JP6733165B2 - Operation input detection device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an operation input detection device.

Conventionally, an operation input detection for detecting an operation input to the operation input unit based on a sensor output of a capacitance sensor that changes when a detection target comes in contact with or separates from the operation input unit provided on the vehicle surface. There is a device. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a door of a vehicle can be locked and unlocked without contact by detecting the hand of a user who is close to the door handle of the vehicle. Further, there is a problem that foreign matter, such as mud or snow melting agent, which easily obstructs the proximity detection of the detection target by the capacitance sensor is likely to adhere to the outer surface of the vehicle. In view of this point, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration in which a shield electrode film “extending” is arranged below a sensor electrode forming a capacitance sensor so as to surround the periphery of the sensor electrode. .. As a result, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the sensitivity detection due to the adhesion of the foreign matter as described above and to secure a high environmental adaptability.

Patent No. 5106533 JP, 2010-286314, A

However, in the detection of an operation input accompanied by the operation of the opening/closing body, suppression of erroneous detection is important as well as its detection sensitivity. That is, even if the sensitivity of the proximity detection is low, it is desired that the operation input to the operation input unit can be accurately detected. Further, since the above-mentioned conventional technique cannot necessarily be said to ensure high-precision input detection in the situation where a foreign substance adheres to the operation input unit, there is still room for improvement in this respect. Was supposed to be left.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is an operation input capable of performing highly accurate operation input detection even in a situation where a foreign substance is attached to the operation input unit. It is to provide a detection device.

An operation input detection device that solves the above-mentioned problems is provided with an operation input unit provided on a vehicle surface, and an acceleration monitoring unit that monitors the acceleration of the sensor output of a capacitance sensor that changes when a detection target comes into contact with or separates from the acceleration input unit. An operation input detection device comprising: a detection determination unit that determines that an operation input has been performed on the operation input unit on condition that the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value. The capacitance sensor includes first and second sensor electrodes that are provided separately from each other, and the detection target is brought into contact with and separated from the first sensor electrode in the acceleration monitoring unit. And a second sensor output that changes when the object to be detected comes into contact with and separates from the second sensor electrode. When the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the ratio of the first sensor output and the second sensor output is the area ratio between the first and second sensor electrodes. It is determined that an operation input has been performed on the operation input unit on the condition that it is within a predetermined range indicating that

That is, when an operation input is performed on the operation input unit with a foreign substance attached, the sensor output of the capacitance sensor is detected by the user's hand (or an extension thereof) as the operation input unit. It hardly changes until it comes into contact. Further, there is a feature that the user's hand rises rapidly at the moment when the user's hand touches the operation input unit, that is, at the same time when the touch operation input is generated. Therefore, as in the above-described configuration, by monitoring the acceleration (absolute value) of the sensor output indicating the rise of the sensor output, it is possible to estimate the occurrence of the touch operation input when the foreign matter is attached. Further, even when the change in the sensor output is small, for example, when a foreign substance is thickly attached to the operation input unit, the rise of the sensor output due to the touch operation input can be detected. it can. And thereby, the operation input detection can be performed accurately.

That is, when a touch operation input occurs when a foreign substance is attached to the operation input unit, the “ratio” between the sensor outputs is the area ratio between the sensor electrodes due to the influence of the resistive conductive film formed by the foreign substance. It depends on the value and is almost constant. Therefore, according to the above configuration, even under the situation where the foreign matter adheres to the operation input unit, the operation input can be detected with higher accuracy.
In the operation input detection device for solving the above-mentioned problems, the detection determination unit is configured such that, after the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output exceeds the predetermined threshold value, the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output becomes equal to or less than a second threshold value. It is preferable to determine that an operation input has been performed on the operation input unit on the condition that the operation input is decreased.

That is, the sensor output of the electrostatic capacitance sensor has a substantially constant value when the user's hand that is in contact with the operation input unit to perform an operation input is in a stationary state. As a result, the acceleration (absolute value) of the sensor output also decreases to a value substantially equal to zero. Therefore, according to the above configuration, it can be estimated that the touch operation input is maintained. As a result, the operation input can be detected more accurately even in the situation where a foreign object is attached to the emblem.

An operation input detection apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems, the prior dangerous intellectual judgment unit, the absolute value of the acceleration of the reduced the sensor output below the second threshold value, a predetermined time or more, drops below the second threshold value It is preferable to determine that an operation input has been made to the operation input unit on the condition that the operation input section is in the above state.

According to the above configuration, even when a foreign substance is attached to the operation input unit, the operation input can be detected more accurately .

An operation input detection apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems, the detection of the detection of the operation input by the determination unit, limiting the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output is restricted from the time exceeds a predetermined threshold within a predetermined time limit time It is preferable to include a setting unit.

According to the above configuration, the possibility of erroneous detection can be reduced by limiting the detection time of the operation input. And thereby, the reliability of the operation input detection can be improved.

An operation input detection apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems, the change speed monitoring for monitoring the rate of change of the sensor output of the electrostatic capacitance sensor detection object provided in the operation input portion provided on the vehicle surface is changed by contact and separation parts and, on condition that the change rate of the previous SL sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the detection intelligence determination unit you determined that the operation input to the operation input unit is performed, the operation input detection comprising In the device, the capacitance sensor includes first and second sensor electrodes provided separately from each other, and the change speed monitoring unit includes the detection target object with respect to the first sensor electrode. A first sensor output that changes when the target object approaches and separates, and a second sensor output that changes when the detection target object contacts and separates from the second sensor electrode, When the rate of change of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the detection determination unit determines that the ratio of the first sensor output and the second sensor output is between the first and second sensor electrodes. It is determined that an operation input has been performed on the operation input unit on the condition that it is within a predetermined range indicating that it depends on the area ratio .

Operation input detection device to solve the above problems, before dangerous intellectual judgment unit, after the rate of change of the sensor output exceeds the predetermined threshold value, on condition that said alteration speed decreases within a predetermined range, It is preferable to determine that an operation input has been performed on the operation input unit.

An operation input detection apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems, the prior dangerous intellectual judgment unit, the sensor output change rate of which is reduced to within the predetermined range, a predetermined time or more, the condition to be within the predetermined range, the It is preferable to determine that an operation input has been performed on the operation input unit.

An operation input detection apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems, the detection of the detection of the operation input by the determining unit, the sensor limits the rate of change in output is limited within a predetermined time limit from the time it exceeds a predetermined threshold time setting unit Is preferably provided.

According to the present invention, highly accurate operation input detection can be performed even in a situation where a foreign substance is attached to the operation input unit.

The schematic block diagram of the emblem switch provided in the back door of a vehicle. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the opening drive control of the back door using an emblem switch. The top view which shows arrangement|positioning of each sensor electrode which comprises the electrostatic capacitance sensor provided in the emblem. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of proximity operation input detection determination. A waveform diagram of each sensor output when a proximity operation input is performed at normal times. Explanatory drawing which shows the positional relationship between each sensor electrode which comprises an electrostatic capacitance sensor, and the user's hand which performs operation input. (A) is an explanatory view of a state in which a detection object X'which is not intended for operation input is close to the emblem 4, and (b) is an explanatory view of a state in which a foreign substance is attached to the emblem 4. FIG. 6 is a waveform diagram of each sensor output when a touch operation is input when a foreign substance is attached. FIG. 6 is a waveform chart showing a changing speed of a sensor output when a touch operation is input when a foreign substance is attached. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of foreign matter adhesion detection determination according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a waveform diagram showing a ratio between sensor outputs when a touch operation input is performed when a foreign substance is attached. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the detection determination at the time of foreign material adhesion in 2nd Embodiment.

[First Embodiment]
A first embodiment of the operation input detection device will be described below with reference to the drawings.
As shown in FIG. 1, the door opening 2 formed at the rear end of the vehicle 1 is provided with a so-called flip-up type back door 3 that opens and closes with its upper end as the center of rotation. An emblem 4 of the vehicle 1 is provided on the outer surface 3s of the back door 3. In the vehicle 1, the emblem 4 serves as an operation input unit for opening the back door 3.

More specifically, in the present embodiment, the capacitance sensor 5 is provided inside the emblem 4. The sensor output S of the capacitance sensor 5 is input to the door ECU 10. Then, in the vehicle 1 of the present embodiment, the door ECU 10 is configured to function as an operation input detection unit that detects an operation input to the emblem 4 that forms the operation input unit.

That is, the sensor output S of the capacitance sensor 5 changes when the detection target comes into contact with or separates from the emblem 4. Further, the door ECU 10 detects, for example, a proximity operation input to the emblem 4 (for example, a so-called “hand holding operation”) based on the sensor output S of the capacitance sensor 5. Then, in the vehicle 1 of the present embodiment, the emblem switch 20 as an operation input detection device is thereby formed.

More specifically, when the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment detects an operation input to the emblem 4, for example, a lock provided on the back door 3 on condition that security requirements such as a so-called electronic key are satisfied. The device 30 is opened. Further, the vehicle 1 of the present embodiment is provided with a power back door device (PBD) 40 that uses a motor (not shown) as a drive source. The door ECU 10 is configured to open the back door 3 by controlling the operation of the power back door device 40.

Specifically, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 2, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment determines that the back door is fully closed (step 101: YES) and the power back door device 40 is stopped ( In step 102: YES), the detection judgment of the operation input to the emblem 4 is executed (step 103). Then, when the operation input to the emblem 4 is detected (step 104: YES), the opening drive control of the back door 3 is executed (step 105).

(Capacity sensor and proximity operation input detection judgment)
Next, the detection determination of the proximity operation input with respect to the capacitance sensor 5 that constitutes the emblem switch 20 of the present embodiment and the emblem 4 as the operation input unit thereof will be described.

As shown in FIG. 3, the emblem 4 of the present embodiment has an outer shape such that the contour of the design portion 4a protruding from the outer surface 3s of the back door 3 is a substantially elliptical shape that is flat in the vertical direction. .. Further, the capacitance sensor 5 has a support substrate 51 formed in a substantially elliptical shape like the design portion 4a of the emblem 4. The capacitance sensor 5 of this embodiment has a plurality of sensor electrodes 52 provided on the support substrate 51.

Specifically, in the capacitance sensor 5 of the present embodiment, the first sensor electrode 52a is provided at a position above the drive electrode 53 provided in the central portion of the support substrate 51. In the present embodiment, the first sensor electrode 52a has a substantially elliptical outer shape that is flat in the vertical direction. Further, a second arc-shaped second sensor electrode 52b extending along the lower edge of the support substrate 51 is provided at a position below the drive electrode 53. Then, a substantially arc-shaped third sensor electrode 52c extending along the upper edge of the support substrate 51 is provided at a position above the first sensor electrode 52a.

That is, in the capacitance sensor 5 of the present embodiment, the detection is such that the sensor electrodes 52 (52a to 52c) provided separately from each other are located near the emblem 4 set in the operation input unit. Independent detection channels (capacitors) CH1 to CH3 are formed between the object (conductor). Further, in the emblem switch 20 of the present embodiment, the capacitance of each of the detection channels CH1 to CH3 that changes when the object to be detected comes into contact with or separates from the emblem 4 of the door ECU 10 that constitutes the operation input detection unit. Sensor outputs S1 to S3 of the capacitance sensor 5 are input (see FIG. 1). Then, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment is configured to detect a user's operation input using the emblem 4 as an operation input unit based on the sensor output S of these capacitance sensors 5.

More specifically, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4, the door ECU 10 serving as the proximity detection input unit is configured such that the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 formed by the first sensor electrode 52a is formed by the second sensor electrode 52b. It is determined whether or not the value "S1/S2" divided by the sensor output S2 of the two detection channels CH2 is larger than a predetermined threshold value α0 (step 101). Next, when the value “S1/S2” obtained by dividing the sensor output S1 by the sensor output S2 is larger than a predetermined threshold value (S1/S2>α0, step 101: YES), the door ECU 10 keeps this state for a predetermined time. It is determined whether t0 or more is continued (step 102). Then, the door ECU 10 determines that the value “S1/S2” obtained by dividing the sensor output S1 by the sensor output S2 is larger than a predetermined threshold value for a predetermined time t0 or more (t≧t0, step 102). : YES), it is determined that an operation input has been made to the emblem 4 (step 103).

That is, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the sensor outputs S1 to S3 of the capacitance sensor 5 increase as the hand 60 of the user who performs the operation input approaches the emblem 4. Then, in the emblem switch 20 of the present embodiment, at this time, the distance between the user's hand 60 as the detection target X and the sensor electrodes 52 (52a to 52c) forming the detection channels CH1 to CH3. Based on the difference, the increase rates of the sensor outputs S1 to S3 deviate from each other.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the emblem switch 20 of the present embodiment has a user's hand 60 performing an operation input based on the arrangement of the emblem 4 on the back door 3 and the design shape of the emblem 4. However, it is designed to extend toward the upper portion of the emblem 4 in which the first sensor electrode 52a is arranged. That is, at this time, the distance D1 between the user's hand 60 and the first sensor electrode 52a is closer than the distance D2 between the second sensor electrode 52b provided at the lower end portion of the emblem 4 (D1< D2). As a result, between the increase rate of the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 formed by the first sensor electrode 52a and the increase rate of the sensor output S2 of the second detection channel CH2 formed by the second sensor electrode 52b. There will be divergence.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7A, for example, when a person leans against the back door 3 or the like, a detection target X′ not intended for an operation input is close to the emblem 4. A large distance difference does not occur between the distance D1 between the first sensor electrode 52a and the detection target X′ and the distance D2 between the detection target X′ and the second sensor electrode 52b (D1≈D2). Therefore, a large difference does not occur between the increase rate of the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 and the increase rate of the sensor output S2 of the second detection channel CH2 formed by the second sensor electrode 52b.

The door ECU 10 according to the present embodiment increases the sensor outputs S1 to S3 caused by the detection target X (X′) approaching the emblem 4 serving as the operation input unit, and outputs the sensor outputs. The tendency of the deviation occurring between S1 and S3 is grasped in the form of the “ratio” as described above.

That is, the value "S1/S2" obtained by dividing the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 used for the detection determination of the proximity operation input by the sensor output S2 of the second detection channel CH2 (see FIG. 4, step 201) is , And increases due to the divergence of the increase rates of these two sensor outputs. The door ECU 10 of the present embodiment utilizes this, and the value “S1/S2” obtained by dividing the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 by the sensor output S2 of the second detection channel CH2 is larger than the predetermined threshold value α0. By determining whether or not the difference between the increase rate of the sensor output S1 and the increase rate of the sensor output S2 is increasing, it is determined. Thus, the emblem switch 20 of the present embodiment can detect the occurrence of the proximity operation input with high accuracy while suppressing the occurrence of erroneous detection.

(Detection judgment of touch operation input when foreign matter is attached)
Next, the detection determination of the touch operation input when a foreign substance is attached, which is performed by the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment, will be described.

As shown in FIG. 7B, when a foreign matter 70 such as mud or a snow melting agent adheres to the design portion 4 a forming the outer surface of the emblem 4, the foreign material 70 forms a resistive conductive film. Due to the influence, the sensitivity of the capacitance sensor 5 decreases. Therefore, in such a case, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment determines whether or not a touch operation input by the user, that is, an operation input by direct contact with the emblem 4 has been performed.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, when an operation input is performed on the emblem 4 in a state where the foreign matter 70 adheres to the design portion 4a and the sensitivity is lowered, the sensor outputs S1 to S3 detect the detection. There is almost no change until the user's hand 60, which is the object X, comes into contact with the design portion 4a. Further, there is a feature that the user's hand 60 rises rapidly at the moment when the user's hand 60 contacts the design portion 4a of the emblem 4, that is, at the same time when the touch operation input is generated.

As shown in FIG. 9, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment monitors the sensor output S(S1) of the electrostatic capacity sensor 5 at the changing speed (ΔS1) indicating the rising of the sensor output S(S1) based on this point. Specifically, the door ECU 10 as the foreign matter adhesion detection determination unit is in a state where the foreign matter 70 is attached to the design portion 4a of the emblem 4 when the change speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 exceeds a predetermined threshold β0. It is presumed that the touch operation input was performed. Then, by using this as a trigger, the detection determination of the touch operation input when the foreign matter is attached is executed.

More specifically, each of the sensor outputs S1 to S3 of the capacitance sensor 5 is substantially generated when the user's hand 60, which is in contact with (the design portion 4a of) the emblem 4 to perform an operation input, is in a stationary state. It is a constant value. Further, as a result, the rate of change ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 also decreases to a value substantially equal to zero. Then, this value is maintained while the touch operation input is continued.

The door ECU 10 of the present embodiment monitors changes in the sensor outputs S1 to S3 caused by performing such touch operation input. Specifically, the door ECU 10 determines whether or not the change speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 exceeds a threshold value β0 and then the change speed ΔS1 falls within a predetermined range from a lower limit value β1 to an upper limit value β2. To do. Further, the door ECU 10 determines whether or not the rate of change ΔS1 of the sensor output S1, which has fallen within a predetermined range from the lower limit value β1 to the upper limit value β2, remains within this predetermined range for a predetermined time t1 or more. Then, when these conditions are satisfied, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment determines that the operation input has been performed on the emblem 4 as the operation input unit.

Next, a processing procedure of the touch operation input detection determination at the time of adhering a foreign substance, which is executed by the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment, will be described.
As shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment first determines whether or not the detection determination of the touch operation input when the foreign matter is attached (the foreign matter attachment detection determination) is already being executed. (Step 301). When the door ECU 10 determines in step 301 that the foreign matter adhesion detection determination has not been executed (step 301: NO), whether or not the changing speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 exceeds a predetermined threshold value β0. Is determined (step 302). Then, when it is determined that the change speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 exceeds the predetermined threshold β0 (step 302: YES), a detection determination flag indicating that the foreign matter adhesion detection determination is being executed is set, And a timer for measuring the elapsed time T thereof is set (T=0, step 303).

Note that the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment does not execute the processing of step 302 and step 303 when it is determined in step 301 that the foreign matter adhesion detection determination is already being executed (step 301: YES). If it is determined in step 302 that the change rate ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 does not exceed the predetermined threshold value β0 (step 302: NO), the processes in step 303 and thereafter are not executed.

Next, the door ECU 10 determines whether or not the elapsed time T of the foreign matter adhesion detection determination started by setting the detection determination flag in step 303 is within a predetermined time limit T1 (time-over determination, step 304). .. When it is determined that the elapsed time T of the foreign matter adhesion detection determination is within the time limit T1 (step 304: YES), the change speed of the sensor output S1 determined to exceed the threshold β0 in step 302 above. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not ΔS1 falls within a predetermined range from the lower limit value β1 to the upper limit value β2 (step 305).

Further, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment determines that the value “S3/S1” obtained by dividing the sensor output S3 of the third detection channel CH3 by the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 is a predetermined value from the lower limit value α1 to the upper limit value α2. It is determined whether it is within the range (step 306).

That is, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 11, when a touch operation input occurs in a state where the foreign object 70 is attached to the emblem 4 (see FIG. 7B), the “ratio” between the sensor outputs S1 to S3 is Due to the influence of the resistive conductive film formed by the foreign matter 70, the value depending on the area ratio between the sensor electrodes 52a to 52c becomes substantially constant. Specifically, in the capacitance sensor 5 of this embodiment, the area of the second sensor electrode 52b is the largest and the area of the third sensor electrode 52c is the smallest (area ratio: CH2>CH1>CH3). ..

The door ECU 10 of the present embodiment grasps such a tendency at the time of foreign matter adhesion by the value "S3/S1" obtained by dividing the sensor output S3 by the sensor output S1. This value "S3/S1", that is, the "ratio" between the sensor output S3 of the third detection channel CH3 and the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 is the area of the third sensor electrode 52c and the first sensor electrode 52a. The determination condition of the foreign matter adhesion detection determination is that it is within a predetermined range (α1<S3/S1<α2) indicating that it depends on the ratio.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, when the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment satisfies the determination condition of step 305 (β1<ΔS1<β2, step 305: YES) and satisfies the determination condition of step 306. (Α1<S3/S1<α2, step 306: YES), and then it is determined whether or not continuation determination is already underway (step 307). If it is determined in step 307 that the continuation determination is not being performed (step 307: NO), a continuation determination flag indicating that the continuation determination is being performed is set, and a timer for measuring the duration t thereof. Is set (t=0, step 308).

Note that the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment does not execute the process of step 308 when it is determined in step 307 that the continuation determination is already in progress (step 307: YES). Further, when the door ECU 10 determines in step 305 that the changing speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 is not within the predetermined range from the lower limit value β1 to the upper limit value β2 (step 305: NO), the continuation determination flag is cleared. (Step 309), each processing after step 310 described later is not executed. When the door ECU 10 determines in step 306 that the value “S3/S1” obtained by dividing the sensor output S3 by the sensor output S1 is not within the predetermined range from the lower limit value α1 to the upper limit value α2 (step 306). : NO) similarly clears the continuation determination flag (step 309) and does not execute the processes of step 310 and subsequent steps, which will be described later.

Next, the door ECU 10 determines whether or not the duration t of the state (step 305: YES and step 306: YES) satisfying the determination conditions of step 305 and step 306 is a predetermined time t1 or more. (Step 310). Then, when it is determined that the duration time t is equal to or longer than the predetermined time t1 (t≧t1, step 310: YES), the foreign matter 70 is attached to the emblem 4 set as the operation input unit of the emblem switch 20. The configuration is such that it is determined that a touch operation input has been performed on the emblem 4 (step 311).

When the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment determines in step 310 that the duration t of the state in which the determination conditions of step 305 and step 306 are satisfied has not reached the predetermined time t1 (step 310). : NO), the process of step 311 is not executed. When it is determined in step 304 that the elapsed time T of the foreign matter adhesion detection determination exceeds the time limit T1 (T≧T1, step 304: NO), the detection determination flag and the continuation determination flag are set. It is configured to clear (step 312).

The door ECU 10 according to the present embodiment periodically executes the processes of steps 301 to 312 described above at a predetermined timing. Thus, it is possible to perform highly accurate operation input detection even in a situation where the foreign matter 70 is attached to the emblem 4.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) The emblem switch 20 as an operation input detection device includes an emblem 4 as an operation input unit provided on the outer surface 3s of the back door 3 forming the vehicle surface and an electrostatic charge provided inside the emblem 4. And a capacitance sensor 5. Further, the emblem switch 20 detects an operation input to the emblem 4 based on the sensor output S of the electrostatic capacitance sensor 5 that changes when the detection target X comes into contact with or separates from the emblem 4. Is provided with the door ECU 10. Then, the door ECU 10 determines that a touch operation input has been performed on the emblem 4 on the condition that the changing speed (ΔS1) of the sensor output S(S1) exceeds a predetermined threshold β0. It functions as a time detection determination unit.

That is, when an operation input is performed on the emblem 4 with the foreign matter 70 attached, the sensor outputs S1 to S3 of the electrostatic capacitance sensor 5 are detected by the user's hand 60, which is the detection target X. It hardly changes until it contacts 4a. Further, there is a feature that the user's hand 60 rises rapidly at the moment when the user's hand 60 contacts the design portion 4a of the emblem 4, that is, at the same time when the touch operation input is generated. Therefore, as in the above configuration, by monitoring the change speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 indicating the rise of the sensor output S1, it is possible to estimate the occurrence of the touch operation input when a foreign substance is attached. And thereby, the operation input detection can be performed accurately.

(2) The door ECU 10 has a condition that the rate of change ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 exceeds a predetermined threshold β0, and then the rate of change ΔS1 falls within a predetermined range from a lower limit value β1 to an upper limit value β2 (β1 <ΔS1<β2), it is determined that an operation input has been made to the emblem 4.

That is, each of the sensor outputs S1 to S3 of the capacitance sensor 5 has a substantially constant value when the user's hand 60 contacting (the design portion 4a of) the emblem 4 to perform an operation input is in a stationary state. Becomes As a result, the rate of change ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 decreases to a value substantially equal to zero. Therefore, according to the above configuration, it can be estimated that the touch operation input is maintained. As a result, the operation input can be detected more accurately even in the situation where a foreign matter is attached to the emblem 4.

(3) The door ECU 10 has a condition that the change speed ΔS1 (β1<ΔS1<β2) of the sensor output S1 that has fallen within the predetermined range is within the predetermined range for a predetermined time t1 or more (t≧t0). , It is determined that an operation input is made to the emblem 4. This makes it possible to detect the operation input with higher accuracy even in a situation where a foreign substance is attached to the emblem 4.

(4) When the change speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 exceeds the predetermined threshold β0, the door ECU 10 determines that the ratio of the sensor output S3 and the sensor output S1 is the area of the third sensor electrode 52c and the first sensor electrode 52a. It is determined that an operation input has been performed on the emblem 4 on the condition that it is within a predetermined range (α1<S3/S1<α2) indicating that it depends on the ratio.

That is, when a touch operation input is generated in a state where the foreign matter 70 is attached to the emblem 4, the “ratio” between the sensor outputs S1 to S3 depends on the resistive conductive film formed by the foreign matter 70, and thus each sensor electrode 52a. The value depends on the area ratio between .about.52c and is substantially constant. Therefore, according to the above configuration, even under the situation where the foreign matter is attached to the emblem 4, the operation input can be detected more accurately.

(5) The door ECU 10 as the time limit setting unit determines whether the elapsed time T of the foreign matter adhesion detection determination is within a predetermined time limit T1. When the elapsed time T exceeds the time limit T1, the foreign matter adhesion detection determination is ended.

That is, the possibility of erroneous detection can be reduced by limiting the detection determination when adhering foreign matter to within the predetermined time limit T1 from the time when the changing speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 exceeds the predetermined threshold value β0. And thereby, the reliability of the operation input detection can be improved.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment of the operation input detection device will be described below with reference to the drawings. For the sake of convenience of explanation, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the emblem switch 20 of the present embodiment which constitutes the operation input detection device, the door ECU 10 as a foreign matter adhesion detection determination unit monitors the acceleration γ of the sensor output S(S1) of the capacitance sensor 5.

That is, the sensor output S(S1) of the capacitance sensor 5 has a value (output value: capacitance) corresponding to the position of the detection object X, and its change speed (change amount of the output value per unit time). , Output change speed) corresponds to the moving speed of the detection object X. The acceleration γ (speed change amount per unit time, output change acceleration) of the sensor output S(S1) corresponds to the acceleration of the detection target X.

That is, when a foreign substance is attached, the rapid rise of the sensor output S1 caused by the user performing a touch operation input to the emblem 4 provided with the electrostatic capacitance sensor 5 is at the acceleration γ (absolute value). , More noticeable. The acceleration γ (absolute value) of the sensor output S1 becomes a small value substantially equal to zero when the user's hand 60 contacting the emblem 4 is in a stationary state. Then, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment monitors the presence or absence of such a characteristic in the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 so that the foreign matter adheres to the emblem 4 more accurately, The operation input can be detected.

More specifically, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment determines whether or not the absolute value of the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 exceeds a predetermined threshold value (first threshold value) th1. (Step 402). After the absolute value of the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 exceeds the first threshold th1 (|γ|>th1, step 402: YES), the door ECU 10 determines that the absolute value of the acceleration γ is the second threshold. It is determined whether or not it is reduced to th2 or less (step 405). Furthermore, the door ECU 10 determines that the absolute value (|γ|≦th2, step 405: YES) of the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 that has decreased to the second threshold th2 or less is equal to or greater than the second threshold th2 for a predetermined time t1 or more. It is determined whether or not the state is below (step 410). Then, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment, on condition that each of these determination conditions is satisfied (step 402: YES, step 405: YES, and t≧t1, step 410: YES), the emblem as the operation input unit. 4 is configured so that it is determined that an operation input has been performed.

That is, the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 whose absolute value exceeds the first threshold value th1 indicates a rapid rise of the sensor output S1. The acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 whose absolute value is equal to or less than the second threshold value th2 and maintains a small value substantially equal to zero indicates that the sensor output S1 has a substantially constant value. Then, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment estimates the occurrence of the touch operation input to the emblem 4 by detecting such a state, and touches the emblem 4, as in the first embodiment. The configuration is such that it is estimated that the user's hand 60 is stationary.

Further, in FIG. 12 showing the processing procedure of the operation input detection determination in the present embodiment, each processing except the step 402 and step 405 is the same as the operation input detection determination in the first embodiment shown in FIG. It is the same as the processing procedure.

That is, the door ECU 10 of the present embodiment also has a predetermined range (α1<S3) that indicates that the ratio of the sensor output S3 and the sensor output S1 depends on the area ratio of the third sensor electrode 52c and the first sensor electrode 52a. /S1<α2, step 406: YES), it is determined that an operation input has been made to the emblem 4. Further, when the absolute value of the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 exceeds the predetermined time limit T1 from the time when the absolute value of the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 exceeds the first time limit T1 (T≧T1, step 404: NO), the foreign object is detected. The adhesion detection determination is ended (step 412). Then, the emblem switch 20 of the present embodiment is configured so as to more accurately perform the operation input detection and improve the reliability of the operation input detection.

As described above, even when the configuration of the present embodiment is adopted, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained. Further, for example, even when the foreign matter 70 is thickly attached to the emblem 4, the sensor output S1 rises due to the occurrence of the touch operation input even in a situation where the change in the sensor output S(S1) is small. Can be detected. Then, this makes it possible to detect the operation input when the foreign matter is attached more accurately.

The above embodiments may be modified as follows.
In each of the above-described embodiments, the emblem switch 20 using the emblem 4 of the vehicle 1 provided on the outer surface 3s of the back door 3 as an operation input unit is embodied. Then, the opening drive control of the back door 3 is executed by detecting the operation input to the emblem 4.

However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control content started by detecting the operation input may be arbitrarily set, for example, door lock/unlock. Further, the control target is not necessarily the back door 3, such as a side door or a hood. Further, the position of the emblem 4 serving as the operation input unit may be arbitrarily changed, for example, the bonnet or the front grill. If the capacitance sensor 5 is provided in the operation input unit arranged on the vehicle surface, the operation input unit does not necessarily have to be the emblem 4 of the vehicle 1.

In the first embodiment, the change speed ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 that exceeds the threshold β0 decreases thereafter within a predetermined range, and the ratio between the sensor output S3 and the sensor output S1 is the third sensor electrode 52c. It is within the predetermined range that indicates that it depends on the area ratio between the first sensor electrode 52a and the first sensor electrode 52a is set as the determination condition for the foreign matter adhesion detection determination (steps 305 and 306). However, the configuration is not limited to this, and one of these may be used as the determination condition. Further, the duration condition (step 309) and the time-over condition (step 304) do not necessarily have to be provided. A configuration in which the rate of change ΔS1 of the sensor output S1 falls within a predetermined range and the ratio of the sensor output S3 to the sensor output S1 is within a predetermined range are not used as the determination conditions for the foreign matter adhesion detection determination. Again, do not exclude this.

Furthermore, similar changes may be made to the second embodiment in which the acceleration γ of the sensor output S1 is monitored. Then, the predetermined time t1 and the predetermined time limit T1 may be optimized according to the content of the determination condition adopted for the foreign matter adhesion detection.

Further, the arrangement, the number, the shape, and the size of each sensor electrode 52 forming the electrostatic capacity sensor 5 provided in the emblem 4 may be arbitrarily changed. For example, in the configuration in which the foreign matter adhesion detection determination is performed using only the change speed (ΔS) of the sensor output S or the acceleration (γ), the number of the sensor electrode 52 may be one. When there are a plurality of sensor electrodes 52, any change speed or acceleration may be used.

In each of the above embodiments, the sensor output S2 of the second detection channel CH2 is used as the second sensor output in the proximity operation input detection determination (see FIG. 4), and the third detection channel CH3 is used in the foreign matter adhesion detection determination. The sensor output S3 of was used as the second sensor output (see FIG. 10). However, not limited to this, for example, in both the proximity operation input detection determination and the foreign matter adhesion detection determination, the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 is set as the first sensor output, and the sensor output of the second detection channel CH2 is set. The configuration may be such that S2 is the second sensor output.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the value “S1/S2” obtained by dividing the sensor output S1 of the first detection channel CH1 by the sensor output S2 of the second detection channel CH2 is used in the proximity operation input detection determination. Then, in the foreign matter adhesion detection determination, the value “S3/S1” obtained by dividing the sensor output S3 of the third detection channel CH3 by the sensor output S2 of the first detection channel CH1 is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the “ratio” between the sensor outputs S1 to S3 may be expressed in any form. Specifically, when the “ratio” of the two sensor outputs S is represented by a fraction, any of them may be the numerator/denominator.

Next, technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment will be described together with effects.
(A) The operation input detection unit receives an operation input to the operation input unit when the difference between the increase rate of the first sensor output and the increase rate of the second sensor output increases. An operation input detection device comprising: a proximity detection determination unit that determines that the operation input has been performed.

That is, for example, when the first sensor electrode is used for operation input detection, the distance between the user's hand performing the operation input and the first sensor electrode is usually smaller than the distance between the second sensor electrode. It's getting closer. Then, this causes a discrepancy between the increase rate of the first sensor output and the increase rate of the second sensor output. On the other hand, for example, in the case where a detection target that is not intended for operation input is close to the operation input unit, such as when a person leans back, the distance between the first sensor electrode and the detection target and the detection target A large distance difference does not occur between the distance between the first sensor output and the second sensor electrode, and therefore, a large difference does not occur between the increase rate of the first sensor output and the increase rate of the second sensor output. Therefore, according to the above configuration, the occurrence of the proximity operation input can be detected more accurately. Then, based on the ratio of the outputs of the first and second sensors, it is possible to execute the detection determination of the touch operation input to the operation input unit when the foreign matter is attached.

(B) The operation input detection unit continues to be in a state in which a ratio of the first sensor output and the second sensor output is within a predetermined range indicating that the ratio of the two outputs depends on the area ratio of the both, for a predetermined time or more. The operation input detection device is characterized in that it is determined that an operation input has been made to the operation input unit on the condition that By adopting such a configuration, the operation input can be detected more accurately even in a situation where a foreign matter is attached to the emblem.

1... Vehicle, 2... Door opening part, 3... Back door, 3s... Outer surface, 4... Emblem (operation input part), 4a... Design part, 5... Capacitance sensor, 10... Door ECU (operation input detection part) , Foreign matter adhesion detection determination unit, time limit setting unit, and proximity detection determination unit), 20... Emblem switch (operation input detection device), 51... Support substrate, 52 (52a to 52c)... Sensor electrode, 60... Hand, 70... Foreign matter, X, X'... Detection object, CH1... 1st detection channel, CH2... 2nd detection channel, CH3... 3rd detection channel, S(S1-S3)... Sensor output, .DELTA.S1... Change speed, .alpha.0 ...Threshold value, α1...lower limit value, α2...upper limit value, β0...threshold value, β1...lower limit value, β2...upper limit value, t...duration time, t1...predetermined time, T...elapsed time, T1...limit time, D1, D2 ... Interval, γ... Acceleration, th1... First threshold value (predetermined threshold value), th2... Second threshold value.

Claims (8)

An acceleration monitoring unit that is provided in the operation input unit provided on the vehicle surface and that monitors the acceleration of the sensor output of the capacitance sensor that changes when the detection target comes into contact with and separates from it,
A detection determination unit that determines that an operation input has been performed on the operation input unit, provided that the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value.
An operation input detection device comprising:
The capacitance sensor includes first and second sensor electrodes that are provided separately from each other,
The acceleration monitoring unit has a first sensor output that changes when the detection target object contacts and separates from the first sensor electrode, and the detection target object contacts the second sensor electrode. The second sensor output that changes when separated is input,
When the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the detection determination unit determines that the ratio between the first sensor output and the second sensor output is the first and second sensor electrodes. An operation input detection device that determines that an operation input has been made to the operation input unit on the condition that it is within a predetermined range indicating that it depends on the area ratio . The operation input detection device according to claim 1,
The detection determination unit,
After the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output exceeds the predetermined threshold value, the operation input to the operation input unit is conditioned on the condition that the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output falls below the second threshold value. An operation input detection device, characterized in that it is determined to have been performed. The operation input detection device according to claim 2,
The detection determination unit,
If the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output that has dropped to the second threshold or lower is in the state of dropping to the second threshold or lower for a predetermined time or longer, an operation input to the operation input unit is performed. An operation input detection device, characterized in that it is determined to have been performed. The operation input detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ,
An operation comprising: a time limit setting unit that limits the detection of the operation input by the detection determination unit within a predetermined time limit from the time when the absolute value of the acceleration of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value. Input detection device. A change speed monitoring unit that monitors the change speed of the sensor output of the capacitance sensor that changes when the detection target object is provided on the operation input unit that is provided on the vehicle surface, and changes.
A detection determination unit that determines that an operation input has been made to the operation input unit, on condition that the changing speed of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value,
An operation input detection device comprising:
The capacitance sensor includes first and second sensor electrodes that are provided separately from each other,
The change speed monitoring unit includes a first sensor output that changes when the detection target object comes in contact with and separates from the first sensor electrode, and the detection target object with respect to the second sensor electrode. The second sensor output that changes by coming into contact with or separated from is input,
When the rate of change of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the detection determination unit determines that the ratio of the first sensor output and the second sensor output is between the first and second sensor electrodes. An operation input detection device that determines that an operation input has been made to the operation input unit on the condition that it is within a predetermined range indicating that it depends on the area ratio. The operation input detection device according to claim 5 ,
The detection determination unit,
After the change speed of the sensor output exceeds the predetermined threshold value, determining that the operation input is performed on the operation input unit, on condition that the change speed falls within a predetermined range, An operation input detection device characterized by. The operation input detection device according to claim 6 ,
The detection determination unit,
The change speed of the sensor output that has fallen within the predetermined range is determined to be an operation input to the operation input unit on condition that the change rate is within the predetermined range for a predetermined time or more. Characteristic operation input detection device. The operation input detection device according to any one of claims 5 to 7 ,
An operation input detection, comprising: a time limit setting unit that restricts detection of the operation input by the detection determination unit within a predetermined time limit from a time point when a change speed of the sensor output exceeds a predetermined threshold value. apparatus.

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