Vehicle window switch module

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle window switch module. A window switch module for operating a plurality of movable windows in a vehicle includes a primary switch configured to selectively open and close each of the plurality of movable windows. The window switch module also includes a plurality of secondary switches operatively connected to the primary switch. Each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a window switch module for a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Most vehicles have at least some windows that can be opened and closed by the vehicle occupants. Powered windows, or electric windows, are vehicle windows that can be raised and lowered by pressing a button or switch instead of using a crank handle. Powered windows are typically inoperable when the vehicle is not in motion. Some systems have a time delay feature that maintains power applied to the windows and some other accessories for a short period after the engine stops or until the passenger door is opened (when the window power is turned off).

[0003] Another feature is the "quick-down" window, which allows the window to be lowered fully by tapping the switch once instead of holding it down until the window retracts. Many vehicles have expanded this feature to include "quick-up" on the driver's window and all window switches for the convenience of all passengers. This is done by activating the switch until a "click" response is felt. Power window lock switches are a popular convenience feature that allows the driver to prevent passengers (often children) from using the windows. Additionally, some vehicles offer the option to operate the windows from the outside of the car using a remote control.

[0004] Power window switches can be configured as rocker switches, lever switches, buttons, etc. Typically, there is a separate switch for each window, and a set of switches within easy reach of the driver, allowing the driver to operate all windows. Power window switches can be located on the interior of vehicle doors, on the console, on the dashboard, etc. For user convenience, power window switches can be combined with controls for other vehicle features, such as side mirrors, door locks, etc. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A window switch module for operating a plurality of movable windows in a vehicle includes a primary switch configured to selectively open and close each of the plurality of movable windows. The window switch module also includes a plurality of secondary switches operatively connected to the primary switch. Each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch.

[0006] Multiple movable windows may include a left front window, a left rear window, a right front window, and a right rear window.

[0007] Multiple secondary switches may include a first three-way switch and a second three-way switch. The first three-way switch may be configured in: a first position, which is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch; a second position, which is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and a third position, which is configured to deselect the operation of each of the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a first mode and to simultaneously select the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a second mode.

[0008] The second and third switches can be configured in the following positions: a first position, which is configured to select the right front window via the primary switch; a second position, which is configured to select the right rear window via the primary switch; and a third position, which is configured to deselect each of the right front and right rear windows via the primary switch in the first mode and to select both the right front and right rear windows via the primary switch in the second mode.

[0009] When each of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is in its corresponding third position, the second operating mode of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch can be defined.

[0010] Alternatively, the multiple secondary switches may include a first, second, third, and fourth button. The first button can be configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch. The second button can be configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch. The third button can be configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch. The fourth button can be configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch.

[0011] The window switch module may also include a three-stage switch operatively connected to the primary switch and configured to select a predefined position, such as ventilating the vehicle via at least one of the movable windows using actuation of at least one of the secondary switches and the primary switch.

[0012] A three-stage switch can be a joystick configured to operate in a two-dimensional plane.

[0013] The window switch module may additionally include a rearview mirror position adjuster configured to operate one or more vehicle side rearview mirrors.

[0014] The window switch module may also include a function selector configured to select between operation of the primary switch and the rearview mirror position adjuster.

[0015] The window switch module may additionally include a window operation lock button.

[0016] The window switch module may additionally include switches configured to operate the vehicle door locks.

[0017] A vehicle using the aforementioned window switch module was also disclosed.

[0018] The present invention provides the following technical solutions.

[0019] Technical Solution 1. A window switch module for operating multiple movable windows in a vehicle, the window switch module comprising:

[0020] A primary switch, configured to selectively open and close each of the plurality of movable windows; and

[0021] A plurality of secondary switches are operatively connected to the primary switch, wherein each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch.

[0022] Technical Solution 2. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 1, wherein the plurality of movable windows includes a left front window, a left rear window, a right front window and a right rear window.

[0023] Technical Solution 3. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 2, wherein the plurality of secondary switches include:

[0024] The first and third circuit switches are limited to the following:

[0025] The first position is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch;

[0026] The second position is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and

[0027] The third position is configured to deselect each of the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a first mode and to simultaneously select the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a second mode; and

[0028] The second and third circuit switches are limited to the following:

[0029] The first position is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch;

[0030] The second position is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch; and

[0031] The third position is configured to deselect each of the right front window and the right rear window via the primary switch in the first mode and to select both the right front window and the right rear window simultaneously via the primary switch in the second mode.

[0032] Technical Solution 4. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 3, wherein when each of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is in its corresponding third position, the second operating mode of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is defined.

[0033] Technical Solution 5. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 2, wherein the plurality of secondary switches include:

[0034] The first button is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch;

[0035] The second button is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch;

[0036] The third button is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and

[0037] The fourth button is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch.

[0038] Technical Solution 6. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 1 further includes a three-level switch, which is operatively connected to the primary switch and configured to select a predefined position of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of at least one of the secondary switches and the primary switch.

[0039] Technical Solution 7. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 1 further includes a rearview mirror position adjuster configured to operate one or more vehicle side rearview mirrors.

[0040] Technical Solution 8. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 7 further includes a function selector configured to select between the operation of the primary switch and the operation of the rearview mirror position adjuster.

[0041] Technical Solution 9. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 1 further includes a window operation locking switch.

[0042] Technical Solution 10. The window switch module according to Technical Solution 1 further includes a switch configured to operate the vehicle door lock.

[0043] Technical Solution 11. A vehicle defining an interior and comprising:

[0044] Multiple movable windows, including a left front window, a left rear window, a right front window, and a right rear window;

[0045] A window switch module, disposed within the vehicle interior, includes:

[0046] A primary switch, configured to selectively open and close the plurality of movable...

[0047] Each one in the window; and

[0048] A plurality of secondary switches are operatively connected to the primary switch, wherein each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch.

[0049] Technical Solution 12. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 11, wherein the plurality of secondary switches include:

[0050] The first and third circuit switches are limited to the following:

[0051] The first position is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch;

[0052] The second position is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and

[0053] The third position is configured to deselect each of the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a first mode and to simultaneously select the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a second mode; and

[0054] The second and third circuit switches are limited to the following:

[0055] The first position is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch;

[0056] The second position is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch; and

[0057] The third position is configured to deselect each of the right front window and the right rear window via the primary switch in the first mode and to select both the right front window and the right rear window simultaneously via the primary switch in the second mode.

[0058] Technical Solution 13. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 11, wherein the plurality of secondary switches include:

[0059] The first button is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch;

[0060] The second button is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch;

[0061] The third button is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and

[0062] The fourth button is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch.

[0063] Technical Solution 14. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 13, wherein when each of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is in its corresponding third position, the second operating mode of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is defined.

[0064] Technical Solution 15. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 11, wherein the window switch module further includes a three-stage switch operatively connected to the primary switch and configured to select a predefined position of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of at least one of the secondary switches and the primary switch.

[0065] Technical Solution 16. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 11, wherein the window switch module further includes a rearview mirror position adjuster configured to operate one or more vehicle side rearview mirrors.

[0066] Technical Solution 17. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 16, wherein the window switch module further includes a function selector configured to select between the operation of the primary switch and the operation of the rearview mirror position adjuster.

[0067] Technical Solution 18. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 11, wherein the window switch module further includes a window operation locking button.

[0068] Technical Solution 19. The vehicle according to Technical Solution 11, wherein the window switch module further includes a switch configured to operate the vehicle door lock.

[0069] Technical Solution 20. A main window switch module for operating multiple movable windows in a vehicle, the multiple movable windows including a left front window, a left rear window, a right front window, and a right rear window, the window switch module comprising:

[0070] A primary switch, configured to selectively open and close each of the plurality of movable windows; and

[0071] A plurality of secondary switches are operatively connected to the primary switch, wherein each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch, wherein the plurality of secondary switches include:

[0072] The first and third circuit switches are limited to the following:

[0073] The first position is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch;

[0074] The second position is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and

[0075] The third position is configured to deselect each of the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in the first mode and to simultaneously select the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in the second mode; and a second and third-way switch, which defines:

[0076] The first position is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch;

[0077] The second position is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch; and

[0078] The third position is configured to deselect each of the right front window and the right rear window via the primary switch in the first mode and to select both the right front window and the right rear window simultaneously via the primary switch in the second mode.

[0079] Specifically, when each of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is in its corresponding third position, the second operating mode of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is defined.

[0080] The foregoing features and advantages, as well as other features and advantages, of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments and preferred modes for carrying out this disclosure, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0081] Figure 1 This is a schematic top view of a vehicle with side doors and a tailgate according to the present disclosure, the side doors and tailgate having movable windows operable from the vehicle's cabin.

[0082] Figure 2 This is a schematic top view of an embodiment of a window switch module according to the present disclosure, the window switch module having an operatively connected primary switch and arranged in... Figure 1 A set of secondary switches in the cabin of the vehicle shown.

[0083] Figure 3 Based on this disclosure Figure 2 The schematic side view of the secondary switch shown illustrates the various positions of the switch.

[0084] Figure 4 This is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a window switch module according to the present disclosure, the window switch module having an operatively connected primary switch and arranged in... Figure 1 A set of secondary switches in the cabin of the vehicle shown.

[0085] Figure 5 Based on this disclosure Figure 1 A schematic partial view of the vehicle's cabin shown, illustrating the structure... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The window switch module shown controls the ventilation position of a representative vehicle window. Detailed Implementation

[0086] The embodiments of this disclosure described herein are intended to be illustrative. Other embodiments may take different and alternative forms. Furthermore, the drawings are generally schematic and not necessarily drawn to scale. Some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show detail of particular components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ this disclosure in various ways.

[0087] Certain terms used in the following description may be for illustrative purposes only and are therefore not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “above” and “below” refer to orientation in the referenced figures. Terms such as “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “rear,” “side,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom,” etc., describe the orientation and / or position of portions of a part or element within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference, as will become clear from the text describing the part or element under discussion and the associated figures.

[0088] Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used to describe individual components. Such terms may include the words specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings, and are used descriptively in the accompanying drawings, and do not represent a limitation on the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Additionally, the teachings herein may be described according to functional and / or logical block components and / or individual processing steps. It should be understood that such block components may include multiple hardware, software, and / or firmware components configured to perform a specified function.

[0089] Referring to the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals in several views refer to similar parts. Figure 1Vehicle 10 is schematically depicted. Vehicle 10 is generally characterized by a vehicle body 12 surrounded by an external environment 13. Vehicle body 12 defines a vehicle interior or cabin 16 configured to accommodate, for example, a vehicle operator and (multiple) passengers in a generally seated position. Vehicle body 12 includes a left side section 14-1, a right side section 14-12, a front end section 14-3, and a rear end section 14-4. Vehicle body 12 also includes multiple side doors such as a left front door 18-1, a right front door 18-2, a left rear door 18-3, and a right rear door 18-4, and a tailgate 18-5 (at the rear end section 14-4) for access to the vehicle cabin 16. Each of the doors 18-1, 18-2, 18-3, 18-4, and 18-5 may be lockable from the inside or outside of the vehicle and has a corresponding movable window panel 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, and 20-5 that separates the interior of the vehicle from the external environment 14.

[0090] like Figure 1 As shown, vehicle 10 may also include one or more side mirrors, such as a left side mirror 22-1 and a right side mirror 22-2 arranged on corresponding left side section 14-1 and right side section 14-2 of vehicle body 12. Such side mirrors 22-1, 22-2 are positionally adjustable for use by the driver of the vehicle and have a folding function. Vehicle 10 also includes a power unit 24 configured to generate output torque for powering the vehicle. Power unit 24 may include an internal combustion engine, multiple electric motors, and / or a fuel cell, configured to propel the vehicle, for example, via driven wheels 26. Vehicle 10 also includes an electronic controller 28. Figure 1 and Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram). The electronic controller 28 may be a central processing unit (CPU) or a body control module (BCM), which is configured to receive data signals from various vehicle sensors and regulate the operation of the vehicle system. The electronic controller 28 may communicate operatively with such vehicle systems and sensors via a data network (e.g., a controller area network (CAN bus)) arranged in the vehicle 10.

[0091] The electronic controller 28 includes tangible and non-transitory memory. The memory can be a recordable medium that participates in providing computer-readable data or processing instructions. Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile and volatile media. Non-volatile media used by the electronic controller 28 can include, for example, optical discs or magnetic disks and other permanent storage. The volatile media of each of the controller's memories can include, for example, dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which can constitute the main memory. Such instructions can be transmitted by one or more transmission media, including coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers, including lines containing system buses connected to the vehicle system. The memory of the electronic controller 28 can also include floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, DVDs, other optical media, etc. The electronic controller 28 can be equipped with a high-speed master clock, necessary analog-to-digital (A / D) and / or digital-to-analog (D / A) circuitry, input / output circuitry and devices (I / O), and appropriate signal conditioning and / or buffering circuitry. The algorithms required by or accessible by the electronic controller 28 are typically indicated by the digit 30, can be stored in memory and executed automatically to provide the required functions.

[0092] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the electronic controller 28 is operatively connected to doors 18-1, 18-2, 18-3, 18-4, and 18-5 for central and / or remote locking / unlocking of them, and for operation of windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, and 20-5. Each of windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, and 20-5 can also be controlled via a dedicated switch disposed in the cabin 16 near the corresponding window (e.g., on the corresponding interior door panel). The vehicle 10 also includes a window switch module 32 disposed in the cabin 16 for operating each of the movable windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, and 20-5. The window switch module 32 is operatively in communication with the electronic controller 28. The window switch module 32 can be configured as a main control panel positioned within easy reach of the vehicle's primary user (such as the driver), allowing the user to control each window and door lock from their seated position within the vehicle. For example, the window switch module 32 can reside substantially in a two-dimensional plane P, in which the actuation of the various switches described in detail below is affected and / or perpendicular to plane P. The window switch module 32 can be located on the driver's door (18-1 or 18-2), or on the center console or dashboard between the driver and front passenger.

[0093] Continue to refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4The window switch module 32 includes a primary switch 34 configured to selectively open and close each of a plurality of movable windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, and 20-5. As shown, the primary switch 34 may be a lever-type actuator. The window switch module 32 also includes a plurality or a set of secondary switches 36 operatively connected to the primary switch 34. Each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, and 20-5 via actuation of the primary switch 34. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the secondary switch group 36 may include a first three-way switch 38-1 and a second three-way switch 38-2, such as a rocker switch. The first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 are electrically interconnected and operate to select one or more windows for control via actuation of the primary switch 34.

[0094] The first three-way switch 38-1 defines a first position 40-1, which is configured to select the left front window 20-1 via the primary switch 34. The first three-way switch 38-1 also defines a second position 40-2, which is configured to select the left rear window 20-3 via the primary switch 34. The first three-way switch 38-1 further defines a third or neutral position 40-3, which is configured to deselect each of the left front window 20-1 and the left rear window 20-3 via the primary switch 34 in a corresponding first mode, and to simultaneously select both the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a corresponding second mode. The second three-way switch 38-2 defines a first position 42-1, which is configured to select the right front window 20-2 via the primary switch 34. The second-third-way switch 38-2 further defines a second position 42-2, which is configured to select the operation of the right rear window 20-4 via the primary switch 34. The second-third-way switch 38-2 further defines a third (neutral) position 42-3, which is configured to deselect each of the right front window 20-2 and the right rear window 20-4 via the primary switch 34 in the corresponding first mode, and to select both the right front window and the right rear window simultaneously via the primary switch in the corresponding second mode.

[0095] like Figure 3As shown, when each of the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its corresponding third position 40-3, 42-3, a second operating mode of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch can be defined. In other words, when each of the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its corresponding second mode, the primary switch 34 can simultaneously operate each of the left front window 20-1, the left rear window 20-3, the right front window 20-2, and the right rear window 20-4. Once selected, the overlapping third positions 40-3, 42-3 of the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 allow for single-switch control of multiple vehicle side windows. The combination of positions of the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is described below.

[0096] The first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 can be combined to operate each of windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, and 20-4 individually via the primary switch 34. When the first three-way switch 38-1 is in the first position 40-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its third position 42-3, actuation of the primary switch 34 can independently raise or lower the left front window 20-1. Similarly, when the first three-way switch 38-1 is in the third position 40-3 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its first position 42-1, actuation of the primary switch 34 can independently raise or lower the right front window 20-2.

[0097] When the first three-way switch 38-1 is in the second position 40-2 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its third position 42-3, the actuation of the primary switch 34 can independently raise or lower the left rear window 20-3. Similarly, when the first three-way switch 38-1 is in the third position 40-3 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its second position 42-2, the actuation of the primary switch 34 can independently raise or lower the right rear window 20-4. Alternatively, when the first three-way switch 38-1 is in the first position 40-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its first position 42-1, the actuation of the primary switch 34 can simultaneously raise or lower the left front window 20-1 and the right front window 20-2. Similarly, when the first three-way switch 38-1 is in the second position 40-2 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its second position 42-2, the actuation of the primary switch 34 can simultaneously raise or lower the left rear window 20-3 and the right rear window 20-4.

[0098] When the first three-way switch 38-1 is in its first position 40-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its second position 42-2, the actuation of the primary switch 34 can simultaneously raise or lower the left front window 20-1 and the right rear window 20-4. Similarly, when the first three-way switch 38-1 is in its second position 40-2 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its first position 42-1, the actuation of the primary switch 34 can simultaneously raise or lower the left rear window 20-3 and the right front window 20-2. Furthermore, as noted above, when each of the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 is in its corresponding third position 40-3, 42-3, the primary switch is configured to simultaneously operate each of the left front window, right front window, left rear window, and right rear window (20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4). Such a feature can be useful when it is necessary to raise or lower all side windows (such as to ventilate the vehicle on hot days or to prevent odors from coming in).

[0099] For example Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the window switch module 32 may include a separate tailgate window switch 44 (such as a button) configured to activate the operation of the tailgate window 20-5. When actuated individually (e.g., pressed), the tailgate window switch 44 can lower or raise the tailgate window 20-5. When actuated together with the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 in their respective third positions 40-3, 42-3, the tailgate window switch 44 allows the primary switch 34 to simultaneously operate the tailgate window 20-5 along with each of the left front window, right front window, left rear window, and right rear window (20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4). In such an embodiment, vehicle ventilation can be further enhanced.

[0100] exist Figure 4 In an alternative embodiment of the window switch module 32 shown, the secondary switch group 36 may include individual buttons for selecting the positions of corresponding windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4 that can be operated by the primary switch 34. As shown, the first button 46-1 is configured to select operation of the left front window 20-1 via the primary switch 34. The second button 46-2 is configured to select operation of the right front window 20-2 via the primary switch 34. The third button 46-3 is configured to select operation of the left rear window 20-3 via the primary switch 34. The fourth button 46-4 is configured to select operation of the right rear window 20-4 via the primary switch 34. Similar to the overlapping selection of the third positions 40-3 and 42-3 of the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2, the simultaneous selection of each button 46-1, 46-2, 46-3, 46-4 allows single-switch control of multiple vehicle side windows (via the primary switch 34).

[0101] This allows the button 44, which enables operation of the tailgate window 20-5 via the primary switch 34, to also be integrated with... Figure 4 In an embodiment of the window switch module 32 shown, in addition to the first three-way switch 38-1 and the second three-way switch 38-2 or buttons 46-1, 46-2, 46-3, 46-4, and 44, the secondary switch group 36 may include additional switches or buttons (not shown) for attaching movable windows, if the vehicle 10 includes those attached movable windows. Each switch in the primary switch 34, the secondary switch group 36, and the tailgate window switch 44 may include a visual indicator, such as a light-emitting diode (LED), configured to mark the actuation surface and / or operating position of the corresponding switch.

[0102] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 4 The window switch module 32 may include a side mirror control device. For example, such a control device may include a mirror position selector 48 configured to select one of the left side mirror 22-1 and the right side mirror 22-2 for individual control of its orientation relative to the vehicle body 12. Additionally, a switch 50 may be arranged on the window switch module 32 for folding the left side mirror 22-1 and the right side mirror 22-2, for example, for use in tight parking spaces. The window switch module 32 may further include a function selector 52 configured to allow selection between operation of the vehicle windows via a primary switch 34 and mirror position via adjuster 48 or switch 50. The function selector 52 may be a rotary actuator with a visual indicator 52A, such as a display or pointer for the selected mode.

[0103] Alternatively, the function selector 52 can be a composite motion actuator with both rotation and joystick movement. For example, the function selector 52 can be further configured to control the orientation of each side mirror 22-1, 22-2 relative to the vehicle body 12 via joystick movement once a particular rearview mirror has been selected. The window switch module 32 may additionally include a window operation locking switch 54 to prevent unauthorized raising / lowering of windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, 20-5. The window switch module 32 may also include a door lock switch 56 configured to centrally lock and unlock vehicle doors 18-1, 18-2, 18-3, 18-4, 18-5. Either switch 54 or 56 can be configured as a button.

[0104] Figure 2 and Figure 4The window switch module 32 shown may also include a three-stage switch or button 58 operatively connected to the primary switch 34. The three-stage switch 58 is configured to select a predefined position 60, such as movable windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, 20-5 (representative window 20-1 is in...). Figure 5 A narrow window opening 60 for at least one of the windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, 20-5 (shown in the diagram) creates an interior ventilation mode via actuation of a primary switch 34 and at least one secondary switch in group 36. Narrow window openings 60 for one or more windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, 20-5 may be useful when the vehicle 10 needs to be locked and unattended. A three-stage switch 58 may be configured as a joystick that defines movement in plane P to facilitate operation by an individual with limited or impaired hand use. Alternatively, predefined positions 60 of windows 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, 20-4, 20-5 may be affected by actuation of the primary switch 34 in a specific position 62 of the function selector 52.

[0105] In summary, the window switch module 32 allows the primary user of the vehicle (i.e., the driver) to control the operation of each movable window in the vehicle 10 using a single primary switch. The primary switch works in conjunction with a set of secondary switches, allowing selection of specific windows operated via the primary switch. The window switch module 32 enables the primary switch to influence predefined movements of individual windows, such as providing ventilation to the vehicle. The window switch module 32 may include additional switches and buttons to control features such as side mirrors and door locks. Furthermore, these switches and buttons may be grouped together with the primary and secondary switches within a single plane of the window switch module 32 for easy access and convenient mode selection by the vehicle user.

[0106] The detailed description and accompanying drawings are supporting and descriptive of this disclosure, but the scope of this disclosure is defined only by the claims. While the best mode and some other embodiments for implementing the claimed disclosure have been described in detail, various alternative designs and embodiments exist for practicing the disclosure as defined in the appended claims. Furthermore, the features of the embodiments shown in the drawings or the various embodiments mentioned in this specification are not necessarily to be construed as independent embodiments. Rather, it is possible that each feature described in one example of an embodiment may be combined with one or more other desired features from other embodiments to produce other embodiments not described in words or by reference to the drawings. Therefore, such other embodiments fall within the framework of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A window switch module for operating a plurality of movable windows in a vehicle, the window switch module comprising: A primary switch, configured to selectively open and close each of the plurality of movable windows; and A plurality of secondary switches are operatively connected to the primary switch, wherein each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch.

2. The window switch module according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of movable windows include a left front window, a left rear window, a right front window, and a right rear window.

3. The window switch module according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of secondary switches include: The first and third circuit switches are limited to the following: The first position is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch; The second position is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and The third position is configured to deselect each of the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a first mode and to simultaneously select the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a second mode; and The second and third circuit switches are limited to the following: The first position is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch; The second position is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch; and The third position is configured to deselect each of the right front window and the right rear window via the primary switch in the first mode and to select both the right front window and the right rear window simultaneously via the primary switch in the second mode.

4. The window switch module according to claim 3, wherein, When each of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is in its corresponding third position, the second operating mode of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is defined.

5. The window switch module according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of secondary switches include: The first button is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch; The second button is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch; The third button is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and The fourth button is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch.

6. The window switch module of claim 1 further includes a three-stage switch operatively connected to the primary switch and configured to select a predefined position of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of at least one of the secondary switches and the primary switch.

7. The window switch module of claim 1 further includes a rearview mirror position adjuster configured to operate one or more vehicle side rearview mirrors.

8. The window switch module of claim 7 further includes a function selector configured to select between operation of the primary switch and operation of the rearview mirror position adjuster.

9. A vehicle defining an interior and comprising: Multiple movable windows, including a left front window, a left rear window, a right front window, and a right rear window; A window switch module, disposed within the vehicle interior, includes: A primary switch, configured to selectively open and close each of the plurality of movable windows; and A plurality of secondary switches are operatively connected to the primary switch, wherein each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch.

10. A main window switch module for operating a plurality of movable windows in a vehicle, the plurality of movable windows including a left front window, a left rear window, a right front window, and a right rear window, the window switch module comprising: A primary switch, configured to selectively open and close each of the plurality of movable windows; and A plurality of secondary switches are operatively connected to the primary switch, wherein each secondary switch is configured to select operation of at least one of the movable windows via actuation of the primary switch, wherein the plurality of secondary switches include: The first and third circuit switches are limited to the following: The first position is configured to select the operation of the left front window via the primary switch; The second position is configured to select the operation of the left rear window via the primary switch; and The third position is configured to deselect each of the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a first mode and to simultaneously select the left front window and the left rear window via the primary switch in a second mode; and The second and third circuit switches are limited to the following: The first position is configured to select the operation of the right front window via the primary switch; The second position is configured to select the operation of the right rear window via the primary switch; and The third position is configured to deselect each of the right front window and the right rear window via the primary switch in the first mode and to select both the right front window and the right rear window simultaneously via the primary switch in the second mode. Specifically, when each of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is in its corresponding third position, the second operating mode of the first three-way switch and the second three-way switch is defined.

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