JP2010235059A - Control pedal device for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a control pedal device for a vehicle used for various kinds of controls of the vehicle by detecting action prior to stepping action to a pedal of an occupant of the vehicle. <P>SOLUTION: The control pedal device for the vehicle includes an electro-static capacity sensor part 10 and a control part 20, and further has a traveling control part 32, a communication control part 33 and a lighting control part 34. The electro-static capacity sensor part 10 includes a sensor electrode 11 formed/arranged on a pedal pad 1 of a brake pedal of the vehicle in an elliptical flat plate shape; a shield electrode 12 formed on a back surface side of the sensor electrode 11; and an auxiliary electrode 13 formed so as to surround the sensor electrode 11. Directivity is set using a first electro-static capacity value C1 detected only by the sensor electrode 11 and a second electro-static capacity value C2 detected by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13, and when a detection range Z is formed on the pedal pad and a foot 70 is detected, a control signal of the vehicle is outputted by the control part 20 prior to stepping-in of the pedal pad 1. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a pedal device mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile, and more particularly to a vehicle control pedal device that is used for various controls of a vehicle by detecting the operation before the pedal is depressed.

  A brake lamp lighting device (for example, see Patent Document 1 (page 3-5, Fig. 1-3)) is known as a device that controls lighting of a brake lamp of a vehicle. The brake lamp lighting device includes an auxiliary brake lamp, a sudden brake detection sensor that detects that a sudden brake has been applied to the traveling vehicle, and an auxiliary brake lamp that detects when the sudden brake is detected by the sudden brake detection sensor. Lighting control means for lighting the lamp in a predetermined manner.

JP 2003-205782 A

  However, in the brake lamp lighting device disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above, when the brake pedal is actually depressed by the driver and sudden braking is applied, the auxiliary brake lamp is turned on to alert the following vehicle. Is. For this reason, it is not assumed that the driver will notify the following vehicle in advance that the brake operation is started, and there is a problem that it is difficult to call attention earlier and prevent the vehicle from colliding.

  The present invention provides a vehicle control pedal device that can be used for various control of a vehicle by detecting the operation of the vehicle occupant prior to the stepping on the pedal in order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art. The purpose is to do.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a vehicle control pedal device according to the present invention is provided with a sensor electrode provided on a pedal pad of a pedal device mounted on a vehicle and in the vicinity of the sensor electrode. The auxiliary 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 a first connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is not connected to the detection circuit A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a second connection state for connecting the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit, a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the first connection state, Based on the comparison value obtained by comparing the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state and the first or second capacitance value, the human body detects the detection range on the pedal pad. A comparison determination means for determining whether or not within, based on a determination result from said comparison and determination means, characterized in that a control means for outputting a control signal related to the vehicle.

  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.

  The vehicle control pedal device according to the present invention includes a sensor electrode provided on a pedal pad of a pedal device mounted on a vehicle, an auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode, and a static electricity from the sensor electrode. A detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance; a shield drive circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode; and a first connection for connecting the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a state and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is open, grounded or connected to a predetermined potential, and a first static from the detection circuit in the first connection state Based on the comparison value comparing the capacitance value and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state, and the first or second capacitance value, the human body Comparing and determining means for determining whether or not it is within a detection range on the dull pad, and control means for outputting a control signal related to the vehicle based on a determination result from the comparison and determining means. .

  Furthermore, the vehicle control pedal device according to the present invention includes a sensor electrode provided on a pedal pad of a pedal device mounted on a vehicle, an auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode, and a connected electrode. A detection circuit that detects a capacitance value based on capacitance, 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. A first changeover switch that can be selectively switched, and the auxiliary electrode is not connected to the detection circuit when the sensor electrode is in the first connection state, and the first changeover switch is in the second connection state. A second changeover switch that is sometimes switchable to connect the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit, a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case of the first connection state, and the second Based on the comparison value obtained by comparing the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case of the continuous state and the first or second capacitance value, the human body is within the detection range on the pedal pad. Comparison determining means for determining whether or not there is provided, and control means for outputting a control signal related to the vehicle based on a determination result from the comparison determination means.

  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 for applying a potential equal to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode, or a potential equivalent to the auxiliary electrode for the sensor electrode, and the first changeover switch includes, for example, the second connection The sensor electrode is configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit when in a state, and 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. ing.

  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 in the second connection state, grounds, or has a predetermined potential, for example. 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 drive circuit for applying a potential equivalent to that of the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode is further provided, and the first changeover switch can connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state, for example. The second changeover switch is configured such that, for example, the auxiliary electrode can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential in the first connection state.

  You may further provide the shield electrode which is arrange | positioned in the state insulated with respect to this sensor electrode on the back surface side on the opposite side to the detection surface of the said sensor electrode, and shields the detection of the back surface side of the said sensor electrode.

  The shield electrode is connected to a shield drive circuit for applying a potential equal to at least one of the sensor electrode and the auxiliary electrode to the shield electrode, for example.

  For example, the auxiliary electrode is disposed on the same plane as the detection surface of the sensor electrode and is insulated from the sensor electrode.

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

  The auxiliary electrode is arranged concentrically with the sensor electrode, for example.

  For example, the comparison determination unit calculates a comparison value by multiplying a value obtained by dividing the first capacitance value by the second capacitance value by a predetermined coefficient, and the comparison value is preset. It is determined whether or not there is a human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, depending on whether or not the predetermined threshold value is exceeded.

  The detection circuit further includes a dummy electrode covered with a shield electrode, and the detection circuit is configured to be differentially operable, and one input terminal of the detection circuit is directly connected to the sensor electrode or the first changeover switch And the other input terminal of the detection circuit may be connected to the dummy electrode.

  The dummy electrode is formed, for example, so that the area of the electrode surface is ½ or less of the area of the detection surface of the sensor electrode.

  The detection circuit includes, for example, a first initial capacitance that is an initial capacitance of the first capacitance value when there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, and a human body within the detection range on the pedal pad. And a second initial capacitance that is an initial capacitance of the second capacitance value when there is no data, and the comparison and determination means detects the first initial capacitance from the first capacitance value, for example. A comparison value obtained by subtracting the first detection value obtained by subtracting the second detection value obtained by subtracting the second initial capacitance from the second capacitance value, and the first or second detection value. Based on the above, it is determined whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the pedal pad.

  Reference voltage adjusting means for setting the output of the detection circuit to a reference voltage is further provided, and the detection circuit, for example, an initial value of the first capacitance value when there is no human body within a detection range on the pedal pad. A first set value for adjusting a first initial capacitance, which is a capacitance, to the reference voltage, and an initial capacitance of the second capacitance value when there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad. A second setting value for adjusting a second initial capacitance to the reference voltage, and a first capacitance value adjusted by the first setting value; and the second setting value. A second capacitance value adjusted according to the value, and the comparison and determination means subtracts the reference voltage from the first capacitance value adjusted according to the first set value, for example. The first detection value, and Based on the comparison value obtained by subtracting the reference voltage from the second capacitance value adjusted by the set value of 2 as the second detection value and the first or second detection value It is determined whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the pedal pad.

  For example, when the comparison determination unit determines that there is a human body within a detection range on the pedal pad, the first capacitance value, the second capacitance value, the first detection value, When a signal corresponding to the distance of the human body to the sensor electrode is output based on one of the second detection values and it is determined that there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, the The output is set to a predetermined potential.

  The predetermined potential is, for example, a ground potential or a reference potential.

  For example, when the comparison determination unit determines that there is a human body within a detection range on the pedal pad, the first capacitance value, the second capacitance value, the first detection value, When a signal corresponding to the distance of the human body to the sensor electrode is output based on one of the second detection values and it is determined that there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, the Set the output to high impedance.

  The sensor electrode is provided, for example, on a brake pedal pad of a brake pedal device, and the control means controls the vehicle when the human body is determined to be within a detection range on the brake pedal pad according to the determination result. For example, a signal for turning on or blinking a brake lamp is output as the signal.

  The sensor electrode is provided, for example, on a brake pedal pad of a brake pedal device, and the control means determines that the vehicle is in the detection range on the brake pedal pad when it is determined that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad. For example, a signal for causing a weak current weaker than the lighting current to flow through the brake lamp is output as the control signal.

  When the determination result indicates that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad, the control means indicates that a brake is applied to the following vehicle as a control signal related to the vehicle, for example, by inter-vehicle communication. At least one of a signal to be notified and a signal for preparing for interruption in which a brake signal is preferentially transmitted in the in-vehicle LAN is output.

  When the determination result indicates that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad, the control means is, for example, a signal that causes the vehicle system to shift down or shifts to the vehicle system as a control signal related to the vehicle. Output a signal to prepare for down.

  The control means outputs, for example, a signal that causes the vehicle system to start preparation for brake assist as a control signal related to the vehicle when it is determined by the determination result that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad. To do.

  When the control unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad according to the determination result and acquires a signal indicating that cruise control is being executed, For example, a signal for causing the vehicle system to cancel the cruise control is output.

  The sensor electrode is provided, for example, on an accelerator pedal pad of an accelerator pedal device, and the control means determines that the human body is within a detection range on the accelerator pedal pad based on the determination result, and the vehicle is in an idling stop state. When a signal indicating that there is a certain signal is acquired, for example, a signal that causes the vehicle system to cancel the idling stop state is output as the control signal related to the vehicle.

  When the control unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the accelerator pedal pad according to the determination result and acquires a signal indicating that the parking brake is applied, For example, a signal for notifying the passenger that the parking brake has not been released is output.

  When the control unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the accelerator pedal pad based on the determination result and acquires a signal indicating that the seat belt is not worn, For example, a signal for notifying the passenger that the seat belt is not worn is output.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the control pedal apparatus for vehicles which can detect the operation | movement prior to stepping on the pedal of the passenger | crew of a vehicle, and can use it for various control of a vehicle can be provided.

It is a block diagram showing an example of functional composition of a control pedal device for vehicles concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles concerning one Embodiment of this invention, and a control part. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the detection operation | movement of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the detection image of the leg | foot by the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is a flowchart which shows the lighting control processing procedure as an example of the control processing by the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles, and a control part. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the other structural example of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles 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 control part of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles concerning other embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the lighting control processing procedure as an example of the control processing by the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles, and a control part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and control part of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles 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 control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of 1st detection operation | movement of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of 1st detection operation | movement of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of 1st detection operation | movement of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and control part of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles 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 control pedal apparatus for vehicles, and a control part.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a control pedal device for a vehicle according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a vehicle control pedal device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle control pedal device is mounted on a vehicle (not shown), and includes a capacitance sensor unit 10 and a control unit 20, and further includes a travel control unit 32, a communication control unit 33, and a lighting. And a control unit 34.

  The capacitance sensor unit 10 is disposed on a pedal pad of a brake pedal of a vehicle (not shown), for example, and detects a human body as a detection target. Specifically, the capacitance sensor unit 10 detects the leg at the tip of the lower leg in the lower limb of the human body. The control unit 20 outputs various control signals related to the vehicle based on information from the capacitance sensor unit 10, and controls the entire vehicle based on information from each unit such as an in-vehicle device and an auxiliary machine of the vehicle.

  The traveling control unit 32 controls various functions related to traveling of the vehicle by control signals from the control unit 20. The communication control unit 33 controls various functions related to vehicle communication such as inter-vehicle communication and in-vehicle LAN according to a control signal from the control unit 20. The lighting control unit 34 controls various functions related to lighting of the lamp 60 of the vehicle by a control signal from the control unit 20.

  In the vehicle control pedal device configured as described above, the control unit 20 determines whether or not there is a foot within the detection range on the pedal pad based on the information from the capacitance sensor unit 10. And based on this determination result, the control signal regarding the vehicle for controlling each part of a vehicle is output. Thus, for example, prior to the stepping on the pedal of the vehicle occupant, the operation can be detected and used for various controls of the vehicle.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the control unit of the vehicle control pedal device according to the embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a detection operation of the vehicle control pedal device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating an operation | movement concept. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the object to be detected and the lines of electric force during the detection operation of the control pedal device for the vehicle, and FIG. 5 is the operation during the detection operation of the control pedal device for the vehicle. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a concept.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the capacitance sensor unit 10 of the vehicle control pedal device is provided, for example, on the front surface or the back surface of the pedal pad 1 of the brake pedal, or provided therein. The capacitance sensor unit 10 includes a sensor electrode 11 formed in an elliptical flat plate shape, a shield electrode 12 formed on the back side of the sensor electrode 11, and the sensor electrode 11 formed on the same plane as the sensor electrode 11. And an auxiliary electrode 13 formed in a donut shape so as to surround it.

  The sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are arranged in a state where they are insulated from each other. For example, the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are formed in a rectangular flat plate shape and a square shape in order to reduce waste of material in accordance with the shape of the pedal pad 1. Also good. 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 foot (existing) in a detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 shields the foot 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 control unit 20 includes, for example, a CV conversion circuit 21 that is directly connected to the sensor electrode 11, an A / D converter 22, and a CPU 23. Here, the control unit 20 further includes a shield drive circuit 24, and includes auxiliary electrodes. A change-over switch SW for switching the connection 13 to 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 vehicle control pedal device, controls the operation of the changeover switch SW, and determines the detection (presence / absence) of the detection object (foot) in the detection region. 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 control unit 20 includes a storage unit (not shown) such as a RAM used as a temporary storage area of the CPU 23 or a data storage ROM. 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 board, a rigid board | substrate, or a rigid flexible board | substrate is employable, for example. Further, the control unit 20 may be mounted and integrated with the same surface side or the back surface side of the substrate on which the capacitance sensor unit 10 is formed.

  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.

  Next, the detection operation of the vehicle control pedal apparatus 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 control unit 20 of the auxiliary electrode 13 of the capacitance sensor unit 10 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 electric capacity is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21. At this time, since the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is covered with the shield electrode 12 connected to the shield drive circuit 24, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is almost equal, which will be described later. The same applies to the second operation.

  Further, although both detection objects A and B are at substantially the same distance from the sensor electrode 11, 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 shown in FIG. The sensor sensitivity for the detection target B is lower than the sensor sensitivity for the detection target A.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 4A, the electric lines of force P 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 P ′ ( Although the influence of the shield) is small, as shown in FIG. 4B, the electric lines of force P from the sensor electrode 11 to the detection object B existing outside the sensor electrode 11 are from the auxiliary electrode 13. It can be said that it is easily affected by the electric field lines P ′ (shield).

  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 and the capacitance sensor unit 10 can have a slight directivity.

  However, in this operation 1, since the sensor sensitivity of the electrode end of the sensor electrode 11 is only slightly reduced, for example, the detection present at a position closer to the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target A shown in FIG. The capacitance value of the object C (see FIG. 3) is almost equal to the capacitance value of the detection object A, and the equal capacitance line (surface) M is in a state as shown in FIG. End up. 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 control unit 20 of the auxiliary electrode 13 of the capacitance sensor unit 10 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.

  In this way, when the electrostatic capacitance line (surface) M on the detection surface side by the sensor electrode 11 is varied by the above-described operation 1 and operation 2, and there is a slight directivity on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11. The detected first capacitance value C1 and the second capacitance value C2 detected when there is no directivity on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11 are acquired.

  Thereafter, in the vehicle control pedal 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.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a foot detection image by the vehicle control pedal device. According to the vehicle control pedal device constructed and operated as described above, as shown in FIG. 6, the pedal pad 1 of the brake pedal in which the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12 (not shown), and the auxiliary electrode 13 are arranged. It can be determined whether or not the foot 70 is within the detection range Z formed above.

  Since the detection range Z on the pedal pad 1 is determined by the set directivity, if the detection range Z is set to a narrow area on the pedal pad 1, for example, the pad surface direction of the pedal pad 1 of the brake pedal Even if the foot 70 exists in the vicinity, there is no false detection. Based on the determination result of determining whether or not there is a foot 70 in this way, when the foot 70 is present, the control unit 20, before depressing the pedal pad 1, the travel control unit 32, the communication control unit 33, the lighting control unit 34, etc. A control signal is output to the vehicle and each part of the vehicle is controlled. Here, the lighting control process of the lamp 60 will be described as an example.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a lighting control processing procedure as an example of the control processing by the vehicle control pedal device. In the following, it is assumed that the same reference numerals are assigned to portions that overlap with the portions that have already been described, and descriptions thereof are omitted. As shown in FIG. 7, first, the vehicle control pedal device waits until the processing is started, for example, triggered by the ignition key of the vehicle being turned on as an accessory or ON (N in step S <b> 101).

  When the process is started (Y in step S101), the connection state of the auxiliary electrode 13 by the changeover switch SW is switched to the above-described first and second connection states by the control of the CPU 23 of the control unit 20, and electrostatic Capacitance values (first and second capacitance values C1, C2) are detected (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 the detection target (foot 70) is close to the pedal pad 1 of the brake pedal (step S104). ), It is determined whether or not the calculated comparison value is equal to or greater than 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 the foot 70 is close (Y in step S104) and the comparison value is determined to be greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value (Y in step S105), the foot 70 is determined to be detected. (Step S106), lighting control is performed (Step S107). On the other hand, when it is determined that the foot 70 is not close (N in step S104), or when it is determined that the comparison value is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (N in step S105), the foot 70 is not detected. (Step S108).

  In the lighting control (step S107), based on the control signal from the control unit 20, the lighting control unit 34 lights or blinks the brake lamp as the lamp 60 before the foot 70 actually depresses the brake pedal. A weak current that is weaker than the lighting current is passed through the lamp.

  In this way, the information that the brake is applied to the following vehicle is notified before the vehicle is braked, so that a rear-end collision can be prevented and problems such as lamp burnout due to the inrush current of the brake lamp can be prevented. It becomes possible to plan. After the lighting control in step S107 or after determining that it is not detected in step S108, for example, it is determined whether or not the process is terminated with a trigger of turning off the ignition key of the vehicle (step S109). .

  If it is determined that the process is to be terminated (Y in step S109), the series of lighting control 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, the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 are detected, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  Here, specifically, in step S104, for example, when the first capacitance value C1 is larger than an arbitrary threshold value Th1 as a predetermined threshold value, the foot 70 comes close to the sensor electrode 11. Is set so that it can be determined. 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. However, when it is smaller than an 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.

  Thereby, even when the foot 70 is close (Y in Step S104), the process proceeds to Step S105, and when the comparison value is smaller than the threshold Th2 (N in Step S105), 70 is recognized as being out of the detection range, and the foot 70 is determined not to be detected (step S108).

  Only when the foot 70 is close (Y in Step S104) and the comparison value is equal to or greater than the threshold value Th2 (Y in Step S105), the foot 70 is determined to be detected (Step S104). S106). As described above, according to the vehicle control pedal device of this example, the proximity of the foot 70 to the detection range Z on the pedal pad 1 is accurately detected, and the operation is performed, for example, prior to the depression operation of the brake pedal. It can detect and perform lighting control regarding a brake lamp.

  It should be noted that the coefficients a, b, c in the comparison values α, β, the calculation formulas for the comparison values α, β, the values of the threshold values Th1, Th2, and the like are the sensor shape of the capacitance sensor unit 10 and the surrounding environment of the installation. Since these change depending on factors such as the characteristics of the object to be detected, they may be set sequentially while taking a profile when each of these factors is determined.

  In the above-described example, the proximity of the foot 70 is determined by comparing the first electrostatic capacitance value C1 with the value obtained by dividing the first electrostatic capacitance value C1 by the second electrostatic capacitance value C2. Comparison is made using a value obtained by dividing the capacitance value C1 by the sum of the first capacitance value C1 and the second capacitance value C2, or proximity is determined using another calculation method. You may do it.

  Thus, according to the vehicle control pedal device of the present example, for example, when the threshold value 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, it may be low. it can. Therefore, the detection range Z can be arbitrarily set on the pedal pad 1 of the brake pedal by arbitrarily adjusting the directivity, and only when the foot 70 is placed on the pedal pad 1 can be detected. It becomes like this.

  Note that, when the foot 70 is detected in step S106, the lighting control is performed in step S107 as an example. However, the vehicle control pedal device operates as follows, for example. Also good. That is, when it is determined that the foot 70 is within the detection range Z on the pedal pad 1 of the brake pedal, the control unit 20 outputs a control signal to the communication control unit 33 and is mounted on the vehicle by the communication control unit 33. You may make it transmit the signal which alert | reports that a brake is applied with respect to a following vehicle by controlling the made vehicle-to-vehicle communication apparatus.

  In addition, the control unit 20 may output a signal for preparing for interruption in which a brake signal is preferentially transmitted in an in-vehicle LAN mounted on the vehicle, directly or indirectly. Further, for example, the control unit 20 outputs a control signal to the traveling control unit 32 to prepare the vehicle system (vehicle traveling system) for downshifting or downshifting, start preparation for brake assist, or cruise control is executed. If it is, it may be canceled.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the control unit of the vehicle control pedal device according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 8, the capacitance sensor unit 10 here is provided on the pedal pad 2 of the accelerator pedal of the vehicle. Since the other points are the same as those described above, the description thereof is omitted here.

  With this configuration, when it is determined that the foot 70 is within the detection range on the pedal pad 2 of the accelerator pedal, the control unit 20 outputs a control signal to the travel control unit 32, and in the idling stop state. If there is, cancel this, or if you get a signal from the vehicle system that the parking brake is applied, inform the occupant that the parking brake is applied (not released), When a signal indicating that the seat belt is not worn is acquired, the passenger may be notified that the seat belt is not worn.

  In addition, as these alerting | reporting means, the output by the audio | voice which represents alerting | reporting content, or the output by a character or light should just be performed in a vehicle and it should just notify a passenger | crew. In addition, the capacitance sensor unit 10 is disposed on each of the pedal pad 1 of the brake pedal and the pedal pad 2 of the accelerator pedal, and the above-described processing is performed in parallel before the pedal pads 1 and 2 are depressed. It may be.

  Even in such a case, since the capacitance sensor unit 10 in the vehicle control pedal device of the present example can arbitrarily set the directivity, there may be no malfunction due to erroneous detection of the foot 70. it can. Further, the CV conversion circuit 21 of the control 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 control unit 20 converts the capacitance into a voltage. However, it may be converted into data that can be handled electrically or as software. For example, the capacitance is converted into a pulse width. It may be converted or directly converted into a digital value.

  Furthermore, in the vehicle control pedal device described above, the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13 are disposed on the pedal pads 1 and 2, and the first capacitance value C1 of only the sensor electrode 11 and the sensor Although the example which determines the detection of the leg | foot 70 by comparing with the 2nd electrostatic capacitance value C2 of the electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 was demonstrated, for example, the following may be sufficient.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining another configuration example of the vehicle control pedal device according to the embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle control pedal device of this example has a configuration in which a dummy sensor electrode (dummy electrode) 11 ′ is arranged in addition to the sensor electrode 11, and the CV conversion circuit 21 of the control unit 20 operates differentially. It is configured as.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the positive input end of the differential amplifier circuit, and the dummy electrode 11 ′ is connected to the negative input end to determine the value of the capacitance Ca. The value of the capacitance Cb is subtracted, and the output value is compared with a threshold value using a comparator or the like to detect the foot 70.

  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. When open (OFF), switch S2 is switched to Vr, and switch S1 is connected to the inverting input of the operational amplifier, capacitances Ca and Cf are charged with CaVr, and 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 canceled and common mode noise can be reduced. At this time, for example, a dummy electrode 11 ′ is connected to the negative input end of the differential amplifier circuit. If this dummy electrode 11 ′ is capacitively coupled to the foot 70, the sensitivity of the sensor itself is lowered. The area of the dummy electrode 11 ′ is made sufficiently small with respect to the electrode 11, or another shield electrode 48 having the same potential is provided between the dummy electrode 11 ′ and the foot 70, and capacitive coupling with the foot 70. Need to be small.

  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. Therefore, 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 voltage of the sensor electrode 11 may be input and the output thereof connected to the shield electrode 12 or the like. .

  In addition, when the CV conversion circuit 21 operates differentially, the shield drive circuit 24 has a rectangular waveform of the voltage Vr and GND with the output waveform of the sensor electrode 11 and the frequency is the switching frequency of the switch. Since it does not vary depending on the capacitance value, the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier shown in FIG. 9 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.

  Further, 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 drive circuit 24 or the switching switch SW. For example, when the CV conversion circuit 21 is differentially operated, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the negative side input terminal shown in FIG. The shield electrode 12 may be connected to the shield drive circuit 24, and the auxiliary electrode 13 may be connected to the 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 capacitive coupling component between the auxiliary electrode 13 and the foot 70 is obtained. Is subtracted from the capacitance value of the sensor electrode 11, resulting in a loose directivity. 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. The equal capacitance line (surface) M is configured to be variable between 1 and operation 2. However, the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 at the time of operation 1, for example, and is open at the time of operation 2. It is configured to be connectable to ground or a predetermined potential, or, for example, open in operation 1, connected to ground or a predetermined potential, and connected to CV conversion circuit 21 in operation 2. However, the same effect can be obtained. 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, a rectangle, and a polygon. When the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is also in the detection range Z, the shield electrode 12 is used. If it is not installed.

  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. 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 control unit according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the vehicle control pedal device according to the above-described embodiment, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the control unit 20 is the second electrostatic value indicating the capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13. It becomes either the capacitance value C2 or the first capacitance value C1 indicating the capacitance detected only by the sensor electrode 11.

  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 control unit 20 may be further set as follows, for example.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the control unit of the vehicle control pedal device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a control process performed by the vehicle control pedal device. The flowchart which shows the lighting control processing procedure as an example, FIG. 12 is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the control pedal apparatus for vehicles, and a control part. 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. 10, the control unit 20 of the present example, when the leg 70 is not close to the determination circuit 25 made of, for example, a CPU in addition to the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24 described above. The initial capacitance storage device 26 that stores the capacitance value (initial capacitance) of the switch, the switch control circuit 27 that controls the switching operation of the changeover switch SW, and the buffer 28 are configured.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the vehicle control pedal device having the control unit 20 configured as described above, for example, after the capacitance sensor unit 10 is installed on the pedal pads 1 and 2, the foot 70 is connected to the capacitance sensor unit. Capacitance values (initial capacities) in operation 1 and operation 2 when not approaching 10 are detected by switching the switch SW under the control of the switch control circuit 27, respectively.

  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, and it is determined whether or not the foot 70 is within the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2 based on the comparison result.

  Specifically, the initial capacity is 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, and is the first initial capacity. When the SW is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 side, the operation 2 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. A value (detection value 1), and in the case of operation 2, 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).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11, first, the vehicle control pedal device waits until the processing is started, for example, triggered by the ignition key of the vehicle being turned on as an accessory or ON (N in step S201). Is started (Y in step S201), the first detection value and the second detection value as described above are calculated (step S202), and the determination circuit 25 compares them to calculate a comparison value. (Step S203).

  Then, based on the first detection value or the second detection value, it is determined whether or not the detection object (foot 70) is close (step S204), and the first detection value and the second detection value are determined. For example, it is determined whether or not the comparison value is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value set in advance (or less than the predetermined threshold value or less than the predetermined threshold value) (step S205).

  That is, here, it is determined whether or not the foot 70 is 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 there is no directivity of the sensor sensitivity. The output depends on the approach to the capacitance sensor unit 10.

  When it is determined that the foot 70 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 foot 70 is determined to be detected (Y In step S206), the lighting control as described above is performed (step S207).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the foot 70 is close (Y in step S204), but it is determined that the comparison value is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (N in step S205), the foot 70 is not detected. Determination (step S208), for example, a non-detection signal A (for example, high impedance, a predetermined voltage, etc.) that is a disable signal indicating that the foot 70 does not exist within the detection range Z when the directivity is provided Is output as a judgment output.

  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 foot 70 is close (step S204). If it is determined that they are not close (N in step S204), the process proceeds to step S208, where it is determined that the foot 70 is not detected. For example, the foot 70 is not within the detection range Z of the sensor electrode 11. A non-detection signal B (a signal different from the non-detection signal A) which is a disable signal is output as a determination output.

  After determining the detection of the foot 70 and performing the lighting control, or after determining the non-detection (after step S207 or step S208), for example, the process is terminated with the vehicle ignition key being turned off as a trigger. In step S209, if it is determined that the process is to be ended (Y in step S209), a series of lighting control processes according to this flowchart is ended. When it is determined that the process is not ended (N in step S209), the process proceeds to step S202 and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  In this way, by making the output of the determination circuit 25 into an enable signal or a disable signal, for example, according to the determination result, the enable signal is sent to the buffer 28 when the foot 70 is within the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2. The detection value 1 is output from the buffer 28. When the foot 70 is not within the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2, the determination output is fixed to a predetermined fixed voltage such as a ground voltage or a reference voltage as a disable signal, or becomes a high impedance output. .

  When the foot 70 is within the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2, the detection value 2 and the first or second capacitance values C1 and C2 are output in addition to the detection value 1. Also good. The detection value 1, the detection value 2, and the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 indicate values corresponding to the distance of the foot 70 to the sensor electrode 11.

  As described above, according to the control unit 20 configured as described above, when the foot 70 is within the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2, a detection value corresponding to the distance is output and when the foot 70 is not within the detection range Z. Becomes an output of a predetermined voltage or the like, so that it is possible to determine whether or not the foot 70 is 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. 12, the control unit 20 in 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 at the time of initial capacitance measurement of the first and second initial capacitances as described above. 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. The set value of the register 43 is changed under the control of the control circuit 42 based on the comparison result.

  The output of the register 43 is converted from a digital signal to an analog signal by the D / A converter 44, and then the voltage is adjusted by the adjustment unit 45, and the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 is output from the adjustment unit 45. Adjust the input. In this way, in the operation 1 when the foot 70 is not close to the capacitance sensor unit 10, the set value of the register 43 is fixed when the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. Then, the output of the first initial capacity is set 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 foot 70 is not close to the capacitance sensor unit 10, the set value of the register 43 is fixed when the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. The output of the second initial capacity is used as a reference voltage, 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 register 43 is fixed to the set value 1 is input to the positive input terminal of the subtraction circuit 31, for example, and the reference voltage RV is negative. 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.

  Then, by comparing these detection value 1 and detection value 2, it is similarly determined whether or not the foot 70 is within the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2, and if so, how far it is. To do. 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. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the control unit of the vehicle control pedal device according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a detection operation of the vehicle control pedal device. FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 are diagrams for explaining the relationship between the detection object and the lines of electric force during the first detection operation (operation 3) of the vehicle control pedal device. It is explanatory drawing.

  18-20 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 control pedal apparatus for vehicles. It should be noted that a description overlapping the part already described in the above-described embodiment may be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the vehicle control pedal device according to the present embodiment has the same configuration as the vehicle control pedal device according to the above-described embodiment, and includes a capacitance sensor unit 10 and a control unit 20. Configured. The capacitance sensor unit 10 includes a sensor electrode 11, a shield electrode 12, and an auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A formed in a donut shape (b-shaped) so as to surround the sensor electrode 11, similar to the auxiliary electrode 13. Configured.

  The sensor electrode 11 is provided mainly for detecting the foot 70 existing in the detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 has the above-described action. The auxiliary electrode 13A 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 control 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 control 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. 13 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 vehicle control pedal device, and controls the operation of 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 detection of a detection object (foot) in the detection area (proximity or presence of a foot). The shield drive circuit 24 drives the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A or the sensor electrode 11 to the same potential as the sensor electrode 11.

  Since the structures and configurations of the capacitance sensor unit 10 and the control unit 20 and the structures and configurations 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 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 has the sensor electrode 11 connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. The auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A may be configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit 24.

  Further, the shield drive circuit 24 is configured to apply a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode 11 to the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the first changeover switch SW1 is used when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. The auxiliary electrode 13A is configured to be open, grounded, or connectable to a predetermined potential, and the second changeover switch SW2 connects the auxiliary electrode 13A to the shield drive circuit 24 when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. It may be configured to be connectable to.

  The shield drive circuit 24 is configured to give the sensor electrode 11 the same potential as the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the first changeover switch SW1 is used when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. The auxiliary electrode 13A is configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit 24, and the second changeover switch SW2 opens the auxiliary electrode 13A when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, grounds, or a predetermined potential. It may be configured to be connectable to.

  Next, the detection operation of the vehicle control pedal apparatus configured as described above will be described. First, under the control of the CPU 23, the first and second change-over switches SW1, SW2 are both switched to the A side, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13A are shielded. An operation (operation 3) when connected to the 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 control 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 13A are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. Therefore, the detection object X, Capacitance C between Y and Y ′ is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21.

  In addition, since the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 of the capacitance sensor unit 10 is covered with the shield electrode 12, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is from the surface (detection surface) of the sensor electrode 11. Since only the electric lines of force that wrap around are detected, it is considerably smaller than the surface side. 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 Y ′ are described as detection target objects existing outside the detection range Z.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the electric force line P from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X is less affected by the electric force line P ′ (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13A.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 16, the electric lines of force P 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 P ′ (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. 17, in the detection target Y ′ closer to the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target Y, the electric lines of force P from the sensor electrode 11 are the same as those for the detection target X in FIG. Therefore, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is the same.

  That is, the detection object X and the detection object Y ′ are on the equipotential surface (line) M in FIG. 14, and the detection value (capacitance value) in the operation 3 is the same. For this reason, it is difficult to identify whether the detection target Y ′ is 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, the first and second change-over switches SW1 and SW2 are both switched to the B side, the auxiliary electrode 13A is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the sensor electrode 11 are connected. The operation (operation 4) when connected to the shield drive circuit 24 will be described.

  In addition, the structure corresponding to FIG. 14 which shows the connection state with the control part 20 of the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A in the vehicle control pedal apparatus in the case of this operation | movement 4 is each changeover switch SW1 in FIG. , SW2 are switched to the B side, and illustration and description are omitted here.

  In the case of the operation 4, only the auxiliary electrode 13A 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. Capacitances of Y and Y ′ are detected by the CV conversion circuit 21. It should be noted that various conditions such as the arrangement positions of the detection objects X, Y, Y ′ with respect to the sensor unit 10 are the same as those in the operation 3.

  And in the case of this operation | movement 4, as shown in FIG. 18, the electric force line P '(shield) from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X has influence with respect to the electric force line P from the auxiliary electrode 13A. large. 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. 19, the electric force line P ′ (shield) from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target Y decreases compared to the case with respect to the detection target X, and the electric force line from the auxiliary electrode 13A. P increases compared to the case of the detection target 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. 20, the electric lines of force P from the auxiliary electrode 13A to the detection target Y ′ are larger than the electric lines of force P from the auxiliary electrode 13A to the detection target X in FIG. Since the influence of the electric force line P ′ (shield) from the sensor electrode 11 is also small, in the operation 4, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 in the detection target Y ′ 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.

  When 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. In the detection target Y ′, 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 pedal pad 1 , 2 can be determined to be within the detection range Z, the directivity can be arbitrarily given.

  In the explanatory diagrams shown in FIG. 14 to FIG. 20, 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. The detection value is smaller than the detection value of the detection object Y ′, and the detection value in the operation 3 and the detection value in the operation 4 are about the same, but the arrangement shape of the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13A is described. When various conditions such as the arrangement area change, the vertical relationship between the operation 3 and the operation 4 on the detection objects X, Y, and Y ′ 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 Y ′). ) So that it can be distinguished. Therefore, if the value of the comparison expression between the operation 3 and the operation 4 is changed for each condition, the detection objects X, Y, and Y ′ 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.

  Although there are cases where it cannot be expressed by a mathematical expression depending on the conditions, the capacitance values C1 and C2 at the position of the detection target (foot) are measured and profiled in advance, and each profile and the actual detection value Should be compared.

  Thus, according to this vehicle control pedal device, for example, when the predetermined threshold Th2 is large, the directivity intensity of the sensor sensitivity is high, and when the predetermined threshold Th2 is small, the directivity intensity is low. Therefore, it is possible to arbitrarily set the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2 by arbitrarily setting the directivity of the sensor sensitivity, and it is possible to reliably detect the detection target (foot) with a simple configuration. It becomes like this.

  Note that the various configurations and operations of the CV conversion circuit 21 of the control unit 20 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted here. In the vehicle control pedal device according to the present embodiment, the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A are arranged, and the electrostatic capacitance value C1 of the sensor electrode 11 and the electrostatic capacitance value C2 of the auxiliary electrode 13A. As described with reference to FIG. 9 in the above-described embodiment, the dummy electrode 11 ′ is arranged and CV is used. The 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 vehicle control pedal device according to the present embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 13A is disposed so as to surround the entire periphery of the sensor electrode 11, so that the capacitance sensor unit 10 is provided on the detection surface of the sensor electrode 11. If there is a direction that has the same directivity in all directions (that is, the detection range Z is the same in any direction with respect to the sensor electrode 11) but does not want to have directivity, 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.

  In addition, since the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the control unit 20 described above becomes 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 control unit 20 may be further configured as follows, for example.

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the control unit of the vehicle control pedal device according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 22 is an electrostatic diagram of the vehicle control pedal device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of a capacity | capacitance sensor part and a control 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. 21, the control 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, SW2. The switch control circuit 27 and the buffer 28 are configured to control the above.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the vehicle control pedal device having such a control unit 20, for example, after the capacitance sensor unit 10 is installed at a predetermined installation location, the foot 70 approaches the capacitance sensor unit 10. The capacitance value (initial capacity) when not being switched 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.

  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. It is determined whether or not the foot 70 is within the detection range Z on the pedal pads 1 and 2 based on the comparison result.

  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 and the detection value 2 and determines whether or not the foot 70 is within 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 depending on the approach of the foot 70 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. 22, the control 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 adjusts 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. 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. 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. Similarly, whether or not the foot 70 is within the detection range Z. If it is, it is possible to determine how far it is.

  As described above, according to the control pedal device for a vehicle according to the above-described embodiment, the electrostatic capacity disposed on the pedal pads 1 and 2 prior to the depression of the vehicle occupant to the brake pedal or the accelerator pedal. Based on the presence or absence of the occupant's foot 70 in the detection range Z formed by the sensor unit 10, it is possible to detect the stepping motion in advance and perform various controls of the vehicle according to the detection result.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pedal pad 2 Pedal pad 10 Capacitance sensor part 11 Sensor electrode 11 'Dummy electrode 12 Shield electrode 13 Auxiliary electrode 13A Auxiliary electrode 20 Control 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 31 Subtraction Circuit 32 Travel Control Unit 33 Communication Control Unit 34 Lighting Control Unit 40 Reference Voltage Adjustment Circuit 41 Comparator 42 Control Circuit 43 Register 44 D / A Converter 60 70 feet of lamp

Claims (25)

A sensor electrode provided on a pedal pad of a pedal device mounted on a vehicle;
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 Comparison determination means for determining whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the pedal pad based on the first or second capacitance value;
And a control means for outputting a control signal related to the vehicle based on a determination result from the comparison determination means. 2. The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the change-over switch is configured to be openable, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential when the auxiliary switch is in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
2. The vehicle control pedal 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 provided on a pedal pad of a pedal device mounted on a vehicle;
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 Comparison determination means for determining whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the pedal pad based on the first or second capacitance value;
And a control means for outputting a control signal related to the vehicle based on a determination result from the comparison determination means. A sensor electrode provided on a pedal pad of a pedal device mounted on a vehicle;
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 a comparison determination means for determining whether or not a human body is within a detection range on the pedal pad based on the first or second capacitance value;
And a control means for outputting a control signal related to the vehicle based on a determination result from the comparison determination means. 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 vehicle control pedal device according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to open, connect to ground or a predetermined potential of the auxiliary electrode when in the first connection state. . A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode, or for applying a potential equivalent to the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode;
The first changeover switch is configured to connect the sensor electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state,
The vehicle control pedal 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 vehicle control pedal 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 equivalent 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 vehicle control pedal device according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to open, connect to ground or a predetermined potential of the auxiliary electrode when in the first connection state. . The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary electrode is disposed so as to surround the sensor electrode. The comparison determination unit calculates a comparison value by multiplying a value obtained by dividing the first capacitance value by the second capacitance value by a predetermined coefficient, and the comparison value is set to a predetermined value. The vehicle control according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein it is determined whether or not there is a human body within a detection range on the pedal pad depending on whether or not the threshold value is greater than a threshold value. Pedal device. The detection circuit includes a first initial capacitance that is an initial capacitance of the first capacitance value when there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, and a human body within the detection range on the pedal pad. And further detecting a second initial capacitance that is an initial capacitance of the second capacitance value when there is not,
The comparison determination means includes a first detection value obtained by subtracting the first initial capacitance from the first capacitance value, and a first detection value obtained by subtracting the second initial capacitance from the second capacitance value. 2. It is determined whether or not a human body is within a detection range on the pedal pad based on a comparison value obtained by comparing with a detection value of 2 and the first or second detection value. The control pedal device for a vehicle according to any one of to 11. A reference voltage adjusting means for setting the output of the detection circuit to a reference voltage;
The detection circuit is configured to adjust a first initial capacitance, which is an initial capacitance of the first capacitance value when there is no human body within a detection range on the pedal pad, to the reference voltage. And a second set value for adjusting a second initial capacitance, which is an initial capacitance of the second capacitance value when there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, to the reference voltage And a first capacitance value adjusted by the first setting value and a second capacitance value adjusted by the second setting value are output,
The comparison determination means sets the first detection value as a value obtained by subtracting the reference voltage from the first capacitance value adjusted by the first setting value, and adjusts by the second setting value. Based on a comparison value obtained by subtracting the reference voltage from the second capacitance value as the second detection value and comparing the two, and the first or second detection value, the human body is placed on the pedal pad. It is determined whether it exists in a detection range. The vehicle control pedal apparatus of Claim 12 characterized by the above-mentioned. When the comparison determination unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the pedal pad, the first capacitance value, the second capacitance value, the first detection value, and Based on any one of the second detection values, a signal corresponding to the distance of the human body to the sensor electrode is output, and when it is determined that there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, the output The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein a predetermined potential is set. The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 14, wherein the predetermined potential is a ground potential or a reference potential. When the comparison determination unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the pedal pad, the first capacitance value, the second capacitance value, the first detection value, and Based on any one of the second detection values, a signal corresponding to the distance of the human body to the sensor electrode is output, and when it is determined that there is no human body within the detection range on the pedal pad, the output The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the vehicle control pedal device has a high impedance. The sensor electrode is provided on a brake pedal pad of a brake pedal device,
The control means outputs a signal for lighting or blinking a brake lamp as a control signal related to the vehicle when it is determined that the human body is within a detection range on the brake pedal pad according to the determination result. The vehicle control pedal device according to any one of claims 1 to 16. The sensor electrode is provided on a brake pedal pad of a brake pedal device,
The control means causes a weak current, which is weaker than the lighting current, to flow through the brake lamp as a control signal related to the vehicle when the determination result indicates that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad. The vehicle control pedal device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein a signal is output. When the determination result indicates that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad, the control means informs that a subsequent vehicle is braked by inter-vehicle communication as a control signal related to the vehicle. The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein at least one of a signal for preparing for interruption and a signal for preparing an interruption for preferentially transmitting a brake signal in an in-vehicle LAN is output. When the determination result indicates that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad, the control means is a signal for causing the vehicle system to downshift or a vehicle system downshifting as a control signal related to the vehicle. The vehicle control pedal device according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein a signal for preparing the vehicle is output. The control means outputs a signal that causes the vehicle system to start preparation for brake assist as a control signal related to the vehicle when it is determined by the determination result that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad. The vehicle control pedal device according to any one of claims 17 to 20. When the control unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the brake pedal pad according to the determination result and acquires a signal indicating that cruise control is being executed, The vehicle control pedal device according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein a signal for causing the vehicle system to cancel cruise control is output. The sensor electrode is provided on an accelerator pedal pad of an accelerator pedal device,
When the control means determines that the human body is within the detection range on the accelerator pedal pad based on the determination result and obtains a signal indicating that the vehicle is in an idling stop state, the control means The vehicle control pedal device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the vehicle system outputs a signal for canceling an idling stop state. When the control unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the accelerator pedal pad according to the determination result and acquires a signal indicating that the parking brake is applied, The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 23, wherein a signal for notifying the passenger that the parking brake has not been released is output. When the control unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the accelerator pedal pad based on the determination result and acquires a signal indicating that the seat belt is not worn, The vehicle control pedal device according to claim 23 or 24, wherein a signal notifying the passenger that the seat belt is not worn is output.

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