JP4813613B1 - Steering switch device - Google Patents

Abstract

By connecting a non-genuine in-vehicle device to a dedicated cable connecting a steering switch and a genuine in-vehicle device, it is possible to control both the genuine in-vehicle device and the non-genuine in-vehicle device.
A main control unit 11 that outputs a control signal to a genuine vehicle-mounted device 200 or a non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 based on a steering switch operation signal, and a first signal line 2 and a second signal line 3 are interposed. Switching between the first analog relay circuit unit 12, the second analog relay circuit unit 13 interposed between the steering switch and the signal detection power source, and the first analog relay circuit unit 12 and the second analog relay circuit unit 13. The main control unit 11 turns on the first analog relay circuit unit 12, turns off the second analog relay circuit unit 13 in the normal mode, and turns off the first analog relay circuit unit 13 in the external mode. The circuit unit 12 is turned off and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is turned on.
[Selection] Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a steering switch device that controls a non-genuine vehicle-mounted device by connecting to a dedicated cable that connects the steering switch and the genuine vehicle-mounted device.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, some vehicles such as automobiles are provided with a steering switch for operating a genuine in-vehicle device on a steering hub in consideration of the operability of the equipment with the digitization of equipment. By operating this steering switch, the volume can be increased or decreased, and a seek operation (that is, a music selection operation for a CD or MD, a channel selection operation for a TV tuner or the like) can be performed. In addition to this, depending on the type of steering switch, it is also possible to perform air conditioning control and switching of control target devices (for example, mode switching of CD, DVD, TV tuner, AM broadcast, FM broadcast, etc.). . Thus, by providing the operation switch for the in-vehicle device on the steering, the operability and safety during driving of the driver can be improved as compared with the conventional case.

  In addition, it has been conventionally performed that a commercially available in-vehicle device is mounted and the in-vehicle device can be operated with a steering switch (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  Patent Document 1 discloses a steering remote control signal conversion adapter device for reusing a steering switch (genuine steering remote control) mounted on the steering of a vehicle. This steering remote control signal conversion adapter device includes an in-vehicle LAN interface unit that controls a connection interface with an in-vehicle LAN to which a steering remote control mounted on a steering wheel is connected, and a commercial navigation unit interface unit that manages a connection interface with a commercial in-vehicle electronic device. And a gateway control unit that acquires a signal generated by the steering remote controller via the in-vehicle LAN interface unit, converts the signal into a signal that can be identified by the in-vehicle electronic device, and outputs the signal to the commercially available navigation unit interface unit.

JP 2007-320360 A

  However, the conventional steering switch device including the steering remote control signal conversion adapter device described in Patent Document 1 is configured to connect the steering switch and the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device in a one-to-one correspondence. Therefore, if a genuine in-vehicle device is connected to the steering switch, simply connecting a non-genuine in-vehicle device to the steering switch will operate both the genuine in-vehicle device and the non-genuine in-vehicle device by operating the steering switch. In particular, genuine in-vehicle devices will malfunction. Therefore, when connecting a non-genuine vehicle-mounted device to a vehicle where a genuine vehicle-mounted device is connected to the steering switch in this way, disconnect the steering switch and the genuine vehicle-mounted device before connecting the steering switch and the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device. There was a problem that it was necessary to reconnect the device and use it, and the genuine in-vehicle device could not be used.

  That is, the conventional steering switch device is commercially available when a genuine on-vehicle device is not connected to the steering switch (that is, when the steering switch is in an open state) or because the genuine on-vehicle device has become unusable due to a failure or the like. It is a very effective device when switching to non-genuine in-vehicle devices. However, while making use of genuine in-vehicle devices connected to the steering switch, commercial non-genuine in-vehicle devices can be connected to the steering switch and controlled. There was a problem that I couldn't.

  The present invention was devised to solve such problems, and its purpose is to connect a non-genuine vehicle-mounted device via a steering switch device to a dedicated cable connecting the steering switch and the genuine vehicle-mounted device. An object of the present invention is to provide a steering switch device that can individually control both genuine in-vehicle devices and non-genuine in-vehicle devices.

  In order to solve the above problems, the steering switch device of the present invention is a steering switch device that controls the genuine vehicle-mounted device or the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device by connecting to a dedicated cable connecting the steering switch and the genuine vehicle-mounted device. A main control unit that outputs a control signal to the genuine vehicle-mounted device or the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device based on an operation signal of the steering switch, a first analog relay circuit unit interposed in the dedicated cable, and the steering A second analog relay circuit portion interposed between the switch and the signal detection power source that is pulled up, and a relay control portion that performs switching control of the first analog relay circuit portion and the second analog relay circuit portion And the main control unit controls the genuine in-vehicle device by the steering switch. In the normal mode to be controlled, the relay control unit is controlled to turn on the first analog relay circuit unit, the second analog relay circuit unit is turned off, and in the external mode in which the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device is controlled by the steering switch. The relay control unit is controlled to turn off the first analog relay circuit unit and turn on the second analog relay circuit unit.

  According to the present invention having such a feature, in the external mode in which the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device is controlled by the steering switch, the steering switch is switched by switching the first analog relay circuit unit off and the second analog relay circuit unit on. Can be completely disconnected from genuine in-vehicle equipment. Therefore, even if the steering switch is operated, the genuine in-vehicle device does not operate, and only the non-genuine in-vehicle device can be operated reliably.

  According to the steering switch device of the present invention, in the normal mode, the main control unit controls the relay control unit when the operation signal of the steering switch is an operation signal indicating 0V voltage. The first analog relay circuit unit is turned off, the second analog relay circuit unit is turned on, and the first analog relay circuit unit is connected to a ground potential.

  The analog relay circuit is not completely set to 0 V even when the circuit is turned off by using a semiconductor relay. Therefore, in the case where the first analog relay circuit unit is interposed between the steering switch and the genuine vehicle-mounted device, even if the first analog relay circuit unit is turned off, a slight voltage (for example, 0. A voltage of about 2 to 0.3 V or the like) may occur, which may cause malfunction of a genuine on-vehicle device connected thereto.

  Therefore, in the present invention, when the operation signal of the steering switch is an operation signal indicating 0 V voltage in the normal mode, the first analog relay circuit unit is turned off and the first analog relay circuit unit is connected to the ground potential. By doing so, the voltage appearing on the output side of the first analog relay circuit section is forcibly set to 0 V so that the operation signal of the steering switch is correctly input to the genuine in-vehicle device. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent a malfunction that occurs when a specific steering switch is operated in the normal mode.

  On the other hand, when the output side of the first analog relay circuit unit is connected to the ground potential, the input side of the first analog relay circuit unit is open, so that a steering switch that outputs an operation signal indicating 0 V voltage (for example, Even if the seek plus switch is turned off, the main control unit cannot detect the voltage change, and thus cannot detect the steering switch off. Therefore, in the present invention, in the normal mode, when the operation signal of the steering switch is an operation signal indicating 0 V voltage, the relay control unit is controlled to turn on the second analog relay circuit unit, and the main control unit A constant voltage for signal detection is applied. As a result, when the steering switch is turned off, the applied voltage changes in consideration of the resistance on the steering switch side. Therefore, the main control unit detects the voltage change, so that the steering switch is turned off. This can be detected.

  Therefore, in the steering switch device of the present invention, the main control unit controls the relay control unit to turn on the first analog relay circuit unit when the operation signal of the steering switch changes from 0 V voltage, The second analog relay circuit unit is turned off and the connection between the first analog relay circuit unit and the ground potential is released.

  As a result, the steering switch and the genuine in-vehicle device are restored to the normal connection state in which the dedicated switch is connected, so that the genuine in-vehicle device can be normally operated in response to the subsequent operation of the steering switch.

  Further, according to the steering switch device of the present invention, the main control unit starts from the normal mode when the operation signal by a specific switch operation set in advance from the steering switch is input in the normal mode. It is configured to shift to the external mode.

  That is, in the present invention, the operation for shifting from the normal mode to the external mode for controlling the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device that is an external device is a specific switch operation of the steering switch. Specifically, the main control unit receives this operation signal by operating the volume plus switch and the volume minus switch constituting the steering switch in this order or in reverse order within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second). Shift from normal mode to external mode. That is, also in this case, the relay control unit is controlled to turn off the first analog relay circuit unit and turn on the second analog relay circuit unit. As a result, the subsequent steering switch operation is not transmitted to the genuine in-vehicle device, so that the volume of the music changes when the car stereo of the genuine in-vehicle device is in operation and playing music. Or the problem of jumping to another song does not occur. Moreover, even if the steering switch is operated, the operation of the genuine in-vehicle device does not change (that is, cannot be controlled), so that the user can recognize that it is in the external mode.

  Further, according to the steering switch device of the present invention, the main control unit, when a signal by a specific switch operation set in advance from the steering switch is input in the external mode, from the external mode to the normal mode. It is configured to shift to the mode. In addition, when the power is turned off in the external mode, the mode is changed to the normal mode.

  That is, in the present invention, the operation for shifting from the external mode to the normal mode is also a specific switch operation of the steering switch. Specifically, by operating the volume minus switch and the volume plus switch constituting the steering switch again within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second) in this order or in reverse order, the main control unit sends the operation signal In response to the transition from the external mode to the normal mode. That is, the relay control unit is controlled to turn on the first analog relay circuit unit and turn off the second analog relay circuit unit. As a result, the subsequent operation of the steering switch functions as an operation switch of a genuine in-vehicle device as usual.

  The steering switch device according to the present invention further includes a mode transition switch for transitioning from the normal mode to the external mode, wherein the main control unit receives an operation signal for the mode transition switch in the normal mode. Is configured to shift from the normal mode to the external mode.

  That is, in the present invention, the operation for shifting from the normal mode to the external mode for controlling the non-genuine on-vehicle device that is an external device is an operation of a separately provided mode transition switch. Thus, by providing a dedicated switch for shifting the mode, the user can smoothly perform the mode transition.

  The steering switch device according to the present invention further includes a mode transition switch that transitions from the external mode to the normal mode, and the main control unit receives the operation signal of the mode transition switch in the external mode. Is configured to shift from the external mode to the normal mode.

  In other words, in the present invention, the operation for shifting to the normal mode from the external mode for controlling the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device that is an external device is also an operation of the mode transition switch provided separately. Thus, by providing a dedicated switch for shifting the mode, the user can smoothly perform the mode transition.

  Further, according to the steering switch device of the present invention, the main control unit includes a signal receiving unit that receives an operation signal from a remote control transmission unit of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device, and the external mode is an operation signal registration mode. Is configured such that the operation signal transmitted from the remote control transmission unit is received by the signal reception unit, and the received operation signal is registered in the memory unit in association with the operation signal of the steering switch.

  That is, in the registration mode, the first analog relay circuit unit is turned off and the second analog relay circuit unit is turned on only for a steering switch that can be registered. The operation signal can be registered in the memory unit.

  According to the steering switch device of the present invention, the steering switch device includes a signal output unit that outputs an operation signal to the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device, and when the external mode is a control mode for controlling the operation of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device, The main control unit is configured to read a corresponding operation signal from the memory unit based on an operation signal from the steering switch and output the corresponding operation signal from the signal output unit.

  That is, in the control mode for controlling the operation of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device, the first analog relay circuit unit is turned off and the second analog relay circuit unit is turned on. It is possible to reliably control the operation of the in-vehicle device.

  Since the present invention is configured as described above, in the external mode in which the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device is controlled by the steering switch, the first analog relay circuit unit is turned off and the second analog relay circuit unit is turned on. The connection with genuine in-vehicle equipment can be completely disconnected. Therefore, even if the steering switch is operated, the genuine in-vehicle device does not operate, and only the non-genuine in-vehicle device can be operated reliably.

  According to the present invention, in the normal mode, when the operation signal of the steering switch is an operation signal indicating 0 V voltage, the first analog relay circuit unit is turned off and the first analog relay circuit unit is connected to the ground potential. And the voltage appearing on the output side of the first analog relay circuit section is forcibly set to 0 V so that the operation signal of the steering switch is correctly input to the genuine in-vehicle device. Thereby, it is possible to reliably prevent a malfunction that occurs when a specific steering switch is operated in the normal mode.

  According to the present invention, in the normal mode, when the operation signal of the steering switch is an operation signal indicating 0 V voltage, the relay control unit is controlled to turn on the second analog relay circuit unit, and the main control A constant voltage for signal detection is applied to the unit. As a result, when the steering switch is turned off, the signal detection voltage applied to the main control unit changes, so that the main control unit detects the voltage change and the steering switch is turned off. Can be reliably detected.

It is a connection block diagram of the steering switch device concerning the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the circuit structure of the steering switch apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a connection configuration diagram of a steering switch device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  Some vehicles, such as automobiles, are provided with a steering switch 10 for operating a genuine in-vehicle device at the hub 102 of the steering 100. By operating the steering switch 10, the volume of a genuine in-vehicle device (not shown) (MD player, CD player, DVD player, TV tuner, car navigation, etc.) 200 is increased or decreased, or seek operation (ie, CD, MD, etc.) is performed. Can perform a music selection operation, and a TV tuner can perform a channel selection operation). In addition to this, mode switching (for example, switching of devices such as MD, CD, DVD, TV tuner, car stereo AM broadcasting and FM broadcasting) and a hands-free function can be performed.

  In the present embodiment, the steering switch 10 includes a volume minus switch 10a and a volume plus switch 10b, a seek minus switch 10c and a seek plus switch 10d for searching reproduction media, a mode switch 10e, and the like. Four switches, a plus switch 10b, a seek minus switch 10c, and a seek plus switch 10d, and a corresponding pin terminal 50a of the device connector 50 to which the genuine in-vehicle device 200 is connected are connected to a dedicated cable (hereinafter referred to as a first signal line). 2), the mode switch 10e and the corresponding pin terminal 50b of the device connector 50 are connected by a dedicated cable (hereinafter referred to as a second signal line) 3.

  The steering switch 10 outputs a voltage value that is initially set in the genuine in-vehicle device 200. For example, the volume minus switch 10a has the highest first voltage value, the volume plus switch 10b has the next highest second voltage value (first voltage value> second voltage value), and the seek minus switch 10c has the next highest third voltage value. Value (first voltage value> second voltage value> third voltage value) and seek plus switch 10d has a 0V voltage value (first voltage value> second voltage value> third voltage value> 0V voltage value). . The mode switch 10e is also set to a 0V voltage value. However, this is merely an example, and which switch is set to which voltage value is arbitrary. In the present embodiment, as described above, the description will be given below assuming that the seek plus switch 10d and the mode switch 10e are set to 0 V voltage values.

  The steering switch device 1 of the present embodiment is inserted so as to divide the signal lines 2 and 3 connected in this manner, and is a genuine in-vehicle device 200 or an external device by internal switching control. Switching to either one of the non-genuine in-vehicle devices 300 enables individual control.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, a male connector 4a is connected to the divided first signal line 2a on the divided steering switch side, and a female connector 4b is connected to the corresponding white signal line 1a on the steering switch device 1 side. Then, the connectors 4a and 4b are joined to each other, the female connector 5b is connected to the divided first signal line 2b on the divided device connector side, and the male connector 5a is connected to the corresponding yellow signal line 1b on the steering switch device 1 side. The connectors 5a and 5b are joined to each other.

  Further, the male connector 6a is connected to the divided second signal line 3a on the side of the steering switch, the female connector 6b is connected to the corresponding blue signal line 1c on the side of the steering switch device 1, and the connectors 6a and 6b are joined to each other. Then, the female connector 7b is connected to the divided second signal line 3b on the divided device connector side, the male connector 7a is connected to the corresponding orange signal line 1d on the steering switch device 1, and the connectors 7a and 7b are joined to each other. is doing.

  Further, the red signal line 1e is connected to the vehicle ACC power supply line, and the black signal line 1f is grounded to the vehicle body.

  FIG. 2 shows an example of a specific circuit configuration of the steering switch device 1 connected as described above. Hereinafter, the circuit configuration of the steering switch device 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The steering switch device 1 according to the present embodiment is roughly divided into a main control unit 11 that outputs a control signal to the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 based on an operation signal of the steering switch 10, and the signal lines 2 and 3. The first analog relay circuit section 12, the second analog relay circuit section 13 interposed between the steering switch 10 and the signal detection power supply _VDD that is pulled up, the first analog relay circuit section 12, and And a relay control unit 14 that performs switching control of the second analog relay circuit unit 13.

  The first analog relay circuit unit 12 includes two analog switches 12 a and 12 b corresponding to the signal lines 2 and 3, and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 also corresponds to the signal lines 2 and 3. Two analog switches 13a and 13b are provided.

  The divided first signal line 2 a on the steering switch 10 side is connected to one signal terminal of the first analog switch 13 a of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 and one of the first analog switch 12 a of the first analog relay circuit unit 12. Are connected to the first input terminal (A / D port) 11 a of the main control unit 11, and the divided second signal line 3 a on the steering switch 10 side is connected to the second analog relay circuit unit 13. 2 Connected to one signal terminal of the analog switch 13b, one signal terminal of the second analog switch 12b of the second analog relay circuit unit 12, and the second input terminal (A / D port) 11b of the main control unit 11 Has been.

  The other divided first signal line 2b connected to the other signal terminal of the first analog switch 12a of the first analog relay circuit section 12 and the other connected to the other signal terminal of the second analog switch 12b. The divided second signal lines 3b are connected to the genuine in-vehicle device 200 via the relay circuit 15, respectively.

The other signal terminal of the first analog switch 13a of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is connected to the signal detection power source _VDD via the pull-up resistor R1, and the other signal terminal of the second analog switch 13b is The signal detection power supply V _DD is connected via a pull-up resistor R2.

  In addition, the first output terminal 11 c of the main control unit 11 and the first input terminal 14 g of the relay control unit 14 are connected by a single signal line 18.

  The relay control unit 14 has a first control terminal 14 a connected to the control terminal of the first analog switch 13 a of the second analog relay circuit unit 13, and a second control terminal 14 b connected to the second analog relay circuit unit 13. Connected to the control terminal of the second analog switch 13b, the third control terminal 14c is connected to the control terminal of the first analog switch 12a of the first analog relay circuit section 12, and the fourth control terminal 14d is connected to the first analog relay. The second analog switch 12b of the circuit unit 12 is connected to the control terminal.

  The relay control unit 14 is based on a switching control signal from the main control unit 11 via the signal line 18, and the first analog switch 12a and the second analog switch 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 and the second analog switch. An ON / OFF switching control signal is output to the first analog switch 13a and the second analog switch 13b of the relay circuit unit 13, respectively.

  The divided first signal line 2b connected to the other signal terminal of the first analog switch 12a of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is connected to the ground potential via the resistor R3, and is divided from the resistor R3. A collector terminal of a switching transistor T1 whose emitter terminal is connected to the ground potential is connected to a connection point a between the first signal line 2b and the first signal line 2b. The fifth control terminal 14e of the relay control unit 14 is connected to the base terminal of the switching transistor T1 via the time constant circuit 19a.

  The divided second signal line 3b connected to the other signal terminal of the second analog switch 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is connected to the ground potential via the resistor R4. The collector terminal of the switching transistor T2 whose emitter terminal is connected to the ground potential is connected to the connection point b between the two signal lines 3b. The sixth control terminal 14f of the relay control unit 14 is connected to the base terminal of the switching transistor T2 via the time constant circuit 19b.

On the other hand, an infrared light receiving unit (signal receiving unit) 20 for receiving an infrared signal of a remote control transmitter (remote control transmission unit) 310 of the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 is connected to the third input terminal 11d of the main control unit 11. The signal line 21 of the infrared light receiving unit 20 is connected to the power supply voltage V _DD via the pull-up resistor R5. Further, one end side of the push switch 22 is connected to the signal line 21, and the other end side of the push switch 22 is connected to the ground potential. That is, the second input terminal 11d is normally at the H level by the voltage input from the pull-up resistor R5, and changes to the L level only while the push switch 22 is being pressed. The main control unit 11 shifts to a registration mode of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 described later by determining the state of the second input terminal 11d.

  An infrared signal light emitting unit (signal output unit) 24 is connected to the second output terminal 11e of the main control unit 11, and a display light emitting LED 25 is connected to the third output terminal 11f.

  Next, various processing operations by the steering switch device 1 configured as described above will be described.

(1) Description of basic switching operation by the steering switch device 1 of the present embodiment In the steering switch device 1 having the above-described configuration, in the normal mode in which the genuine in-vehicle device 200 is controlled by the steering switch 10, the main control unit 11 A switching control signal is output from the line 18 to control the relay control unit 14 to turn on the first analog relay circuit unit 12 and turn off the second analog relay circuit unit 13. The state of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 on and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 off is a so-called initial state. When the vehicle engine is started normally, each analog relay circuit unit 12 and 13 is in this initial state. It has become.

  That is, in this case, the operation signal (that is, the operation voltage value) of the steering switch 10 input from the divided first signal line 2a and the divided second signal line 3a is the analog switch of the first analog relay circuit unit 12. 12a and 12b and the respective divided first signal lines 2b and 3b are directly input to the genuine in-vehicle device 200, so that the genuine in-vehicle device 200 operates normally based on the operation signal from the steering switch 10. .

  On the other hand, in the external mode in which the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 is controlled by the steering switch 10, the main control unit 11 outputs a switching control signal from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14, and the first analog relay circuit unit 12. Is switched from on to off, and the second analog relay circuit section 13 is switched from off to on.

  As described above, in the external mode in which the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 is controlled by the steering switch 10, the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is switched from on to off, and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is switched from off to on. The connection between the steering switch 10 and the genuine in-vehicle device 200 can be completely disconnected. Therefore, even if the steering switch 10 is operated, the genuine in-vehicle device 200 does not operate, and only the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 can be operated reliably.

(2) Description of switching operation of the analog relay circuit units 12 and 13 by operating a specific steering switch in the normal mode As described above, in the normal mode, the main control unit 11 basically has the first analog relay circuit. The part 12 is turned on and the second analog relay circuit part 13 is turned off. In this normal mode, when the seek plus switch 10d of the steering switch 10 is operated (that is, the operation signal of the steering switch 10 is an operation signal indicating 0V voltage), the main control unit 11 The switching control signal is output from the control unit 14 to control the relay control unit 14. Only at this time, the first analog switch 12 a of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is turned off and the first analog switch of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is turned on. 13a is switched from off to on, and an H level signal is output from the fifth control terminal 14e of the relay control unit 14, the switching transistor T1 is turned on, and the output side of the first analog switch 12a is connected to the ground potential. .

  In the normal mode, when the mode switch 10e is operated (that is, when the operation signal of the steering switch 10 is an operation signal indicating 0V voltage), the main control unit 11 outputs a switching control signal from the signal line 18. The relay control unit 14 is controlled, and only at this time, the second analog switch 12b of the second analog relay circuit unit 12 is turned from on to off, and the second analog switch 13b of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is turned from off to on. In addition to switching, the H level signal is output from the sixth control terminal 14f of the relay control unit 14, the switching transistor T2 is turned on, and the output side of the second analog switch 12b is connected to the ground potential.

  The analog switches 12a and 12b of the analog relay circuit unit 12 are not completely set to 0 V even when the circuit is turned off by using a semiconductor relay. Therefore, when the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is interposed between the steering switch 10 and the genuine in-vehicle device 200, even if each analog switch 12a, 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is turned off, A slight voltage (for example, a voltage of about 0.2 to 0.3 V) is generated at the output, and this voltage may cause malfunction of the genuine in-vehicle device 200 connected thereto.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described above, when the seek plus switch 10d is operated in the normal mode, the first analog switch 12a of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is turned off and the first analog switch By connecting the output side of 12a to the ground potential, the voltage appearing on the output side of the first analog switch 12a is forcibly set to 0V, and the signal (voltage 0V) corresponding to the operation signal of the seek plus switch 10d is correctly genuine. It is configured to be input to the device 200. Further, even when the mode switch 10e is operated, the second analog switch 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is turned off, and the output side of the second analog switch 12b is connected to the ground potential, so that the second The voltage appearing on the output side of the analog switch 12b is forcibly set to 0V, and a signal (voltage 0V) corresponding to the operation signal of the mode switch 10e is correctly input to the genuine in-vehicle device 200.

  Thereby, it is possible to reliably prevent a malfunction that may occur when a specific steering switch (that is, seek plus switch 10d or mode switch 10e) is operated in the normal mode.

  On the other hand, when the output side of each analog switch 12a, 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is connected to the ground potential, the input side of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is in an open state. Even if the seek plus switch 10d or the mode switch 10e that outputs is turned off, the main control unit 11 cannot detect the voltage change, and thus cannot detect the off of the seek plus switch 10d or the mode switch 10e.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when the seek plus switch 10d is operated in the normal mode, as described above, the switching control signal is output from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14, and the second analog relay circuit unit By switching the 13 first analog switches 13 a from off to on, a constant voltage for signal detection is applied to the first input terminal 11 a of the main control unit 11. Thus, when the seek plus switch 10d is turned off, the voltage value applied to the first input terminal 11a changes in consideration of the resistance value of the seek plus switch 10d (specifically, from the L level to the H level). Therefore, the main control unit 11 can detect that the seek plus switch 10d is turned off by detecting this voltage change.

  When the seek plus switch 10d is turned off and the input voltage of the first input terminal 11a changes from 0V voltage, the main control unit 11 controls the relay control unit 14 via the signal line 18 to control the first analog The first analog switch 12a of the relay circuit unit 12 is switched from off to on, the first analog switch 13a of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is switched from on to off, and the fifth control terminal 14e of the relay control unit 14 is switched to L. A level signal is output to switch the switching transistor T1 from on to off, and the output side of the first analog switch 12a is disconnected from the ground potential.

  As a result, the steering switch 10 and the genuine in-vehicle device 200 are restored to the normal connection state in which the signal lines 2 and 3 are connected to each other. It becomes possible to operate.

  Similarly, when the mode switch 10e is operated in the normal mode, as described above, the switching control signal is output from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14, and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 of the second analog The switch 13b is switched from OFF to ON, and a constant voltage for signal detection is applied to the second input terminal 11b of the main control unit 11. Thus, when the mode switch 10e is turned off, the voltage value applied to the second input terminal 11b changes in consideration of the resistance value of the mode switch 10e (specifically, from L level to H level). Therefore, the main control unit 11 can detect that the mode switch 10e is turned off by detecting this voltage change.

  When the mode switch 10e is turned off and the input voltage of the second input terminal 11b changes from 0V voltage, the main control unit 11 controls the relay control unit 14 via the signal line 18 and the first analog relay. The second analog switch 12b of the circuit unit 12 is switched from OFF to ON, the second analog switch 13b of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is switched from ON to OFF, and at the L level from the sixth control terminal 14f of the relay control unit 14 The switching transistor T2 is switched from on to off, and the output side of the second analog switch 12b is disconnected from the ground potential.

  As a result, the steering switch 10 and the genuine in-vehicle device 200 are restored to the normal connection state in which the signal lines 2 and 3 are connected to each other. It becomes possible to operate.

(3) Description of Specific Example 1 of Processing Operation for Shifting Steering Switch Device 1 to Registration Mode which is One of External Modes and Registering Various Operation Signals of Remote Control Transmitter 310 This Specific Example 1 indicates all steering switches 10 is a specific example in the case where various operation signals for controlling the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 can be registered (set).

  In the first specific example, with the push switch 22 pressed, the engine key is inserted into the key cylinder and turned from OFF to ACC (however, the engine does not start), thereby shifting to the registration mode of the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300. It is like that.

  That is, if the push switch 22 is pressed when the engine key is turned from OFF to ACC, an L level signal is input to the third input terminal 11d. Based on the L level signal input to the terminal 11d, a switching control signal is output from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14, and the analog switches 12a and 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 are set to the initial state. The analog switches 13a and 13b of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 are switched from off to on in the initial state from on to off, respectively. That is, in the registration mode, since the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is turned off and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is turned on, the operation signal of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 is not affected without affecting the genuine vehicle-mounted device 200. Can be registered in a memory unit (not shown) of the main control unit 11 (for example, a nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM or a flash memory).

  More specifically, the remote control transmitter of the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 while one of the volume minus switch 10a, the volume plus switch 10b, the seek minus switch 10c, or the seek plus switch 10d is pressed is registered. The light emitting unit 310 is arranged toward the infrared light receiving unit 20, and in this state, the main control unit 11 sends an operation signal transmitted from the remote control transmitter 310 by pressing an arbitrary button to be registered in the remote control transmitter 310. The operation signal received and received by the infrared light receiving unit 20 is registered in the memory unit in association with the operation signal of the steering switch 10 being pressed. In this manner, the four types of operation signals of the remote control transmission unit 310 can be stored in association with the switches 10 a to 10 d of the steering switch 10.

  For canceling the registration mode, for example, when the push button 22 is pressed, an L level signal is input to the third input terminal 11d. Therefore, the main control unit 11 receives the L input to the third input terminal 11d. The registration mode can be canceled based on the level signal.

(4) Description of Specific Example 2 of Processing Operation for Shifting Steering Switch Device 1 to Registration Mode that is One of External Modes and Registering Various Operation Signals of Remote Control Transmitter 310 This Specific Example 2 is a part of steering Specific examples in which various operation signals for controlling the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 can be registered (set) only in the switch 10, for example, only in the two switches of the seek minus switch 10 c and the seek plus switch 10 d. It is. In other words, the other switches (volume minus switch 10a, volume plus switch 10b, mode switch 10e, etc.) are specific examples in the case where they operate as switches for controlling the genuine in-vehicle device 200 as they are.

  In this specific example 2, with the push switch 22 pressed, the engine key is inserted into the key cylinder and turned from OFF to ACC (however, the engine does not start), thereby shifting to the registration mode of the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300. It is like that.

  That is, if the push switch 22 is pressed when the engine key is turned from OFF to ACC, an L level signal is input to the third input terminal 11d. Based on the L level signal input to the terminal 11d, it is confirmed that the mode has shifted to the registration mode. However, at this time, the connection state of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is still in the connection state in the normal mode. That is, the analog switches 12a and 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 are turned on, and the analog switches 13a and 13b of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 are turned off. That is, when the volume minus switch 10a and the volume plus switch 10b are operated in this state, the genuine in-vehicle device 200 operates.

  On the other hand, when one of the seek minus switch 10c and seek plus switch 10d is operated in this state, the main control unit 11 that has detected this operation outputs a switching control signal from the signal line 18 at this time. The relay control unit 14 is controlled to switch the first analog switch 12a of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 from on to off, and the first analog switch 13a of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 from off to on. That is, when the seek minus switch 10c or seek plus switch 10d is operated in the registration mode, the first analog switch 12a of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is turned off, and the first analog switch 13a of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is turned off. Since it is on, the operation signal of the non-genuine on-board device 300 is registered in a memory unit (not shown) of the main control unit 11 (for example, a non-volatile memory such as an EEPROM or a flash memory) without affecting the on-vehicle device 200. can do.

  More specifically, the light emitting part of the remote control transmitter 310 of the non-genuine on-vehicle device 300 is arranged facing the infrared light receiving part 20 with either the seek minus switch 10c or the seek plus switch 10d pressed. In this state, by pressing an arbitrary button to be registered on the remote control transmitter 310, the main control unit 11 receives the operation signal transmitted from the remote control transmitter 310 by the infrared light receiving unit 20, and presses the received operation signal. It is registered in the memory unit in association with the operation signal of the seek minus switch 10c or seek plus switch 10d. In this way, the two types of operation signals of the remote control transmission unit 310 can be stored in association with each other in the seek minus switch 10c and the seek plus switch 10d.

  For canceling the registration mode, for example, when the push button 22 is pressed, an L level signal is input to the third input terminal 11d. Therefore, the main control unit 11 receives the L input to the third input terminal 11d. The registration mode can be canceled based on the level signal.

  Further, in the specific examples 1 and 2 described above, the engine key is inserted into the key cylinder while the push switch 22 is pressed and turned from OFF to ACC, thereby shifting to the registration mode of the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300. The transition to the registration mode by interlocking the operation of the engine key and the operation of the push switch 22 is merely an example, and the transition key to the registration mode is not linked directly to the operation of the engine key. It is also possible to provide it. For example, you may provide in the main-body part of the steering switch apparatus 1, and you may provide separately in the operation panel part of the front panel of a vehicle.

(5) Description of the specific example 1 of the processing operation for shifting from the normal mode to the control mode of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 that is one of the external modes. This is a specific example when various operation signals for controlling the device 300 can be set, and is a specific example when the operation mode itself of the steering switch device 1 is completely shifted from the normal mode to the control mode.

  In the normal mode, the main control unit 11 shifts from the normal mode to the external mode when an operation signal by a specific switch operation set in advance is input from the steering switch 10.

  That is, in the present specific example 1, the operation for shifting from the normal mode for controlling the genuine in-vehicle device 200 to the external mode for controlling the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 is a specific switch operation of the steering switch 10.

  Specifically, the main control is performed by sequentially operating the volume minus switch 11a and the volume plus switch 11b constituting the steering switch 10 within a predetermined time (for example, within one second) in this order or in reverse order. The unit 11 receives this operation signal and shifts from the normal mode to the external mode. That is, in this case, the main control unit 11 outputs a switching control signal from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14, and turns off the analog switches 12a and 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 from on to off. The analog switches 13a and 13b of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 are switched from OFF to ON, respectively. As a result, since the subsequent operation signal of the steering switch 10 is not transmitted to the genuine in-vehicle device 200 side, for example, when the car stereo of the genuine in-vehicle device 200 is operating and the music is being reproduced, the music There is no problem that the volume of the song changes or jumps to another song.

  That is, when each of the switches 10 a to 10 d of the steering switch 10 is operated in this state, an operation signal corresponding to the operation is read from the memory unit of the main control unit 11 and output from the infrared signal light emitting unit 24. Thereby, if the infrared signal light emission part 24 is installed toward the light receiving part of the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 mounted on the vehicle, the operation of each switch 10a to 10d of the steering switch 10 causes the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 to operate. The operation can be controlled.

  In the first specific example, the operation for shifting from the external mode for controlling the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 to the normal mode for controlling the in-vehicle device 200 is also a specific switch operation of the steering switch 10.

  Specifically, the operation is the same as the previous operation, and the volume minus switch 11a and the volume plus switch 11b constituting the steering switch 10 are sequentially operated within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second) in this order or in reverse order (continuous operation). ), The main control unit 11 receives this operation signal and shifts from the external mode to the normal mode. In other words, the main control unit 11 outputs a switching control signal from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14 to turn each analog switch 12a, 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 from off to on, The analog switches 13a and 13b of the relay circuit unit 13 are switched from on to off, respectively. Thus, the subsequent operation of the steering switch 10 is an operation for controlling the genuine in-vehicle device 200 as usual.

(6) Description of Specific Example 2 of Processing Operation for Transitioning from Normal Mode to Control Mode of Non-Genuine In-Vehicle Device 300 which is One of External Modes This specific example 2 is only a part of the steering switch 10, for example, seek Various operation signals for controlling the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 are set only in the two switches of the minus switch 10c and the seek plus switch 10d, and other switches (that is, the volume minus switch 10a, the volume plus switch 10b, The mode switch 10e) is a specific example in the case where it is set as a switch for controlling the genuine in-vehicle device 200 as it is.

  In the normal mode, the main control unit 11 shifts from the normal mode to the external mode according to the switch to be operated when an operation signal by a specific switch operation set in advance is input from the steering switch 10. It has become.

  That is, in the second specific example, the operation of shifting from the normal mode for controlling the genuine in-vehicle device 200 to the external mode for controlling the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 is a specific switch operation of the steering switch 10.

  Specifically, the volume minus switch 11a and the volume plus switch 11b constituting the steering switch 10 are sequentially operated (continuous operation) within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second) in this order or in reverse order. The control unit 11 receives this operation signal and confirms that the control mode of the non-genuine on-vehicle device 300 has been shifted. That is, at this time, it is only confirmed that the mode has been shifted to the control mode, and the connection state of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is the connection state in the normal mode. . That is, the analog switches 12a and 12b of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 are turned on, and the analog switches 13a and 13b of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 are turned off. That is, when the volume minus switch 10a and the volume plus switch 10b are operated in this state, the genuine in-vehicle device 200 operates.

  On the other hand, when the seek minus switch 11c or the seek plus switch 11d is operated in this state, the main control unit 11 outputs a switching control signal from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14, and the first analog relay The first analog switch 12a of the circuit unit 12 is switched from on to off, and the first analog switch 13a of the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is switched from off to on. Thereby, since the operation signal of the seek minus switch 11c or the seek plus switch 11d is not transmitted to the genuine in-vehicle device 200 side, for example, the car stereo of the genuine in-vehicle device 200 is operating and music is being played back. In addition, there is no problem that the volume of the music changes or jumps to another song.

  That is, when the seek minus switch 11c or seek plus switch 11d is operated in this state, an operation signal corresponding to the operation is read from the memory unit of the main control unit 11 and output from the infrared signal light emitting unit 24. Thereby, if the infrared signal light emission part 24 is installed toward the light receiving part of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 mounted on the vehicle, the operation of the seek minus switch 11c or the seek plus switch 11d causes the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 to operate. The operation can be controlled.

  When the user lifts his / her finger from the seek minus switch 10c or seek plus switch 11d, the main control unit 11 confirms that the seek minus switch 10c or seek plus switch 11d is turned off based on the voltage change of the first input terminal 11a. Is detected and a switching control signal is output from the signal line 18 to control the relay control unit 14 so that the first analog switch 12a of the first analog relay circuit unit 12 is switched from OFF to ON, and the second analog relay circuit unit 13 is controlled. The first analog switch 13a is switched from on to off. That is, when the control of the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 by the seek minus switch 10c or the seek plus switch 11d is finished, the analog relay circuit units 12 and 13 are restored to the normal mode connection state again.

  In the second specific example, the operation of shifting from the external mode for controlling the non-genuine in-vehicle device 300 to the normal mode for controlling the in-vehicle device 200 is also a specific switch operation of the steering switch 10.

  Specifically, the operation is the same as the previous operation, and the volume minus switch 11a and the volume plus switch 11b constituting the steering switch 10 are sequentially operated within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second) in this order or in reverse order (continuous operation). ), The main control unit 11 receives this operation signal and shifts from the external mode to the normal mode. Thus, the subsequent operation of the steering switch 10 becomes an operation switch of the genuine in-vehicle device 200 as usual.

  The light emitting LED 25 is used to inform the user of the operating state of the device. For example, in the normal mode, the light emission LED 25 blinks a plurality of times (for example, four times, etc.) by inserting the engine key into the key cylinder and turning it from OFF to ACC with the push switch 22 always pressed. By switching to high-speed blinking, the user can be notified that the registration mode has been entered. Further, in the registration mode, when any switch of the steering switch 10 is pressed, a slow blinking operation is started again. When any button of the remote control transmitter 310 is pressed in this state and the registration of the operation signal is completed, the operation signal is registered again. By switching to high-speed lighting, the user can be notified that registration of any button has been completed. However, such lighting control is merely an example.

  In the above embodiment, the main control unit 11 and the relay control unit 14 are described as being divided into two, but it is not always necessary to divide the main control unit 11 and the relay control unit 14 into two. It can be configured as one control unit (in one chip).

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the switching relay circuit is used as the 1st and 2nd analog relay circuit parts 12 and 13, a mechanical relay circuit can also be used.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the operation for shifting from the normal mode to the external mode or from the external mode to the normal mode is a continuous operation of the volume minus switch 10a and the volume plus switch 11b. For example, a combination of volume minus switch 10a and seek minus switch 10c or seek plus switch 11d, a combination of volume plus switch 10b and seek minus switch 10c or seek plus switch 11d, seek minus switch 11c and seek Various combinations such as a combination with the plus switch 11d can be used. Further, instead of such a combination of a plurality of switches, it is possible to make a transition from the normal mode to the external mode or from the external mode to the normal mode by continuous operation of one switch within a predetermined time. However, when a single switch is operated continuously, some users may continuously press the same volume minus switch 10a or volume plus switch 10b in order to increase or decrease the volume in the normal mode. There is a possibility that the operation and the mode transition operation are confused. Therefore, in the case of continuous operation within a predetermined time with a single switch, it is possible to set so as to invalidate the mode transition. In the above embodiment, the transition from the normal mode to the external mode or the transition from the external mode to the normal mode is a continuous operation of the two steering switches 10, but an external switch for mode transition may be provided separately. Good. For example, when there is a steering switch 10 that is not used, the switch may be used as a mode transition switch, or completely separate from, for example, the main body portion of the steering switch device 1 or the operation panel of the front panel of the vehicle. A switch for mode transition may be separately provided in the part.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the configuration is described in which only the mode switch 10e is connected to the second signal line 3. However, as with the first signal line 1, four switches are connected to the second signal line 3. May be. The switch operation in this case is also as described above.

  In other words, the above-described embodiment disclosed herein is illustrative in all respects and does not serve as a basis for limited interpretation. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not interpreted only by the above-described embodiment, but is defined based on the description of the scope of claims. Moreover, all the changes within the meaning and range equivalent to a claim are included.

1 Steering switch device 2 First signal line (dedicated cable)
2a, 2b Split first signal line 3 Second signal line (dedicated cable)
3a, 3b Divided second signal line 4a, 5a, 6a, 7a Male connector 4b, 5b, 6b, 7b Female connector 10 Steering switch 10a Volume minus switch 10b Volume plus switch 10c Seek minus switch 10d Seek plus switch 10e Mode switch 11 Main Control unit 12 First analog relay circuit unit 12a First analog switch 12b Second analog switch 13 Second analog relay circuit unit 13a First analog switch 13b Second analog switch 14 Relay control unit 15 Relay circuit 18 Signal line 20 Infrared light receiving unit (Signal receiver)
22 Push switch 24 Infrared signal light emitting part (signal output part)
25 Light-emitting LED
50 Device connector 100 Steering 102 Hub 200 Genuine vehicle-mounted device 300 Non-genuine vehicle-mounted device 310 Remote control transmitter (remote control transmitter)

Claims (9)

A steering switch device for controlling the genuine in-vehicle device or the non-genuine in-vehicle device by connecting to a dedicated cable connecting the steering switch and the genuine in-vehicle device,
A main control unit that outputs a control signal to the genuine vehicle-mounted device or the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device based on an operation signal of the steering switch;
A first analog relay circuit portion inserted in the dedicated cable;
A second analog relay circuit portion interposed between the steering switch and the signal detection power source being pulled up;
A relay control unit that performs switching control of the first analog relay circuit unit and the second analog relay circuit unit;
In a normal mode in which the main vehicle-mounted device is controlled by the steering switch, the main control unit controls the relay control unit to turn on the first analog relay circuit unit and turn off the second analog relay circuit unit. In the external mode in which the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device is controlled by the steering switch, the relay control unit is controlled to turn off the first analog relay circuit unit and turn on the second analog relay circuit unit. Steering switch device. The steering switch device according to claim 1,
In the normal mode, when the operation signal of the steering switch is an operation signal indicating 0V voltage, the main control unit controls the relay control unit to turn off the first analog relay circuit unit, A steering switch device characterized in that the second analog relay circuit section is turned on and the first analog relay circuit section is connected to a ground potential. The steering switch device according to claim 2,
The main control unit controls the relay control unit to turn on the first analog relay circuit unit and turn off the second analog relay circuit unit when the operation signal of the steering switch changes from 0V voltage. In addition, the steering switch device releases the connection between the first analog relay circuit section and the ground potential. The steering switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein
The main control unit shifts from the normal mode to the external mode when an operation signal by a specific switch operation set in advance is input from the steering switch in the normal mode. apparatus. The steering switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
The main control unit shifts from the external mode to the normal mode when a signal by a specific switch operation set in advance from the steering switch is input in the external mode. . The steering switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein
Comprising a mode transition switch for transitioning from the normal mode to the external mode;
The main control unit shifts from the normal mode to the external mode when an operation signal of the mode shift switch is input in the normal mode. The steering switch device according to claim 1, 2, 3, or 6,
Comprising a mode transition switch for transitioning from the external mode to the normal mode;
The main control unit shifts from the external mode to the normal mode when an operation signal of the mode shift switch is input in the external mode. The steering switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
A signal receiving unit for receiving an operation signal from a remote control transmission unit of the non-genuine on-vehicle device;
When the external mode is an operation signal registration mode, the main control unit receives an operation signal transmitted from the remote control transmission unit by the signal reception unit, and uses the received operation signal as an operation signal for the steering switch. A steering switch device characterized by being registered in a memory unit in association with each other. The steering switch device according to claim 8, wherein
A signal output unit for outputting an operation signal to the non-genuine on-vehicle device;
When the external mode is a control mode for controlling the operation of the non-genuine vehicle-mounted device, the main control unit reads a corresponding operation signal from the memory unit based on an operation signal from the steering switch and outputs the signal Steering switch device, wherein the steering switch device outputs the power from the unit.

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