Touch switches and vehicles

By integrating the touch switch inside the vehicle's rear lights and leaving an appropriate gap between the sensor diaphragm and the lens, the problems of traditional tailgate switches requiring special operation and affecting aesthetics are solved, achieving a convenient, stable, and aesthetically pleasing tailgate switch design.

CN224459772UActive Publication Date: 2026-07-03CHONGQING CHANGAN AUTOMOBILE CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
CHONGQING CHANGAN AUTOMOBILE CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-07-11
Publication Date
2026-07-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional back door switch designs require special operating gestures or affect aesthetics, making it difficult to ensure convenience and stability while maintaining a clean appearance.

Method used

The touch switch is integrated inside the lights at the rear of the vehicle. An appropriate gap is left between the sensor diaphragm and the lens. The touch action is detected by the sensor diaphragm to open or close the tailgate. The sensor diaphragm is connected to the printed circuit board and transmits signals to the body controller.

Benefits of technology

It improves ease of use and aesthetics, reduces wear and heat buildup, enhances the stability and durability of the switch, and avoids failures caused by vibration and thermal expansion.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This application provides a touch switch and a vehicle, including: a lens, a sensing diaphragm, a lamp body, a printed circuit board, and a vehicle identification mounting bracket; the sensing diaphragm is mounted on the vehicle identification mounting bracket and connected to the printed circuit board; the vehicle identification mounting bracket is disposed inside the lens and mounted on the lamp body; a gap is left between the sensing diaphragm and the lens, and the ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap is greater than a preset value. The sensing diaphragm is used to cause a change in capacitance when an object approaches. Integrating the tailgate switch inside the lamp at the rear of the vehicle does not affect the overall appearance of the tailgate, improves aesthetics, and facilitates user touch. The appropriate gap between the sensing diaphragm and the lens reduces the physical pressure on the diaphragm caused by vibration, thermal expansion, or other external forces during operation, improving the stability and durability of the switch.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle switches, specifically to a touch switch and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of intelligent vehicle technology, the functions of in-vehicle electronic systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated. As a crucial control component in daily use, the tailgate switch's intelligence and convenience are particularly critical. Traditional tailgate switches typically require mechanical buttons, sensors, or physical contact to open. However, with technological advancements, integrating touch-sensing functionality has become a trend, not only improving convenience but also optimizing the vehicle's exterior design.

[0003] Currently, in some designs, the tailgate switch is placed near the car logo, such as hidden below it. In practice, users may need to use special gestures to activate the switch, increasing the difficulty of use. In other designs, the switch is mounted on the tailgate sheet metal, but switches mounted on sheet metal often require mechanical buttons or sensor switches, which affects the overall aesthetics and streamlined appearance.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a back door switch that can maintain a clean appearance while ensuring normal function and ease of use. Utility Model Content

[0005] One objective of this application is to provide a touch switch to increase the convenience of opening and closing the tailgate; another objective is to provide a vehicle.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows:

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides a touch switch, including: a lens, a sensing diaphragm, a lamp body, a printed circuit board, and a vehicle identification mounting bracket;

[0008] The sensing diaphragm is mounted on the vehicle identification mounting bracket, and the sensing diaphragm is connected to the printed circuit board;

[0009] The vehicle identification mounting bracket is disposed inside the lens and is mounted on the lamp body;

[0010] A gap is left between the sensing diaphragm and the lens, and the ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap is greater than a preset value. The sensing diaphragm is used to cause a change in capacitance when an object approaches.

[0011] Furthermore, the area is measured in square millimeters, the gap is measured in millimeters, and the preset value is 150.

[0012] Furthermore, the ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap is less than 750.

[0013] Furthermore, the switch also includes a decorative cover plate that is snapped onto the vehicle identification mounting bracket and is used to cover the sensing diaphragm.

[0014] Furthermore, the switch also includes a decorative ring, which is mounted on both sides of the decorative cover by snap-fit ​​and / or screws.

[0015] Furthermore, the vehicle identification mounting bracket is snapped onto the printed circuit board.

[0016] Furthermore, the decorative cover is fixed to the vehicle identification mounting bracket by mounting screws.

[0017] Furthermore, the lens is connected to the lamp body, which integrates the vehicle identification mounting bracket, by welding.

[0018] Furthermore, the printed circuit board is connected to the body controller, and the printed circuit board is used to transmit the sensing signals of the sensing diaphragm.

[0019] Secondly, this application provides a vehicle, including a vehicle body and a touch switch as described in any one of the first aspects.

[0020] The beneficial effects of this application are:

[0021] (1) The tailgate switch is integrated into the light fixture at the rear of the vehicle, which is convenient for users to touch and does not require special gestures, thus improving the ease of use. In addition, it will not affect the overall appearance of the tailgate and improve the aesthetics.

[0022] (2) Maintaining an appropriate gap between the sensing diaphragm and the lens can reduce the physical pressure on the diaphragm caused by vibration, thermal expansion, or other external forces during operation, thereby improving the stability and durability of the switch. If the sensing diaphragm is in direct contact with the lens, wear and scratches may occur over time, affecting the sensing function and product lifespan. If the sensing diaphragm and lens are directly bonded, heat may also accumulate. An appropriate gap can effectively improve heat exchange and heat dissipation performance, preventing the diaphragm from experiencing performance degradation or damage due to overheating. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the touch switch provided in this application;

[0025] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the combined rear light assembly provided in this application;

[0026] Figure 3 A front view of the combined rear light assembly provided in this application;

[0027] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the vehicle identification mounting bracket provided in this application;

[0028] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the decorative cover plate provided in this application;

[0029] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the sensing diaphragm provided in this application;

[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the printed circuit board provided in this application;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the lamp body provided in this application;

[0032] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the lens provided in this application.

[0033] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0034] 1-Lamp assembly; 2-Touch area; 3-Decorative cover; 4-Sensing diaphragm; 5-Vehicle identification mounting bracket; 6-Printed circuit board; 7-Lamp body; 8-Glass lens; 9-Decorative ring.

[0035] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this application from the content disclosed in this specification. This application can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this specification can also be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of this application. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments are only for illustrating this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0037] It should be noted that the illustrations provided in the following embodiments are only schematic representations of the basic concept of this application. Therefore, the drawings only show the components related to this application and are not drawn according to the actual number, shape and size of the components in the actual implementation. In the actual implementation, the form, quantity and proportion of each component can be arbitrarily changed, and the layout of the components may also be more complex.

[0038] In vehicle design, placing the tailgate switch (i.e., the trunk switch) on the tailgate sheet metal or tailgate trim will affect the overall appearance of the tailgate.

[0039] Based on this, this application proposes a touch switch that integrates the tailgate switch inside the rear light fixture of the vehicle. The light fixture has a vehicle logo inside, and a sensing diaphragm is set inside the logo. The sensing diaphragm detects the action of touching the light fixture's lens, thereby opening or closing the trunk. There is a certain gap between the sensing diaphragm and the lens to prevent switch failure caused by friction, thermal expansion and contraction, or minor impacts.

[0040] The technical solution of this application and how the technical solution of this application solves the above-mentioned technical problems are described in detail below with specific embodiments. These specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments. The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the touch switch provided in this application is shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the touch switch includes a lens, a sensor diaphragm, a lamp body, a printed circuit board, and a vehicle identification mounting bracket.

[0042] The sensor diaphragm is mounted on the vehicle logo mounting bracket and connected to the printed circuit board. This vehicle logo mounting bracket is also known as a logo mounting bracket.

[0043] The sensing diaphragm is the main sensing element of the capacitively coupled sensing module. It consists of a conductive material and a flexible substrate and is used to sense changes in capacitance of external objects (such as the human body). The conductive material can be selected from silver nanowires, carbon nanotubes, conductive polymers, or indium tin oxide. The flexible substrate can be selected from polyethylene terephthalate, polyimide, or polyvinyl chloride. When touched or approached, the sensing diaphragm causes a change in capacitance. The sensing diaphragm transmits the signal of this capacitance change to the printed circuit board (PCB).

[0044] The vehicle identification mounting bracket is located inside the lens and is mounted on the lamp body.

[0045] The vehicle identification mounting bracket is located inside the light distribution lens of the light assembly; therefore, the sensing diaphragm is also located inside the light distribution lens.

[0046] There is a gap between the sensing diaphragm and the lens, and the ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap is greater than a preset value.

[0047] This preset value is an actual value obtained through experiments. Under the same sensing diaphragm area, the sensitivity of the sensing diaphragm is tested at different gaps. The preset value is determined based on the maximum gap value that can meet the detection sensitivity. If the gap continues to increase, the ratio will be less than the preset value, resulting in a decrease in detection sensitivity.

[0048] Maintaining an appropriate gap between the sensing diaphragm and the lens avoids direct contact, reducing interference or friction caused by physical contact. This preserves the sensitivity of the sensing diaphragm and ensures the stability of the capacitive sensing signal. If the sensing diaphragm and the lens are too close, the electric field may be excessively shielded or interfered with, leading to a decrease in sensing sensitivity. The gap design allows the electric field to vary more freely, thereby improving the sensing effect.

[0049] The reserved gap also reduces the physical pressure on the diaphragm caused by vibration, thermal expansion, or other external forces during operation, improving the stability and durability of the switch. If the sensing diaphragm is in direct contact with the lens, wear and scratches may occur over time, affecting the sensing function and product lifespan. The gap design avoids this problem.

[0050] If the sensing diaphragm and the lens are directly attached, heat may accumulate. An appropriate gap can effectively improve heat exchange and heat dissipation performance, preventing the diaphragm from degrading or being damaged due to overheating.

[0051] In the design of the scheme, after actual testing, under the calculation conditions of area in square millimeters and gap in millimeters, the preset value is 150. The ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap is greater than 150.

[0052] The preset value can also be other values ​​based on 150, such as 200, 250, and 300, which can all meet actual needs.

[0053] To maintain a certain gap, the ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap must be less than 750.

[0054] The following examples illustrate touch switches.

[0055] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the combined rear light assembly provided in this application, as shown below. Figure 2 The structure shown is composed in the following manner.

[0056] The sensing diaphragm 4 is placed on the vehicle identification mounting bracket 5 to form the first sub-assembly.

[0057] The decorative cover plate 3 for the vehicle logo is snapped onto the first sub-assembly. After snapping, the back is fixed with mounting screws to form the second sub-assembly.

[0058] The second sub-assembly is snapped onto the printed circuit board 6 to form the third sub-assembly.

[0059] The third sub-assembly is installed on the lamp body 7 using sealing screws to form the fourth sub-assembly.

[0060] The decorative ring 9 is installed on the fourth sub-assembly via snap-fit ​​and / or sealing screws to form the fifth sub-assembly. Specifically, the decorative ring is installed on both sides of the decorative cover plate via snap-fit ​​and / or screws. The decorative ring is primarily used for aesthetic design, enhancing the appearance of the luminaire, while also providing an external layer of protection to prevent dust or moisture from entering the interior. The sealing screws are mainly used to ensure the seal between components, preventing moisture and dust from entering the interior of the luminaire. This helps to improve the protection level of the luminaire.

[0061] The light distribution lens 8 and the fifth sub-assembly are welded together by hot plate welding to form the lamp assembly 1.

[0062] To ensure a high success rate of triggering, the contact area S (square millimeters) of the sensing diaphragm and the gap L (millimeters) between the sensing diaphragm and the lens must meet the following requirements: S / L ≥ 150.

[0063] Figure 3 A front view of the combined rear light assembly provided in this application, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the decorative cover 3 of the logo in the rear light assembly 1 corresponds to the touch area 2 on the outer side of the lens. The sensing diaphragm 4 detects the approach or touch of an external object (such as a finger) to the touch area 2, and triggers the relevant operation (e.g., light switch or adjustment) by sensing the change in capacitance.

[0064] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the vehicle identification mounting bracket provided in this application. The vehicle identification mounting bracket 5 supports and fixes the sensing diaphragm 4, providing a stable structural platform for installing other components and ensuring the position and angle of the sensing diaphragm 4.

[0065] Vehicle identification mounting brackets are typically made of plastic or metal (such as steel or aluminum alloy). Metal brackets offer greater rigidity and durability, making them suitable for applications requiring high torque or long-term use, while plastic brackets are lightweight and less expensive.

[0066] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the decorative cover plate provided in this application. The decorative cover plate 3 of the logo serves as a decorative component, enhancing the appearance of the lamp. At the same time, it is snapped onto the vehicle logo mounting bracket, providing a certain degree of protection and preventing damage to the sensing diaphragm.

[0067] While protecting the sensing diaphragm, the decorative cover must ensure it does not interfere with its detection. The sensing diaphragm typically triggers operation by detecting changes in capacitance. If the cover material has excessively high conductivity or is too thick, the sensing diaphragm may fail to accurately detect the contact or proximity of objects such as fingers, thus affecting its functionality.

[0068] To ensure the performance of the sensing diaphragm is not affected, the decorative cover is made of an electrically insulating material to prevent any conductivity from interfering with capacitive sensing. For example, acrylic or polycarbonate materials are used. The thickness of the decorative cover is between 0.5mm and 2mm. When the cover thickness exceeds 2mm, the capacitive signal is more obstructed, especially when the cover material is opaque.

[0069] A gap may be left between the decorative cover and the sensor diaphragm.

[0070] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the sensing diaphragm provided in this application. The sensing diaphragm 4 is snapped onto the vehicle identification mounting bracket 5, as shown. Figure 6 As shown, the sensing diaphragm has mounting holes that correspond to the mounting holes on the vehicle identification mounting bracket. Mounting screws are used to secure the sensing diaphragm, ensuring the structure remains secure during use.

[0071] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the printed circuit board provided in this application. A printed circuit board is a circuit board used to connect sensors, power supplies, and other control components to perform signal processing and control tasks. It transmits the signals from the sensing diaphragm to the lighting fixture's control system, enabling functions such as turning the lighting fixture on and off.

[0072] Figure 8 The diagram provided in this application shows a lamp body, which includes optical components such as a light bulb or a light-emitting diode to ensure that the lamp can work properly.

[0073] The lamp body is typically made of aluminum alloy or plastic. Aluminum alloy is chosen for its good thermal conductivity and structural strength, while plastic is suitable for lightweight products. The internal partitions of the lamp body are usually made of high-temperature heat-resistant materials to ensure thermal management during operation. The lamp body is fixed to other components (such as printed circuit boards and sensor diaphragms) with screws to ensure the stability and safety of each component.

[0074] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the light distribution lens provided in this application. The light distribution lens is an optical element of a luminaire, whose main function is to adjust the direction, angle, and distribution of the light beam. It can control the illumination range and effect of the light and optimize the light quality. The light distribution lens is also a component that the user touches from the outside.

[0075] Lens lenses are typically made of optical glass or transparent plastic, offering high transparency, abrasion resistance, and UV protection to ensure uniform light distribution and brightness. They can be welded to the lamp body using a hot plate for enhanced sealing and optical performance. In some other designs, they can also be attached to the lamp body via snap-fit ​​or screw fastening.

[0076] The lens can also be magnetically mounted, allowing for easy replacement or adjustment of its angle, thereby changing the direction and angle of the beam.

[0077] The thickness of the lens needs to be less than 5 mm to reduce the attenuation of the capacitance signal of the sensing diaphragm.

[0078] When the human body feels touch Figure 3 When the device touches the area, it detects a change in capacitance and outputs a signal to the body controller. After recognizing this signal, the body controller determines whether to open or close the tailgate.

[0079] The body control unit opens or closes the tailgate based on the received signals and the tailgate's status. That is, if the tailgate is open and a human touch signal is received from the lights, the tailgate will close; otherwise, it will open.

[0080] This application also provides a vehicle, which includes a vehicle body and any of the touch switches in the above embodiments. The touch switch is disposed in the rear through light of the vehicle. When the user touches the logo position of the rear through light, the trunk can be opened or closed.

[0081] Finally, it should be noted that other embodiments of this application will readily conceive of by those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the application disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein, and is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and alterations may be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A touch switch, characterized in that include: Lens, sensor diaphragm, lamp body, printed circuit board, vehicle marking mounting bracket; The sensing diaphragm is mounted on the vehicle identification mounting bracket, and the sensing diaphragm is connected to the printed circuit board; The vehicle identification mounting bracket is disposed inside the lens and is mounted on the lamp body; A gap is left between the sensing diaphragm and the lens, and the ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap is greater than a preset value. The sensing diaphragm is used to generate a capacitance change when an object approaches.

2. The switch of claim 1, wherein The area is in square millimeters, the gap is in millimeters, and the preset value is 150.

3. The switch of claim 2, wherein The ratio of the area of ​​the sensing diaphragm to the gap is less than 750.

4. The switch according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The switch also includes a decorative cover plate that snaps onto the vehicle identification mounting bracket.

5. The switch of claim 4, wherein The switch also includes decorative rings, which are mounted on both sides of the decorative cover by snap-fit ​​and / or screws.

6. The switch of claim 4, wherein The decorative cover is fixed to the vehicle identification mounting bracket by mounting screws.

7. The switch according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The vehicle identification mounting bracket is snapped onto the printed circuit board.

8. The switch according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The lens is connected to the lamp body, which integrates the vehicle identification mounting bracket, by welding.

9. The switch according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The printed circuit board is connected to the body controller and is used to transmit the sensing signals of the sensing diaphragm.

10. A vehicle characterized by comprising: Includes the vehicle body and the touch switch as described in any one of claims 1-9.