Vehicle decorative panel with switch function

Abstract

A vehicle decorative panel with a switch function, comprising: a decorative front panel concealing a switch device, the decorative front panel having a switch area defined therein for controlling vehicle functions; and an illumination device for backlighting the switch area. Specifically, the switch device includes a sensor foil comprising a light-transmitting film in which a plurality of independent sensing areas are arranged, and a resilient rubber-like portion configured to be compressed between the rear side of the decorative front panel and the front side of a light guide plate to maintain air-gap-free, tight contact between the sensor foil and the rear side of the decorative front panel. The resilient rubber-like portion includes a first attachment member to tightly and removably attach the sensor foil to the light guide plate or the decorative front panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle decorative panel with a switch function, comprising: a decorative front panel concealing a switch device, the decorative front panel having a switch area defined therein for controlling vehicle functions; and a lighting device for backlighting the switch area. Specifically, the switch device includes a capacitive sensor. Background Art

[0002] Proximity switches are increasingly being found replacing traditional mechanical switches for controlling vehicle functions such as air conditioning systems.

[0003] Proximity switches are proximity-sensitive, i.e. they do not require mechanical movement. Therefore, the mere act of touching the switch area serving as a touch sensor effects a switching operation of the corresponding function associated with the switch area.

[0004] Since proximity switches do not require mechanical movement, they take up less space and can be easily integrated into vehicle trim. Thus, the decorative front panel forming the outer surface of the vehicle trim conceals the switch device and at the same time serves as the actuation surface through the different switch areas defined thereon.

[0005] This allows providing a continuous outer surface which improves its appearance. In addition, it also provides a more comfortable and harmonious interior environment for the vehicle occupants.

[0006] It is therefore necessary to provide means for informing the vehicle occupants of the possibility of interacting with the different switch areas.

[0007] One approach is to provide a lighting device that is concealed by a decorative front panel to backlight the switch area.

[0008] To this end, the switch areas usually include light-transmitting portions forming pictograms, which the vehicle occupant can recognize and touch in order to control the corresponding vehicle function associated with the corresponding switch area.

[0009] In order to provide individual lighting for each switch area, the lighting device may include a light guide structure having individual light guide channels, which allow each switch area to be illuminated independently.

[0010] In order to ensure the individual lighting of each switch area, it is very important to ensure the relative position between the light guide plate and the decorative front panel.

[0011] One example used to illustrate the above configuration is patent JP4218660.

[0012] On the other hand, one of the most widely used proximity switches in vehicles is based on capacitive sensing technology.

[0013] The capacitive proximity switch includes a plurality of antennas electrically connected to corresponding capacitive sensors disposed on a printed circuit board.

[0014] Each antenna forms a sensing area that detects the proximity of a human body part, such as a finger, through a corresponding switch area provided on the decorative front panel, and generates a signal due to a change in capacitance value, which is transmitted to a corresponding capacitive sensor configured to perform a corresponding switch function.

[0015] In order to ensure correct operation of a switch device according to this technology, it is very important that the antenna is correctly positioned relative to the switch area actuated by a vehicle occupant.

[0016] This means that each antenna has sufficient sensitivity to provide switching operation when a vehicle occupant touches the corresponding switch area, and that different signals affecting different antennas do not interfere with each other.

[0017] Regarding antenna sensitivity, it is important to center and approach the antenna to avoid air gaps relative to the corresponding switch area. The closer the antenna is to the switch area configured in the decorative front panel, the better the antenna sensitivity.

[0018] On the other hand, to simplify the assembly of multiple separate antennas on a vehicle trim, with each antenna affecting a corresponding switch area, they are usually provided as conductive printed paths on a common film which in turn is connected to a printed circuit board comprising the capacitive sensor.

[0019] Patent KR101985374 discloses a vehicle decorative panel with a switch function, which includes a decorative front panel having a plurality of switch areas and a touch sensor film forming an integral part of the decorative front panel.

[0020] Since the touch sensor film forms an integral part of the decorative front panel defining the switch areas, the centering and proximity of the antenna relative to the switch areas is ensured during its manufacture. Thus, correct operation in terms of sensitivity of the different switch areas can be ensured.

[0021] A disadvantage of this configuration is that it is difficult or impossible to separate the film from the decorative front panel.

[0022] On the other hand, the limitations make it difficult to replace or repair the film during the service life of the vehicle trim without damaging the trim front panel.

[0023] On the other hand, at the end of the useful life of the vehicle trim, the limitations make it difficult to recycle the trim front panel due to the difficulty in separating the two components.

[0024] In addition, the integration of thin films with the front panel of the car will increase the complexity of its manufacturing process and is not conducive to the standardization of components.

[0025] In order to overcome the above disadvantages, the film including the antenna may be provided as a component independent of the decorative front panel, as disclosed in, for example, JP4218660.

[0026] In this case, several problems arise since the film is a non-self-supporting flexible element that is difficult to handle.

[0027] On the other hand, since each switch area controls a specific vehicle function, in order to ensure correct operation of the switching device, it is very important to ensure the relative position of each individual antenna with respect to the corresponding switch area arranged on the decorative front panel and with respect to the corresponding LED responsible for backlighting the switch area via the antenna.

[0028] On the other hand, in order not to affect the sensitivity of the antennas, they must be placed as close as possible to the switch area provided on the decorative front panel. Summary of the Invention

[0029] In view of the above-mentioned shortcomings, an object of the present invention is a vehicle decorative panel with a switch function, which includes a decorative front panel that conceals a switch device for controlling a vehicle function and a lighting device for backlighting a switch area defined on the decorative front panel, wherein the switch device includes a plurality of antennas printed on a common sensor film, thereby ensuring the relative positions of the antennas with respect to the decorative front panel and with respect to the lighting device, and ensuring permanent contact between the sensor film and the decorative front panel without an air gap to maximize its sensitivity, and the film and the decorative front panel can be easily separated from each other.

[0030] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a decorative front panel conceals a switch device, the decorative front panel including a switch area defined thereon for controlling various vehicle functions, and a lighting device for backlighting the switch area.

[0031] Thus, the vehicle trim provides a continuous exterior surface that enhances the vehicle's appearance, thereby providing a more comfortable and harmonious interior environment for vehicle occupants.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, the vehicle trim includes lighting means for individually illuminating each switch zone. Thus, a vehicle occupant can interact with each individual switch zone to control a corresponding vehicle function associated with that switch zone, but the switch means are completely concealed by the trim front panel.

[0033] According to another aspect, a switch device includes a plurality of antennas disposed on a common light-transmitting film.

[0034] On the one hand, although the film is disposed between the lighting device and the decorative front panel, it can transmit light to the decorative front panel to backlight the switch area.

[0035] On the other hand, since the antennas are arranged on a common film, it simplifies the assembly of a plurality of individual antennas on a vehicle trim.

[0036] Additionally, electrical connections between the antennas and the capacitive sensors provided on the printed circuit board are simplified since all connections affecting each antenna can be routed and grouped on a common tab provided as a thin film extension.

[0037] According to another aspect of the present invention, the sensor foil further includes an elastic rubber-like portion configured to be compressed between the rear side of the decorative front panel and the front side of the light guide plate to maintain the sensor foil in tight contact with the rear side of the decorative front panel without an air gap.

[0038] In particular, the elastic rubber-like portion comprises a first attachment member configured to tightly and removably fit the sensor foil to the light guide plate according to the first main embodiment of the present invention or the decorative front panel according to the second main embodiment of the present invention due to the elasticity of the elastic rubber-like portion.

[0039] On the one hand, the rubber-like portion allows for a reinforcement of the sensor foil, which makes it easier to handle during assembly. In turn, said ease of handling contributes to achieving a precise assembly of the sensor foil.

[0040] On the other hand, the specific configuration of the first attachment member allows a press-fit type attachment due to the elasticity of the material forming the first attachment member, enabling a fast and detachable assembly process of the sensor foil.

[0041] Thus, during the service life of the vehicle trim the sensor foil can be easily replaced or repaired without damaging any of the components forming the assembly and at the end of the service life of the vehicle trim the sensor foil facilitates the recycling of the entire assembly.

[0042] On the other hand, this type of attachment avoids the use of adhesives as an attachment means, thereby simplifying the tools used during the assembly process of the entire assembly and avoiding waste material due to errors in the gluing step.

[0043] Furthermore, since the sensor foil is a detachable part with respect to the decorative front panel, the manufacturing process of the decorative front panel is simplified and the sensor foil is standardized for different decorative front panels, especially if the light-transmitting film forms an integral part of the decorative front panel.

[0044] On the other hand, the specific configuration of the attachment members and the easy handling of the sensor foil allow for correct assembly of the sensor foil in relation to the light guide according to the first main embodiment or in relation to the decorative front panel according to the second main embodiment.

[0045] Therefore, according to the first main embodiment, the relative positions between the sensing areas provided on the light-transmitting film including the printed antenna and the second light-transmitting portion and the corresponding light-guiding channels are directly ensured, thereby ensuring individual illumination through each sensing area.

[0046] According to the second main embodiment, the relative position between the sensing area provided on the light-transmitting film and the switch area provided on the decorative front panel is directly ensured, so that the position of each antenna can be centered with respect to the corresponding switch area, which is beneficial to the sensitivity of each antenna.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present invention, the elastic rubber-like portion is compressed between the rear side of the decorative front panel and the front side of the light guide. Thus, even according to the first main embodiment, air-gap-free, tight contact is ensured between the sensor foil and the rear side of the decorative front panel, wherein the decorative front panel and the sensor foil are not connected by any attachment member.

[0048] Since the sensitivity of the antenna is better the closer the film is to the switch area provided in the decorative front panel, said close contact without air gaps between the two components allows maximizing said sensitivity and in this way ensuring correct operation of the switching device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] The descriptive description of the present invention is completed by a set of figures showing preferred embodiments, but in no way limiting the invention.

[0050] Figure 1 An exploded view of a vehicle trim panel according to a first main embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0051] Figure 2 A perspective view of a sensor foil according to a first main embodiment of the invention is shown.

[0052] Figure 3 A perspective view showing a sensor foil mounted on a light guide according to a first main embodiment of the invention.

[0053] Figure 4 A perspective view of a vehicle trim panel is shown according to either of two main embodiments.

[0054] Figure 5 The first embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of plane AA represented in .

[0055] Figure 6 Shown with Figure 5 The detail D shown in FIG corresponds to a detail of the sensor foil.

[0056] Figure 7 Shown is an exploded view of a decorative front panel and a sensor foil according to a second main embodiment of the invention.

[0057] Figure 8 The second embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of plane AA represented in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Figure 1 An exploded view of a vehicle trim panel 10 with switch functionality is shown, in which the main parts forming the entire assembly can be distinguished, namely the trim front panel 1, the lighting device 2 and the switch device 3.

[0059] The decorative front panel 1 hides the other parts forming the assembly. Therefore, when the vehicle decorative panel 10 is installed in a vehicle, the vehicle occupants can only see the decorative front panel 1.

[0060] Decorative front panel 1 included Figure 1 A plurality of switch areas 1 . 1 are represented as windows bounded by dashed lines, via which a vehicle occupant can interact in order to control a specific vehicle function associated with each switch area 1 . 1 .

[0061] Each switch area 1.1 comprises a first light-transmitting portion 1.11 defining a pictogram. The pictogram may be any image or symbol used for communication purposes, including alphanumeric characters. The first light-transmitting portion 1.11 is positioned according to a well-defined position during the manufacturing process of the decorative front panel 1.

[0062] The decorative front panel 1 has a front side 1 . 2 facing the interior vehicle compartment VC and a rear side 1 . 3 opposite the front side 1 . 2 .

[0063] It may comprise a light-transmitting support 1 . 5 made of a transparent plastic material, such as polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate, which forms the body of the decorative front panel 1 and provides its specific shape.

[0064] It also comprises a mask 1.6 having a light-transmitting portion 1.61 and an opaque portion 1.62 according to the shape of the pictogram.

[0065] The decorative front panel 1 may further comprise a mainly translucent decorative film 1 . 7 which provides a decorative effect to the vehicle front panel 1 , such as a wood effect, a metal effect or other decorative effects.

[0066] The decorative front panel 1 may also comprise a second attachment member 1.4 configured to connect it to the remaining components forming the vehicle decorative panel 1. Figure 5 and Figure 7 The particular configuration represented in FIG. 1 shows that the second attachment member 1 . 4 provides a connection between the decorative front panel 1 and the rear shell 4 described in detail below.

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, the second attachment member 1.4 may comprise clips distributed around an edge 1.8 of the trim front panel 1. The edge 1.8 preferably comprises an opaque material to prevent light from leaking outside the vehicle trim panel 10. Alternatively, the second attachment member 1.4 may be configured as an extension of the opaque edge 1.8.

[0068] The decorative front panel 1 can be manufactured, for example, by an injection molding process.

[0069] The second main part forming the vehicle trim part 10 is the lighting device 2. It illuminates the pictograms through the first light-transmitting part 1.11 in order to inform the vehicle occupants about the possibility of interacting with the respective switch area 1.1.

[0070] The lighting device 2 in turn comprises a printed circuit board 2.1 having a plurality of LEDs 2.2, each configured to illuminate a corresponding switch area 1.1. The LEDs 2.2 are positioned on the printed circuit board 2.1 according to well-defined positions during the manufacturing process of the printed circuit board 2.1.

[0071] Additionally, the printed circuit board 2.1 may include a fourth attachment member 2.11 to attach the printed circuit board 2.1 to the rear housing 4 described in detail below, or other vehicle components or other vehicle trim panel components allowing support of the entire assembly.

[0072] In order to ensure individual illumination of each switch area 1.1, the lighting device 2 further comprises a light guide plate 2.3 defining respective light guide channels 2.31, which allow each switch area 1.1 to be illuminated independently.

[0073] The light-guiding channel 2.31 includes a peripheral wall 2.311 extending perpendicularly to the printed circuit board 2.1, thereby defining the light-guiding channel 2.31. The inner side of the peripheral wall 2.311 acts as a reflector, directing light from each corresponding LED 2.2 to a corresponding sensing area 3.22 provided in the sensor foil 3.2 described below, which in turn corresponds to the switch area 1.1 provided in the decorative front panel 1.

[0074] Thus, each light guiding channel 2.31 corresponds to an LED 2.2 at a first end 2.312 and to a sensing area 3.22 at a second end 2.313.

[0075] In addition, the light guide channel 2.31 can be divided into sub-channels 2.310. In this case, in addition to having a peripheral wall 2.311 defining its outer contour, the specific light guide channel 2.31 also includes a partition wall 2.312 defining the sub-channels 2.310, such as Figure 3 According to this particular case, each sub-channel 2.310 corresponds to a corresponding LED 2.2.

[0076] This particular case may be suitable for defining a capacitive proximity switch that is activated by a sliding movement.

[0077] according to Figure 1 In the configuration shown in FIG, the light guide channels 2.31 forming the light guide plate 2.3 may be connected therebetween by first bridge portions 2.36 so as to configure the light guide plate 2.3 as a single part.

[0078] The specific structure of the light guide plate 2.3 will depend on the specific distribution of the switch areas 1.1 on the decorative front panel 1 and their specific operation.

[0079] The light guide plate 2.3 has a front side 2.32 facing the decorative front panel 1 and a rear side 2.33 facing the printed circuit board 2.1.

[0080] Additionally, the light guide plate 2.3 may comprise a third attachment member 2.34 in order to attach the light guide plate 2.3 to the printed circuit board 2.1.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the third attachment member 2.34 may comprise a clip.

[0082] The light guide plate 2 . 3 may comprise a plastic part, eg manufactured by an injection molding process.

[0083] Finally, the last part forming the assembly is the switching device 3 .

[0084] It comprises a plurality of capacitive sensors 3.1, each capacitive sensor influencing a specific switch area 1.1 provided in the decorative front panel 1. The capacitive sensors can be provided in the same printed circuit board 2.1 as the LEDs 2.2 or in a separate printed circuit board.

[0085] The switch device 3 further comprises a sensor foil 3.2 having a plurality of independent sensing areas 3.22 arranged on a light-transmissive film 3.21.

[0086] Each sensing region 3.22 in turn comprises a printed antenna 3.221 on the light-transmitting film 3.21 and electrically connected to the corresponding capacitive sensor 3.1 and a second light-transmitting portion 3.222 formed by a portion of said light-transmitting film 3.21.

[0087] In order to connect the printed antenna 3.221 to the capacitive sensor 3.1 , the light transmissive film 3.21 may comprise tabs 3.211 which receive different electrical traces 3.223 connected to the printed antenna 3.221 .

[0088] like Figure 5 As shown, the free end 3.2111 of the tab 3.211 may include a plastic connector 3.25 portion to provide an electrical and mechanical connection to a printed circuit board including the capacitive sensor 3.1.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the printed antennas 3.221 are arranged around the corresponding sensing regions 3.22 in such a way that they surround the second light-transmitting portion 3.222. Thus, light can pass through the sensing regions 3.22 even if the material forming the printed antennas 3.221 is not transparent.

[0090] The material forming the printed antenna 3.221 can be any conductive printable material, such as conductive ink. The conductive ink can be opaque or transparent.

[0091] The material forming the light-transmitting film 3.21 may be a plastic material, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyethylene (PE).

[0092] According to an optional configuration, the light-transmitting film 3.21 is milky white in order to diffuse the light passing through it, thereby improving light homogenization.

[0093] The light-transmitting film 3.21 has a front side 3.212 facing the rear side 1.3 of the decorative front panel 1, and a rear side 3.213 facing the front side 2.33 of the light guide plate 3.2.

[0094] The sensor foil 3.2 further comprises an elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 which is configured to be compressed between the rear side 1.3 of the decorative front panel 1 and the front side 2.32 of the light guide plate 2.3 in the mounted position to keep the sensor foil 3.2 in tight contact with the rear side 1.3 of the decorative front panel 1 without air gaps.

[0095] Therefore, when assembling the sensor foil 3.2, the compression of the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is only intended to keep the sensor foil 3.2 in close contact with the decorative front panel 1 without an air gap, which means that the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 does not have to be compressed when the vehicle occupant touches or presses the decorative panel 1 to activate the switch device 3.

[0096] Furthermore, the elastic rubber-like part 3.23 comprises first attachment members 3.231 configured to tightly and removably attach the sensor foil 3.2 to the light guide plate 2.3 or the decorative front panel 1 due to the elasticity of the elastic rubber-like part material.

[0097] Therefore, according to the specific configuration of the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23, the present invention defines two main embodiments, namely Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 a first main embodiment represented in , wherein the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is at the back side 3.213 of the light-transmitting film 3.21 and the sensor foil 3.2 comprising said elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is assembled on the light guide plate 2.3; and Figure 7 and Figure 8 A second main embodiment is represented in which the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is at the front side 3.212 of the light-transmitting film 3.21 and the sensor foil 3.2 comprising said elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is assembled on the decorative front panel 1.

[0098] The elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 and the light-transmitting film 3.21 may be configured by overmolding, or may be connected by any other attachment means such as adhesive. Figure 2 or Figure 7 It is shown that both components configure a single part, namely the sensor foil 3 . 2 , which is used as a single part during the assembly process of the vehicle trim part 10 of the invention.

[0099] The material forming the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 may be silicone rubber.

[0100] The main function of the elastic rubber-like part 3.23 is the same in both embodiments, namely to make it easier to handle the sensor foil 3.2 during the assembly process, thereby helping to achieve accurate assembly of the sensor foil 3.2, wherein the relative position of each sensing area 3.22 relative to the corresponding light-guiding channel 2.31 in the case of the first main embodiment or the corresponding switching area 1.1 in the case of the second main embodiment is directly ensured.

[0101] Furthermore, due to the elasticity of the material of the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23, said elastic rubber-like portion provides a press-fit type attachment, thereby enabling a fast and detachable assembly process of the sensor foil 3.2 without the use of adhesives.

[0102] Furthermore, it allows for an air gap-free close contact of the sensor foil 3.2 with the rear side 1.3 of the decorative front panel 1, thereby increasing the sensitivity of the sensing area 3.22.

[0103] Before describing the specific details associated with each main embodiment and for the sake of clarity, it is necessary to mention that the above features in the description are common to both main embodiments.

[0104] According to a first main embodiment, the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is at the back side 3.213 of the light transparent film 3.21 and the sensor foil 3.2 comprising said elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is assembled on the light guide plate 2.3.

[0105] Specifically, in this case the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is made of an opaque material and it comprises a strip having a shape following the contour of the light guide 2.3 in order to tightly attach the sensor foil 3.2 to the light guide 2.3. The strip configures the first attachment member 3.231.

[0106] The contour of the light guide plate 2.3 is defined as forming the outer contour of the light guide plate 2.3, in particular the peripheral wall 2.311 forming the light guide channel 2.31. This means that the partition walls 2.312 forming the subchannels 2.310, if any, do not form part of the contour of the light guide plate 2.3. That is, the first attachment member 3.231 makes the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 suitable for forming such as Figure 3 The outer contour of the light guide plate 2.3 is shown.

[0107] Due to the elasticity of the strip and its specific shape according to the contour of the light guide 2.3, the strip adapts and fits to the light guide 2.3 in such a way that a tight connection is created between the two parts.

[0108] Hence, due to the elasticity of the material of the resilient rubber-like portion 3.23, the cooperation between the two parts provides a press-fit type attachment, wherein the strip is deformed and pressed against the contour of the light guide plate 2.3.

[0109] Additionally, this tight connection between the two parts and the fact that the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is opaque allows the perimeter of the light guide plate 2.3 to be completely sealed, thereby preventing light from leaking outside the light guide plate 2.3.

[0110] According to Figure 6 In the specific configuration of this first main embodiment represented in FIG, the strip comprises a base portion 3.2311 which contacts the front side 2.33 of the light guide 2.3 and the back side 3.213 of the light-transmitting film 3.21, and wings 3.2312 which extend downwards in the direction of the peripheral wall 2.311 and perpendicularly to the base portion 3.2311. The wings 3.2312 are adjusted to the peripheral wall 2.311 which forms the contour of the light guide 2.3.

[0111] According to Figure 6In another advantageous configuration shown in FIG, the strip may further comprise a light-proof portion 3.2313 extending upwards and perpendicularly to the base portion 3.2311 as an extension of the wing portion 3.2312, wherein said light-proof portion 3.2313 surrounds the edge of the light-transmitting film 3.21. In this way, any possible light leakage from the edge of the light-transmitting film 3.21 is also prevented.

[0112] According to a further advantageous configuration, the strip further comprises centering means which make the assembly of the sensor foil 3.2 in the light guide 2.3 easier according to the correct position of the sensing area 3.22.

[0113] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the centering member may comprise an opening 3.232 provided in the strip so as to cooperate with a corresponding nose 2.3111 provided in the peripheral wall 2.311 forming the outline of the light guide plate 2.3. Preferably, each light guide channel 2.31 comprises at least a nose 2.3111 and the strip comprises a corresponding opening 3.232 for arranging the centering member.

[0114] In addition, if Figure 5 The resilient rubber-like portion 3.24 shown may include a second bridge 3.233 connecting strip portions affecting different light guiding channels 2.31 in order to configure the resilient rubber-like portion 3.24 as a single part.

[0115] As disclosed above, according to the second main embodiment, the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is at the front side 3.212 of the light-transmitting film 3.21 and the sensor foil 3.2 comprising said elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is assembled on the decorative front panel 1, in particular at the rear side 1.3 thereof.

[0116] Specifically, in this case, the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23 is made of a light-transmitting material and comprises a main base 3.234 extending on the front side 3.212 of the light-transmitting film 3.21 and a plurality of light-transmitting protrusions 3.231, in this case forming the first attachment member 3.231, emerging from the main base 3.234 and corresponding to the sensing area 3.22. The light-transmitting protrusions 3.231 cooperate with corresponding attachment windows 1.9 provided on the rear side 1.3 of the decorative front panel 1 to attach the sensor foil 3.2 to the decorative front panel 1.

[0117] Specifically, the attachment window 1.9 is configured according to the shape of the light-transmitting protrusions 3.231 to tightly attach the sensor foil 3.2 to the decorative front panel 1. That is, due to the elasticity of the material of the elastic rubber-like portion 3.23, the cooperation between the attachment window 1.9 and the light-transmitting protrusions 3.231 provides a press-fit type attachment. As a result, each light-transmitting protrusion 3.231 deforms and compresses within the cavity formed by the corresponding attachment window 1.9.

[0118] Since each light-transmitting protrusion 3.231 is configured at a height relative to each sensing area 3.22 to the interior cabin VC, they allow light to pass from the light-guiding channel 2.31 through the decorative front panel 1 to the interior cabin VC.

[0119] In order to improve the uniformity of light, the light-transmitting material forming the protrusion 3.231 may include an additive that diffuses the light.

[0120] As in the first main embodiment, Figure 8 The illustrated resilient rubber-like portion 3.24 may include a second bridge 3.233 connecting portions of the resilient rubber-like portion 3.24 affecting different light guiding channels 2.31 in order to configure the resilient rubber-like portion 3.24 as a single portion.

[0121] As mentioned above, the attachment window 1 . 9 is arranged at the rear side 1 . 3 of the decorative front panel 1 .

[0122] As in the first main embodiment, according to this second main embodiment, the decorative front panel 1 may comprise: a light-transmitting support 1.5 made of a transparent plastic material, such as polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate, which forms the body of the decorative front panel 1 and provides its specific shape; and a mask 1.6 which defines the pictogram.

[0123] Preferably Figure 8 As shown, the attachment windows 1.9 are provided at the rear side of the light-transmitting support 1.5. Preferably, they are formed as empty spaces provided in the opaque layer 1.10 that is arranged at the rear side of the light-transmitting support 1.5.

[0124] As in the first main embodiment, the decorative front panel 1 may also comprise a mainly translucent decorative film 1 . 7 which provides a decorative effect to the vehicle front panel 1 , such as a wood effect, a metal effect or other decorative effects.

[0125] As in the first main embodiment, the decorative front panel 1 may also comprise a second attachment member 1.4 configured to connect it to the remaining components forming the vehicle decorative panel 1. Figure 8As shown, the second attachment member 1.4 may comprise clips distributed around an edge 1.8 of the trim front panel 1. The edge 1.8 preferably comprises an opaque material to prevent light from leaking outside the vehicle trim panel 10. Alternatively, the second attachment member 1.4 may be configured as an extension of the opaque edge 1.8.

[0126] The front side 1.2 of the decorative front panel 1 may be a continuous surface or Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it may include a recessed area corresponding to the switch area 1 . 1 .

[0127] According to the specific configuration of the different parts mentioned above, each switch area 1.1 is associated with a corresponding sensing area 3.22, a corresponding light guiding channel 2.31, a corresponding LED 2.2 and a corresponding capacitive sensor 3.1.

[0128] Thus, the different switch areas 1 . 1 provided on the decorative front panel 1 can firstly be identified by the vehicle occupants and secondly they can be activated individually to control the corresponding vehicle function associated with the corresponding switch area 1 . 1 .

[0129] According to the configuration common to the first and second main embodiments, the vehicle trim panel 10 further includes a rear housing 4, such as Figure 5 and Figure 8 shown.

[0130] It encapsulates and protects the entire assembly and forms a closed space with the decorative front panel 1 .

[0131] The rear housing 4 may include a base 4.1 and a peripheral wing 4.2 extending upwardly to the base 4.1.

[0132] The peripheral wing 4.2 may comprise a support area 4.21 where an elastic sealing ring 4.3 rests to seal the entire assembly against dust and moisture.

[0133] The rear housing 4 may comprise a fifth attachment member 4 . 4 to attach the vehicle trim panel 1 to the vehicle.

[0134] According to another particular embodiment common to the first and second main embodiments, the elastic sealing ring 4.3 may comprise a plurality of force sensors 5 distributed along it and electrically connected to the capacitive sensor 3.1 for activating the switching device and in this way avoiding accidental activation of the capacitive sensor 3.1.

Claims

1. A vehicle decorative panel (10) with a switch function, the vehicle decorative panel comprising: - a decorative front panel (1), comprising a plurality of switch areas (1.1), each switch area comprising a first light-transmitting portion (1.11) defining a pictogram, the decorative front panel (1) having a front side (1.2) and a rear side (1.3), - a lighting device (2), comprising: a printed circuit board (2.1) having a plurality of LEDs (2.2), a light guide plate (2.3), the light guide plate defining respective light guide channels (2.31), the light guide channels comprising peripheral walls (2.311) extending perpendicularly to the printed circuit board (2.1), the light guide plate (2.3) having a front side (2.32) facing the decorative front panel (1) and a rear side (2.33) facing the printed circuit board (2.1), - a switching device (3), said switching device comprising: Multiple capacitive sensors (3.1), A sensor foil (3.2), said sensor foil comprising: a light-transmitting film (3.21) having a front side (3.212) facing the rear side (1.3) of the decorative front panel (1) and a rear side (3.213) facing the front side (2.32) of the light guide plate (3.2), and A plurality of independent sensing regions (3.22), each of which is arranged on the light-transmitting film (3.21), and each of which comprises: o a printed antenna (3.221) on the light-transmitting film (3.21) and electrically connected to a corresponding capacitive sensor (3.1), o a second light-transmitting portion (3.222), the second light-transmitting portion being formed by a portion of the light-transmitting film (3.21), Each switch area (1.1) is associated with the corresponding sensing area (3.22), the corresponding light guide channel (2.31), the corresponding LED (2.2) and the corresponding capacitive sensor (3.1), It is characterized by: The sensor foil (3.2) further comprises an elastic rubber-like portion (3.23) configured to be compressed between the rear side (1.3) of the decorative front panel (1) and the front side (2.32) of the light guide plate to maintain the sensor foil (3.2) in close contact with the rear side (1.3) of the decorative front panel (1) without air gaps, The elastic rubber-like portion (3.23) comprises a first attachment member (3.231) configured to tightly and removably attach the sensor foil (3.2) to the light guide plate (2.3) or the decorative front panel (1) due to the elasticity of the elastic rubber-like portion (3.23).

2. The vehicle trim panel (10) with a switch function according to claim 1, wherein the elastic rubber-like portion (3.23) is opaque and comprises a strip having a shape according to the contour of the light guide plate (2.3) so as to tightly attach the sensor foil (3.2) to the light guide plate (2.3), and wherein the strip comprises the first attachment member (3.231).

3. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with switch function according to claim 2, wherein the strip comprises: a base portion (3.2311) which contacts the front side (2.33) of the light guide plate (2.3) and the rear side (3.213) of the light-transmitting film (3.21); and a wing portion (3.2312) which extends downward and perpendicularly to the base portion (3.2311) and is adjusted to the peripheral wall (2.311) forming the contour of the light guide plate (2.3).

4. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with a switch function according to claim 3, wherein the elastic rubber-like portion includes a light leakage prevention portion (3.2313) extending upward and perpendicular to the base portion (3.2311) as an extension of the wing portion (3.2312), wherein the light leakage prevention portion (3.2313) surrounds the edge of the light-transmitting film (3.21).

5. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with a switch function according to claim 3, wherein the elastic rubber-like portion includes a centering member for positioning the light-transmitting film relative to the light guide plate.

6. A vehicle decorative panel (10) with switch function according to claim 5, wherein the centering member comprises an opening (3.232) provided in the strip so as to cooperate with a corresponding nose (2.3111) provided in the peripheral wall (2.311) forming the contour of the light guide plate (2.3).

7. A vehicle decorative panel (10) with a switch function according to claim 1, wherein the elastic rubber-like portion (3.23) is made of a light-transmitting material and comprises a main base (3.234) extending on the front side (3.212) of the light-transmitting film (3.21) and a plurality of light-transmitting protrusions forming the first attachment member (3.231), wherein the light-transmitting protrusions emerge from the main base (3.234), and wherein each light-transmitting protrusion corresponds to each sensing area (3.22), and wherein each light-transmitting protrusion cooperates with a corresponding attachment window (1.9) provided at the rear side (1.3) of the decorative front panel (1) to attach the sensor foil (3.2) to the decorative front panel (1).

8. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with a switch function according to claim 7, wherein the light-transmitting material forming the protrusion includes an additive that diffuses light.

9. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with switch function according to claim 1, wherein the decorative front panel (1) comprises a light-transmitting bracket (1.5) and a mask (1.6) defining the pictogram.

10. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with switch function according to claim 7, wherein the decorative front panel (1) comprises a light-transmitting bracket (1.5) and a mask (1.6) defining the pictogram.

11. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with a switch function according to claim 10, wherein the attachment window (1.9) is formed as a blank space provided in an opaque layer (1.10) arranged at a rear side of the light-transmitting bracket (1.5).

12. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with switch function according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle decorative panel further comprises a rear housing (4) supporting the entire assembly.

13. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with switch function according to claim 1, wherein the light-transmitting film is milky white to improve light uniformity.

14. The vehicle trim panel (10) with switch function according to claim 1, wherein the printed antenna (3.221) is arranged around the corresponding sensing area (3.22).

15. The vehicle decorative panel (10) with a switch function according to claim 1, wherein the elastic rubber-like portion (3.23) and the light-transmitting film (3.21) form an integral component configured by overmolding.

Images