JP2010236329A - Vehicle door opening/closing angle control device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reliably prevent the door of one vehicle from carelessly coming into contact with the other vehicle by controlling the opening/closing angle of the door according to whether an obstacle or a human body is present or not on the outside and inside of the door. <P>SOLUTION: This vehicle door opening/closing angle control device includes first and second capacitance sensor parts 10, 20 which are disposed so that the detection surfaces thereof are positioned on the outside and inside of the side door 2 of a vehicle 1 and a circuit part 30. Each of the capacitance sensor parts 10, 20 includes a sensor electrode 11, a shield electrode 12, and an auxiliary electrode 13. The directivity of the device is set using a first capacitance value C1 detected by only the sensor electrode 11 and a second capacitance value C2 detected by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13, and an obstacle or a human body on the outside and inside of the side door 2 is detected by forming detection ranges Z1, Z2 on the surfaces of the capacitance sensor parts 10, 20, respectively. A door ECU 50 controls the opening/closing angle and the opening/closing operation of the side door 2 by an output from the circuit part 30. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle door opening / closing angle control device that controls the opening / closing angle of a vehicle door provided in a vehicle such as an automobile.

  For controlling the opening / closing angle (in particular, the opening angle) of a vehicle door provided in a vehicle such as an automobile, for example, an opening degree regulating device for a vehicle door (for example, Patent Document 1 (pages 3-5, 1 (See Fig. 7)). This opening degree regulating device includes an occupant discriminating means for discriminating whether or not an occupant who has boarded a vehicle is a child (a weight sensor, a height sensor), and a half-open opening that allows a child to pass through the door opening of a vehicle door. Door opening restricting means for restricting at a time.

  The opening degree regulating device includes door opening degree control means (controller) that outputs a door opening degree regulating signal to the door opening degree regulating means when it is determined that the occupant is a child. It is supposed to prevent jumping out and contact with other vehicles.

JP 2007-253788 A

  However, in the opening degree regulating device disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above, when regulating the opening degree of the door, it is necessary to determine the occupant of the vehicle, and cannot be regulated when there is no occupant. There is. In addition, when the occupant is not a child, the opening degree of the door is not regulated, so that there is a problem that contact with another vehicle or the like outside the door may occur.

  In order to eliminate the above-mentioned problems caused by the prior art, the present invention controls the opening and closing angle of the vehicle door according to the presence or absence of obstacles and human bodies inside and outside the vehicle door, and in addition to the unintended vehicle door. It is an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle door opening / closing angle control device that can reliably prevent contact with a vehicle or the like.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the present invention is provided such that there are detection surfaces facing the outside and the inside of the vehicle door provided in the vehicle. A sensor electrode, an auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode, a detection circuit that is connected to at least the sensor electrode and detects a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the connected electrode, and the auxiliary A selector switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state in which no electrode is connected to the detection circuit and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is connected to the detection circuit; and the switch in the first connection state. A comparison value comparing the first capacitance value from the detection circuit with the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state, and the first or second capacitance value Based on whether the obstacle outside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, and whether the human body existing inside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode It is characterized by comprising determination means for determining whether or not, and opening / closing angle control means for controlling the opening / closing angle of the vehicle door according to the determination result from the determination means.

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

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

  Further, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the present invention includes a sensor electrode provided so that a detection surface exists toward the outer side and the inner side of the vehicle door provided in the vehicle, and in the vicinity of the sensor electrode. An auxiliary electrode provided; a detection circuit that detects a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the sensor electrode; a shield drive circuit that applies a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode; and the auxiliary electrode. A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state connected to the shield drive circuit and a second connection state where the auxiliary electrode is opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential, and the first connection A comparison value comparing the first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the state and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state, and the first or first Based on the electrostatic capacitance value, whether or not an obstacle outside the vehicle door is within a detection range on the sensor electrode, and a human body existing inside the vehicle door is detected on the sensor electrode It is characterized by comprising determination means for determining whether or not it is within a range, and opening / closing angle control means for controlling the opening / closing angle of the vehicle door according to the determination result from the determination means.

  Furthermore, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the present invention includes a sensor electrode provided so that a detection surface exists toward the outer side and the inner side of the vehicle door provided in the vehicle, and in the vicinity of the sensor electrode. An auxiliary electrode provided; a detection circuit that detects a capacitance value based on capacitance from the connected electrode; a first connection state that connects the sensor electrode to the detection circuit; and the sensor electrode A first changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a second connection state not connected to the detection circuit, and the auxiliary electrode not connected to the detection circuit when the sensor electrode is in the first connection state; A second switch that can be switched to connect the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit when the first switch is in the second connection state; and the detection in the case of the first connection state. A comparison value comparing the first capacitance value from the path and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state, and the first or second capacitance Based on the capacitance value, whether or not an obstacle outside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, and a human body existing inside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode. It is characterized by comprising determination means for determining whether or not there is, and opening / closing angle control means for controlling the opening / closing angle of the vehicle door according to the determination result from the 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 that applies a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode or a potential equivalent to the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode; and the first changeover switch is, for example, in the second connection state Sometimes the sensor electrode is configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit, and the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit, for example, in the first connection state. .

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

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

  The sensor electrode is provided, for example, in the vicinity of the end of the movable front end on the outside and inside of the vehicle door so as to be able to detect the obstacle and the human body, and the auxiliary electrode surrounds the sensor electrode, for example. Has been placed.

  The opening / closing angle control means is at least when the obstacle outside the vehicle door is determined to be within the detection range on the sensor electrode during the opening operation of the vehicle door, for example, by the determination means. The opening operation of the vehicle door is disabled beyond the opening angle of the vehicle door where the vehicle door does not contact the obstacle.

  The opening / closing angle control means determines that the human body inside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, for example, by the determination means when the opening operation of the vehicle door is impossible. If this happens, the opening angle of the vehicle door is fixed.

  The opening / closing angle control means determines that the human body inside the vehicle door is not within the detection range on the sensor electrode, for example, by the determination means when the opening angle of the vehicle door is fixed. In this case, the fixed state of the opening angle of the vehicle door is released to enable at least the closing operation of the vehicle door.

  The opening / closing angle control means determines that an obstacle outside the vehicle door is not within the detection range on the sensor electrode, for example, by the determination means when the opening operation of the vehicle door is disabled. In the case where the vehicle door is opened, the vehicle door opening operation is canceled to enable the vehicle door opening operation.

  In addition, the opening / closing angle control means may further include a failure outside the vehicle door during the opening operation of the vehicle door, for example, by the determination means. When it is determined that an object is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, the opening of the vehicle door is disabled at least beyond the opening angle of the vehicle door at which the vehicle door does not contact the obstacle. At the same time, the alarm is notified by controlling the notification means.

  According to the present invention, the opening / closing angle of the vehicle door is controlled according to the presence or absence of obstacles or human bodies on the outside and inside of the vehicle door, thereby reliably preventing inadvertent contact of the vehicle door with another vehicle or the like. A vehicle door opening / closing angle control device that can be provided is provided.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the detection concept of the detection target object in the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles, and a circuit part. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and the electric force line at the time of the detection operation | movement of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the detection processing procedure of the detection target object by the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the opening / closing angle control processing procedure by the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles, and a circuit part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles concerning other embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the detection processing procedure of the detection target object by the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles, and a circuit part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus 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 door opening / closing angle control 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 door opening / closing angle control 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 door opening / closing angle control 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 door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of 2nd detection operation | movement of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of 2nd detection operation | movement of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of 2nd detection operation | movement of the door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus 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 door opening / closing angle control apparatus for vehicles, and a circuit part.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 illustrates a detection concept of a detection object in the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the circuit unit of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the present embodiment is provided near the end of the movable front end side of a side door (including a front side door and a rear side door) 2 of a vehicle 1 such as an automobile. The first capacitance sensor unit 10 provided so that the detection surface exists toward the outside of the side door 2, and in the vicinity of the end of the movable door side of the side door 2, toward the inside of the side door 2. And a second capacitance sensor unit 20 provided so that a detection surface exists. Here, the side door 2 is assumed to be a side-opening door.

  Further, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device is configured so that obstacles on the outside of the side door 2 and human bodies existing inside the side doors 2 are connected to the capacitance sensor units 10, 20 based on outputs from the capacitance sensor units 10, 20. 20 is provided with a circuit unit 30 for determining whether or not it is within the detection range Z1, Z2 on the 20. The circuit unit 30 includes a capacitance detection circuit, a CPU, and the like (not shown).

  The first capacitance sensor unit 10 detects, for example, a human body (in this case, an adult 48) existing outside the side door 2, or an obstacle (here, the outside of the side door 2 as shown in FIG. 2). The other vehicle 9) is detected. The second capacitance sensor unit 20 detects a human body (here, a child 49) existing inside the side door 2.

  As shown in FIG. 1, these capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are arranged at a predetermined height of the side door 2 (in this example, the first side) so that the detection surface exists toward the outside and the inside of the side door 2. 1 capacitance sensor unit 10 is arranged at a door handle mounting height (not shown), and second capacitance sensor unit 20 is arranged at a height equal to or lower than this, and an obstacle or human body detection range Z1. , Z2 are formed.

  Further, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device includes an opening / closing angle and an opening / closing operation (hereinafter referred to as “angle / operation”) of the door provided in the vehicle 1 such as a back door (not shown) provided in the vehicle 1 together with the side door 2. And a door ECU (electronic control unit) 50 for controlling the whole.

  The door ECU 50 needs to restrict, for example, a door switch (door SW) 51 that outputs information on an opening / closing operation instruction of the side door 2 provided in the vehicle 1, for example, a child's opening / closing operation of the side door 2. A child lock switch (child lock SW) or the like (not shown) that outputs information indicating the above is connected.

  Further, the door ECU 50 disables the opening operation of the side door 2 at least beyond the opening angle at which the side door 2 does not contact an obstacle, or sets the opening / closing angle (particularly, the opening angle) of the side door 2 to a predetermined stop position. A door lock mechanism 70 that locks the door 2 so that it cannot be opened and closed, a door motor 80 that drives the side door 2 when the side door 2 is electrically opened and closed, a speaker, a display device, and the like. In addition, an alarm device 60 that notifies (outputs) warnings such as warning sounds and warning texts in a predetermined case is connected.

  The door ECU 50 determines the determination result from the circuit unit 30 (that is, whether or not there is an obstacle (including a human body) outside the side door 2 and whether there is a human body inside the side door 2). ), The door lock mechanism 70 and the door motor 80 are controlled to control the angle and operation of the side door 2. Further, the door ECU 50 receives information from the door SW 51 and the child lock SW together with the determination result, and controls the angle and operation of the side door 2.

  Note that the door SW 51 may be integrated with the side door 2 on the door handle on the inner side (vehicle compartment side) or the outer side of the side door 2, for example. Two angles and operations may be provided so as to be operable. The door SW 51 has an opening / closing operation instruction, for example, in a special situation (for example, a situation in which the side door 2 can be forcibly opened / closed regardless of the detection by the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20). A special door switch (special door SW) for outputting a special opening / closing operation instruction indicating the opening / closing operation instruction is also included.

  Therefore, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device operates the special door SW so that the passenger of the vehicle 1 operates the special door SW even when the door is locked by the door lock mechanism 70 or the like. Is output so that the door locks of the side door 2 and the like can be released individually or collectively.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 has detection ranges Z1 and Z2 having a predetermined height in the detection area on the detection surface side facing the outside and the inside of the side door 2. It is configured to exist. Thereby, for example, when there is an adult 48 outside the side door 2 opened at a predetermined opening or there is another vehicle 9, it is within the detection range Z1 of the first capacitance sensor unit 10. These are detected. For example, when a child 49 is present inside the side door 2 that has been similarly opened, this is detected within the detection range Z2 of the second capacitance sensor unit 20.

  The capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are formed on the same plane as the sensor electrode 11, the sensor electrode 11 formed in a rectangular flat plate shape, the shield electrode 12 formed on the back side of the sensor electrode 11, and the sensor electrode 11. And an auxiliary electrode 13 formed in a square shape surrounding the electrode 11.

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

  The sensor electrode 11 detects a detection target (an obstacle or a human body) within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 of the detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 shields them from being detected on the back side of the sensor electrode 11. The auxiliary electrode 13 is for changing the equicapacitance line (surface) on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11 so that each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 has directivity. In addition, the shield electrode 12 may be provided in the outer peripheral side of the auxiliary electrode 13 together with the aspect mentioned above, for example.

  The circuit unit 30 is connected to each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, and includes, for example, a CV conversion circuit 21 directly connected to the sensor electrode 11, an A / D converter 22, and a CPU 23. ing. Here, a shield drive circuit 12 is further provided, and a changeover switch SW for switching the connection of the auxiliary electrode 13 between the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24 is provided.

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

  The CPU 23 controls the entire vehicle door opening / closing angle control device, controls the changeover switch SW, and determines the detection (presence / absence) of detection objects (obstacles and human bodies) within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 of the detection area. Or a signal related to the determination result (determination result information) is output to the door ECU 50. The shield drive circuit 24 drives, for example, the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 to the same potential as the sensor electrode 11.

  The circuit unit 30 includes a storage unit (not shown) such as a RAM used as a temporary storage area of the CPU 23 and a data storage ROM. Moreover, each electrostatic capacitance sensor part 10 and 20 is formed on the board | substrate which is not shown in figure, for example. As this board | substrate, any board | substrate of a flexible printed circuit board, a rigid board | substrate, and a rigid flexible board | substrate is employable, for example.

  Furthermore, the circuit unit 30 may be mounted and integrally provided on the same surface side or the back surface side of the substrate on which the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are formed. In this case, a plurality of circuit units 30 may be provided so as to correspond to the number of capacitance sensor units 10 and 20.

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

  In addition, depending on the arrangement | positioning aspect (For example, when arrange | positioning on the external surface or interior surface of the side door 2) of each electrostatic capacitance sensor part 10 and 20, it arrange | positions so that it may not stand out with respect to the passenger | crew and user of the vehicle 1. There may be a need. In such a case, the substrate may be formed of a transparent panel or film, and the electrodes 11 to 13 may be transparent electrodes.

  The transparent electrode can be composed of, for example, tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) or a conductive polymer. As the conductive polymer, for example, PEDOT / PSS (polyethylene dioxythiophene / polystyrene sulfonic acid), PEDOT / TsO (polyethylene dioxythiophene / toluene sulfonate), or the like can be used.

  Next, the detection operation of the detection target (obstacle or human body) of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device configured as described above will be described. First, an operation (operation 1) when the changeover switch SW is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 side under the control of the CPU 23 will be described. In the case of this operation 1, the connection state between the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, the auxiliary electrode 13, and the circuit unit 30 of each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is as shown in FIG.

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

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

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 5A, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection object A existing near the center of the sensor electrode 11 are the electric lines of force P2 from the auxiliary electrode 13 (shield). ) Is small. However, as shown in FIG. 5B, the electric lines of force P <b> 1 from the sensor electrode 11 to the detection target B existing outside the sensor electrode 11 are the electric lines of force P <b> 2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13. It can be said that it is easily affected.

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

  In the case of this operation 1, by connecting the auxiliary electrode 13 to the shield drive circuit 24, the sensor at the electrode end (end on the auxiliary electrode 13 side) of the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the sensor sensitivity at the center of the sensor electrode 11 is detected. Sensitivity can be lowered. Thereby, it becomes possible to give each electrostatic capacitance sensor part 10 and 20 slight directivity.

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

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

  That is, since the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the capacitance between the detection objects A and B is changed by the CV conversion circuit 21 by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13. Detected. At this time, as described above, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is almost equal, but the equivalent capacitance 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 range of 180 ° on the detection surface side.

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

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

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

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

  According to the vehicular door opening / closing angle control device configured and operated as described above, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, the electrostatic sensor units 10 and 20 are arranged outside and inside the side door 2, respectively. Whether there is an obstacle (other vehicle 9) or a human body (adult 48 or child 49) in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 formed on each of the capacitance sensors 10 and 20 (sensor electrodes 11). Can be determined. These detection ranges Z1 and Z2 are determined by the set directivity.

  For this reason, for example, even if there is a detection object (other vehicle 9, adult 48, child 49, etc.) outside the detection range Z1, Z2 outside or inside the side door 2, this detection object is not detected. The detection ranges Z1 and Z2 are set in the region on the sensor electrode 11 so that it can be accurately determined whether or not there are detection objects (obstacles or human bodies) in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2.

  Based on the determination result, the door ECU 50 detects at least the side vehicle 9 and the adult 48 when the first capacitance sensor unit 10 detects the other vehicle 9 or the adult 48 outside the side door 2 during the opening operation of the side door 2, for example. In order to prevent the door 2 from opening more than the opening angle that does not contact the other vehicle 9 or the adult 48, for example, the opening operation of the side door 2 is stopped and the opening angle of the side door 2 is fixed at the stop position. The door is locked by the lock mechanism 70 or the door motor 80 is stopped to disable the opening operation of the side door 2.

  Further, the door ECU 50 detects the child 49 inside the side door 2 by the second capacitance sensor unit 20 when, for example, the opening angle of the side door 2 is fixed at the stop position as described above. Controls the door lock mechanism 70 and the door motor 80 so as to maintain the fixed state at the stop position of the open angle of the side door 2.

  Further, when the door ECU 50 does not detect the child 49 inside the side door 2 by the second capacitance sensor unit 20 when the opening angle of the side door 2 is fixed at the stop position as described above, for example. The door lock mechanism 70 is unlocked so that at least the side door 2 can be closed, or the door motor 80 is operated. To do.

  Further, the door ECU 50 is configured such that when the side door 2 cannot be opened or the opening angle is fixed at the stop position as described above, the first capacitive sensor unit 10 causes the side door 50 to open the side door. 2, when the other vehicle 9 or the adult 48 is not detected, the side door 2 can be opened by releasing the state in which the side door 2 cannot be opened or the fixed state at the stop position of the opening angle. The door lock of the door lock mechanism 70 is released or the door motor 80 is operated.

  In this way, the angle and operation of the side door 2 are controlled by the presence or absence of the other vehicle 9 or the adult 48 outside the side door 2 of the vehicle 1, and the side door 2 is not prepared for the other vehicle 9 or the adult 48. Contact can be reliably prevented. In addition, when there is another vehicle 9 or an adult 48 outside the side door 2 and the opening angle of the side door 2 is fixed at the stop position, a child 49 or a child seat inside the side door 2 is set. Depending on the presence or absence of the adult 48, the side door 2 can be maintained in a fixed state, or at least the angle and operation of the side door 2 can be controlled so that the closing operation is possible.

  The door lock mechanism 70 and the door motor 80 can use well-known electromagnet locks, rubber compression locks, electric motors, solenoids, and the like, and will not be described here. Next, detection processing of an object to be detected (obstacle or human body) by each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device will be described.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the detection processing procedure of the detection target by the first capacitance sensor unit 10 of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device. Here, the detection process by the first capacitance sensor unit 10 will be described as an example, but the same detection process can be performed for the second capacitance sensor unit 20 as well. In the following description, the same parts as those already described will be denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof may be omitted, and parts not particularly relevant to the present invention may not be specified.

  Here, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device acts as a trigger for determining whether or not to start the detection process, for example, when the ignition key of the vehicle 1 or the user key by the smart entry system is authenticated. Then, it may be determined whether or not these are electrically ON, and the detection process may be started when these are electrically ON.

  Specifically, it is determined whether the ignition switch is switched from OFF to accessories, ON, or start, and is turned ON electrically, or the user key from the portable device is displayed on the main unit in the smart entry system. It is determined whether or not it has been authenticated and turned on electrically. Here, the description will be made on the assumption that power is already supplied to the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device and is electrically turned on, and that the side door 2 is in an opening operation.

  As shown in FIG. 7, when the process is started, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device controls the connection state of the auxiliary electrode 13 by the changeover switch SW under the control of the CPU 23 of the circuit unit 30 as described above. Switch to connected state. Thus, the first capacitance sensor unit 10 detects the capacitance values (first and second capacitance values C1, C2) (step S102), and compares them to calculate a comparison value (step S102). S103).

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

  When it is determined that an obstacle or a human body is close (Y in step S104) and the comparison value is determined to be equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (Y in step S105), the obstacle or human body is detected. (Step S106), information related to the determination result (determination result information) is output to the door ECU 50.

  Based on this determination result information, the door ECU 50 outputs a control signal to the door lock mechanism 70 and the door motor 80 to perform opening / closing angle control (step S107). Detailed processing regarding the opening / closing angle control will be described later.

  Then, based on the ignition switch or smart entry system as described above, it is determined whether or not the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device is in an electrically OFF state, and whether or not to end the process. Judgment is made (step S109). When it is determined that the process is to be ended (Y in step S109), a series of detection processes according to this flowchart is ended. When it is determined that the process is not ended (N in Step S109), the process proceeds to Step S102, and the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 of the first capacitance sensor unit 10 are detected. The subsequent processing is repeated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that an obstacle or a human body is not in proximity (N in step S104), or when it is determined that the comparison value is not equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (N in step S105), the obstacle or The human body is determined not to be detected (step S108), and the side door 2 remains open. Then, the process proceeds to step S109 to determine whether or not to end the process.

  In the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device of this example, the opening / closing angle of the side door 2 is controlled using the determination result determined as described above. As shown in FIG. 2, when an obstacle (another vehicle 9) or a human body (adult 48) is detected within the detection range Z <b> 1, the side door 2 is prevented from contacting the side door 2. It becomes possible to fix the opening angle at the stop position.

  Specifically, for example, in step S104, when the first capacitance value C1 is larger than the predetermined threshold value Th1, it can be determined that an obstacle or a human body has approached the sensor electrode 11. Set it. At this time, for example, in step S105, the comparison value α or the comparison value β calculated by a calculation formula such as the comparison value α = (a × C1) − (b × C2) or the comparison value β = d × C1 / C2. Is smaller than an arbitrary threshold value Th2 as a predetermined threshold value set in advance, it is determined that it is outside the detection range Z1 (in the case of the second capacitance sensor unit 20, outside the detection range Z2). Set it as possible.

  Only when an obstacle or a human body is close (Y in Step S104) and the comparison value is equal to or greater than the threshold Th2 (Y in Step S105), the obstacle or the human body is determined to be detected. (Step S106). Thus, according to the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus of this example, the detection range Z1 on the surface of the first capacitance sensor unit 10 disposed on the side door 2 of the vehicle 1 (on the sensor electrode 11). It is possible to accurately and reliably detect the proximity of an obstacle (other vehicle 9) and a human body (adult 48) to the inside.

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

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

  Thus, according to the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device of this example, for example, when the threshold value Th2 is large, the directionality of the sensor sensitivity of the first capacitance sensor unit 10 is high, and when the threshold value Th2 is small, the directivity is low. It can be. Therefore, the directivity can be arbitrarily adjusted on the surface of the first capacitance sensor unit 10 disposed on the side door 2 to set the detection range Z1 at a predetermined height. An obstacle (another vehicle 9) and a human body (adult 48) close to 2 can be reliably and accurately detected with a simple configuration. About the 2nd electrostatic capacitance sensor part 20, directivity can be similarly set in detection range Z2.

  Here, the opening / closing angle control in step S107 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an opening / closing angle control processing procedure performed by the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device. As shown in FIG. 8, first, the door ECU 50 controls the door lock mechanism 70 and the door motor 80 to open the side door 2 provided with the first capacitance sensor unit 10 that detects an obstacle or a human body. And the opening angle of the side door 2 is fixed at this stop position (step S110).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a human body (for example, a child 49) is detected inside the side door 2 by the second capacitance sensor unit 20 by the detection process described above (step S111). If it is determined (Y in step S111), the process proceeds to step S110 and the fixed state of the side door 2 at the stop position is maintained.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that no detection has been made (N in step S111), the door ECU 50 releases the fixed state at the stop position of the open angle of the side door 2 by the door lock mechanism 70 or the door motor 80 (step S111). In step S112, control is performed so that at least the side door 2 can be closed (that is, the opening operation may be performed together with the closing operation), and the series of opening / closing angle control processing according to this flowchart ends.

  In this way, when the first capacitance sensor unit 10 detects that the other vehicle 9 or the adult 48 is outside the side door 2, the opening angle of the side door 2 is fixed at the stop position. By detecting the presence or absence of a child 49 or an adult 48 who sets a child seat or the like inside the side door 2 by the second capacitance sensor unit 20, the fixed state of the side door 2 is maintained, or at least a closing operation is performed. It is possible to control the angle and operation of the side door 2 so that the

  The CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 30 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 thereto.

  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.

  Further, although it is assumed that the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 30 converts the capacitance into voltage, it is only necessary to convert the data 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.

  Further, in the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device described above, the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13 of each capacitance sensor unit 10, 20 are detected toward the outside and inside of the side door 2 of the vehicle 1. They were arranged so as to form ranges Z1 and Z2. Then, the first capacitance value C1 of only the sensor electrode 11 and the second capacitance value C2 of the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are compared, and an obstacle (another vehicle 9) or a human body (adult 48). However, for example, the following may be used.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the circuit unit of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device. The vehicle door opening / closing angle control device of this example has a configuration in which a dummy sensor electrode (dummy electrode) 19 is disposed in addition to the sensor electrode 11, and the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 30 performs differential operation. It is structured as a thing.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the plus side input end of the differential amplifier circuit, and the dummy electrode 19 is connected to the minus side input end, so that the electrostatic capacitance Ca is determined from the value of the capacitance Ca. The value of the capacitance Cb is subtracted. Then, the output value is compared with a threshold value by a comparator or the like, and an obstacle (another vehicle 9) or a human body (adult 48 or child 49) is detected / not detected.

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

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

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

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

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

  Further, when the CV conversion circuit 21 operates differentially, the shield drive circuit 24 has a rectangular waveform with the voltage Vr and GND as the output waveform of the sensor electrode 11 and the frequency becomes the switching frequency of the switch. For this reason, since it does not vary depending on the capacitance value, the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier shown in FIG. 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.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the shield electrode 12 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24, and the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the shield electrode 24 or C via the changeover switch SW. It was configured to be connected to the −V conversion circuit 21. In addition, for example, when the CV conversion circuit 21 has a differential operation, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the negative side input terminal shown in FIG. 9, the shield electrode 12 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24, and You may comprise so that the auxiliary electrode 13 may each be connected to a plus side input end.

  In this case, in the operation 2 described above, the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the sensor electrode 11 and there is almost no directivity. However, in the operation 1 described above, the capacitance coupling value between the auxiliary electrode 13 and the obstacle or the human body is subtracted from the capacitance value of the sensor electrode 11, and as a result, it has a loose directivity. Become. Similar to the case described above, the same effect can be obtained by comparing the detection values in the operation 1 and the operation 2.

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

  Note that the change-over switch SW only needs to have a structure capable of switching electrical connection. For example, an electronic circuit switch such as an FET or a photo MOS relay or a mechanical switch such as a contact switch can be employed. In addition to the above, the shape of the sensor electrode 11 may be various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, a rectangle, and a polygon. For example, the back side of the sensor electrode 11 is also set to the detection ranges Z1 and Z2. In that case, the shield electrode 12 may not be installed.

  The auxiliary electrode 13 is arranged so as to surround the entire periphery of the sensor electrode 11, but if the detection range Z1, Z2 can be set, the auxiliary electrode 13 is in a state of surrounding a part or adjacent to the part. It may be arranged. Further, for example, when the sensor electrode 11 is surrounded, the sensor electrode 11 may be arranged concentrically (the center is the same).

  Next, a capacitance sensor unit and a circuit unit of a vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus according to the above-described embodiment, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 30 is the second value indicating the capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13. Either the capacitance value C2 or the first capacitance value C1 indicating the capacitance detected only by the sensor electrode 11 is used.

  For this reason, the capacitance value detected by the structure around the installation place of the sensor electrode 11 (including each capacitance sensor unit 10, 20) may differ. In such a case, the comparison result obtained by comparing the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 may change depending on the structure around the place where the sensor electrode 11 is installed. In order to avoid such a situation, the internal configuration of the circuit unit 30 may be further set as follows, for example.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 and the circuit unit 30 of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the detection processing procedure of the detection object by the first capacitance sensor unit 10 of the opening / closing angle control device. FIG. 12 shows the capacitance sensors 10 and 20 and the circuit unit of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of 30. In FIG. 11, the detection process by the first capacitance sensor unit 10 will be described as an example, but the detection process can be similarly performed on the second capacitance sensor unit 20.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the circuit unit 30 of this example, in addition to the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield driving circuit 24 described above, an obstacle or a human body is close to a determination circuit 25 made of, for example, a CPU. An initial capacity storage device 26 that stores a capacitance value (initial capacity) when there is no switch, a switch control circuit 27 that controls the switching operation of the selector switch SW, and a buffer 28 are provided.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the detection target object (obstacle or human body) of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device having the circuit unit 30 configured as described above, for example, the electrostatic capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are similarly connected to the vehicle. 1 on the side door 2. Thereafter, the capacitance value (initial capacitance) in the operation 1 and the operation 2 when the obstacle or the human body is not approaching each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the changeover switch SW is controlled by the control of the switch control circuit 27. Switch to detect each.

  Then, these values are stored in the initial capacity storage device 26, and the initial capacity is determined from the first and second electrostatic capacitance values C1 and C2 in the actual operations 1 and 2 described above in the determination circuit 25. These initial capacities stored in the storage device 26 are subtracted and compared. Based on the comparison result thus obtained, it is determined whether or not an obstacle on the outside of the side door 2 or a human body existing on the inside exists in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11.

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

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

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device, as described above with reference to FIG. 7, starts processing as described above based on the output from the first capacitance sensor unit 10. The first detection value and the second detection value are calculated (step S202), and these are compared to calculate a comparison value (step S203).

  Thereafter, based on the first or second detection value, it is determined whether or not the detection target (obstacle or human body) is in proximity (step S204). At the same time, whether the comparison value of the first detection value and the second detection value is, for example, a predetermined threshold value or more (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value). It is determined whether or not (step S205).

  That is, here, the detected values 1 and 2 and the comparison result indicate that an obstacle (another vehicle 9) or a human body (adult 48) is within the detection range Z1 (in the detection range Z2 in the case of the second capacitance sensor unit 20). Etc.) is determined. Note that the detection value 2 at the time of the operation 2 in which the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 is a detection value in a state where the sensor sensitivity has no directivity, The output depends on the approach of the human body to the first capacitance sensor unit 10 (the same applies to the second capacitance sensor unit 20).

  If it is determined that an obstacle or a human body 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 obstacle or human body is detected. (Step S206), the opening / closing angle control of the side door 2 is performed as described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 (step S207), and it is determined whether or not the processing as described above is to be ended. (Step S209).

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

  Although it is determined that an obstacle or a human body is in close proximity (Y in step S204), if it is determined that the comparison value is not equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value (N in step S205), the obstacle or human body is removed. It determines with detection (step S208). Then, for example, a non-detection signal A (for example, a high impedance, a predetermined potential, etc.) that is a disable signal indicating that there is no obstacle or human body in the detection range Z1 when directivity is given is determined and output. And the process proceeds to step S209.

  Further, for example, based on the first or second detection value (or the first or second capacitance value C1, C2), it is determined whether an obstacle or a human body is close (step S204). When it is determined that an object or a human body is not in proximity (N in step S204), the process proceeds to step S208 and it is determined that these are not detected. Then, for example, a non-detection signal B (a signal different from the non-detection signal A) that is a disable signal indicating that an obstacle or a human body is not within the detection range Z1 on the sensor electrode 11 is output as a determination output, and the above step The process proceeds to S209.

  In this way, by using the output of the determination circuit 25 as an enable signal or a disable signal, for example, according to the determination result, the enable signal is sent to the buffer 28 when an obstacle or human body is within the detection range Z1 on the sensor electrode 11. The detection value 1 is output from the buffer 28. When an obstacle or a human body is not within the detection range Z1 on the sensor electrode 11, the determination output is fixed to a predetermined voltage such as a ground voltage or a reference voltage as a disable signal, or becomes a high impedance output.

  In addition, when both the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11 when the obstacle (other vehicle 9) or the human body (adult 48 or child 49) is within the detection range 1, In addition, the detection value 2 and the first or second capacitance values C1 and C2 may be output. The detection value 1, the detection value 2, and the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 indicate values according to the distance to an obstacle or a human body sensor electrode 11, for example.

  Thus, according to the circuit unit 30 configured as described above, when an obstacle or a human body is within the detection range Z1, Z2, a detection value corresponding to the distance is output, and when it is not within the detection range Z1, Z2, The output is a predetermined voltage or the like. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not there are obstacles or human bodies in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2, and if so, how long it is. That is, it is possible to increase the intensity of the directivity of the sensor sensitivity of each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 or to set the directivity in more detail.

  Further, as another example of a method for avoiding the dependence on the structure around the place where the electrostatic capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are installed, these are maintained by adjusting the reference voltage as follows. It is also possible. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, the circuit section 30 of this example includes a reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 and a subtraction circuit 31 in addition to the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24.

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

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

  Further, after the output of the register 43 is converted from a digital signal to an analog signal by the D / A converter 44, the voltage is adjusted by the adjusting unit 45, and the output from the adjusting unit 45 is used to adjust the voltage of the CV conversion circuit 21. Adjust the input. In this way, in the operation 1 when the obstacle or the human body is not in proximity to each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the register 43 when the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. Is set as the reference voltage, and the setting value (setting value 1) at that time is stored.

  At the same time, in the operation 2 when the obstacle or the human body is not in proximity to each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the setting of the register 43 is performed when the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. The value is fixed and the second initial capacitance output is set as the reference potential, and the set value (set value 2) at that time is stored.

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

  Then, by comparing these detection value 1 and detection value 2, whether there is an obstacle or a human body in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11 as well, and if so, how far is it? Is determined. 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 view showing an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the circuit unit of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the vehicle door opening / closing angle control. FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the operation concept during the detection operation of the device, and FIGS. 15 to 17 show the detection object and the electric lines of force during the first detection operation (operation 3) of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a relationship.

  18-20 is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric-power line at the time of the 2nd detection operation (operation | movement 4) of the door opening / closing angle control 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 door opening / closing angle control device according to this embodiment has the same configuration as the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the above-described embodiment, and the first capacitance sensor unit 10. The second capacitance sensor unit 20, the circuit unit 30, and the door ECU 50 are configured.

  The first capacitance sensor unit 10 and the second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 have a square shape that surrounds the sensor electrode 11, like the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13. The auxiliary electrode 13A is formed.

  The sensor electrode 11 is provided mainly for detecting an obstacle (another vehicle 9) or a human body (adult 48 or child 49) existing in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 of the detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 has the above-described action. The auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A is provided mainly to vary the equal capacitance line (surface) on the equal electrostatic side on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11.

  The circuit unit 30 is directly connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 connected to the sensor electrode 11 or the auxiliary electrode 13A, the A / D converter 22, the CPU 23, and the shield electrode 12, and the sensor electrode 11 or the auxiliary electrode. And a shield drive circuit 24 connected to 13A.

  The circuit unit 30 also includes a first changeover switch SW1 that 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. 12 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 door opening / closing angle control device, and performs, for example, an alternate connection (an alternative connection to the A side or the B side) of the first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2. Control or detection of a detection target (obstacle or human body) in the detection area (proximity or presence of an obstacle or human body). The shield drive circuit 24 drives the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13A or the sensor electrode 11 to, for example, the same potential as the sensor electrode 11.

  Since the structures and configurations of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the circuit unit 30 and the door ECU 50, 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 is omitted here. Note that the first changeover switch SW1 is configured such that, for example, when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the sensor electrode 11 can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential. The second changeover switch SW2 May be configured such that when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the auxiliary electrode 13A can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential.

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

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

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

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

  In the case of the operation 3, the connection state of the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A with the circuit unit 30 is as shown in FIG. That is, as described above, only the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. Thereby, the electrostatic capacitance C with the detection objects X, Y, W is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 only by the sensor electrode 11.

  In addition, the back side of the sensor electrode 11 of each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is covered with the shield electrode 12. For this reason, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is considerably lower than that on the detection surface side because only the electric lines of force that wrap around from the detection surface (front surface) of the sensor electrode 11 are detected. Here, the detection object X as an obstacle or a human body is detected as a detection object existing in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2, and the detection objects Y and W as an obstacle or human body exist outside the detection ranges Z1 and Z2. It will be described as an object.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X are less affected by the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13A.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 16, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target Y at a distance substantially equal to the detection target X are affected by the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13A. In response to this, it decreases compared to the case of the detection object X. For this reason, the detection target Y is weaker in capacitive coupling with the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target X.

  Thereby, the identification of the detection objects X and Y during the operation 3 (that is, the distinction between the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 or the detection ranges Z1 and Z2) can be easily performed. However, as shown in FIG. 17, in the detection target W closer to the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target Y, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 are the same as those for the detection target X in FIG. , The output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is the same.

  That is, the detection target object X and the detection target object W are on the equipotential surface (line) M in FIG. 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 object W exists in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 or outside the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 only by the operation 3. In this embodiment as well, as in the above-described embodiment, the determination is not made only by the operation 3, but the electrostatic capacitance as the first capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 at the time of the operation 3 is determined. The capacitance value C1 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23.

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

  In addition, the structure corresponding to FIG. 14 which shows the connection state with the circuit part 30 of the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A in the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus in the case of operation | movement 4 is each changeover switch in FIG. SW1 and SW2 are switched to the B side. For this reason, illustration and description are omitted here.

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

  In the case of this operation 4, as shown in FIG. 18, the electric force line P2 (shield) from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X has a large influence on the electric force line P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A. For this reason, the detection object X has weak capacitance coupling with the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is compared with the detection object X in the operation 3. Become smaller.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19, the electric force line P2 (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 P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A. Increases compared to the case of the detection object X. For this reason, in the case of the operation 4, the detection target Y has a strong capacitive coupling with the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is the detection target in the operation 3. Compared to the case for the object Y, it becomes larger.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 20, the electric lines of force P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A with respect to the detection object W are larger than the electric lines of force P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A with respect to the detection object X in FIG. The influence of the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the electrode 11 is also small. For this reason, in the operation 4, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 in the detection target W is larger than that in the detection target X. Then, the capacitance value C2 as the second capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 during the operation 4 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23.

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

  As described above, the CPU 23 determines how far the detection target exists from the center of the sensor electrode 11 by comparing the value of the capacitance value C2 with the capacitance value C1. Is possible. At this time, if the comparison value of the capacitance values C1 and C2 is, for example, a predetermined threshold value or more (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value), the sensor electrode 11 If it is set so that it can be determined that it is within the upper detection ranges Z1 and Z2, directivity can be arbitrarily given.

  In the explanatory diagrams shown in FIGS. 14 to 20, the detection value in the operation 3 is larger than the detection value in the operation 4 for the detection object X, and the detection value in the operation 3 is the operation value in the detection object Y. Smaller than the detected value. In the detection target W, the detection value in the operation 3 and the detection value in the operation 4 are described as examples. However, when various conditions such as the arrangement shape and the arrangement area of the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13A change, the vertical relationship between the operation 3 and the operation 4 on the detection objects X, Y, and W changes.

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

  Although there are cases where it cannot be expressed by a mathematical expression depending on conditions, the capacitance values C1 and C2 on the outside and inside of the side door 2 of the detection target (obstacle or human body) are measured and profiled in advance. Each profile may be compared with the actual detection value.

  Thus, according to this vehicle door opening / closing angle control device, for example, when the predetermined threshold value Th2 is large, the directionality of the sensor sensitivity of each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is high and small. May have a low directivity. Thereby, the directivity of the sensor sensitivity can be arbitrarily set, and the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11 can be arbitrarily determined, and the detection target (obstacle or human body) is reliably detected with a simple configuration. Will be able to.

  Then, based on the determination result, the door ECU 50 performs the opening / closing angle control as described above, and controls the angle and operation of the side door 2 according to the situation. In this way, the side door 2 may be brought into contact with an obstacle while the side door 2 is being opened, or may be closed while a human body is present inside the side door 2 (for example, when setting a child seat). Etc. can be surely prevented.

  Note that various configurations and operations of the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 30 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted here. Further, in the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus 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 of the auxiliary electrode 13A. Description has been made by taking as an example the case of comparing the value C2 to determine the detection of the detection object. In addition, as described with reference to FIG. 9 in the above-described embodiment, the dummy electrode 19 may be disposed and the CV conversion circuit 21 may be configured to perform a differential operation. Since the various configurations and operations are the same as those described above, the description thereof is omitted here.

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

  In the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the present embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 13A is disposed so as to surround the entire periphery of the sensor electrode 11. Therefore, each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 has the same directivity in all directions of the detection surface of the sensor electrode 11 (that is, the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 are the same in any direction with respect to the sensor electrode 11). If there is a direction in which it is not desired to have the property, for example, the following may be performed.

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

  Further, since the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the circuit unit 30 described above is either the first capacitance value C1 or the second capacitance value C2, each sensor electrode 11 (including each of the sensor electrodes 11) is included. There are cases where the capacitance value detected differs depending on the structure around the installation location of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20).

  Then, the comparison result obtained by comparing the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 may change depending on the structure around the place where the sensor electrode 11 is installed. In order to avoid such a situation, the configuration of the circuit unit 30 may be further set as follows, for example.

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory view showing an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the circuit unit of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 22 is a vehicle door opening / closing angle control. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and circuit part of an apparatus. 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 circuit unit 30 includes a CV conversion circuit 21, a shield drive circuit 24, a determination circuit 25, an initial capacity storage device 26 that stores the above-described initial capacity, and a switching operation of each switch SW1 and SW2. A switch control circuit 27 for controlling the signal and a buffer 28.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the detection target (obstacle or human body) of the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus having such a circuit unit 30, for example, the electrostatic capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are installed at predetermined installation locations. After that, the capacitance value (initial capacitance) when the obstacle or the human body is not approaching the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is switched by switching the change-over switches SW1 and SW2 under the control of the switch control circuit 27, respectively. These values are detected and 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. Based on the comparison result, it is determined whether an obstacle or a human body exists in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11.

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

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

  Thereafter, the determination circuit 25 compares the detection value 1 with the detection value 2, and determines whether there is an obstacle or a human body in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 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 obstacle or the human body to the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20. 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 circuit unit 30 includes a CV conversion circuit 21, a shield drive circuit 24, a reference voltage adjustment circuit 40, and a subtraction circuit 31.

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

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

  As described above, according to the vehicle door opening / closing angle control apparatus according to the above-described embodiment, the detection range Z1 on the sensor electrode 11 set to a predetermined height by the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20. , Z2 can determine whether there are obstacles or human bodies existing outside or inside the side door 2. Then, based on the determination result, the door ECU 50 performs the opening / closing angle control as described above, and can control the angle and operation of the side door 2 according to the situation.

  Although the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to the above-described embodiment has been described as detecting an obstacle or a human body outside or inside the side door 2 of the vehicle 1, the vehicle door opening / closing angle control device may be an electric vehicle other than a side-opening door. An object to be detected may be detected outside or inside such as a sliding door or a hatchback door, and the angle and operation of the door may be controlled.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Vehicle 2 Side door 9 Other vehicle 10 1st electrostatic capacitance sensor part 11 Sensor electrode 12 Shield electrode 13 Auxiliary electrode 13A Auxiliary electrode 19 Dummy electrode 20 2nd electrostatic capacitance sensor part 21 CV conversion circuit 22 A / D conversion 23 CPU
24 Shield Drive Circuit 25 Judgment Circuit 26 Initial Capacity Storage Device 27 Switch Control Circuit 28 Buffer 30 Circuit Unit 31 Subtraction Circuit 40 Reference Voltage Adjustment Circuit 41 Comparator 42 Control Circuit 43 Register 44 D / A Converter 45 Adjustment Unit 48 Adult 49 Child 50 Door ECU
60 Alarm device 70 Door lock mechanism 80 Door motor

Claims (15)

Sensor electrodes respectively provided so that a detection surface exists toward the outside and the inside of the vehicle door provided in the 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 Based on the first or second capacitance value, whether or not an obstacle outside the vehicle door is within a detection range on the sensor electrode, and a human body existing inside the vehicle door is the sensor. A determination means for determining whether or not the detection range is on the electrode;
An opening / closing angle control device for a vehicle, comprising: an opening / closing angle control unit that controls an opening / closing angle of the vehicle door according to a determination result from the determination unit. 2. The vehicle door opening / closing angle control according to claim 1, wherein the change-over switch is configured to be openable, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential when the auxiliary electrode is in the first connection state. apparatus. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
The vehicular door opening / closing angle control 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. Sensor electrodes respectively provided so that a detection surface exists toward the outside and the inside of the vehicle door provided in the 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 Based on the first or second capacitance value, whether or not an obstacle outside the vehicle door is within a detection range on the sensor electrode, and a human body existing inside the vehicle door is the sensor. A determination means for determining whether or not the detection range is on the electrode;
An opening / closing angle control device for a vehicle, comprising: an opening / closing angle control unit that controls an opening / closing angle of the vehicle door according to a determination result from the determination unit. Sensor electrodes respectively provided so that a detection surface exists toward the outside and the inside of the vehicle door provided in the 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 whether the obstacle outside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode based on the first or second capacitance value, and exists inside the vehicle door. Determining means for determining whether a human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode;
An opening / closing angle control device for a vehicle, comprising: an opening / closing angle control unit that controls an opening / closing angle of the vehicle door according to a determination result from the determination unit. 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 vehicular door opening / closing angle according to claim 5, wherein the second change-over switch is configured to be able to open, ground or connect the auxiliary electrode to a predetermined potential in the first connection state. Control device. A shield driving circuit for giving the auxiliary electrode the same potential as the sensor electrode, or giving the sensor electrode the same potential as the auxiliary electrode,
The first changeover switch is configured to connect the sensor electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state,
The vehicular door opening / closing angle according to claim 5, wherein the second change-over switch is configured to be able to open, ground or connect the auxiliary electrode to a predetermined potential in the first connection state. Control device. 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 door opening / closing angle control device according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode;
The first changeover switch is configured to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state,
The vehicular door opening / closing angle according to claim 5, wherein the second change-over switch is configured to be able to open, ground or connect the auxiliary electrode to a predetermined potential in the first connection state. Control device. The sensor electrode is provided near the end of the movable tip side on the outside and inside of the vehicle door so as to be able to detect the obstacle and the human body,
The vehicular door opening / closing angle control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the auxiliary electrode is disposed so as to surround the sensor electrode. When the opening / closing angle control means determines that an obstacle outside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode during the opening operation of the vehicle door, The vehicle door according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein an opening operation of the vehicle door is disabled beyond an opening angle of the vehicle door where the vehicle door does not contact the obstacle. Opening / closing angle control device. The opening / closing angle control means determines that the human body inside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode by the determination means when the opening operation of the vehicle door is disabled. The vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to claim 11, wherein an opening angle of the vehicle door is fixed. When the opening angle of the vehicle door is fixed, the open / close angle control means determines that the human body inside the vehicle door is not within the detection range on the sensor electrode when the opening angle of the vehicle door is fixed. The vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to claim 12, wherein the vehicle door opening / closing angle fixing state is released to enable at least a closing operation of the vehicle door. The opening / closing angle control means determines that the obstacle outside the vehicle door is not within the detection range on the sensor electrode by the determination means when the opening operation of the vehicle door is disabled. 14. The vehicle door opening and closing according to claim 11, wherein the vehicle door opening operation is disabled by releasing the vehicle door opening state from being disabled. Angle control device. A notification means for notifying that the vehicle door cannot be opened;
When the opening / closing angle control means determines that an obstacle outside the vehicle door is within the detection range on the sensor electrode during the opening operation of the vehicle door, The vehicle door is disabled to open more than an opening angle of the vehicle door that does not contact the obstacle, and the alarm is notified by controlling the notification means. Item 12. The vehicle door opening / closing angle control device according to Item 11.

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