Control systems, control devices, and computer programs

Abstract

Based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance, the system detects the approach or contact of an object with a target component to control the operation of the controlled device. [Solution] The detection unit 133 detects that when an object approaches or comes into contact with the target member, at least one of the characteristic impedance and resonant frequency of the electromagnetic wave propagation line changes. The control device 11 controls the operation of the controlled device 12 based on the detection signal DT corresponding to the change.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control system that controls the operation of a controlled device based on the approach or contact of an object. The present disclosure also relates to a control device included in the control system and a computer program executable by a processor mounted on the control device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a device that detects a change in capacitance accompanying the approach or contact of a user's body part with a target member and controls the opening and closing of a vehicle door, which is an example of a controlled device. [[ID=一三]]

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It is required to detect the approach or contact of an object to a target member for controlling the operation of a controlled device based on a change in a physical quantity other than capacitance.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One exemplary aspect that can be provided by the present disclosure is a control system, an electromagnetic wave source that generates electromagnetic waves, a detection unit in which at least one of the characteristic impedance and the resonance frequency of the propagation line of the electromagnetic wave changes with the approach or contact of an object to a target member, a control device that controls the operation of a controlled device based on an input of a signal corresponding to the change,

[0006] One example of an embodiment that may be provided by this disclosure is a control device, An interface that receives a signal corresponding to a change in at least one of the characteristic impedance and resonant frequency that occurs in the electromagnetic wave propagation line when an object approaches or comes into contact with the target component, A processor that controls the operation of a controlled device based on the aforementioned signal, It is equipped with.

[0007] One example of an embodiment that may be provided by this disclosure is a computer program that can be executed by a processor mounted on a control device, By being executed, the control device will It receives a signal corresponding to the change in characteristic impedance that occurs in the electromagnetic wave propagation line when an object approaches or comes into contact with the target component. The operation of the controlled device is controlled based on the aforementioned signal.

[0008] The inventors of this application conceived the idea that equivalent functionality could be achieved without using a touch sensor that detects changes in capacitance, by utilizing the change in at least one of the characteristic impedance and resonant frequency of the electromagnetic wave propagation line that occurs when an object approaches or comes into contact with a target member. In other words, the approach or contact of an object to a target member for controlling the operation of the controlled device can be detected based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This illustrates the functional configuration of the control system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 illustrates a vehicle equipped with the control system shown in the diagram. [Figure 3] Figure 2 illustrates the knob used to open and close the vehicle door. [Figure 4] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the detection unit. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the operation of the detection unit shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates the operation of the detection unit shown in Figure 4. [Figure 7] A diagram for explaining the operation of the detection unit in FIG. 4. [Figure 8] A diagram for explaining a method for detecting an object according to another example. [Figure 9] A diagram for explaining a method for detecting an object according to another example. [Figure 10] Another example of the configuration of the detection unit in FIG. 4 is shown. [Figure 11] Another example of the configuration of the detection unit in FIG. 4 is shown. [Figure 12] Another example of the configuration of the detection unit in FIG. 4 is shown. [Figure 13] Another example of the configuration of the detection unit in FIG. 4 is shown. [Figure 14] Another example of the configuration of the detection unit in FIG. 4 is shown. [Figure 15] The functional configuration of the control system according to the second embodiment example is illustrated. [Figure 16] An example of the configuration of the detection unit in FIG. 15 is shown. [Figure 17] Another example of the configuration of the detection unit in FIG. 15 is shown. [Figure 18] A diagram for explaining the operation of the detection unit in FIG. 17.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] While referring to the accompanying drawings, examples of embodiments will be described in detail below. In each figure, the scale is appropriately changed in order to make each illustrated element recognizable in size.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates the functional configuration of a control system 10 according to a first embodiment example. The control system 10 includes a control device 11 and a controlled device 12. The control device 11 and the controlled device 12 are mounted on a vehicle 20 illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0012] The control device 11 is configured to control the operation of the controlled device 12. For example, the controlled device 12 may be a device that locks and unlocks a door 21 that opens and closes a living compartment of a vehicle 20. Alternatively, the controlled device 12 may be a device that opens and closes the door 21. The vehicle 20 is an example of a moving object. The door 21 is an example of an opening and closing object.

[0013] As illustrated in Figure 1, the control system 10 includes a user interface device (hereinafter abbreviated as "UI device") 13. The UI device 13 is configured to obtain authentication information AU via short-range wireless communication from a mobile device 30 that can be carried by the user of the vehicle 20. The mobile device 30 may be a general-purpose portable information terminal such as a smartphone, or a dedicated device such as a smart key.

[0014] As used herein, the term "short-range wireless communication" refers to contactless communication using radio waves in accordance with the IEEE 802.15 or IEEE 802.11 standards. Radio waves are an example of electromagnetic waves. In this example, the radio waves include frequencies used for ultra-wideband (UWB) wireless communication. Examples of such frequencies include 4 GHz and 8 GHz. Examples of other technologies that can perform short-range wireless communication include Bluetooth®, Bluetooth Low Energy®, ZigBee®, and Wi-Fi®.

[0015] The UI device 13 is equipped with an antenna 131. On the other hand, the mobile device 30 is equipped with an antenna 31 and a processor 32. The antenna 31 has a well-known configuration that enables short-range wireless communication with the antenna 131. When short-range wireless communication is initiated, the processor 32 is configured to read authentication information AU from storage (not shown) and transmit it from the antenna 31. The authentication information AU is received by the antenna 131 of the UI device 13.

[0016] The UI device 13 includes a communication circuit 132. The communication circuit 132 includes a radio wave source that generates the aforementioned radio waves. The radio wave source is an example of an electromagnetic wave source. The communication circuit 132 is configured to transmit the radio waves generated by the radio wave source from the antenna 131. On the other hand, the communication circuit 132 is configured to transfer the authentication information AU received by the antenna 131 to the control device 11.

[0017] The control device 11 includes an input interface 111. The input interface 111 is configured as a hardware interface capable of receiving authentication information AU transmitted from the UI device 13. When the authentication information AU is provided in the form of analog data, the input interface 111 includes appropriate conversion elements, including an A / D converter. This description is also applicable to other signals and data that the input interface 111 can accept, as described later.

[0018] The control device 11 includes a processor 112. The processor 112 is configured to compare the authentication information AU received by the input interface 111 with authentication information stored in a storage device (not shown). The processor 112 is configured to determine that the authentication process is successful when a match between the two pieces of information is confirmed.

[0019] The control device 11 is equipped with an output interface 113. The processor 112 is configured to output a transmit control signal TC from the output interface 113, which causes the communication circuit 132 of the UI device 13 to generate radio waves. The transmit control signal TC may be an analog signal or a digital signal, depending on the specifications of the communication circuit 132.

[0020] The output interface 113 is configured as a hardware interface capable of outputting a transmit control signal TC. If the transmit control signal TC is an analog signal, the output interface 113 includes appropriate conversion elements, including a D / A converter. This description is also applicable to other signals and data that the output interface 113 can output, as described later.

[0021] The UI device 13 may be integrated into the knob 22 illustrated in Figure 3. The knob 22 is grasped by the user's hand 40 to open and close the door 21 of the vehicle 20. The knob 22 is an example of the object. The hand 40 is an example of an object.

[0022] As illustrated in Figure 1, the UI device 13 includes a detection unit 133. The detection unit 133 forms a transmission line capable of transmitting radio waves generated by the radio wave source of the communication circuit 132. The detection unit 133 is configured such that the characteristic impedance of the transmission line changes as the user's hand 40 approaches or touches the knob 22.

[0023] As illustrated in Figure 4, the detection unit 133 has a conductive line including an electrode 133a. The electrode 133a extends along a position on the knob 22 that the user's hand 40 may approach or touch. The electrode 133a may be formed of a linear conductor. It may be formed of at least one insulated wire, or it may be formed of a microstrip line, coplanar line, stub, etc., formed on a circuit board.

[0024] The starting end 133b of the conductive line is connected to the communication circuit 132, and radio waves generated by a radio wave source are input to it. A terminating resistor element having an appropriate resistance value (e.g., 50Ω) is connected to the end 133c of the conductive line. In the initial state, the radio waves input to the conductive line are absorbed by the terminating resistor element. The user's finger 41 is an example of an object.

[0025] When the user's finger 41 approaches or touches the position of the knob 22 corresponding to the first position P1 of electrode 133a, the characteristic impedance of the conductive line changes at the first position P1. As a result, the radio waves input to the starting end 133b are reflected at the first position P1 and return to the starting end 133b.

[0026] When the user moves their finger 41 along the knob 22 to a position corresponding to the second position P2 of electrode 133a, the position where the characteristic impedance of the conductive line changes also moves to the second position P2. The position where reflection of the radio wave input to the starting end 133b occurs also moves to the second position P2.

[0027] As illustrated in Figure 5, the communication circuit 132 is configured to output a detection signal DT having an intensity corresponding to the amount of radio waves reflected from the detection unit 133. The detection signal DT may be an analog signal or a digital signal, depending on the specifications of the communication circuit 132.

[0028] The further away from the starting end 133b of the conductive line, the longer the time it takes for the radio wave to be incident on the starting end 133b and for the reflected wave to return to the starting end 133b. Therefore, by measuring the time from when the communication circuit 132 generates a radio wave based on the transmission control signal TC until a significant change occurs in the intensity of the detection signal DT, the position where the finger 41 approached or touched the knob 22 can be identified.

[0029] In the example shown in Figure 5, when the user's finger 41 approaches or touches the position of the knob 22 corresponding to the first position P1 of electrode 133a, the amount of reflected radio waves is maximized after time T1 has elapsed. Similarly, when the user's finger 41 approaches or touches the position of the knob 22 corresponding to the second position P2 of electrode 133a, which is further away from the starting end 133b of the transmission line, the amount of reflected radio waves is maximized after a longer time T2 has elapsed.

[0030] As illustrated in Figure 1, the detection signal DT is received by the input interface 111 of the control device 11. The processor 112 determines the position where the finger 41 approached or touched the knob 22 by obtaining the above time based on the transmission control signal TC and the detection signal DT.

[0031] By repeatedly acquiring the above time at predetermined intervals, it is also possible to detect the movement (direction, speed, etc.) of the finger 41 relative to the knob 22.

[0032] In other words, the mobile device 30 functions as a radar sensor by propagating radio waves used for authentication through a conductive line including electrode 133a. To obtain the relationship between the operation illustrated in Figure 4 and the waveform illustrated in Figure 5, it is preferable that the radio waves propagated through the conductive line are impulses.

[0033] The processor 112 is configured to output an operation control signal OC from the output interface 113 that causes the controlled device 12 to perform a predetermined operation based on the detected position and movement of the finger 41. The operation control signal OC may be an analog signal or a digital signal, depending on the specifications of the controlled device 12.

[0034] For example, the operation control signal OC may be configured to cause the locking / unlocking device to unlock the door 21 when it detects the movement of a finger 41 tracing the knob 22 to the right. Similarly, the operation control signal OC may be configured to cause the locking / unlocking device to lock the door 21 when it detects the movement of a finger 41 tracing the knob 22 to the left.

[0035] Figure 6 illustrates the positional relationship between the electrode 133a and the user's hand 40 when the knob 22 is grasped by the user's hand 40. In this case, the amount of reflected radio waves is large at the position corresponding to the finger closest to the start end 133b of the transmission line and at the position corresponding to the finger closest to the end end 133c of the transmission line. Therefore, as illustrated in Figure 7, in this case the intensity of the detection signal DT output from the communication circuit 132 has two maximum values.

[0036] Therefore, the processor 112 of the control device 11 can determine whether it is the user's hand 40 or finger 41 approaching or touching the knob 22 based on whether the intensity of the detection signal DT has two maximum values.

[0037] When the processor 112 detects that the knob 22 is being grasped by the hand 40, it may output an operation control signal OC from the output interface 113 that causes the controlled device 12 to perform a different action than that performed by the finger 41. For example, in this case, the operation control signal OC may be configured to cause the opening / closing device to open or close the door 21.

[0038] The inventors of this application conceived the idea that equivalent functionality could be achieved without using a touch sensor that detects changes in capacitance, by utilizing the change in the characteristic impedance of the conductive line caused by the user's hand 40 or finger 41 approaching or contacting the knob 22. In other words, the approach or contact of the user's hand 40 or finger 41 to the knob 22 for controlling the operation of the controlled device 12 can be detected based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance.

[0039] In particular, according to the configuration of this embodiment, since a radio wave propagation line is used as the conductive line, the radio waves used for the radar sensor for distance measurement can be used to realize the function of a touch sensor. With such a configuration, the efficiency of space utilization can be improved compared to a configuration in which the radar sensor and touch sensor are provided independently. This effect is especially pronounced when the UI device 13 is built into a limited space such as a knob 22.

[0040] In particular, in this embodiment, the radio waves used in UWB wireless communication used for authentication of the mobile device 30 are utilized to realize the function of a touch sensor. Since the equipment used for UWB wireless communication can also be used as a radar sensor, the above combined effect can be further enhanced.

[0041] However, a dedicated radio wave source may be provided to generate the radio waves that are input to the conductive line including electrode 133a.

[0042] Depending on the length of the conductive line, the resolution of distance detection at electrode 133a may not be uniform. In Figures 4 and 6, the symbol X indicates a region where relatively high resolution can be ensured. When the length of the conductive line up to region X matches the wavelength λ of the radio wave, and the resolution is maximized in region X, the phase of the reflected wave in region X is 0°, and the phase of the reflected wave at a position slightly outside of region X takes a value other than 0°.

[0043] In such cases, the processor 112 of the control device 11 may be configured to monitor the time-dependent change in the phase of the detection signal DT. Figure 8 illustrates the time-dependent change in phase when the user's finger 41 moves to trace the knob 22, as illustrated in Figure 4. As the relative position between the finger and region X changes, the phase also changes. Figure 9 illustrates the time-dependent change in phase when the knob 22 is grasped by the user's hand 40, as illustrated in Figure 6. In this case, although the phase value differs depending on the size and position of the hand 40, the phase value remains approximately constant while the knob 22 is grasped.

[0044] In other words, a tracing operation by finger 41 and a grasping operation by hand 40 can be distinguished based on whether or not the phase change of the detection signal DT over time includes a period in which it takes a constant value. With such a configuration, even when a sufficiently long conductive line cannot be secured due to spatial constraints, a decrease in the detection accuracy of user operations can be suppressed.

[0045] Figure 10 shows another example of the configuration of a UI device 13 that can be used to realize the function of a touch sensor using radio waves used in UWB wireless communication. The UI device 13 in this example is equipped with a transmitting antenna 131a and a receiving antenna 131b. The communication circuit 132 is equipped with a transmitting terminal 132a and a receiving terminal 132b.

[0046] In the initial state, the transmitting antenna 131a and the transmitting terminal 132a are electrically connected, and the receiving antenna 131b and the receiving terminal 132b are electrically connected. The radio waves generated by the radio wave source of the communication circuit 132 are output from the transmitting terminal 132a and transmitted to the mobile device 30 through the transmitting antenna 131a. The radio waves transmitted from the mobile device 30 are input to the receiving terminal 132b through the receiving antenna 131b.

[0047] The detection unit 133 has a conductive line including a bandpass filter 133f. The bandpass filter 133f is configured to allow signals in a specific frequency band, including the frequency of radio waves generated by a radio wave source, to pass through. The frequency band has at least one upper and lower limit predetermined. That is, low-pass filters and high-pass filters, whose upper or lower limits of passable frequencies are defined by a cutoff frequency, are also included in the meaning of "bandpass filter" in this disclosure. The bandpass filter 133f may be formed by a microstrip line, coplanar line, stub, etc., formed on the circuit board of the communication circuit 132.

[0048] The communication circuit 132 includes a transmitter switch 132c and a receiver switch 132d. The transmitter switch 132c is configured to electrically connect the transmitter terminal 132a to either the transmitter antenna 131a or a conductive line. The receiver switch 132d is configured to connect the receiver terminal 132b to either the receiver antenna 131b or a conductive line.

[0049] As illustrated in Figure 1, the processor 112 of the control device 11 may be configured to output a switch control signal SC from the output interface 113 for switching the state of the transmitting switch 132c and the receiving switch 132d.

[0050] Specifically, when the UI device 13 is operated as a touch sensor, the processor 112 outputs a switch control signal SC from the output interface 113 that switches the states of the transmitting switch 132c and the receiving switch 132d to form a path shown by the dashed line in Figure 10. In other words, the transmitting terminal 132a and the receiving terminal 132b are electrically connected to the bandpass filter 133f.

[0051] As a result, the radio waves generated by the radio wave source of the communication circuit 132 are input from the transmitting terminal 132a to a conductive line including a bandpass filter 133f. The radio waves that have passed through the bandpass filter 133f are input to the receiving terminal 132b. The communication circuit 132 is configured to output a detection signal DT corresponding to the radio waves input to the receiving terminal 132b.

[0052] When the user's hand 40 or fingers 41 approaches or touches the knob 22 of the vehicle 20, bringing it closer to the bandpass filter 133f, the characteristic impedance of the conductive line changes, and the performance of the bandpass filter 133f changes. Specifically, at least one of the passband, pass loss, and pass phase changes. This change is observed as a change in at least one of the amplitude and phase of the detection signal DT.

[0053] The processor 112 of the control device 11 is configured to output an operation control signal OC that causes the controlled device 12 to perform a predetermined operation based on a predetermined change in the detection signal DT received by the input interface 111. Therefore, even with the configuration according to this example, it is possible to detect the approach or contact of the user's hand 40 or finger 41 to the knob 22 for controlling the operation of the controlled device 12 based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance.

[0054] Figure 11 shows another example of the configuration of a UI device 13 that can be used to realize the function of a touch sensor using radio waves used in UWB wireless communication. Elements that are substantially the same as those described with reference to Figure 10 are given the same reference numerals and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0055] The detection unit 133 in this example has a conductive line that includes a bandpass filter 133g in addition to a bandpass filter 133f. The bandpass filter 133g is also configured to allow signals in a specific frequency band, including the frequency of radio waves generated by a radio wave source, to pass through. The frequency band has at least one upper and lower limit predetermined. The bandpass filter 133g can also be formed by a microstrip line, coplanar line, stub, etc., formed on the circuit board of the communication circuit 132.

[0056] The bandpass filter 133f is located at a position where the transmission line length from the transmitting terminal 132a is shorter. The bandpass filter 133g is located at a position where the transmission line length from the transmitting terminal 132a is longer. When the transmitting terminal 132a and the receiving terminal 132b are electrically connected to a conductive line, the radio waves input from the transmitting terminal 132a to the conductive line pass through the bandpass filters 133f and 133g before being input to the receiving terminal 132b.

[0057] In this example, when the user's hand 40 or finger 41 approaches or comes into contact with the knob 22 of the vehicle 20, the performance of at least one of the bandpass filter 133f and bandpass filter 133g changes. This allows for the acquisition of more detailed information regarding the approach or contact state.

[0058] For example, if a larger hand 40 approaches or touches the knob 22, the performance of both the bandpass filter 133f and the bandpass filter 133g may change. If a smaller finger 41 approaches or touches the knob 22, the performance of either the bandpass filter 133f or the bandpass filter 133g will change depending on its position. To make it possible to determine which position the approach or contact occurred, it is preferable to make the characteristics of the bandpass filter 133f and the bandpass filter 133g different. This will result in differences in the changes in performance.

[0059] In the example described with reference to Figures 10 and 11, the transmitting switch 132c and the receiving switch 132d are intermittently switched between a connection state to the antenna side and a connection state to the conductive line side based on the switch control signal SC, thereby enabling the transmission of radio waves and the detection of changes in the characteristic impedance of the conductive line to be performed in a time-division multiplexing manner. The switching period can be, for example, on the order of several milliseconds to tens of milliseconds. That is, the change in characteristic impedance used for detection to cause the controlled device 12 to perform a predetermined operation may be discrete.

[0060] The UI device 13 may also be provided with a memory that stores the above-mentioned switching cycle and a processor that switches the state of the transmitting switch 132c and the receiving switch 132d based on the switching cycle.

[0061] Figure 12 shows another example of the configuration of a UI device 13 that can be used to realize the function of a touch sensor using radio waves used in UWB wireless communication. Elements that are substantially the same as those described with reference to Figure 10 are given the same reference numerals and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0062] The detection unit 133 in this example includes a bandpass filter 133f provided on the conductive line from the transmission terminal 132a of the communication circuit 132 to the transmission antenna 131a. There are no transmitting switch 132c and receiving switch 132d for switching the radio wave propagation path. The transmission operation of radio waves for communication with the mobile device 30 and the transmission operation of radio waves for radar ranging are switched based on the transmission control signal TC output from the control device 11. In other words, the same radio wave propagation line is shared by both operations.

[0063] During distance measurement operation, radio waves generated by the radio wave source of the communication circuit 132 are output from the transmission terminal 132a. These radio waves pass through the bandpass filter 133f and are transmitted from the transmission antenna 131a. Radio waves reflected by objects outside the vehicle 20 are received by the receiving antenna 131b and input to the receiving terminal 132b.

[0064] In this example as well, when the user's hand 40 or finger 41 approaches or touches the knob 22 of the vehicle 20, bringing it closer to the bandpass filter 133f, the characteristic impedance of the conductive line changes, and the performance of the bandpass filter 133f changes. This causes a change in at least one of the amplitude and phase of the detection signal DT output from the communication circuit 132.

[0065] The processor 112 of the control device 11 focuses on a detection signal DT based on reflected waves from various objects outside the vehicle 20 that are at a roughly constant distance (such as the ground). If any of the above changes occur in this detection signal DT, the processor 112 determines that the user's hand 40 or finger 41 has approached or come into contact with the knob 22.

[0066] Therefore, in the configuration of this example, it is possible to detect the approach or contact of the user's hand 40 or finger 41 to the knob 22 for controlling the operation of the controlled device 12 based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance.

[0067] Furthermore, if the characteristic impedance of the conductive line included in the detection unit 133 changes when the user's hand 40 or finger 41 approaches or touches the knob 22 of the vehicle 20, a bandpass filter 133f may be provided between the receiving terminal 132b and the receiving antenna 131b. Alternatively, in addition to the above-mentioned bandpass filter 133f, another bandpass filter may be provided between the receiving terminal 132b and the receiving antenna 131b. In this case, as explained with reference to the configuration example in Figure 11, more detailed information regarding the approach or contact state of the hand 40 or finger 41 can be obtained.

[0068] Figure 13 shows another example of the configuration of a UI device 13 that can be used to realize the function of a touch sensor using radio waves used in UWB wireless communication. Elements that are substantially the same as those described with reference to Figure 10 are given the same reference numerals and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0069] The UI device in this example is equipped with a common antenna 131. The communication circuit 132 is equipped with a common terminal 132e used for both transmission and reception. The detection unit 133 in this example includes a bandpass filter 133f provided on the conductive line from the common terminal 132e to the antenna 131. The transmission operation of radio waves for communication with the mobile device 30 and the transmission operation of radio waves for radar ranging are switched based on the transmission control signal TC output from the control device 11. In other words, the same radio wave propagation line is shared by both operations.

[0070] During distance measurement operation, radio waves generated by the radio wave source of the communication circuit 132 are output from the common terminal 132e. These radio waves pass through the bandpass filter 133f and are transmitted from the antenna 131. Radio waves reflected by objects outside the vehicle 20 are received by the antenna 131 and input to the common terminal 131e.

[0071] In this example as well, when the user's hand 40 or finger 41 approaches or touches the knob 22 of the vehicle 20, bringing it closer to the bandpass filter 133f, the characteristic impedance of the conductive line changes, and the performance of the bandpass filter 133f changes. This causes a change in at least one of the amplitude and phase of the detection signal DT output from the communication circuit 132. However, since the radio waves pass through the bandpass filter 133f twice, the way the changes occur differs from the configuration example described with reference to Figure 12.

[0072] Therefore, in the configuration of this example, it is possible to detect the approach or contact of the user's hand 40 or finger 41 to the knob 22 for controlling the operation of the controlled device 12 based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance.

[0073] In the example described with reference to Figures 12 and 13, the switching between the transmission of radio waves for communication with the mobile device 30 and the transmission of radio waves for radar ranging is performed intermittently based on the transmission control signal TC, thereby enabling time-division multiplexing for communication with the mobile device 30 and detection of changes in the characteristic impedance of the conductive line. The switching period can be, for example, on the order of several milliseconds to tens of milliseconds. That is, the change in characteristic impedance used for detection to cause the controlled device 12 to perform a predetermined operation may be discrete.

[0074] Figure 14 shows another example of the configuration of a UI device 13 that can be used to realize the function of a touch sensor using radio waves used in UWB wireless communication. Elements that are substantially the same as those described with reference to Figure 13 are given the same reference numerals and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0075] The detection unit 133 in this example has a conductive line including a bandpass filter 133f and a bandpass filter 133g. The starting end of the conductive line is electrically connected to a common terminal 132e of the communication circuit 132. Radio waves generated by the radio wave source of the communication circuit 132 are output from the common terminal 132e. These radio waves pass through the bandpass filter 133f and the bandpass filter 133g and reach the end of the conductive line. Since the end is open, the radio waves are totally reflected and pass through the bandpass filter 133f and the bandpass filter 133g again and are input to the common terminal 132e.

[0076] In this example as well, when the user's hand 40 or finger 41 approaches or touches the knob 22 of the vehicle 20, the characteristic impedance of the conductive line changes, and the performance of at least one of the bandpass filter 133f and bandpass filter 133g changes. As a result, at least one of the amplitude and phase of the detection signal DT output from the communication circuit 132 changes.

[0077] Therefore, in the configuration of this example, it is possible to detect the approach or contact of the user's hand 40 or finger 41 to the knob 22 for controlling the operation of the controlled device 12 based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance.

[0078] Figure 15 illustrates the functional configuration of a control system 50 according to a second embodiment. The control system 50 includes a control device 51 and a heater 52. The heater 52 is a heat source that heats, for example, a seat surface on which a user sits. The seat surface is an example of a target member. The control device 51 is configured to control the operation of the heater 52. The heater 52 is an example of a controlled object.

[0079] Figure 16 shows an example of the configuration of heater 52. Heater 52 comprises a detection unit 520, an AC power supply 521, and a DC power supply 522. The detection unit 520 includes a conductive line containing multiple resistive elements 523. The AC power supply 521 and the DC power supply 522 are electrically connected to the conductive line. The AC power supply 521 is an example of an electromagnetic wave source. Note that the DC power supply 522 may be omitted depending on the application of heater 52.

[0080] If the characteristic impedances of the multiple resistive elements 523 differ, at points B, C, and D, some of the electromagnetic waves supplied from the AC power supply 521 are reflected, while other parts pass through attenuated (or not attenuated). The direction of electromagnetic wave propagation alternates between the direction from point A to point E and the direction from point E to point A. The electromagnetic waves observed at point A and the electromagnetic waves observed at point E are the same.

[0081] When a user sits down, a part of their body 42 approaches the resistive element 523 located between points B and C, causing a change in the characteristic impedance of the resistive element 523. This results in a difference between the amount of electromagnetic waves reflected towards point A and the amount of electromagnetic waves reflected towards point E. In addition, the way in which the amount of electromagnetic waves changes changes depending on how close the part of the body 42 is to the resistive element 523.

[0082] On the other hand, the current supplied from the DC power supply 522 generates heat in the multiple resistive elements 523 without being affected by characteristic impedance. The proximity of a part of the body 42 does not affect the heat generation.

[0083] The detection unit 520 includes a first directional coupler 524a and a first detector 525a. The first directional coupler 524a is configured to extract electromagnetic waves reflected on the side of point A. The first detector 525a is configured to measure the amount of electromagnetic waves extracted by the first directional coupler 524a.

[0084] The detection unit 520 includes a second directional coupler 524b and a second detector 525b. The second directional coupler 524b is configured to extract electromagnetic waves reflected on the side of point E. The second detector 525b is configured to measure the amount of electromagnetic waves extracted by the second directional coupler 524b.

[0085] The detection unit 520 includes a signal output unit 526. The signal output unit 526 is configured to output a detection signal DT corresponding to the amount of electromagnetic wave measured by the first detector 525a and the amount of electromagnetic wave measured by the second detector 525b. The detection signal DT may be an analog signal or a digital signal, depending on the specifications of the heater 52.

[0086] As illustrated in Figure 15, the control device 51 includes an input interface 511. The input interface 511 is configured as a hardware interface capable of receiving a detection signal DT output from the signal output section 526 of the heater 52. When the detection signal DT is an analog signal, the input interface 511 includes an appropriate conversion element, including an A / D converter.

[0087] The control device 51 includes a processor 512. Based on the detection signal DT received by the input interface 511, the processor 512 identifies changes in the amount of electromagnetic waves reflected on the side of point A and the amount of electromagnetic waves reflected on the side of point E, as illustrated in Figure 16. Based on the results, the processor 512 determines at what position on the seat the user is seated.

[0088] The control device 51 is equipped with an output interface 513. The processor 112 is configured to output an operation control signal OC from the output interface 513 that causes the heater 52 to perform a predetermined operation based on the detected position of a part of the user's body 42. For example, an operation control signal OC that selectively heats up a resistor element 523 near the user's seating position may be output. The operation control signal OC may be an analog signal or a digital signal, depending on the specifications of the heater 52.

[0089] The output interface 513 is configured as a hardware interface capable of outputting the operation control signal OC. When the operation control signal OC is an analog signal, the output interface 513 includes appropriate conversion elements, including a D / A converter.

[0090] In addition to or instead of the heater 52, an operation control signal OC may be output to an appropriate controlled device 53 that requires at least one of the following to be activated, modified, or stopped in response to the approach or contact of a part of the user's body 42.

[0091] The inventors of this application conceived the idea that by utilizing the change in the characteristic impedance of the conductive line supplying power to the heater 52 when a user sits on the seat, equivalent functionality can be achieved without using a touch sensor that detects changes in capacitance. In other words, based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance, it is possible to detect the approach or contact of a part of the user's body 42 to the seat in order to control the operation of a controlled device such as the heater 52.

[0092] It should be noted that the phrase "based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance" used here requires that the changes be based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance, but does not exclude changes in capacitance from the scope. In this embodiment, changes in stray capacitance also occur.

[0093] When the entire conductive line is treated as a single lumped-parameter resonant circuit, the resonant frequency of the conductive line changes as a part of the user's body 42 approaches or comes into contact with the seat surface. Figure 17 shows another example of the configuration of the detection unit 520 that makes it possible to detect this change in resonant frequency.

[0094] The detection unit 520 in this example includes a resistor 527 and a voltmeter 528. The voltmeter 528 is configured to measure the voltage across the resistor 527. The voltmeter 528 is configured to output a detection signal DT corresponding to the measured voltage.

[0095] As illustrated in Figure 18, in the initial state, the current flowing through the conductive line is maximum when the frequency of the electromagnetic wave supplied from the AC power supply 521 is f1 (resonant state). This current can be determined from the voltage measured by the voltmeter 528 and the resistance value of the resistive element 527. In this example, when the user sits on the seat, the resonant frequency changes from f1 to f2. This fact may be confirmed in advance during the manufacturing of the heater 52, or it may be confirmed while sweeping the frequency of the electromagnetic wave during use of the heater 52.

[0096] In this case, the processor 512 of the control device 51 outputs an operation control signal OC from the output interface 513 that changes the frequency of the electromagnetic wave supplied from the AC power supply 521 from f1 to f2 at an appropriate timing. Subsequently, the processor 512 checks whether there has been a change in the resonant frequency of the conductive line based on the detection signal DT output from the detection unit 520 and received by the input interface 511. Based on the result, the processor 512 determines whether the user has taken a seat.

[0097] The inventors of this application conceived the idea that by utilizing the change in the resonant frequency of the conductive line supplying power to the heater 52 when a user sits on the seat, equivalent functionality can be achieved without using a touch sensor that detects changes in capacitance. In other words, based on changes in physical quantities other than capacitance, it is possible to detect the approach or contact of a part of the user's body 42 to the seat in order to control the operation of a controlled device such as the heater 52.

[0098] In order to easily cause changes in the characteristic impedance of the conductive line included in the detection unit 520, it is preferable to have a structure in which electromagnetic waves propagate in TEM mode or quasi-TEM mode.

[0099] Examples of transmission lines with such a structure include Lechel wires, twisted pair wires, microstrip lines, and coplanar lines. When the paths of the forward and return currents are configured to be asymmetrical or non-parallel, electromagnetic waves propagate along the line in TEM mode or quasi-TEM mode. This reduces the amount of electromagnetic waves emitted outside the line. In addition, the characteristic impedance of the line becomes stable, allowing electromagnetic waves to propagate over longer distances.

[0100] Another example is a meandering track. In this case, some of the electromagnetic waves are canceled out within the track, reducing the amount of electromagnetic waves emitted outside the track. In addition, it is easier to use as a heat source compared to a parallel straight track. Furthermore, since meandering tracks always have a resonant frequency, they have high compatibility with the configuration of the detection unit 520 described with reference to Figures 17 and 18.

[0101] Alternatively, a structure in which electromagnetic waves propagate in TM mode or TE mode may be employed. Examples of transmission lines with such a structure include waveguides and coaxial cables. In particular, in the case of waveguides, as long as the shape of the waveguide does not change due to external forces, no change in propagation characteristics such as characteristic impedance occurs. However, here we are considering cases in which electromagnetic waves leak in part, such as in leaky coaxial cables and waveguide slot antennas. In this case, if a part of the body 42 comes into close proximity to the part in question, it will affect the leaked electromagnetic waves, and consequently, at least one of the cutoff frequency, pass-through loss, and pass-through phase, including the characteristic impedance of the conductive line, will change.

[0102] The conductive lines may be formed to include both lines in which electromagnetic waves propagate in TEM mode or quasi-TEM mode and meander lines. As mentioned above, a structure in which electromagnetic waves propagate in TM mode or TE mode may be employed.

[0103] Each of the processors 112 of the control device 11 and 512 of the control device 51, which have the various functions described above, can be realized by at least one general-purpose microprocessor that works in cooperation with at least one general-purpose memory. Examples of general-purpose microprocessors include CPUs, MPUs, and GPUs. Examples of general-purpose memory include ROMs and RAMs. In this case, the ROM may store a computer program that performs the above-described processing. ROM is an example of a non-temporary computer-readable medium that stores computer programs. The general-purpose microprocessor selects at least a portion of the computer program stored in the ROM and loads it onto the RAM, and then works in cooperation with the RAM to execute the above-described processing. The above-described computer program may be pre-installed in the general-purpose memory, or it may be downloaded from an external server device (not shown) via a wireless communication network (not shown) and then installed in the general-purpose memory. In this case, the external server device is an example of a non-temporary computer-readable medium that stores computer programs.

[0104] Each of processors 112 and 512 may be implemented by at least one dedicated integrated circuit capable of executing the above-described computer program. Examples of dedicated integrated circuits include microcontrollers, ASICs, FPGAs, etc. In this case, the above-described computer program is pre-installed in at least one memory element included in the dedicated integrated circuit. This memory element is an example of a non-temporary computer-readable medium that stores the computer program. Each of processors 112 and 512 can also be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0105] The configurations referenced herein are merely examples to facilitate understanding of this disclosure. Each configuration example may be modified or combined with other configuration examples as appropriate within the scope of the intent of this disclosure.

[0106] In the first embodiment, the UI device 13 is built into the knob 22 for opening and closing the door 21 of the vehicle 20. However, as illustrated in Figure 2, it may also be built into the back door 23. In this case, the UI device 13 is positioned where the user's hand will come into contact with it to close the back door 23. With this configuration, the transition from closing the back door 23 to bringing the hand closer to the detection unit 133 of the UI device 13 to control the operation of the controlled device 12 can be made smoother.

[0107] Control system 10 and control system 50 can each be applied to moving objects other than the vehicle 20. Examples of other moving objects include railways, aircraft, and ships. Such moving objects do not require a driver.

[0108] Neither control system 10 nor control system 50 necessarily needs to be mounted on a mobile body. Doors and windows in houses and facilities can also be examples of opening and closing mechanisms. Furthermore, various pieces of equipment in houses and facilities can be examples of controlled devices.

[0109] Objects that approach or come into contact with a target component in order to control the operation of the controlled device are not limited to parts of the user's body. Any suitable tool or device can be detected as long as it can cause a change in at least one of the characteristic impedance and resonant frequency of the conductive line upon approach or contact.

[0110] The configurations listed below also constitute part of this disclosure. Item 1: An electromagnetic wave source that generates electromagnetic waves, A detection unit that detects a change in at least one of the characteristic impedance and resonant frequency of the electromagnetic wave propagation line when an object approaches or comes into contact with the target member, A control device that controls the operation of a controlled device based on the input of a signal corresponding to the aforementioned change, It is equipped with Control system. Item 2: The aforementioned propagation line includes a bandpass filter. The control system described in item 1. Item 3: The aforementioned electromagnetic wave source is part of the radar sensor. The control system described in item 1 or 2. Item 4: The electromagnetic waves include frequencies used for ultra-wideband wireless communication. The control system described in item 3. Item 5: The aforementioned target member is provided at a position where the object comes into contact in order to perform the action of closing the opening / closing body. A control system as described in any one of items 1 through 4. Item 6: It is equipped with a heat source that generates heat, The aforementioned propagation line is part of the line that supplies power to the heat source. The control system described in item 1. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0111] 10: Control system, 11: Control device, 111: Input interface, 112: Processor, 12: Controlled device, 132: Communication circuit, 133: Detection unit, 133f, 133g: Bandpass filter, 21: Door, 23: Back door, 50: Control system, 51: Control device, 511: Input interface, 512: Processor, 52: Heater, 53: Controlled device, 520: Detection unit, 521: AC power supply, DT: Detection signal

Claims

1. An electromagnetic wave source that generates electromagnetic waves, A detection unit that detects a change in at least one of the characteristic impedance and resonant frequency of the electromagnetic wave propagation line when an object approaches or comes into contact with the target member, A control device that controls the operation of a controlled device based on the input of a signal corresponding to the aforementioned change, It is equipped with Control system.

2. The aforementioned propagation line includes a bandpass filter. The control system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned electromagnetic wave source is part of the radar sensor. The control system according to claim 1.

4. The electromagnetic waves include frequencies used for ultra-wideband wireless communication. The control system according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned target member is provided at a position where the object comes into contact in order to perform the action of closing the opening / closing body. The control system according to claim 1.

6. It is equipped with a heat source that generates heat, The aforementioned propagation line is part of the line that supplies power to the heat source. The control system according to claim 1.

7. An interface that receives a signal corresponding to a change in at least one of the characteristic impedance and resonant frequency that occurs in the electromagnetic wave propagation line when an object approaches or comes into contact with the target component, A processor that controls the operation of a controlled device based on the aforementioned signal, It is equipped with Control device.

8. A computer program that can be executed by a processor mounted on a control device, By being executed, the control device will It receives a signal corresponding to the change in characteristic impedance that occurs in the electromagnetic wave propagation line when an object approaches or comes into contact with the target component. The operation of the controlled device is controlled based on the aforementioned signal. Computer program.

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