Electric seat operating device for a vehicle with a slide switch

Abstract

Disclosed is an electric seat operating apparatus for a vehicle, which can accurately show a user an operating direction of an electric seat caused by an operation of a switch, and enable the user to accurately recognize a selection state and an operating direction of a desired switch, so that the user can more conveniently use the switch, by displaying one arrow indicating the operating direction of the seat when a touch is sensed in each of a plurality of touch sensors indicating the operating direction of the seat provided in each switch of a switch module for operating the seat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an electric seat operating device with a slide switch for a vehicle, and more specifically, to an electric seat operating device with a slide switch for a vehicle, which is capable of accurately indicating the operating direction of the electric seat based on the sensing of a plurality of touch sensors disposed in each of a plurality of switches for operating the electric seat. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a car power seat includes a seat cushion for sitting, a seat back for leaning back, and a headrest for supporting the neck and head, as essential components, and further includes electrical mechanism components for various adjustments to the position of the seat.

[0003] Specifically, a switch module for adjusting the seat cushion, seat back, etc. to various positions is located on one side of the electric seat.

[0004] The switch module is formed by combining multiple switches to adjust the seat's forward and backward movement, adjust the seat cushion height, adjust the extension of the front of the seat cushion, adjust the backrest cushion angle, adjust the seat back tilt, and adjust the support direction of the lumbar support provided in the seat back.

[0005] Furthermore, since a touch sensor is installed in each switch of the switch module, when the user touches the switch with his hand, the touch sensor detects the touch and the selection status and operation direction of the switch can be displayed on the display around the driver's seat.

[0006] Therefore, while looking straight ahead, users can easily visually identify the selection status and operation direction of the switches displayed on the monitor.

[0007] In other words, because users can easily visually identify the selected state and operating direction of the switch displayed on the screen, the inconvenience of users bending down and turning their heads toward the switch module to directly check the operating state of the switch module can be prevented.

[0008] Meanwhile, the switch module can be composed of a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, a fourth switch, a fifth switch, etc. The first switch is used for adjustment in a total of six directions, such as adjusting the forward and backward movement of the entire seat (in two directions), adjusting the front of the seat cushion up and down (in two directions), and adjusting the height of the seat cushion up and down (in two directions). The second switch is used to adjust the tilt of the seat back (in two directions). The third switch is used to adjust the extension of the front of the seat cushion (in two directions). The fourth switch is used to adjust the support direction of the lumbar support (in four directions). The fifth switch is used to adjust the backrest angle of the seat back (in two directions).

[0009] Touch sensors can be installed in each of the first to fifth switches.

[0010] When a user touches the surface of one of the switches to be operated, from the first to the fifth, the touch sensor installed in that switch outputs a sensing signal to the controller. Under the control of the controller, an arrow indicating the direction of operation of the electric seat caused by the user's operation of the switch can be displayed on the screen.

[0011] Therefore, the user touches the switch and the corresponding operating direction of the electric seat is displayed on the screen, so the user can easily visually identify the operating direction of the electric seat caused by the operation of the switch.

[0012] For example, such as Figure 20 As shown, when a user touches the first switch, which controls a total of six directions of adjustment—including adjusting the seat's forward and backward movement (in both directions), adjusting the front of the seat cushion upward and downward (in both directions), and adjusting the height of the seat cushion upward (in both directions)—a touch sensor located in the first switch detects the touch. All six arrows indicating the direction of operation of the electric seat caused by the operation of the first switch are displayed on the display 200, allowing the user to easily visually recognize that the user has selected the first switch.

[0013] However, even if the user touches any part of the first switch, all six arrows are displayed, indicating the direction of operation of the electric seat caused by the operation of the first switch. Therefore, there is a defect that it fails to accurately indicate the direction of operation of the first switch and the direction of operation of the electric seat as desired by the user.

[0014] Similarly, for the second to fifth switches, even if the user touches any part of each of the second to fifth switches, all operating directions of the electric seat caused by the operation of the second to fifth switches are indicated by arrows. Therefore, there is a defect that fails to accurately represent the operating directions of the second to fifth switches and the operating directions of the electric seat as desired by the user.

[0015] For example, such as Figure 20 As shown, even when a user touches the surface of the rear end of the first switch to adjust the seat's fore-and-aft movement (e.g., pushing the first switch forward), the display 200 shows a total of six arrows indicating the direction of operation of the electric seat caused by the operation of the first switch. Therefore, although the user's touch of the first switch can be identified, it fails to accurately represent the direction of operation of the first switch for adjusting the seat's fore-and-aft movement and the direction of operation of the electric seat (e.g., the direction of fore-and-aft movement of the seat) caused by the operation of the first switch.

[0016] In other words, when a user touches the surface at the rear of the first switch to adjust the seat's forward movement (e.g., by pushing the first switch forward), only one arrow indicating the forward movement adjustment is displayed on the screen, allowing the user to accurately identify the direction of operation of the first switch for adjusting the seat's forward movement. However, as mentioned above, since a total of six arrows indicating all operable directions of the electric seat caused by the operation of the first switch are displayed on the screen, the user cannot accurately identify the direction of operation of the first switch. Therefore, operating the switch is more inconvenient for the user. Summary of the Invention

[0017] This disclosure is made in order to address the problems in the prior art, and the object of this disclosure is to provide an electric seat operating device with a slide switch for a vehicle, which can accurately indicate to the user the specific operating direction of the electric seat caused by the operation of the switch, and enables the user to accurately identify the desired switch selection state and operating direction by displaying an arrow indicating the operating direction of the electric seat when a touch is sensed in each of a plurality of touch sensors disposed in each switch of the switch module for operating the electric seat to indicate the operating direction of the electric seat, thereby making it more convenient for the user to use the switch.

[0018] To achieve this purpose, an electric seat operating device with slide switches for a vehicle includes: a switch module including a plurality of slide switches that perform an input operation to drive the seat to a desired position and orientation; a plurality of touch sensors disposed in each slide switch to indicate the operating direction of the electric seat; a main controller that determines the operating direction of the electric seat in response to a sensing signal from a touch sensor among the plurality of touch sensors that senses a touch; and a display that visually indicates the operating direction of the electric seat determined by the main controller to the user by using an arrow to indicate the operating direction.

[0019] The switch module may include: a first slide switch configured to move the electric seat back and forth, move the front of the seat cushion up and down, and adjust the vertical height of the seat cushion; a second slide switch configured to tilt the seat back; a third slide switch configured to extend the front of the seat cushion; a push-button switch (fourth switch) configured to adjust the support direction of the lumbar support; and a rotary switch (fifth switch) configured to adjust the backrest angle of the seat back, wherein the first to fifth switches may be arranged in a predetermined manner.

[0020] The first sliding switch may include: a first switch cover having a plurality of touch sensor insertion slots formed thereon on its inner surface in a predetermined arrangement; a first sub-controller disposed within the first switch cover and connected to a main controller via a flexible cable to transmit signals; a first touch sensor (first-1st touch sensor) disposed in the downward operating area of ​​the seat cushion of the first switch cover and connected to the first sub-controller to output signals; a second touch sensor (first-2nd touch sensor) disposed in the downward operating area of ​​the seat of the first switch cover and connected to the first sub-controller to output signals; and a third touch sensor (first-3rd touch sensor). A first touch sensor (1-4) is located in the seat-sliding operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; a second touch sensor (1-5) is located in the seat-sliding operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; a third touch sensor (1-6) is located in the seat-up operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; and a fourth touch sensor (1-6) is located in the seat-up operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal.

[0021] The downward operating area at the front of the seat cushion can be the area defined at the front of the top of the first switch cover.

[0022] The seat downward operation area can be the area defined at the rear of the top of the first switch cover.

[0023] The area for sliding the seat backward can be the area defined at the front of the first switch cover.

[0024] The area for sliding the seat forward can be the area defined at the rear of the first switch cover.

[0025] The upward operating area at the front of the seat cushion can be the area defined at the front of the bottom of the first switch cover.

[0026] The seat-up operation area can be the area defined at the rear of the bottom of the first switch cover.

[0027] The second slide switch may include: a second switch cover having two or more touch sensor insertion slots on its inner surface; a second sub-controller disposed within the second switch cover and connected to a main controller via a flexible cable to transmit signals; a first touch sensor (the 2-1st touch sensor) disposed in the seat back tilting operation area of ​​the second switch cover and connected to the second sub-controller to output signals; and a second touch sensor (the 2-2nd touch sensor) disposed in the seat back tilting operation area of ​​the second switch cover and connected to the second sub-controller to output signals.

[0028] The area for reclining the seat back can be the area defined at the front of the second switch cover.

[0029] The area for tilting the seat back forward can be the area defined at the rear of the second switch cover.

[0030] The third slide switch may include: a third switch cover having two or more touch sensor insertion slots on its inner surface; a first touch sensor (the 3-1st touch sensor) disposed in the rearwardly extending operating area of ​​the third switch cover and connected to the main controller to be able to output a signal; and a second touch sensor (the 3-2nd touch sensor) disposed in the forwardly extending operating area of ​​the third switch cover and connected to the main controller to be able to output a signal.

[0031] Touch sensors 3-1 and 3-2 can be connected to the main controller via conductive springs to send signals.

[0032] The rearward extending operating area can be the area defined on the front surface of the third switch cover.

[0033] The forward-extending operating area can be the area defined on the rear surface of the third switch cover.

[0034] The push-button switch (fourth switch) may include: a fourth switch cover having a forward-protruding operating area with a waist support, a backward-retracting operating area with a waist support, an upward operating area with a waist support, and a downward operating area with a waist support; a first touch sensor (4-1 touch sensor) disposed in the forward-protruding operating area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and connected to a main controller to output a signal; a second touch sensor (4-2 touch sensor) disposed in the backward-retracting operating area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and connected to a main controller to output a signal; a third touch sensor (4-3 touch sensor) disposed in the upward operating area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and connected to a main controller to output a signal; and a fourth touch sensor (4-4 touch sensor) disposed in the downward operating area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and connected to a main controller to output a signal.

[0035] The integrated signal output paths of touch sensors 4-1, 4-2, 4-3, and 4-4 can be connected to the main controller via flexible cables to enable signal transmission.

[0036] The rotary switch (fifth switch) may include: a fifth switch cover disposed at a predetermined position on the edge of the fourth switch; a first touch sensor (5-1 touch sensor) disposed in a decorative panel adjacent to a first side of the fifth switch cover and connected to a main controller to output a signal; and a second touch sensor (5-2 touch sensor) disposed in a decorative panel adjacent to a second side of the fifth switch cover and connected to a main controller to output a signal.

[0037] Touch sensors 5-1 and 5-2 can be connected to the main controller via conductive springs to send signals.

[0038] This disclosure provides the following effects for the purposes described above.

[0039] First, since each switch in the switch module used to operate the power seat is equipped with multiple touch sensors, and arrows indicating the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch are accurately displayed on the display based on the sensing by the touch sensors, the user can accurately identify the operation direction of the switch used to operate the power seat to the desired position and the operation direction of the power seat caused by the operation of the switch.

[0040] Secondly, by viewing the seat and arrow images displayed on the monitor, users can accurately identify the selected state and operating direction of the switch, as well as the operating direction of the electric seat caused by the operation of the switch, thus making it easier for users to operate the switch. Attached Figure Description

[0041] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become more clearly understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0042] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a switch module of an electric seat operating device with a slide switch for a vehicle according to the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the first switch of the switching module according to the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is an assembled perspective view showing the first switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C , Figure 5D , Figure 5E and Figure 5FThis is a view showing images representing the operating direction of the electric seat displayed on a display in different ways by sensing through six touch sensors disposed in the first switch according to the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view showing the second switch of the switching module according to the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the assembly of the second switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a view showing images representing the operating direction of the electric seat displayed on a display in different ways by sensing through two touch sensors provided in the second switch according to this disclosure;

[0049] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view showing the third switch of the switching module according to the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the assembly of the third switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 13A and Figure 13B This is a view showing images representing the operating direction of the electric seat displayed on a display in different ways by sensing through two touch sensors provided in the third switch according to this disclosure;

[0052] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a perspective view showing the fourth switch of the switching module according to the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 16A , Figure 16B , Figure 16C and Figure 16D This is a view showing an image representing the operating direction of the electric seat displayed on a display in a different manner by sensing through a touch sensor provided in the fourth switch according to this disclosure;

[0054] Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the fifth switch of the switching module according to the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 19A and Figure 19B This is a view showing an image representing the operating direction of the electric seat displayed on a display in different ways by sensing through a touch sensor provided in the fifth switch according to this disclosure; and

[0056] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of displaying an image on a monitor indicating the operating direction of an electric seat in the prior art. Detailed Implementation

[0057] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1 A switch module with a slide switch for an electric seat operating device for a vehicle, according to the present disclosure, is shown.

[0059] A switch module 100 is provided on one side of the seat (e.g., on the side of the seat cushion), including first to third slide switches 110, 120 and 130 for operating the electric seat, a push-button switch (fourth switch) 140, a rotary switch (fifth switch) 150, etc.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, the switch module 100 may include: a first slide switch 110 for adjustment in a total of six directions, such as adjusting the fore-and-aft movement of the entire seat (in two directions), adjusting the front of the seat cushion up and down (in two directions), and adjusting the height of the seat cushion up and down (in two directions); a second slide switch 120 for adjusting the tilt of the seat back (in two directions); a third slide switch 130 for adjusting the extension of the front of the seat cushion (in two directions); a push-button switch (fourth switch) 140 for adjusting the support direction of the lumbar support (in four directions); and a rotary switch (fifth switch) 150 for adjusting the backrest angle of the seat back (in two directions).

[0061] A slide switch is a switch that moves by pushing it in the forward / backward or up / down direction; a rotary switch is a switch that rotates; and a push-button switch is a switch that is pressed vertically.

[0062] Specifically, each of the first to fifth switches of the switch module 100 is equipped with multiple touch sensors for indicating the operating direction of the electric seat.

[0063] When a touch sensor that senses a touch from multiple touch sensors sends a sensing signal to the controller, the controller determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch corresponding to the sensing signal of the touch sensor, and then sends a control signal for display on the display.

[0064] As described below, the controller can consist of sub-controllers and a main controller implemented on a PCB board, or it can consist of a single main controller.

[0065] Therefore, one or more arrow images indicating the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch, as determined by the controller, can be displayed on the monitor while simultaneously displaying an image of the seat.

[0066] Therefore, by viewing the seat and arrow images displayed on the monitor, users can accurately identify the selected state and operating direction of the switch, as well as the operating direction of the electric seat caused by the operation of the switch, thus making it easier for users to operate the switch.

[0067] Figures 2 to 4 This is a view showing the first switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure and its assembled state, wherein reference numeral 110 denotes the first switch.

[0068] The first sliding switch 110 is configured to move the seat back and forth (in both directions), move the front of the seat cushion up and down (in both directions), and adjust the vertical height of the seat cushion (in both directions), and includes a first switch cover 111.

[0069] A plurality of touch sensor insertion slots 112 are formed on the inner surface of the first switch cover 111 in a predetermined arrangement.

[0070] The touch sensor insertion slot 112 is arranged around the edge of the inner surface of the first switch cover 111.

[0071] Therefore, multiple touch sensors and a first sub-controller 114 connected to the touch sensors to output signals can be provided inside the first switch cover 111.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, a touch sensor is inserted into the touch sensor insertion slot 112 of the first switch cover 111, and a first sub-controller 114 connected to the touch sensor to output a signal is disposed in the central region of the inner surface of the first switch cover 111.

[0073] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the first sub-controller 114 is connected to the main controller 116 via a flexible cable 115 to be able to send signals.

[0074] The multiple touch sensors configured inside the first switch cover 111 in a state of being connected to the first sub-controller 114 may include a first touch sensor (touch sensor 1-1) 113-1, a second touch sensor (touch sensor 1-2) 113-2, a third touch sensor (touch sensor 1-3) 113-3, a fourth touch sensor (touch sensor 1-4) 113-4, a fifth touch sensor (touch sensor 1-5) 113-5, and a sixth touch sensor (touch sensor 1-6) 113-6.

[0075] The first-1 touch sensor 113-1 is connected to the first sub-controller 114 to be able to output a signal and is located in the downward operation area 117-1 at the front of the seat of the first switch cover 111, that is, in the area defined at the front of the top of the first switch cover 111.

[0076] Therefore, when a user touches the downward operation area 117-1 at the front of the seat of the first switch cover 111, the first touch sensor 113-1 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the first touch sensor 113-1 is output to the first sub-controller 114.

[0077] When the first sub-controller 114 receives the sensing signal from the first-1 touch sensor 113-1, the first sub-controller 114 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal from the first-1 touch sensor 113-1 to move the front of the seat cushion downward, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0078] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display command for moving the front of the seat cushion downwards. Therefore, as... Figure 5A As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the downward direction of the front of the seat cushion can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0079] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the first switch cover 111 down on the downward operation area 117-1 of the seat front of the first switch cover 111 with their hand, the front of the seat can move downward.

[0080] The first and second touch sensors 113-2 are connected to the first sub-controller 114 to be able to output signals and are located in the seat-down operation area 117-2 of the first switch cover 111, that is, in the area defined at the rear of the top of the first switch cover 111.

[0081] Therefore, when a user touches the seat-down operation area 117-2 of the first switch cover 111 with their hand, the first-second touch sensor 113-2 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the first-second touch sensor 113-2 is output to the first sub-controller 114.

[0082] When the first sub-controller 114 receives the sensing signal from the first-second touch sensor 113-2, the first sub-controller 114 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal from the first-second touch sensor 113-2 to move the seat downward, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0083] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for moving the seat downwards, according to a determination signal. Therefore, as... Figure 5B As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the downward direction of the seat can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0084] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when he or she presses the first switch cover 111 on the seat downward operation area 117-2 of the first switch cover 111 with his or her hand, the seat can move downward.

[0085] The first-third touch sensor 113-3 is connected to the first sub-controller 114 to output a signal and is located in the seat rearward sliding operation area 117-3 of the first switch cover 111, that is, in the area defined at the front of the first switch cover 111.

[0086] Therefore, when the user touches the seat rearward movement operation area 117-3 of the first switch cover 111 with his hand, the first-third touch sensor 113-3 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the first-third touch sensor 113-3 is output to the first sub-controller 114.

[0087] When the first sub-controller 114 receives the sensing signal from the first-third touch sensor 113-3, the first sub-controller 114 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal from the first-third touch sensor 113-3 to slide the seat backward, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0088] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for a determination signal used to slide the seat backward. Therefore, as... Figure 5C As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction in which the seat slides backward can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0089] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the first switch cover 111 on the seat sliding operation area 117-3 of the first switch cover 111 with their hand, the seat can move backward.

[0090] The first-fourth touch sensor 113-4 is connected to the first sub-controller 114 to be able to output a signal and is located in the seat forward sliding operation area 117-4 of the first switch cover 111, that is, in the area defined at the rear of the first switch cover 111.

[0091] Therefore, when the user touches the seat forward sliding operation area 117-4 of the first switch cover 111 with his hand, the first-fourth touch sensor 113-4 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the first-fourth touch sensor 113-4 is output to the first sub-controller 114.

[0092] When the first sub-controller 114 receives the sensing signal from the first-fourth touch sensor 113-4, the first sub-controller 114 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch to slide the seat forward based on the sensing signal from the first-fourth touch sensor 113-4, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0093] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for a determination signal used to slide the seat forward. Therefore, as... Figure 5D As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction in which the seat slides forward can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0094] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the first switch cover 111 on the seat forward sliding operation area 117-4 of the first switch cover 111 with their hand, the seat can move forward.

[0095] The first-fifth touch sensors 113-5 are connected to the first sub-controller 114 to output signals and are located in the upward operation area 117-5 at the front of the seat of the first switch cover 111, that is, in the area defined at the front of the bottom of the first switch cover 111.

[0096] Therefore, when a user touches the upward operation area 117-5 on the front of the seat of the first switch cover 111, the first-5 touch sensor 113-5 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the first-5 touch sensor 113-5 is output to the first sub-controller 114.

[0097] When the first sub-controller 114 receives the sensing signal from the first-fifth touch sensor 113-5, the first sub-controller 114 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal from the first-fifth touch sensor 113-5 to move the front of the seat cushion upward, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0098] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display command for moving the front of the seat cushion upwards. Therefore, as... Figure 5E As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the upward direction of the front of the seat cushion can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0099] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the first switch cover 111 on the upward operation area 117-5 of the front of the seat of the first switch cover 111 with their hand, the front of the seat can move upward.

[0100] The first-sixth touch sensors 113-6 are connected to the first sub-controller 114 to be able to output signals and are located in the seat-up operation area 117-6 of the first switch cover 111, that is, in the area defined at the rear of the bottom of the first switch cover 111.

[0101] Therefore, when a user touches the seat-up operation area 117-6 of the first switch cover 111, the first-sixth touch sensor 113-6 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the first-sixth touch sensor 113-6 is output to the first sub-controller 114.

[0102] When the first sub-controller 114 receives the sensing signals from the first-sixth touch sensors 113-6, the first sub-controller 114 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signals from the first-sixth touch sensors 113-6 to move the seat upward, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0103] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for moving the seat upwards according to a determination signal. Therefore, as... Figure 5F As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the upward direction of the seat can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0104] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when he or she presses the first switch cover 111 on the seat-up operation area 117-6 of the first switch cover 111 with his or her hand, the seat can be moved upward.

[0105] Figures 6 to 8 This is a view showing the second switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure and its assembled state, wherein reference numeral 120 denotes the second switch.

[0106] The second slide switch 120 is configured to tilt the seat back and includes a second switch cover 121 forming the appearance.

[0107] Two or more touch sensor insertion slots 122 are formed at the front and rear positions on the inner surface of the second switch cover 121.

[0108] Therefore, multiple touch sensors and a second sub-controller 124 connected to the touch sensors to output signals can be provided inside the second switch cover 121.

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, a touch sensor is inserted into the touch sensor insertion slot 122 of the second switch cover 121, and a second sub-controller 124 connected to the touch sensor to output a signal is disposed in the central region of the inner surface of the second switch cover 121.

[0110] like Figure 8 As shown, the second sub-controller 124 is connected to the main controller 116 via a flexible cable 115 to be able to send signals.

[0111] The multiple touch sensors set inside the second switch cover 121 in a state of being connected to the second sub-controller 124 may include a first touch sensor (second-1st touch sensor) 123-1 and a second touch sensor (second-2nd touch sensor) 123-2.

[0112] The second-1 touch sensor 123-1 is connected to the second sub-controller 124 to output a signal and is located in the seat back tilting operation area 127-1 of the second switch cover 121, that is, in the area defined at the front of the second switch cover 121.

[0113] Therefore, when the user touches the seat back tilting operation area 127-1 of the second switch cover 121 with his hand, the second-first touch sensor 123-1 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the second-first touch sensor 123-1 is output to the second sub-controller 124.

[0114] When the second sub-controller 124 receives the sensing signal from the second-1st touch sensor 123-1, the second sub-controller 124 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch to tilt the seat back backward based on the sensing signal from the second-1st touch sensor 123-1, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0115] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 for displaying a determination signal for reclining the seat back. Therefore, as... Figure 9A As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction of the seat back's recline can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0116] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the second switch cover 121 with their hand on the seat back tilting operation area 127-1 of the second switch cover 121, the seat back can tilt backward.

[0117] The second-2 touch sensor 123-2 is connected to the second sub-controller 124 to output a signal and is located in the seat back tilting operation area 127-2 of the second switch cover 121, that is, in the area defined at the rear of the second switch cover 121.

[0118] Therefore, when the user touches the seat back tilting operation area 127-2 of the second switch cover 121 with his hand, the second touch sensor 123-2 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the second touch sensor 123-2 is output to the second sub-controller 124.

[0119] When the second sub-controller 124 receives the sensing signal from the second-2 touch sensor 123-2, the second sub-controller 124 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch to tilt the seat back forward based on the sensing signal from the second-2 touch sensor 123-2, and sends the determination signal to the main controller 116.

[0120] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display command for a determination signal used to tilt the seat back forward. Therefore, as... Figure 9B As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction in which the seat back is tilted forward can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0121] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the second switch cover 121 with their hand on the seat back tilting operation area 127-2 of the second switch cover 121, the seat back can tilt forward.

[0122] Figures 10 to 12 This is a view showing the third switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure and its assembly state, wherein reference numeral 130 denotes the third switch.

[0123] The third sliding switch 130 is configured to adjust the extension of the front of the seat cushion and includes a third switch cover 131 that forms the appearance.

[0124] Two or more touch sensor insertion slots 132 are formed at the front and rear positions on the inner surface of the third switch cover 131.

[0125] like Figure 11 As shown, the first touch sensor (the 3-1st touch sensor) 133-1 and the second touch sensor (the 3-2nd touch sensor) 133-2 are inserted into the touch sensor insertion slots 132 formed on the inner surface of the third switch cover 131 at the front and rear positions.

[0126] like Figure 12As shown, the 3-1 touch sensor 133-1 and the 3-2 touch sensor 133-2 can be connected to the main controller 116 via a conductive spring 134, a conductive pin, etc., to be able to send signals.

[0127] The third-1 touch sensor 133-1 is connected to the main controller 116 via a conductive spring 134 to output a signal, and is located in the rearwardly extending operating area 137-1 of the third switch cover 131, that is, in the area defined on the front surface of the third switch cover 131.

[0128] Therefore, when a user touches the rearwardly extending operating area 137-1 of the third switch cover 131, the third-first touch sensor 133-1 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the third-first touch sensor 133-1 is output to the main controller 116 through the conductive spring 134.

[0129] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the third-first touch sensor 133-1, so as to extend the front of the seat cushion backward.

[0130] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for extending the front of the seat cushion rearward. Therefore, as... Figure 13A As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction in which the front of the seat cushion extends backward can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0131] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the third switch cover 131 with his hand on the rearward extension operation area 137-1 of the third switch cover 131, the rearward extension of the front length of the seat cushion can be performed.

[0132] The third-second touch sensor 133-2 is connected to the main controller 116 via a conductive spring 134 to output a signal, and is located in the forward-extending operating area 137-2 of the third switch cover 131, that is, in the area defined on the rear surface of the third switch cover 131.

[0133] Therefore, when a user touches the forward-extending operating area 137-2 of the third switch cover 131, the third-second touch sensor 133-2 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the third-second touch sensor 133-2 is output to the main controller 116 through the conductive spring 134.

[0134] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the third-second touch sensor 133-2, so as to extend the front of the seat cushion forward.

[0135] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends control signals to the display 200 based on a display command for extending the front of the seat cushion forward. Therefore, as... Figure 13B As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the forward extension direction of the front of the seat cushion can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0136] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the third switch cover 131 with his hand on the forward extension operation area 137-2 of the third switch cover 131, the forward extension of the front of the extended seat cushion can be performed.

[0137] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a view showing the fourth switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure and its assembly state, wherein reference numeral 140 denotes the fourth switch.

[0138] The push-button switch (fourth switch) 140 is used to adjust the support direction of the lumbar support provided in the seat back and includes a fourth switch cover 141 forming the appearance.

[0139] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the fourth switch cover 141 has a forward-protruding waist support operating area 141-1, a backward-retracting waist support operating area 141-2, an upward-moving waist support operating area 141-3, and a downward-moving waist support operating area 141-4.

[0140] Specifically, a first touch sensor (4-1st touch sensor) 143-1 is provided in the forward-protruding operation area 141-1 of the waist support of the fourth switch cover 141, which is connected to the main controller 116 and is capable of outputting signals, and a second touch sensor (4-2nd touch sensor) 143-2 is provided in the backward-retracting operation area 141-2 of the waist support of the fourth switch cover 141, which is connected to the main controller 116 and is capable of outputting signals.

[0141] Furthermore, a third (4-3) touch sensor (4-3rd touch sensor) 143-3 is provided in the waist support upward operation area 141-3 of the fourth switch cover 141, which is connected to the main controller 116 to output signals, and a fourth touch sensor (4-4th touch sensor) 143-4 is provided in the waist support downward operation area 141-4 of the fourth switch cover 141, which is connected to the main controller 116 to output signals.

[0142] The integrated signal output paths of touch sensors 143-1 (4-1), 143-2 (4-2), 143-3 (4-3), and 143-4 (4-4) are connected to the main controller 116 via flexible cable 115 to enable signal transmission.

[0143] Therefore, when the user touches the waist support of the fourth switch cover 141 and the forward-protruding operating area 141-1, the fourth-first touch sensor 143-1 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the fourth-first touch sensor 143-1 is output to the main controller 116 through the flexible cable 115.

[0144] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the 4-1 touch sensor 143-1, so as to promote the forward extension of the lumbar support.

[0145] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends control signals to the display 200 based on a display instruction for determining the forward lumbar support. Therefore, as... Figure 16A As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the forward protrusion direction of the lumbar support can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0146] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that the waist support protrudes forward when the user presses the fourth switch cover 141 with their hand on the operating area 141-1 of the waist support of the fourth switch cover 141.

[0147] Optionally, when a user touches the retractable operating area 141-2 of the waist support of the fourth switch cover 141, the fourth-second touch sensor 143-2 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the fourth-second touch sensor 143-2 is output to the main controller 116 through the flexible cable 115.

[0148] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the 4-2 touch sensor 143-2, so that the lumbar support retracts backward.

[0149] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 for a display instruction based on a determination signal for retracting the lumbar support. Therefore, as... Figure 16B As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction of the lumbar support retraction can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0150] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the fourth switch cover 141 with their hand on the waist support retracting operation area 141-2 of the fourth switch cover 141, the waist support retracts backward.

[0151] Optionally, when a user touches the waist support upward operation area 141-3 of the fourth switch cover 141, the fourth-third touch sensor 143-3 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the fourth-third touch sensor 143-3 is output to the main controller 116 through the flexible cable 115.

[0152] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the 4-3 touch sensor 143-3, so as to move the lumbar support upward.

[0153] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for moving the lumbar support upwards, according to a determination signal. Therefore, as... Figure 16C As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the upward direction of lumbar support can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0154] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the fourth switch cover 141 with their hand on the waist support upward operation area 141-3 of the fourth switch cover 141, the waist support moves upward.

[0155] Optionally, when a user touches the waist support downward operation area 141-4 of the fourth switch cover 141, the 4-4 touch sensor 143-4 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the 4-4 touch sensor 143-4 is output to the main controller 116 through the flexible cable 115.

[0156] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the 4-4 touch sensor 143-4, so as to move the lumbar support downward.

[0157] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for moving the lumbar support downwards, according to a determination signal. Therefore, as... Figure 16D As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the downward direction of lumbar support can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0158] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that when the user presses the fourth switch cover 141 with their hand on the lower operating area 141-4 of the waist support of the fourth switch cover 141, the waist support moves downward.

[0159] Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a view showing the fifth switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure and its assembly state, wherein reference numeral 150 denotes the fifth switch.

[0160] The rotary switch (fifth switch) 150 is configured to adjust the cushion angle of the seat back, and as... Figure 17 As shown, it includes a fifth switch cover 151 that can be rotatably disposed above the edge of the fourth switch cover 141.

[0161] In particular, such as Figure 17 As shown, the first touch sensor (5-1st touch sensor) 153-1 is disposed in the decorative panel 152 adjacent to the first side of the fifth switch cover 151, and the second touch sensor (5-2nd touch sensor) 153-2 is disposed in the decorative panel 152 adjacent to the second side of the fifth switch cover 151.

[0162] Touch sensors 5-1 (153-1) and 5-2 (153-2) are connected to the main controller 116 via conductive springs 154, conductive pins, etc., so that they can output signals.

[0163] Therefore, when a user touches the decorative panel 152 on the first side of the fifth switch cover 151, the fifth-1st touch sensor 153-1 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the fifth-1st touch sensor 153-1 is output to the main controller 116 through the conductive spring 154.

[0164] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the 5-1 touch sensor 153-1, so as to move the backrest inward.

[0165] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 for a display instruction based on a determination signal for moving the cushion inward. Therefore, as... Figure 19A As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction of inward movement of the cushion can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0166] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that the cushion can move inward when the fifth switch 151 is rotated to the first side.

[0167] On the other hand, when the user touches the decorative panel 152 on the second side of the fifth switch cover 151, the fifth-2nd touch sensor 153-2 inside it senses the touch, and the sensing signal of the fifth-2nd touch sensor 153-2 is output to the main controller 116 through the conductive spring 154.

[0168] The main controller 116 determines the operating direction of the electric seat and the operating direction of the switch based on the sensing signal of the 5-2 touch sensor 153-2, so as to move the cushion outward.

[0169] Furthermore, the main controller 116 sends a control signal to the display 200 based on a display instruction for moving the cushion outward according to a determination signal. Therefore, as... Figure 19B As shown, an image of the seat and an arrow indicating the direction of outward movement of the cushion can be displayed on the monitor 200.

[0170] Therefore, when a user sees the display 200, the user can easily recognize that the cushion can move outward when the fifth switch cover 151 is rotated to the second side.

[0171] When a user's hand touches two or more touch sensors and all two or more touch sensors detect the touch, two or more arrows can be displayed on the screen to indicate the operating direction of the power seat and the operating direction of the switch.

[0172] As described above, by viewing the seat and arrow images displayed on the monitor, users can accurately identify the current selection state and operating direction of the switch, as well as the operating direction of the electric seat caused by the operation of the switch, thus making it easier for users to operate the switch.

[0173] Although many exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize that further modifications, substitutions, additions, and sub-combinations of the features of the disclosed embodiments are still possible.

Claims

1. An electric seat operating device with a slide switch for a vehicle, comprising: The switch module includes multiple slide switches that perform input operations to drive the electric seat to multiple positions and desired multiple directions; Multiple touch sensors are provided in each of the sliding switches to detect the operating direction of the seat; The main controller determines the operating direction of the electric seat based on the sensing signals from those touch sensors that have detected the user's touch among the plurality of touch sensors; as well as The display, by using arrows to indicate the direction of operation, shows the user the direction of operation of the electric seat determined by the main controller. The switching module includes: The first sliding switch moves the electric seat back and forth, moves the front of the seat cushion up and down, and adjusts the vertical height of the seat cushion. The second sliding switch tilts the seat back. A third sliding switch extends the front portion of the seat cushion; A push-button switch adjusts the direction of the lumbar support; and A rotary switch is used to adjust the cushion angle of the seat back, wherein the first slide switch, the second slide switch, the third slide switch, the button switch, and the rotary switch are arranged in a predetermined manner. The push-button switch includes: The fourth switch cover has a forward-protruding operating area with waist support, a backward-retracting operating area with waist support, an upward-facing operating area with waist support, and a downward-facing operating area with waist support. A first touch sensor is disposed in the forward-protruding operating area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and is connected to the main controller to output a signal; The second touch sensor is located in the rearward retractable operation area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and is connected to the main controller to output a signal; A third touch sensor is disposed in the upward operating area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and is connected to the main controller to output a signal; and A fourth touch sensor is located in the downward operating area of ​​the waist support of the fourth switch cover and is connected to the main controller to output a signal. The rotary switch includes: The fifth switch cover is disposed at a predetermined position on the edge of the fourth switch cover; A first touch sensor is disposed within a decorative panel adjacent to the first side of the fifth switch cover and connected to the main controller to output a signal; and The second touch sensor is located in the decorative panel adjacent to the second side of the fifth switch cover and is connected to the main controller to output a signal.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first slide switch includes: The first switch cover has a plurality of touch sensor insertion slots formed on its inner surface in a predetermined arrangement; The first sub-controller is located inside the first switch cover and is connected to the main controller via a flexible cable to send signals; The first touch sensor is located in the downward operation area at the front of the seat cushion of the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; The second touch sensor is located in the seat-down operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; A third touch sensor is located in the seat-sliding operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; A fourth touch sensor is located in the seat-sliding operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; A fifth touch sensor is disposed in the upward operating area at the front of the seat cushion of the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal; and A sixth touch sensor is located in the seat-up operation area of ​​the first switch cover and is connected to the first sub-controller to output a signal.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The downward operating area at the front of the seat cushion is the area at the front of the top of the first switch cover. The seat downward operation area is the area at the rear of the top of the first switch cover. The area where the seat slides backward is the area at the front of the first switch cover. The area where the seat slides forward is the area at the rear of the first switch cover. The upward-facing operating area at the front of the seat cushion is the area at the front of the bottom of the first switch cover, and The seat upward operation area is the area at the rear of the bottom of the first switch cover.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The second slide switch includes: The second switch cover has two or more touch sensor insertion slots on its inner surface; The second sub-controller is located inside the second switch cover and is connected to the main controller via a flexible cable to send signals; A first touch sensor is disposed in the seat back reclining operation area of ​​the second switch cover and connected to the second sub-controller to output a signal; and The second touch sensor is located in the forward tilting operation area of ​​the seat back of the second switch cover and is connected to the second sub-controller to output a signal.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The area for tilting the seat back is located at the front of the second switch cover, and The area for tilting the seat back forward is the area at the rear of the second switch cover.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The third sliding switch includes: The third switch cover has two or more touch sensor insertion slots on its inner surface; A first touch sensor is disposed in the rearwardly extending operating area of ​​the third switch cover and connected to the main controller to output a signal; and A second touch sensor is located in the forward-extending operating area of ​​the third switch cover and is connected to the main controller to output a signal.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The first touch sensor and the second touch sensor on the third slide switch are connected to the main controller via conductive springs to send signals.

8. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The rearwardly extending operating area is the area on the front surface of the third switch cover, and The forward-extending operating area is the area on the rear surface of the third switch cover.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The integrated signal output paths of the first touch sensor, the second touch sensor, the third touch sensor, and the fourth touch sensor on the button switch are connected to the main controller via a flexible cable to send signals.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first touch sensor and the second touch sensor on the rotary switch are connected to the main controller via conductive springs to send signals.

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