost surface of the door handle 6 as shown in FIG. It is detected within the detection range Z of the unlock operation input of the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device. Further, as shown in FIG. 24A, when an attempt is made to contact the upper surface of the attachment end of the door handle 6, the finger 49 is detected within the detection range Z of the lock operation input of the capacitance sensor unit 10. The

  Then, a lock / unlock operation input is received, and input information is output from the capacitive input device to the in-vehicle device control device. The in-vehicle device control device performs the above-described operation of the side door 3 based on the input information. Done. The in-vehicle device control device controls the lock / unlock operation of the side door 3 by using, for example, user key authentication information by a known smart entry system in addition to the input information from the capacitive input device. You may make it do.

  In this way, when an occupant or the like intends to contact a predetermined position of the door handle 6, the operation input for locking / unlocking the side door 3 can be performed without using a vehicle key or the like. This can be performed accurately and reliably by operation input, and convenience for the vehicle user including the passenger can be improved.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 25, here, the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device has a detection range on the surface of the device operation unit 7 of the in-vehicle device arranged on the instrument panel 2 of the vehicle 1. In order to form Z, it is constituted and arranged by a transparent electrode. The in-vehicle device control device is configured to perform control of operation of the in-vehicle device based on an operation input by the hand 70 to the device operation unit 7 or control for displaying the device operation unit 7 so as to be visible. The device operation unit 7 is also made of a translucent member, and the device operation unit 7 is formed by a switch of a type that detects contact pressure or capacitance.

  The in-vehicle device control device configured as described above operates as follows, for example. That is, as shown in FIG. 25 (a), since the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device is constituted by a transparent electrode, it is normally arranged integrally with the vehicle-mounted device so as not to stand out. Is done. Then, as shown in FIG. 25 (b), when an occupant or the like holds the hand 70 over the device operation unit 7 of the in-vehicle device, the hand 70 is connected to the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the capacitance type input device. It is detected within the detection range Z.

  As a result, the in-vehicle device control device first turns on the LED 8 as the light emitting means arranged on the back side of the device operation unit 7 and displays the device operation unit 7 so as to be visible. Since the capacitance sensor unit 10 is configured by a transparent electrode, the device operation unit 7 is displayed so as to float on the surface of the instrument panel 2.

  Then, the occupant performs an operation input to the device operation unit 7 displayed using a finger 49 (not shown) or the like, so that the operation input assigned to each device operation unit 7 is accepted, and the input information is static. It outputs to a vehicle equipment control apparatus from a capacitive input device, and the said operation | movement of the vehicle equipment based on this input information is controlled by the vehicle equipment control apparatus.

  In this way, the design of the instrument panel 2 can be improved because the device operation unit 7 cannot be seen before the occupant of the vehicle 1 holds the hand 70 over the device operation unit 7 of the in-vehicle device. There is no loss. Further, when necessary, the device operation unit 7 can be displayed to be operable only by holding the hand 70 over the device operation unit 7, so that the device operation unit 7 can be reliably operated.

  Furthermore, if the capacitance sensor unit 10 is arranged for each device operation unit 7, an operation input to each capacitance sensor unit 10 can be detected and used as an operation input to the device operation unit 7. In addition, the device operation unit 7 having a complicated structure is not required and can be configured at low cost. In addition, the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 may be formed in a square shape and may be disposed so as to surround each device operation unit 7 in the instrument panel 2.

  As described above, according to the capacitance-type input device according to the above-described embodiment, whether or not there is a hand, a finger, or the like within the detection range Z having a desired directivity by the capacitance sensor unit 10. Can be accurately and reliably determined. Further, according to the above-described in-vehicle device control device, on the basis of this determination result, if an operation input is detected when a hand or a finger is detected, the operation executed by the operation input indicated by the input information is applied to the in-vehicle device. Can be done. As described above, the operation input can be received accurately and reliably, and the operation of the in-vehicle device can be controlled using the input information indicating the received operation input.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Vehicle 2 Instrument panel 3 Side door 4 Window glass 6 Door handle 7 Equipment operation part 10 Capacitance sensor part 11 Sensor electrode 12 Shield electrode 13 Auxiliary electrode 13A Auxiliary electrode 19 Dummy electrode 20 Circuit part 21 CV conversion circuit 22 A / D converter 23 CPU
24 Shield Drive Circuit 25 Judgment Circuit 26 Initial Capacity Storage Device 27 Switch Control Circuit 28 Buffer 31 Subtraction Circuit 40 Reference Voltage Adjustment Circuit 41 Comparator 42 Control Circuit 43 Register 44 D / A Converter 45 Adjustment Unit 49 Finger 70 Hand 91 Illumination Device 92 Cup holder 93 Ash tray 94 Operation part 101 Ceiling part 102 Sun visor 103 Windshield 104 Shift lever

Claims (13)

A sensor electrode disposed on at least one of an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle and an operation input unit of the in-vehicle device;
An auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode;
A detection circuit connected to at least the sensor electrode and detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the connected electrode;
A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is not connected to the detection circuit and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is connected to the detection circuit;
A comparison value comparing a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the first connection state with a second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state; and the first Based on the first or second capacitance value, it is determined whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, and based on the determination result, an operation input reception for receiving an operation input by the human body on the in-vehicle device is received. And a capacitance type input device. The capacitance type input device according to claim 1, wherein the change-over switch is configured to be able to open, ground, or connect the auxiliary electrode to a predetermined potential in the first connection state. . A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
The capacitive input device according to claim 1, wherein the change-over switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state. A sensor electrode disposed on at least one of an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle and an operation input unit of the in-vehicle device;
An auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode;
A detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the sensor electrode;
A shield drive circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is connected to the shield drive circuit and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is opened, grounded or connected to a predetermined potential;
A comparison value comparing a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the first connection state with a second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state; and the first Based on the first or second capacitance value, it is determined whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, and based on the determination result, an operation input reception for receiving an operation input by the human body on the in-vehicle device is received. And a capacitance type input device. A sensor electrode disposed on at least one of an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle and an operation input unit of the in-vehicle device;
An auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode;
A detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on the capacitance from the connected electrodes;
A first changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state in which the sensor electrode is connected to the detection circuit and a second connection state in which the sensor electrode is not connected to the detection circuit;
When the sensor electrode is in the first connection state, the auxiliary electrode is not connected to the detection circuit, and when the first changeover switch is in the second connection state, the auxiliary electrode is connected to the detection circuit. A switchable second changeover switch,
A comparison value comparing the first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case of the first connection state and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case of the second connection state. And based on the first or second capacitance value, it is determined whether or not the human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode, and based on the determination result, an operation input by the human body to the in-vehicle device is performed An electrostatic capacity type input device comprising an operation input receiving means for receiving. The first changeover switch is configured to be able to open the sensor electrode, connect to ground or a predetermined potential in the second connection state,
The capacitive input according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to open the auxiliary electrode, connect to the ground, or a predetermined potential when the second connection switch is in the first connection state. apparatus. A shield driving circuit for giving the auxiliary electrode the same potential as the sensor electrode, or giving the sensor electrode the same potential as the auxiliary electrode,
The first changeover switch is configured to connect the sensor electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state,
The capacitive input device according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
The first changeover switch is configured to be able to open the auxiliary electrode in the second connection state, connect to ground or a predetermined potential,
The capacitive input device according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode;
The first changeover switch is configured to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state,
The capacitive input according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to open the auxiliary electrode, connect to the ground, or a predetermined potential when the second connection switch is in the first connection state. apparatus. The capacitive input device according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary electrode is disposed so as to surround the sensor electrode. The sensor electrode and the auxiliary electrode are made of a transparent electrode provided on the light transmission protection cover member,
The operation input unit of the in-vehicle device is provided with a display unit so that a visible state and an invisible state can be changed at a predetermined position in the vehicle via the light transmission protection cover member,
The said display means displays the said operation input part in a visible state, when it determines with the said operation input reception means being in the detection range on the said sensor electrode. The capacitance-type input device of any one of these. The capacitance-type input device according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
In accordance with information from the capacitance-type input device, an in-vehicle device control device comprising operation control means for controlling the operation of the in-vehicle device,
The operation control means executes an operation of the in-vehicle device corresponding to the operation input when an operation input by the human body to the in-vehicle device is received by the operation input receiving means. . The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 12, wherein the vehicle-mounted device is at least one of a ceiling lighting device, a cup holder operating device, an ash tray operating device, a window opening / closing device, and a door opening / closing device mounted on a vehicle. Equipment control device.

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