JP2011100617A - Operation control device, and operation control method using this - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an operation control device in which an operator can recognize easily an operation part and its operation corresponding to an operation switch, and an operation control method. <P>SOLUTION: The operation control device is provided with an operation switch 3, an operation part 4 which performs a prescribed operation, and a control part 5 which operates the operation part 4 by a signal from the operation switch 3. The operation switch 3 is provided with a first switch 7 which is operated by a contact of a finger or an operation force of a prescribed value or less and a second switch 8 which is operated by an operation force exceeding a prescribed value. The control part 5 makes the operation parts 4a, 4b or the like to perform a preliminary operation for making the operator sense a prescribed operation by a signal from the first switch 7 and makes the operation parts 4a, 4b or the like to perform a prescribed operation by the signal from the second switch 8. As the first switch 7, a touch switch can be used, and as the second switch 8, a push switch and a slide switch or the like can be used. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an operation control device and an operation control method using the same, and more particularly, an operation control device that allows an operator to easily recognize an operation unit corresponding to an operation switch, and an operation control using the operation unit. Regarding the method.

In recent years, vehicles such as automobiles are equipped with various operation parts (for example, interior lights, electric seats, electric roofs, electric windows, etc.) that perform predetermined operations in order to improve the living performance and running performance. Accordingly, a large number of operation switches for operating each operation unit are mounted. In addition, since the operation of the operation unit by each operation switch is various, the operator may not be able to immediately predict the operation state by the operation.
Therefore, in order to make it easier for the operator to understand the role of each operation switch and the operation caused by it, for example, an illustration that displays the operation of the operation unit on or near the operation switch is displayed, and the operation switch that is touched The operation description of the operation unit corresponding to the operation unit is displayed on the display, or the operation description of the operation unit corresponding to the touched operation switch is announced from the speaker.
As a conventional switch structure, a structure in which a push switch is disposed on the surface side of a touch switch is known (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). However, the techniques of these Patent Documents 1 and 2 are for causing the touch switch and the push switch to operate different operation units, and the above-described operator operates the operation unit corresponding to the operation switch. It is not aimed at solving problems such as difficulty in recognizing movement.

JP 2001-76582 A JP 2008-140755 A

As described above, in a vehicle or the like, a large number of operation switches are provided to operate the operation units such as various devices and devices, and the operation modes of the operation units by the respective operation switches are various. In many cases, it is necessary to remember the position of the operation switch and visually recognize the display on the switch when performing the operation. There is also a problem that the display method differs depending on the manufacturer and vehicle type. In addition, there are various types of operation switches themselves, such as push switches, rotary types, and lever types. In many cases, the operating state of each operation switch cannot be intuitively understood by the operator.
In response to these problems, separate notification means such as a display device and a speaker are required when the operation explanation of the operation unit corresponding to the conventionally proposed operation switch is displayed on the display or guided by voice. And the cost is high. Further, it does not make the operator intuitively recognize the operation by the operation.
Note that the above-described problem occurs not only in vehicles such as automobiles but also in various home appliances and electronic devices.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above situation, and an operator can easily perform an operation unit corresponding to an operation switch and an operation thereof without using a special device for guiding an operation corresponding to the operation switch. An object of the present invention is to provide an operation control apparatus that can be recognized and an operation control method using the same.

The present invention is as follows.
1. An operation control device comprising: an operation switch; an operation unit that performs a predetermined operation; and a control unit that operates the operation unit according to a signal from the operation switch,
The operation switch includes a first switch that is operated by finger contact or an operation force equal to or less than a predetermined value, and a second switch that is operated by an operation force exceeding the predetermined value,
The control unit causes the operation unit to perform a preliminary operation for causing the operator to sense the predetermined operation based on a signal from the first switch, and causes the operation unit to operate according to a signal from the second switch. An operation control device that performs the predetermined operation.
2. The first switch is a touch switch, and the second switch is a push switch or a slide switch provided on the surface of the first switch or directly below the first switch. The operation control device described.
3. The operating unit is a lighting device having a light source that emits light with a predetermined luminance,
In the preliminary operation, the light source emits light with a luminance lower than the predetermined luminance, or the light source blinks. Or 2. The operation control device described in 1.
4). The operating unit is a movable device having a movable body that moves at a predetermined speed within a predetermined range,
In the preliminary operation, the movable body is moved by at least one of a range smaller than the range and a speed slower than the speed. Or 2. The operation control device described in 1.
5. The control unit causes the operation unit to perform a predetermined operation without performing the preliminary operation when the second switch is operated within a predetermined time after the first switch is operated. To 4. The operation control device according to any one of the above.
6). The lighting device is a room lamp provided in a vehicle. The operation control device described.
7). The above-mentioned movable device is any one of an electric seat, an electric roof, and an electric window provided in a vehicle. The operation control device described.
8). Above 1. To 7. An operation control method using the operation control device according to any one of
A first step of causing the operating unit to perform the preliminary operation when the first switch is activated;
A second step of causing the operating unit to perform the predetermined operation when the second switch is activated;
An operation control method comprising:
9. And a monitoring step of determining whether the second switch is operated within a predetermined time after the first switch is operated,
If it is determined by the monitoring step that the second switch has not been activated, the first step is performed,
If it is determined by the monitoring step that the second switch is activated, the second step is performed. The operation control method described.

According to the operation control apparatus of the present invention, the operation unit performs a preliminary operation when the first switch is operated, and the operation unit performs a predetermined operation when the second switch is operated. Thus, regardless of the mode of operation by the operation switch, the operator activates the first switch by touching the operation switch or applying light force to confirm the preliminary operation of the operation unit. The operation unit corresponding to the operation switch and its operation can be intuitively recognized. Furthermore, the operator can cause the operation unit to perform a normal operation by applying the operating force as it is to operate the second switch. Further, since the guidance is performed by the preliminary operation of the operation unit itself, a notification means using sound, images, or the like is unnecessary, and the cost can be reduced.
Further, when the first switch is a touch switch and the second switch is a push switch or a slide switch provided on the surface of the first switch or directly below it, it is detected that the surface of the operation unit is touched. Thus, a preliminary operation can be performed, and a predetermined operation can be performed when operated strongly as it is. Moreover, the installation space efficiency of the operation switch can be increased.
Further, when the operation unit is a lighting device having a light source that emits light with a predetermined luminance, and the preliminary operation causes the light source to emit light with a luminance lower than the predetermined luminance, or the light source blinks, an operator Can easily recognize the lighting device corresponding to the operation switch and its operation by confirming light emission or blinking at a luminance lower than the predetermined luminance of the light source as a preliminary operation.
Further, the operation unit is a movable device having a movable body that moves at a predetermined speed in a predetermined range, and the preliminary operation is performed by at least one of a range smaller than the range and a speed slower than the speed. When operating, the operator confirms the movement of at least one of the range smaller than the predetermined range of the movable body and the speed slower than the predetermined speed as a preliminary operation, and the movable device corresponding to the operation switch and its The operation can be easily recognized.
When the second switch is operated within a predetermined time after the first switch is operated, the control unit may perform the predetermined operation of the operation unit without performing the preliminary operation. When the operator has already recognized the operation unit corresponding to the operation switch and its operation, the operation unit can be made to perform a predetermined operation immediately without performing an unnecessary preliminary operation.
Moreover, when the said illuminating device is the interior lamp provided in the vehicle, the operation control apparatus suitable for the interior lamp for vehicles can be provided. In addition, the occupant is safe because it is not necessary to visually recognize the operation switch.
Further, when the movable device is any one of an electric seat, an electric roof, and an electric window provided in the vehicle, an operation control device suitable for any of the electric seat, the electric roof, and the electric window for the vehicle. Can be provided.

According to the operation control method of the present invention, since the operation unit includes the first step of performing the preliminary operation when the first switch is operated, the operation by the operation switch can be performed regardless of the mode. The person can operate the first switch to confirm the preliminary operation of the operation unit, and can intuitively recognize the operation unit corresponding to the operation switch and its operation. Furthermore, since the operation unit includes a second step in which the operation unit performs a predetermined operation when the second switch is operated, the operator can cause the operation unit to perform a normal operation by operating the second switch as it is. it can.
And a monitoring step of determining whether the second switch is operated within a predetermined time after the first switch is operated, and when the monitoring step determines that the second switch has not been operated. Performs the first step, and when the second step is performed when it is determined that the second switch is activated by the monitoring step, the operator already has the operation unit corresponding to the operation switch and the operation thereof. When recognizing, a predetermined operation can be immediately performed without causing the operation unit to perform an unnecessary preliminary operation.

The present invention will be further described in the following detailed description with reference to the drawings referred to, with reference to non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments according to the present invention. Similar parts are shown throughout the several figures.
It is a perspective view which shows the vehicle interior side which concerns on Example 1 and 2. FIG. It is a principal part enlarged front view of the said interior lamp. FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of an operation switch according to the first embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of an operation control apparatus according to a first embodiment. It is a flowchart figure of the operation control process by the said operation control apparatus. 6 is a side view showing an electric seat according to Embodiment 2. FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of an operation control apparatus according to a second embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which shows the operation control process by the said operation control apparatus.

  The items shown here are for illustrative purposes and exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and are the most effective and easy-to-understand explanations of the principles and conceptual features of the present invention. It is stated for the purpose of providing what seems to be. In this respect, it is not intended to illustrate the structural details of the present invention beyond what is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the present invention. It will be clear to those skilled in the art how it is actually implemented.

1. Operation Control Device Embodiment 1 An operation control device according to the present invention is an operation control device including an operation switch, an operation unit that performs a predetermined operation, and a control unit that operates the operation unit according to a signal from the operation switch. Alternatively, the control unit includes a first switch that operates with an operation force that is less than or equal to a predetermined value and a second switch that operates with an operation force that exceeds a predetermined value. A preliminary operation for causing the operator to detect the operation is performed, and a predetermined operation is performed by the operation unit according to a signal from the second switch.

  The “finger contact” includes not only direct finger contact with the first switch but also indirect contact with the proximity of the finger to the first switch. In addition, the “preliminary operation” may be an operation in which a predetermined operation is limited so that the operator can detect or predict a predetermined operation by the operating unit. The “predetermined operation” is intended to be an operation that the operation unit performs during normal operation.

  Examples of the “operation switch” include (1) a form in which the first switch is a touch switch and the second switch is a push switch or a slide switch provided on the surface of the first switch or immediately below the first switch (for example, FIG. 3), (2) the first switch is a touch switch, and the second switch is a push switch or a slide switch provided adjacent to the side of the first switch, (3) the first and first A form in which the two switches are two-stage push switches or slide switches, and (4) a form in which the first and second switches are configured by one switch that can determine whether or not the operating force exceeds a predetermined value. Etc.

In said form (1)-(4), the said 2nd switch is not normally act | operated by the operating force below a predetermined value. In addition, the second switch is operated by, for example, a part of the elastic body being deformed or displaced by an operating force exceeding a predetermined value, and its configuration and structure are not limited. Examples thereof include a switch, a membrane switch (see FIG. 3), a switch using a strain sensor, and the like. The “predetermined value” may be 0.2 to 1.0 kgf (preferably 0.3 to 0.5 kgf), for example.
In the configuration (1), the touch switch includes, for example, a detection electrode and a capacitance detection unit that detects a change in capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground. (See, for example, FIG. 3). As an operation trigger of this capacitive touch switch, for example, in addition to a form in which a finger contacts the detection electrode via an insulator covering the surface (one surface) of the detection electrode, The form etc. which a finger | toe contacts directly on the surface can be mentioned.
The touch switch as the first switch may be disposed adjacent to the push switch or the slide switch as the second switch as in the above-described form (2).
In the form (3), for example, when the two-stage push switch or the slide switch is pressed or slid with an operation force equal to or less than a predetermined value to partially deform or displace the first switch, The second switch can be actuated when a pressing operation or a sliding operation with an operating force exceeding a predetermined value is performed to deform or displace a part thereof.
In the form (4), for example, a switch using a strain sensor that detects a strain according to the operation force can be cited. When the operation force is applied and is smaller than a predetermined value, the switch operates as a first switch. When the force is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the second switch can be operated.

  Examples of the “operation unit” include (1) a lighting device having a light source that emits light with a predetermined luminance, (2) a movable device having a movable body that moves at a predetermined speed within a predetermined range, and (3) with a predetermined amount of heat. Examples include a heat generating device that generates heat, (4) a sound generating device that generates sound at a predetermined volume, and (5) a blower that sends out air at a predetermined amount.

  In the above mode (1), as the preliminary operation of the lighting device, for example, (a) a mode in which the light source emits light with a luminance lower than a predetermined luminance, (b) a mode in which the light source flashes, (c) a light source for a predetermined time One type or a combination of two or more types in a mode in which light is emitted or blinked between (d) a mode in which light is emitted while changing the luminance of the light source can be given. In addition, examples of the illumination device include an interior lamp (for example, see FIG. 2 and the like) provided in a vehicle, a headlamp, a display backlight, and the like. Examples of the light source include bulbs such as incandescent bulbs, light emitting diodes, fluorescent lamps, and electroluminescent lights.

  In the above mode (2), as the preliminary operation of the movable device, for example, (a) a mode in which the movable body is moved at least one of a range smaller than a predetermined range and a speed slower than a predetermined speed, (b There may be mentioned one or a combination of two or more of a form in which the movable body is moved for a predetermined time, a form in which the movable body is moved while changing the speed of the movable body, and the like. Examples of the movable device include an electric seat (see, for example, FIG. 6) provided in a vehicle, an electric roof, an electric window, a wiper, and the like. Examples of the movable body of the electric seat include a seat part, a backrest part, and a headrest part. In the form (2), examples of the “movement” include one or a combination of two or more of linear movement, curved movement, rotational movement, and the like.

  In the above mode (3), as the preliminary operation of the heat generating device, for example, (a) a mode in which the heat generating device generates heat with a larger or smaller amount of heat, (b) a mode in which the heat generating device generates heat for a predetermined time. (C) One type or a combination of two or more types of forms in which the heat generating device generates heat while changing the amount of heat can be given. Examples of the heat generating device include a seat heater and a window heater provided in the vehicle.

  In the above mode (4), as the preliminary operation of the sound generating device, for example, (a) a mode in which the sound generating device generates a sound with a volume larger or smaller than a predetermined volume, and (b) the sound generating device for a predetermined time. One type or a combination of two or more types of modes that generate sound between them, (c) a mode that generates sound while changing the volume of the sound generation device, and the like can be given. Examples of the sound generator include an audio device and a car navigation device provided in the vehicle.

  In the above mode (5), as the preliminary operation of the blower, for example, (a) a mode in which the blower is sent out with a larger or smaller feed rate, (b) a blower device for a predetermined time One type or a combination of two or more types of modes in which air is sent between them, (c) a mode in which air is sent while changing the amount of air blower, and the like can be given. Examples of the blower include an air conditioner and an indoor heater provided in the vehicle.

  The control processing of the “control unit” may be realized by either hardware or software. Preferably, a microcontroller (microcomputer) including a CPU, a memory (ROM, RAM, etc.), an input / output circuit, etc. A peripheral circuit such as an input / output interface can be provided at the center. A digital signal processor, a programmable logic circuit, a gate array, or other logic circuits may be used.

  Here, the first embodiment. For example, when the second switch is actuated within a predetermined time after the first switch is actuated, the control unit according to the present invention is configured so that the actuating unit does not perform the preliminary operation. The form which performs this operation | movement can be mentioned. Examples of the predetermined time include 0.01 to 0.5 seconds.

2. Operation Control Method Embodiment 2 The operation control method according to the first embodiment is the same as in the first embodiment. In the operation control method using the operation control device, the first step of causing the operation unit to perform a preliminary operation when the first switch is activated, and the first step of causing the operation unit to perform a predetermined operation when the second switch is activated. And two steps.

  Embodiment 2 For example, the operation control method includes a monitoring step of determining whether the second switch is operated within a predetermined time after the first switch is operated, and the monitoring step determines that the second switch has not been operated. In such a case, the first step is performed, and the second step is performed when it is determined that the second switch is operated by the monitoring step.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the first and second embodiments with reference to the drawings.

[Example 1]
First, the operation control apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, as the “operation control device” according to the present invention, an operation control device that performs an operation control process including a lighting process of a vehicle interior light is illustrated.

(1) Configuration of Operation Control Device As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the operation control device 1 according to this embodiment includes a plurality (five in FIG. 2) of operation switches 3a to 3d, A lamp 4 (illustrated as “operation unit” and “illumination device” according to the present invention), and a control unit 5 (see FIG. 4) for performing lighting processing of the indoor lamp 4 by signals from the operation switches 3 a to 3 d It is equipped with.

  As shown in FIG. 3, each of the plurality of operation switches 3 a to 3 d is a touch switch 7 (exemplified as a “first switch” according to the present invention) that operates by contact (approach) of an operator's finger. , And a push switch 8 (exemplified as a “second switch” according to the present invention) that is operated by an operating force exceeding a predetermined value (for example, 0.3 kgf) due to contact of the finger of the operator.

  The touch switch 7 is a capacitance-type switch, and is a sheet-shaped detection electrode 7a and a capacitance detection unit (not shown) that detects a change in capacitance between the detection electrode 7a and the ground. (Omitted). The operation trigger of the touch switch 7 is that a finger touches the detection electrode 7a via an operation key described later as an insulator covering the surface of the detection electrode 7a. That is, while the operator's fingers are in contact with the surface of the detection electrode 7a, the touch switch 7 is activated (ON).

  The push switch 8 has an operation key 10 provided in an opening 9 a formed in the housing 9 so as to be pressed. An elastic sheet 11 is attached to the back surface of the operation key 10 with the detection electrode 7a interposed therebetween. Both ends of the elastic sheet 11 in the longitudinal direction are attached to the housing 9. In addition, a substrate 12 is attached to the housing 9 so as to face the elastic sheet 11 while being spaced apart. On the substrate 12, a pressing deformation portion 13 which is a conductive dome-shaped elastic body is disposed. The elastic sheet 11 is urged toward the surface side of the housing 9 by the pressing deformation portion 13. The substrate 12 is provided with a conductive contact portion 14 and a conductive contact portion 15, and the conductive contact portion 14 is always in contact with the pressing deformation portion 13. In a state where the operation key 10 is not pressed with a force exceeding a predetermined value, the dome-shaped pressing deformation portion 13 is not in contact with the conductive contact portion 15, so that the conductive contact portion 14 and the conductive contact portion 15 are electrically disconnected. The push switch 8 is in an inactive (off) state. When the operation key 10 is pressed beyond a predetermined value, the pressing deformation portion 13 is pressed and deformed via the elastic sheet 11, and the central portion of the dome-shaped pressing deformation portion 13 is brought into contact with the conduction contact portion 15. The If it does so, the conduction contact part 14 and the conduction contact part 15 will be connected by the press deformation | transformation part 13, and the push switch 8 will be in an operation | movement (on) state.

  The interior light 4 is disposed near the windshield on the ceiling surface of the vehicle and at a substantially central portion in the vehicle width direction (see FIG. 1). The interior light 4 has a plurality of (two in FIG. 2) bulbs 4a and 4b (illustrated as “light sources” according to the present invention) that are lit at a predetermined luminance. These bulbs 4 a and 4 b emit light with a predetermined luminance by pressing the push switch 8 (illustrated as “predetermined operation of the operation unit” according to the present invention), and a predetermined luminance by the touch operation of the touch switch 7. Light is emitted with lower luminance (illustrated as “preliminary operation of the operation unit” according to the present invention).

  As an example of the operation of the interior light 4, when the operation switch 3a is pressed once, only the valve 4a emits light, and when the operation switch 3a is pressed again, the valve 4a is turned off. When the operation switch 3d is pressed once, only the valve 4b emits light, and when the operation switch 3d is pressed again, the valve 4b is turned off. Further, when the operation switch 3c is pressed, the plurality of valves 4a, 4b emit light, and when the turn-off switch 6 is pressed, the plurality of valves 4a, 4b are turned off. Further, when the operation switch 3b is pressed once, the plurality of valves 4a and 4b are brought into a door interlocking state that can be turned on and off in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door, and when the operation switch 3b is pressed again, the door interlocking state is released. Can be.

  The control unit 5 includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM (not shown). The CPU executes various processing operations according to a control program stored in the ROM, and the RAM is used for temporarily storing data. As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 5 is electrically connected with a touch switch 7 and a push switch 8 that constitute the plurality of operation switches 3a to 3d. The controller 5 is electrically connected to a plurality of valves 4 a and 4 b that constitute the interior light 4. Further, the touch switch 7 is configured to output an ON signal to the control unit 5 when a finger is touched, and the push switch 8 is configured to output an ON signal to the control unit 5 when pressed with a finger. Can do. Then, when signals are input from the touch switch 7 and the push switch 8, the control unit 5 performs lighting processing of the valves 4a and 4b based on the input signals.

  Next, the operation control process including the lighting process of the indoor lamp 4 by the control unit 5 will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, when the touch switch 7 is turned on (YES in step S1), the control unit 5 starts measuring time with an internal timer (step S2). Next, when the ON operation of the touch switch 7 is continued (YES determination in step S3), it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) has elapsed (step S4). ). As a result, when the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO determination in step S4), it is determined whether or not the push switch 8 is turned on (step S5). As a result, when the push switch 8 is not turned on (NO determination at step S5), the process returns to step S2 and continues counting with the timer. Next, when it is determined that the ON operation of the touch switch 7 is continued (YES determination in step S3) and it is determined that the time measured by the timer has passed a predetermined time (YES determination in step S4), the touch switch 7 When the on-operation is continued (step S6), the bulbs 4a and 4b are caused to emit light with a luminance lower than the predetermined luminance for a predetermined time and lightly lit (step S7).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the push switch 8 is turned on (step S8). As a result, when the push switch 8 is turned on (YES in step S8), the valves 4a and 4b are caused to emit light with a predetermined luminance and are normally lit (step S9). On the other hand, when the push switch 8 is not turned on (NO determination in step S8), the valves 4a and 4b are not normally lit and the process returns to step S1.

  Further, when the push switch 8 is turned on (YES determination in step S5) while the time measured by the timer has not passed the predetermined time (NO determination in step S4), the push switch 8 is continuously turned on. Is determined again (YES in step S8), and the valves 4a and 4b are normally lit (step S9). When it is determined in steps S1, S3, and S6 that the touch switch 7 is not turned on, the process returns to step S1.

  In the present embodiment, in a state where any of the bulbs 4a and 4b of the room light 4 is lit, even if the operator operates the operation switches 3a to 3e to turn off the bulbs 4a and 4b, It is assumed that the lamp 4 is set so as not to perform weak lighting (preliminary operation).

  Here, the “monitoring step” according to the present invention is configured by steps S2, S3, S4 and S5 according to the present embodiment. Further, the “first step” according to the present invention is configured by steps S6 and S7 according to the present embodiment. Furthermore, the “second step” according to the present invention is configured by steps S8 and S9 according to the present embodiment.

(2) Operation of Operation Control Device Next, the operation of the operation control device 1 having the above configuration will be described.
When the operator does not grasp the valves 4a and 4b of the indoor lights 4 corresponding to the operation switches 3a to 3d and the operation thereof, the operator places his / her finger on any one of the operation switches 3a to 3d. Close and touch lightly. For example, when the operation switch 3a is lightly touched, the ON operation of the touch switch 7 of the operation switch 3a is detected, the valve 4a corresponding to the operation switch 3a is weakly lit by the control unit 5, and the operator is lightly lit. Check the valve 4a. As a result, when the valve 4a desired by the operator is lighted weakly, the operator presses the operation switch 3a as it is. Then, an ON operation of the push switch 8 of the operation switch 3a is detected, and the valve 4a corresponding to the operation switch 3a is normally turned on by the control unit 5. On the other hand, if the weakly lit valve 4a is not the operator's desired valve, for example, the operator lightly touches the other operation switch 3d to lightly turn on the valve 4b for confirmation. The above operation is repeated until the desired valve is obtained.

  Further, when the operator has already grasped the valves 4a and 4b of the room light 4 corresponding to the operation switches 3a to 3d and the operation thereof, the operator selects a desired operation switch from among the plurality of operation switches 3a to 3e. Select and press. For example, when the operation switch 3a is pressed, the touch sensor 7 of the operation switch 3a is turned on, and the push switch 8 is turned on within a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) from the on operation. As a result, the valve 4a corresponding to the operation switch 3 is normally lit by the control unit 5 without being weakly lit.

  As described above, according to the operation control device 1 of the present embodiment, when the touch switch 7 is activated, the indoor lamp 4 is caused to emit light with a luminance lower than a predetermined luminance as a preliminary operation, and when the push switch 8 is activated, the indoor lamp 4 is activated. As a predetermined operation (main operation), the operator emits light with a predetermined luminance, so that the operator can confirm the light emission with a luminance lower than the predetermined luminance of the room light 4 as a preliminary operation, and the operation switches 3a to 3d. It is possible to intuitively recognize the interior light 4 corresponding to the above and its operation. Further, the operator can cause the indoor lamp 4 to perform a normal operation by operating the push switch 8 as it is. Further, since the guidance is performed by the preliminary operation of the interior lamp 4 itself, a notification means using sound, images, etc. is not required, and the cost can be reduced.

  Further, in this embodiment, since the push switch 8 is provided immediately below the touch switch 7 to constitute the operation switches 3a to 3d, a preliminary operation is performed by detecting that the surface of the operation unit is touched, and the operation switch is strongly operated as it is. Can perform a predetermined operation. Moreover, the installation space efficiency of operation switch 3a-3d can be improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the push switch 8 is activated within a predetermined time after the touch switch 7 is activated by the control unit 5, the indoor lamp 4 is caused to perform a predetermined operation without performing a preliminary operation. Therefore, when the operator has already recognized the bulbs 4a and 4b of the indoor lamp 4 corresponding to the operation switches 3a to 3d and the operation thereof, the operator immediately determines the indoor lamp 4 without performing unnecessary preliminary operation. It can be operated.

[Example 2]
Next, an operation control apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment exemplifies an operation control apparatus that performs an operation control process including a movement process of an electric seat for a vehicle as an “operation control apparatus” according to the present invention.

(1) Configuration of Operation Control Device As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the operation control device 21 according to this embodiment includes a plurality (two in the drawing) of operation switches 23 a to 23 d and an electric seat 24 (this It is exemplified as an “operation unit” and “movable device” according to the invention.) And a control unit 25 that performs a driving process and the like of the electric seat 24 by signals from the operation switches 23a to 23d.

  Each of the plurality of operation switches 23a to 23d is a touch switch 27 (exemplified as a “first switch” according to the present invention) that is activated by contact (approach) of the operator's finger, and contact of the operator's finger. And a push switch 28 (exemplified as a “second switch” according to the present invention) that is operated by an operating force exceeding a predetermined value (for example, 0.3 kgf).

  The push switch 28 is a known mechanical switch, and presses the operation key 30 with an operation key 30 provided so as to be able to be pressed with respect to the housing and an operation force exceeding a predetermined value (for example, 0.3 kgf). A conduction contact portion (not shown) that is electrically connected to the control unit 15 when operated. A detection electrode (not shown) constituting the touch sensor 27 is disposed on the back side of the operation key 30. The touch switch 27 and the push switch 28 may have substantially the same configuration as the touch switch 7 and the push switch 8 according to the first embodiment, and a slide switch or the like may be used instead of the push switch. .

  The electric seat 24 is disposed on the driver's seat side and the passenger seat side in the passenger compartment of the vehicle (see FIG. 1). Each of the electric seats 24 is illustrated as a seat portion 24a (illustrated as a “movable body” according to the present invention) and a backrest portion 24b connected to a rear end side of the seat portion 24a (as a “movable body” according to the present invention). And a headrest portion 24c connected to the upper end side of the backrest portion 24b.

  The seat portion 24a is slidably supported along the front-rear direction of the vehicle with respect to the floor surface of the vehicle, and is slid by the drive of a drive motor described later. The seat portion 24a slides at a predetermined speed (for example, 0.02 m / s) toward the front of the vehicle (for example, the right direction in FIG. 6) by pressing the push switch 28 of the operation switch 23a. (Exemplified as “predetermined operation of the operation unit” according to the present invention). Further, the seat portion 24a slides at a speed slower than the predetermined speed toward the front of the vehicle by the touch operation of the touch switch 27 of the operation switch 23a (illustrated as “preliminary operation of the operation unit” according to the present invention). To do.) The seat portion 24a slides at a predetermined speed (for example, 0.02 m / s) toward the rear of the vehicle (for example, leftward in FIG. 6) by the pressing operation of the push switch 28 of the operation switch 23b. (Exemplified as “predetermined operation of the operation unit” according to the present invention). Further, the seat portion 24a slides toward the rear of the vehicle at a speed slower than the predetermined speed by the contact operation of the touch switch 27 of the operation switch 23b (as “preliminary operation of the operation portion” according to the present invention). Illustrate.)

  The backrest part 24b is supported so as to be tiltable about a horizontal axis with respect to the seat part 24a, and is tilted by forward / reverse drive of a drive motor described later. The backrest 24b is tilted at a predetermined speed toward the front of the vehicle (for example, rightward in FIG. 6) by the pressing operation of the push switch 28 of the operation switch 23c (“predetermined operation unit according to the present invention”). It is exemplified as “operation of“.). Further, the backrest 24b tilts toward the front of the vehicle at a speed slower than the predetermined speed by the contact operation of the touch switch 27 of the operation switch 23c (exemplified as “preliminary operation of the operation unit” according to the present invention). .) Further, the backrest part 24b is tilted at a predetermined speed toward the rear of the vehicle (for example, leftward in FIG. 6) by the pressing operation of the push switch 28 of the operation switch 23d (“operation part of the present invention”). This is exemplified as “predetermined operation”). Further, the backrest 24b tilts toward the rear of the vehicle at a speed slower than the predetermined speed by the contact operation of the touch switch 27 of the operation switch 23c (exemplified as “preliminary operation of the operation unit” according to the present invention). .)

  In the operation switches 23a and 23b, when the operation key 30 is pressed and maintained, the seat portion 24a continues to slide, and when the operation key 30 is stopped, the seat 24a stops sliding. To do. In the operation switches 23c and 23d, when the operation key 30 is pressed and maintained in the pressed state, the backrest portion 24b continues to tilt, and when the pressing operation of the operation key 30 is stopped, the backrest portion 24b stops tilting.

  The control unit 25 includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM (not shown). The CPU executes various processing operations according to a control program stored in the ROM, and the RAM is used for temporarily storing data. As shown in FIG. 7, a touch switch 27 and a push switch 28 that constitute the plurality of operation switches 23a to 23d are electrically connected to the control unit 25. The controller 25 is electrically connected to a drive motor 32a that slides the seat 24a and a drive motor 32b that tilts the backrest 24b. The touch switch 27 outputs an ON signal to the control unit 25 when a finger is touched, and the push switch 28 is configured to output an ON signal to the control unit 25 when pressed with a finger. Yes. Then, when signals are input from the touch switch 27 and the push switch 28a, the control unit 25 performs drive processing of the drive motors 32a and 32b based on the input signals.

  Next, an operation control process including a drive process of the drive motors 32a and 32b by the control unit 25 will be described. As shown in FIG. 8, when the touch switch 27 is turned on (YES in step S11), the control unit 25 starts measuring time with an internal timer (step S12). Next, when the ON operation of the touch switch 27 is continued (YES determination in step S13), it is determined whether or not the time measured by the timer has passed a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) (step S14). ). As a result, when the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO determination in step S14), it is determined whether or not the push switch 28 is turned on (step S15). As a result, when the push switch 28 has not been turned on (NO determination at step S15), the process returns to step S12 and continues counting with the timer. Next, when it is determined that the ON operation of the touch switch 27 is continued (YES determination in step S13) and it is determined that the time measured by the timer has passed a predetermined time (YES determination in step S14), the touch switch 27 is determined. When the on-operation is continued (step S16), the drive motors 32a and 32b are weakly driven for a predetermined time (step S17).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the push switch 28 is turned on (step S18). As a result, when the push switch 28 is turned on (YES in step S18), the drive motors 32a and 32b are normally driven (step S19). Next, it is determined whether or not the push switch 28 has been turned off (step S20). As a result, if the push switch 28 has been turned off (YES determination in step S20), the process returns to step 11 to push the push switch 28. If is not turned off, the process returns to step S18. On the other hand, when the push switch 28 is not turned on (NO determination in step S18), the drive motors 32a and 32b are not normally driven and the process returns to step S11.

  In addition, when the time measured by the timer has not passed the predetermined time (NO determination in step S14), when the push switch 28 is turned on (YES determination in step S15), the push switch 28 is continuously turned on. Is determined again (YES in step S18), and the drive motors 32a and 32b are normally driven (step S9). If it is determined in steps S11, S13, and S16 that the touch switch 27 is not turned on, the process returns to step S11.

  Here, the “monitoring step” according to the present invention is configured by steps S12, S13, S14 and S15 according to the present embodiment. Further, the “first step” according to the present invention is configured by steps S16 and S17 according to the present embodiment. Furthermore, the “second step” according to the present invention is configured by steps S18, S19, and S20 according to the present embodiment.

(2) Operation of Operation Control Device Next, the operation of the operation control device 21 having the above configuration will be described.
When the operator does not grasp the movable body (the seat portion 24a and the backrest portion 24b) of the electric seat 24 corresponding to the operation switches 23a to 23d and the operation thereof, the operator selects one of the plurality of operation switches 23a to 23d. Touch your finger gently to any operation switch. For example, when the operation switch 23a is lightly touched, the on operation of the touch switch 27 of the operation switch 23a is detected, and the drive motor 32a corresponding to the operation switch 23a is weakly driven in the positive direction by the control unit 25, so that the seat portion 24a. Slides for a predetermined time at a speed slower than the normal speed toward the front of the vehicle. Then, the operator confirms the seat part 24a that slides toward the front of the vehicle. As a result, when the seat portion 24a desired by the operator is slid, the operator presses the operation switch 23a as it is. Then, an ON operation of the push switch 28 of the operation switch 23a is detected, and the drive motor 32a corresponding to the operation switch 23 is normally driven in the forward direction by the control unit 25, so that the seat portion 24a moves to a normal speed toward the front of the vehicle. Move the slide with. On the other hand, when the seat part 23a slid at a speed slower than the normal speed or the sliding direction is not what the operator desires, the operator touches the other operation switches 23b to 23d lightly. For example, when the operation switch 23b is lightly touched, the drive motor 32b is weakly driven in the reverse direction, and the seat portion 24a is slid at a speed slower than the normal speed toward the rear of the vehicle, and the operator confirms that. The above-described operation can be repeated until the desired movable body and its operation are obtained.

  When the operator already knows the movable body of the electric seat 24 corresponding to the operation switches 23a to 23d and the operation thereof, the operator selects the desired operation switch 23 from the plurality of operation switches 23a to 23d. And press. For example, when the operation switch 23a is pressed, the touch sensor 27 of the operation switch 23a is turned on, and the push switch 28 is turned on within a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) from the on operation. As a result, the drive motor 32a corresponding to the operation switch 23a is normally driven by the control unit 25 without being weakly driven, and the seat portion 24a slides toward the front of the vehicle at a normal speed.

  As described above, according to the operation control device 21 of this embodiment, when the touch switch 27 is operated, the movable body of the electric seat 24 is moved at a speed slower than the normal speed as a preliminary operation, and the push switch 28 is operated. Since the movable body of the electric seat 24 is moved at a normal speed as the predetermined operation (main operation), the operator confirms the movement of the movable body of the electric seat 24 at a speed slower than normal as a preliminary operation. It is possible to intuitively recognize the movable body of the electric seat 24 corresponding to the operation switches 23a to 23d and the operation thereof. Furthermore, the operator can cause the movable body of the electric seat 24 to perform a normal operation by operating the push switch 28 as it is. In addition, since the guidance is performed by the preliminary operation of the electric seat 24 itself, the notification means using sound, images, and the like is not necessary, and the cost can be reduced. The same applies when a slide switch or the like is used instead of the push switch 28.

  Further, in this embodiment, since the push switch 28 is provided immediately below the touch switch 27 to constitute the operation switches 23a to 23d, a preliminary operation is performed by detecting that the surface of the operation unit has been touched, and the operation switch is strongly operated as it is. Can perform a predetermined operation. Moreover, the installation space efficiency of operation switch 23a-23d can be improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the push switch 28 is operated within a predetermined time after the touch switch 27 is operated by the control unit 25, the predetermined operation is performed without causing the movable body of the electric seat 24 to perform a preliminary operation. When the operator has already recognized the movable body of the electric seat 24 corresponding to the operation switches 23a to 23d and its operation, the movable body of the electric seat 24 performs unnecessary preliminary operation. Therefore, the predetermined operation can be performed immediately.

  In the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention depending on the purpose and application. That is, in the first and second embodiments, the mode including the monitoring step for determining whether the push switches 8 and 28 are operated within a predetermined time after the touch switches 7 and 27 are operated is illustrated, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, it is good also as a form which is not provided with the monitoring process.

  In the first and second embodiments, one push switch 8 and 28 is provided corresponding to one touch switch 7 and 27 to configure the operation switches 3a to 3d and 23a to 23d. For example, an operation switch may be configured by providing a plurality of push switches corresponding to one touch switch.

  Moreover, in the said Example 1 and 2, although the form which employ | adopts a push switch as a 2nd switch was illustrated, it is not limited to this, For example, you may make it employ | adopt a slide switch as a 2nd switch. Moreover, in the said Example 1, although the form which employ | adopts a membrane type push switch as a 2nd switch was illustrated, it is not limited to this.

  In the first embodiment, when the touch switch 7 of any of the operation switches 3a to 3d is operated, the valves 4a and 4b of the indoor light 4 are caused to perform a preliminary operation, and the operation switch The operation explanation of the bulbs 4a and 4b of the indoor light 4 corresponding to the above may be displayed on a display, or a voice announcement may be made from a speaker. In the second embodiment, when the touch switch 27 of any operation switch among the operation switches 23a to 23d is operated, the movable body of the electric seat 4 is caused to perform a preliminary operation and corresponds to the operation switch. The operation explanation of the movable body of the electric seat 4 to be displayed may be displayed on a display, or a voice announcement may be made from a speaker.

  In the first embodiment, the mode in which the bulbs 4a and 4b of the indoor lamp 4 are weakly lit is illustrated as a preliminary operation. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the bulbs 4a and 4b are blinked or May be lit only for a short time.

  Moreover, in the said Example 2, although the form which moves the movable body of the electrically-driven sheet | seat 4 at a speed slower than normal speed was illustrated as preliminary operation, it is not limited to this, For example, a range narrower than a normal range The movable body may be moved only for a short time.

  Further, in the first embodiment, steps S3, S6 and S8 (see FIG. 5) of the operation control process by the control unit 5 may be omitted. In the second embodiment, steps S13, S16, and S18 (see FIG. 8) of the operation control process by the control unit 25 may be omitted.

  The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in detail above, and various modifications or changes can be made within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

  Of a large number of operation switches, it is widely used as a technique for an operator to suitably select a desired operation switch.

  Operation control device, 3a to 3d, 23a to 23d; operation switch, 4; interior light, 4a and 4b; valve, 24; electric seat, 24a; seat portion, 24b; backrest portion, 5, 25; Part, 7, 27; touch switch, 8, 28; push switch.

Claims (9)

An operation control device comprising: an operation switch; an operation unit that performs a predetermined operation; and a control unit that operates the operation unit according to a signal from the operation switch,
The operation switch includes a first switch that is operated by finger contact or an operation force equal to or less than a predetermined value, and a second switch that is operated by an operation force exceeding the predetermined value,
The control unit causes the operation unit to perform a preliminary operation for causing the operator to sense the predetermined operation based on a signal from the first switch, and causes the operation unit to operate according to a signal from the second switch. An operation control device that performs the predetermined operation.   The operation control device according to claim 1, wherein the first switch is a touch switch, and the second switch is a push switch or a slide switch provided on a surface of the first switch or immediately below the first switch. The operating unit is a lighting device having a light source that emits light with a predetermined luminance,
The operation control device according to claim 1, wherein the preliminary operation causes the light source to emit light with a luminance lower than the predetermined luminance, or causes the light source to blink. The operating unit is a movable device having a movable body that moves at a predetermined speed within a predetermined range,
The motion control device according to claim 1, wherein the preliminary motion is performed by moving the movable body at least one of a range smaller than the range and a speed slower than the speed.   The control unit causes a predetermined operation of the operation unit to be performed without performing the preliminary operation when the second switch is operated within a predetermined time after the first switch is operated. 4. The operation control device according to any one of 4 above.   The operation control device according to claim 3, wherein the lighting device is a room lamp provided in a vehicle.   The operation control device according to claim 4, wherein the movable device is one of an electric seat, an electric roof, and an electric window provided in a vehicle. An operation control method using the operation control device according to claim 1,
A first step of causing the operating unit to perform the preliminary operation when the first switch is activated;
A second step of causing the operating unit to perform the predetermined operation when the second switch is activated;
An operation control method comprising: And a monitoring step of determining whether the second switch is operated within a predetermined time after the first switch is operated,
If it is determined by the monitoring step that the second switch has not been activated, the first step is performed,
The operation control method according to claim 8, wherein when it is determined by the monitoring step that the second switch is operated, the second step is performed.

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