Vehicle switch device

Abstract

To provide a vehicle switch device that offers both excellent functionality as a switch and superior design for use within a vehicle. [Solution] The vehicle switch device 1 comprises a surface member 3 having light transmittance and stretchability, at least one push-type switch 29 having a light transmittance button member 31 positioned on the back side of the surface member 3 and covered, and the button member 31 operable from the front side of the surface member 3, at least one light source 9 that irradiates light onto each button member 31 when energized to display a predetermined design on the surface member 3 indicating the operating position of at least one switch 29, and does not irradiate light when not energized to conceal the operating position of at least one switch 29 on the surface member 3, and a main body 15 that houses at least one switch and at least one light source 9. At least one switch 29 is covered by the surface member 3 without protruding from the front side of the surface member 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a vehicle switch device.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a switch for an electric device that has high illumination effect while having practicality. The switch for an electric device includes a switch plate made of a translucent or semi-translucent body that forms an outer frame, a light source that irradiates light to the inner peripheral surface of the switch plate toward the outer peripheral side of the switch plate, an operation switch that is installed in the frame accommodation portion of the switch plate and switches on and off the electric device, and a sheet material that covers the operation switch portion and the light source. The operation switch portion protrudes to the outer peripheral side of the switch plate while being covered with the sheet material.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, vehicles are equipped with various in-vehicle devices such as audio devices, car navigation devices, air conditioning devices, electric seat adjustment devices, electric window adjustment devices, and electric door mirror adjustment devices. In the vehicle interior, many switches for operating these in-vehicle devices are arranged. When many switches are arranged, passengers feel a sense of complexity, and the design of the vehicle interior deteriorates. Therefore, it is desirable that the switches for operating in-vehicle devices are excellent not only in functionality as switches but also in design.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle switch device that is excellent not only in functionality as a switch but also in design in a vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the aforementioned problems, an embodiment of the present invention provides a vehicle switch device comprising: a surface member having a front side exposed to the passenger compartment and a back side not exposed to the passenger compartment, light transmittance from the back side to the front side, and stretchability, and having at least one of a pattern and a color applied; at least one push-type switch having a light-transmitting button member disposed on the back side of the surface member and covering it, the button member being operable from the front side of the surface member; at least one light source that, when energized, irradiates light from the back side of each of the button members to display a predetermined design on the surface member to indicate the operating position of the at least one switch, and when not energized, does not irradiate light, causing the operating position of the at least one switch to be hidden by the surface member; and a main body that houses at least a part of each of the at least one switch and the at least one light source, wherein the at least one switch is covered by the surface member without protruding from the front side of the surface member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle switch device that is not only functional as a switch but also has excellent design features within the vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] An exploded perspective view of a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Enlarged top view of the region P enclosed by the dashed line in Figure 1. [Figure 3] A cross-sectional view of a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] A diagram showing a portion of the front side of a surface member when energized, in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5]A diagram showing a portion of the front side of a surface member when it is not energized, in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between at least one first switch, a main body, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram showing a first example of the positional relationship between at least one first switch, at least one second switch, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing a second example of the positional relationship between at least one first switch, at least one second switch, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram showing a third example of the positional relationship between at least one first switch, at least one second switch, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] A schematic diagram showing another example of the positional relationship between at least one first switch, a main body, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] An embodiment of the vehicle switch device according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 10. Note that identical or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals in multiple drawings.

[0010] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] The vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment, shown in Figure 1, is a device equipped with a switch used inside a vehicle. In this embodiment, the distinction between the upper and lower sides of the vehicle switch device 1 is defined as follows, based on the state in which the vehicle switch device 1 is installed inside the vehicle: the side in which at least a part of the vehicle switch device 1 is exposed inside the vehicle is defined as the upper side, and the side not exposed inside the vehicle is defined as the lower side. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the distinction between the up and down directions of the vehicle switch device 1 is defined as the direction away from or towards at least a part of the vehicle switch device 1 that is exposed inside the vehicle. Also, in this embodiment, the terms "front side" and "back side" are defined as follows, based on the state in which the vehicle switch device 1 is installed inside the vehicle: the side facing the inside of the vehicle is defined as the front side, and the side opposite to this front side is defined as the back side. The vehicle switch device 1 may hereinafter be simply referred to as the switch device 1.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the switch device 1 comprises, for example, a surface member 3, a resin member 5, at least one switch element 7, at least one light source 9, a substrate 11, and a case 13. At least one switch element 7 and at least one light source 9 are arranged on the substrate 11. The resin member 5 and the case 13 are integrated as the main body 15 of the switch device 1. Preferably, the switch device 1 includes a back member 19 between the surface member 3 and the resin member 5.

[0013] The surface member 3 has a front side exposed to the passenger compartment, a back side not exposed to the passenger compartment, light transmission from the back side to the front side, and elasticity. Furthermore, the surface member 3 has at least one of color and pattern. In other words, the surface member 3 is coated with at least one of color and pattern. The color and pattern of the surface member 3 only need to be applied to the front side of the surface member 3. The color and pattern of the surface member 3 may usually match the color and pattern of the interior of the passenger compartment surrounding where the switch device 1 is located. The surface member 3 has a shape that generally follows that of the resin member 5. Also, the surface member 3 is located above the switch device 1. The surface 3a of the surface member 3, which is included on the front side of the surface member 3, is also the top surface and is exposed to the passenger compartment when the switch device 1 is installed inside the passenger compartment. From here on, unless otherwise specified, the "front side" and "back side" of all components of the switch device 1 will be described in terms of the front and back sides of the surface member 3.

[0014] The material of the surface member 3 is not particularly limited, as long as it has light transmittance and elasticity, and can be given at least one of color and pattern, without impairing the characteristics of the switch device 1. The material of the surface member 3 is preferably at least one of resin sheet material, fabric, genuine leather, and artificial leather. In other words, the material of the surface member 3 may consist of a single material of resin sheet material, fabric, genuine leather, or artificial leather, or it may consist of a combination of these single materials. Depending on the thickness, processing method, and / or treatment method, the surface member 3 can be configured to have the desired light transmittance and elasticity. Moreover, since these materials blend well with the interior of the vehicle cabin, they can be suitably applied to the surface member 3. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of availability and processability, the material of the surface member 3 is more preferably fabric.

[0015] The resin member 5 is disposed on the back side of the surface member 3 and supports at least a part of the surface member 3. The material of the resin member 5 is, for example, polycarbonate resin, ABS resin, acrylic resin, or polyester resin. At least a part of the resin member 5 is capable of transmitting light irradiated from the light source 9. Not limited to this, when the switch device 1 includes the back member 19, all of the resin member 5 may be a transparent resin member capable of transmitting light. The resin member 5 has a bottom portion 21 facing the case 13 and a protruding portion 23 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape protruding from the bottom portion 21 toward the surface member 3.

[0016] The bottom portion 21 is fitted into the case 13. By doing so, the case 13 is integrated with the resin member 5 to constitute the main body portion 15. The resin member 5 is a member on the upper side of the main body portion 15.

[0017] FIG. 2 is an enlarged top view of the region P surrounded by the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 1.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2 in addition to FIG. 1, the protruding portion 23 has a surface 23a, a U-shaped first slit 25a provided on the surface 23a, a U-shaped second slit 25b provided on the surface 23a and smaller than the first slit 25a, and a cantilevered plate portion 27 surrounded by the first slit 25a and the second slit 25b and having two fixed ends 27a. The surface 23a is an upper surface. Also, the surface 23a is also the surface 15a of the main body portion 15.

[0019] In the example of FIG. 1, the surface 23a of the protruding portion 23 is a flat surface. Not limited to this, the surface 23a of the protruding portion 23 can be appropriately changed in shape according to the use of the switch device 1 and the shape of the interior periphery where the switch device 1 is disposed in the vehicle interior from the viewpoint of designability in the vehicle interior. For example, if the shape of the interior periphery where the switch device 1 is disposed has a curved surface, the surface 23a may be a curved surface. In this case, the surface 3a of the surface member 3 can also be a similar curved surface.

[0020] The number of plate portions 27 can be determined by the purpose and application of the switch device 1, but is usually at least one. In the example in Figure 1, the projection 23 has multiple plate portions 27, for example, seven plate portions 27. Furthermore, in the example in Figure 1, each of the seven plate portions 27 is provided at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the surface 23a of the projection 23. The plate portions 27 have columnar projections 27b on their back side for contact with the switch element 7.

[0021] At least one switch element 7 is a push-button switch. Specifically, the switch element 7 is either an alternate or momentary switch. The number of switch elements 7 is usually the same as the number of plate portions 27 of the resin member 5. In other words, there is at least one switch element 7. When a passenger presses the plate portion 27 of the resin member 5 from the front side of the surface member 3, the tip of the projection 27b of the plate portion 27 contacts the surface of the switch element 7. At this time, the switch element 7 becomes either ON or OFF if it is an alternate switch. This type of operation of the switch element 7 is called alternate operation. If the switch element 7 is a momentary switch, it remains ON only while the tip of the projection 27b is in contact with the surface of the switch element 7. This type of operation of the switch element 7 is called momentary operation.

[0022] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Note that Figure 3 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the switch device 1 when it is cut vertically along line AA in Figure 2. For ease of explanation, the case 13 is omitted from the illustration in Figure 3.

[0023] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, and also in Figure 3, in this embodiment, the plate portion 27 and the switch element 7 constitute a switch 29. The number of switches 29 is the same as the number of plate portions 27 and switch elements 7. That is, there is at least one switch 29. The plate portion 27 is a button member 31 of the switch 29. In other words, the switch device 1 has a light-transmitting button member 31 that is positioned on the back side of the surface member 3 and covered, and includes at least one push-type switch 29 that can operate the button member 31 from the front side of the surface member 3. The button member 31 includes the surface of the switch 29, i.e., the top surface.

[0024] Furthermore, the switch 29 does not necessarily have to have the plate portion 27 as a button member 31. As long as the switch 29 can receive a push operation from the front side of the surface member 3, it may have a button member 31 different from the plate portion 27 instead of the plate portion 27. In this case, the resin member 5 has, for example, a through hole in the area where the plate portion 27 was provided. The switch 29 may then be configured such that at least a part of the button member 31 different from the plate portion 27 is placed in this through hole.

[0025] Figure 4 shows a portion of the front side of a surface member when energized in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 4, the black portion of the predetermined design 17 (17c, 17d, 17e) shows the state when illuminated by light emitted from the light source 9.

[0026] Figure 5 shows a portion of the front surface of the surface member when it is not energized, in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 5, predetermined designs 17 (17c, 17d, 17e), which are not actually displayed on the front surface 3a of the surface member 3, are shown by dashed lines.

[0027] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, at least one light source 9, when energized, irradiates light from the back of each button member 31 to display a predetermined design 17 (17c, 17d, 17e) on the front surface 3a of the surface member 3 to indicate the operating position of at least one switch 29. On the other hand, when not energized, at least one light source 9 does not irradiate light, and the operating position of at least one switch 29 is hidden on the front surface 3a of the surface member 3 by the surface member 3.

[0028] In this embodiment, the predetermined design 17 includes, for example, at least one of letters, numbers, symbols, and illustrations that indicate the function or role of each of the at least one switch 29. The illustration may also include a graphic.

[0029] The light source 9 is provided on the substrate 11 at a position facing the button member 31, which is a plate portion 27 of the resin member 5, or at a position facing a button member 31 different from the plate portion 27. The light source 9 is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The light source 9 may have a focusing lens for focusing light onto the button member 31. The number of light sources 9 corresponds to the number of plate portions 27 and the number of switch elements 7, respectively. However, it is not limited to this, and one light source 9 may be configured to illuminate each of the multiple plate portions 27 with light, for example, via a light guide plate or light guide rod. In other words, the number of light sources 9 only needs to be at least one.

[0030] Furthermore, if the switch device 1 does not have a back member 19, at least one light source 9 displays a predetermined design 17 on the front side of the surface member 3 as follows. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the plate portion 27 has, for example, a transparent portion 32 that conforms to the shape of the predetermined design 17 and a light-blocking portion of a light-blocking color (for example, black). In other words, at least a part of the plate portion 27 is light-transmitting. In the example in Figure 2, the transparent portion 32 includes a transparent portion 32a that has the shape of a plus sign. The transparent portion 32 of the plate portion 27 transmits light irradiated from the light source 9 to display the predetermined design 17 on the front side of the surface member 3. Such a plate portion 27 can be realized, for example, by painting the plate portion 27 and the entire resin member 5 other than the plate portion 27 with a light-blocking color while masking it to conform to the shape of the predetermined design 17. Furthermore, if the switch device 1 does not have a back member 19, and each of at least one switch 29 has a button member 31 different from the plate portion 27, a transparent portion 32 can be provided on the surface of the button member 31 different from the plate portion 27.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, the case 13, together with the resin member 5, constitutes the main body 15. The case 13 is the lower member of the main body 15. The case 13 may have a claw portion 13a and a fitting portion 13b for mounting to a location in the vehicle interior where the switch device 1 is placed or to a predetermined housing. The case 13 is not usually exposed in the vehicle interior when the switch device 1 is installed inside the vehicle interior. In other words, the case 13 is located below the switch device 1.

[0032] The main body 15 houses at least a portion of each of at least one switch 29, at least one light source 9, and a circuit board 11, and has an upper side located near the button member 31 and a lower side located far from the button member 31. Here, the upper side of the main body 15 is the resin member 5, and the lower side of the main body 15 is the case 13. In other words, the main body 15 is an assembly of multiple components. However, the main body 15 may also be a single molded product. The surface 15a of the main body 15 is the top surface. The surface 15a of the main body 15 is the surface 23a of the resin member 5.

[0033] As mentioned earlier, having many switches in the interior of a vehicle can make passengers feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of switches they see. This, in turn, detracts from the overall design of the vehicle's interior.

[0034] Therefore, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, in the switch device 1, at least one switch 29 is covered by the surface member 3 without protruding from it, whether it is de-energized or energized.

[0035] Specifically, when at least one light source 9 is energized, a predetermined design 17 is displayed on the front side of the surface member 3 to indicate the operating position of at least one switch 29, so that the occupant can grasp the location of at least one switch 29. In other words, the occupant can press at least one switch 29 in a timely manner. Moreover, because the surface member 3 is elastic, the occupant can easily press at least one switch 29 without being hindered by the surface member 3. Therefore, at least one switch 29 can have excellent functionality as a switch. On the other hand, when at least one light source 9 is not energized, at least one switch 29 is hidden on the back side of the surface member 3, so the occupant cannot perceive the size, shape, and position of at least one switch 29. Therefore, at least one of the color and pattern of the surface member 3 is visible to the occupant, improving the design aesthetics in the vehicle interior.

[0036] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between at least one first switch, a main body, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Note that in Figure 6, for the sake of explanation, the illustration of the surface member 3 in the foreground of the paper has been omitted. The same applies to Figures 7 to 10, which will be explained later. Also, in Figure 6, the number of at least one switch 29 is assumed to be only one first switch 33, and the button member 31 is assumed to be a different material from the plate portion 27. Furthermore, in Figure 6, at least one first switch 33 is assumed to be in the OFF state before being pressed.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, it is preferable that at least one switch 29 includes at least one first switch 33 having the highest surface 33a among the at least one switch 29, and that the surface member 3 satisfies the following conditions.

[0039] Specifically, the surface member 3, in the off state before at least one first switch 33 is pressed, continuously covers the surface 33a of at least one first switch 33 and the surface 16a of the first part 16, which is a portion of the main body 15 located at a height equal to or greater than the surface 33a of at least one first switch 33, and is maintained at a height equal to or greater than the surface 33a of at least one first switch 33 between the at least one first switch 33 and the first part 16. In this way, the surface member 3 prevents a state in which at least one first switch 33 may protrude from the surface member 3, which could occur if, for example, the surface member 3 is located below the surface 33a of at least one first switch 33 between the at least one first switch 33 and the first part 16 of the main body 15.

[0040] Furthermore, the at least one first switch 33 having the highest surface 33a among the at least one switch 29 is determined based on the OFF state before the at least one switch 29 is pressed. Also, if there are two or more at least one first switch 33, the height of each surface 33a of the multiple first switches 33 shall be equal.

[0041] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing a first example of the positional relationship between at least one first switch, at least one second switch, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the positional relationship between at least one first switch, at least one second switch, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing a third example of the positional relationship between at least one first switch, at least one second switch, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] In Figure 7, the number of at least one switch 29 is assumed to be a total of two, consisting of one first switch 33 and one second switch 35, and the button member 31 is made of a different material from the plate portion 27. In Figures 8 and 9, the number of at least one switch 29 is assumed to be a total of three, consisting of two first switches 33 and one second switch 35, and the button member 31 is made of a different material from the plate portion 27. Furthermore, in Figures 7 to 9, at least one first switch 33 and at least one second switch 35 are assumed to be in the OFF state before being pressed.

[0045] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, the at least one switch 29 includes at least one first switch 33 having the highest surface 33a among the at least one switch 29, and at least one second switch 35 having a surface 35a located at a height lower than or equal to the surface 33a of the at least one first switch 33 and being different from the at least one first switch 33, and the surface member 3 preferably satisfies the following conditions.

[0046] Specifically, the surface member 3 continuously covers the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35 when the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35 are in the off state, and is maintained at a height of at least the surface 35a of the at least one second switch 35 between the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35. In this way, the surface member 3 prevents the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35 from protruding from the surface member 3, which could occur if the surface member 3 were positioned below the surface 35a between the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35.

[0047] Figure 10 is another schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between at least one first switch, a main body, and a surface member in a vehicle switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Note that in Figure 10, the number of switches 29 is assumed to be only one, which is the first switch 33. Furthermore, in Figure 10, the first switch 33 is assumed to be in the OFF state before being pressed.

[0049] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, it is preferable that at least one switch 29 includes at least one first switch 33 having the highest surface 33a of the at least one switch 29, and that at least one first switch 33 and the surface member 3 satisfy the following conditions.

[0050] Specifically, at least one first switch 33 is positioned at a height below the surface 15a of the main body 15 when it is in the off state before it is pressed. The surface member 3 continuously covers the surface 33a of the at least one first switch 33 and the surface 15a of the main body 15 at the height of the surface 15a of the main body 15 when the at least one first switch 33 is in the off state. When the surface member 3 is positioned at the height of the surface 15a of the main body 15, the surface 3a of the surface member 3 can be substantially considered as the surface 15a of the main body 15. Therefore, the surface member 3 uniformly covers the surface 15a of the main body 15 and does not create a recess near the at least one first switch 33 when it is located below the surface 15a, for example, thus suppressing a decrease in design quality due to the occurrence of unnecessary recesses.

[0051] Furthermore, it is preferable that at least one switch 29 is an electrical switch and is used when the power is ON, and at least one light source 9 is energized when the power is ON. When at least one switch 29 is an electrical switch, it is usually not used unless a power source such as the ignition power and / or accessory power is ON. In other words, when the power is OFF and the use of at least one switch 29 is not expected, the passenger does not need to visually locate or identify the position or function of at least one switch 29. Therefore, when the power is OFF, the predetermined design 17 is not displayed on the front side of the surface member 3, and the passenger does not visually locate or identify the position or function of at least one switch 29. Thus, the passenger's confusion caused by having to visually locate many switches is reduced. On the other hand, when the passenger uses at least one switch 29, the position and function of at least one switch 29 can be determined from the predetermined design 17 displayed on the front side of the surface member 3. Therefore, the passenger can reliably operate at least one switch 29 in a timely manner.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, it is preferable that the switch device 1 includes a back member 19 that is expandable and contractible, positioned between the surface member 3 and the main body 15, and has a color that blocks the light of at least one light source 9. It is preferable that the back member 19 allows light to pass through to display the predetermined design 17 by removing the light-blocking color in the portion of the back member 19 that corresponds to the shape of a predetermined design 17 displayed on the front surface 3a of the surface member 3, or by removing the portion itself. In other words, it is preferable that the back member 19 has a light-passing portion 36 that follows the shape of the predetermined design 17 and allows light from at least one light source 9 to pass through. Note that the light-passing portion 36 is a through-hole when a portion of the back member 19 is removed.

[0053] Specifically, when the switch device 1 is equipped with a back member 19, the resin member 5 can be a transparent resin member that is entirely transparent and capable of transmitting light. The light-transmitting portion 36 includes light-transmitting portions 36a to 36g having the shape of a symbol or illustration in the example shown in Figure 1. Light irradiated from at least one light source 9 passes through each plate portion 27 of the resin member 5 and reaches the back member 19. At this time, the light passes through the light-transmitting portions 36 (36a to 36g) of the back member 19 and displays a predetermined design 17 on the front side of the surface member 3. In other words, the light that has passed through the light-transmitting portions 36 (36a to 36g) is projected onto the front side of the surface member 3 to form the predetermined design 17. On the other hand, the back member 19 blocks light in areas other than where the light-transmitting portions 36 are provided. Therefore, the predetermined design 17 can be clearly displayed on the front side of the surface member 3.

[0054] Furthermore, the rear member 19 has a shape that substantially follows the shape of the resin member 5 that constitutes the upper part of the main body 15. In other words, the rear member 19 also has a shape that follows the shape of the front member 3.

[0055] Furthermore, it is preferable that the surface member 3 is made of woven fabric and the back member 19 is made of nonwoven fabric.

[0056] Specifically, the material of the surface member 3 can preferably be woven fabric. Woven fabric has a weaving pattern in which the threads are arranged in a regular manner. By appropriately adjusting the weaving pattern, light can be easily transmitted between the threads. Therefore, a surface member 3 can be constructed that has not only excellent elasticity but also excellent light transmission. Furthermore, the material of the back member 19 can preferably be nonwoven fabric of a light-blocking color (for example, black). Nonwoven fabric has fibers that are irregularly intertwined. Therefore, even if the nonwoven fabric is relatively thin, it eliminates gaps through which light can pass, effectively blocking light. Therefore, a back member 19 can be constructed that has not only excellent elasticity but also excellent light-blocking properties. Thus, by combining a surface member 3 made of woven fabric with excellent light transmission properties and a back member 19 made of nonwoven fabric with excellent light-blocking properties, the predetermined design 17 can be displayed more clearly on the front side of the surface member 3.

[0057] Furthermore, if the switch device 1 is equipped with a back member 19, it is preferable that the line thickness of the light-transmitting portion 36 of the back member 19, which is the portion that transmits light, is thinner than the nominal value of the line thickness of a predetermined design 17 displayed on the front surface 3a of the front member 3.

[0058] Specifically, light emitted from at least one light source 9 is diffused as it sequentially passes through at least one switch 29, the back member 19, and the front member 3. In other words, the thickness of the lines of the light-transmitting portion 36 provided on the back member 19 becomes thicker when projected onto the front side of the front member 3. Therefore, by making the thickness of the lines of the light-transmitting portion 36 provided on the back member 19 thinner than the nominal value of the line thickness of the predetermined design 17 displayed on the front side of the front member 3, the predetermined design 17 displayed on the front side of the front member 3 can be made into a desired shape. Furthermore, the larger the area of ​​the light-transmitting portion 36, the smaller the light-transmitting portion 36 can be made to balance the predetermined design 17 displayed on the front side of the front member 3. For example, in the light-transmitting portion 36, the length and width of letters and / or symbols can be made larger than the length and width of larger shapes. By doing so, after light emitted from at least one light source 9 passes through the surface member 3, the vertical and horizontal lengths of the figures displayed on the front side of the surface member 3 can be made to be approximately the same as the vertical and horizontal lengths of the letters and / or symbols.

[0059] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, when the switch device 1 is equipped with a back member 19, it is preferable that the front member 3 is waterproof, and the switch device 1 is equipped with an adhesive layer 37 between the front member 3 and the back member 19 that is light-transmitting and adheres the front member 3 and the back member 19. In this way, even if water splashes on the front member 3, or if a passenger operates at least one switch 29 from the front side of the front member 3 with wet fingers, water will not penetrate below the adhesive layer 37. Therefore, when the switch device 1 is energized, a short circuit caused by water will not occur and damage the electronic components. In other words, the switch device 1 can maintain its functionality as a switch.

[0060] Furthermore, the waterproofing of the surface member 3 can be achieved, for example, by applying a water-repellent coating to the surface of the surface member 3. In addition, the adhesive layer 37 has water resistance and watertightness.

[0061] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, when the switch device 1 comprises a back member 19 and an adhesive layer 37, it is preferable that the surface member 3, the adhesive layer 37, and the back member 19 are integrated as a multilayer structure 39.

[0062] Specifically, the adhesive layer 37 is derived from an adhesive film. This film is sandwiched between the sheet-like surface member 3 and the back member 19 before molding, and the surface member 3, film, and back member 19 are heated while pressure is applied. As a result, the surface member 3, film, and back member 19 are integrated as a multilayer structure 39. At this time, the film becomes the adhesive layer 37. By integrating the surface member 3, adhesive layer 37, and back member 19 as a multilayer structure 39, the adhesion between the surface member 3 and the back member 19 via the adhesive layer 37 is improved. Furthermore, with such a multilayer structure 39, the number of parts required when assembling the switch device 1 is effectively reduced, thus improving manufacturability.

[0063] Furthermore, it is preferable that the resin member 5 is integrally molded with the multilayer structure 39. In other words, it is preferable that the main body portion 15 includes the resin member 5 which is integrally molded with the multilayer structure 39 and positioned on the back side of the back member 19.

[0064] Specifically, insert molding is performed as follows: The multilayer structure 39 is pre-positioned in a predetermined location within the mold for molding the resin member 5. Then, with the mold closed, resin is injected to integrally mold the resin member 5 into the multilayer structure 39. This improves the adhesion between the multilayer structure 39 and the resin member 5. Furthermore, integrally molding the resin member 5 into the multilayer structure 39 makes the assembly of the switch device 1 easier and further improves manufacturability.

[0065] Furthermore, the switch device 1 is preferably used in an audio system installed on the instrument panel of the vehicle, or in the interior of the passenger compartment other than the audio system. The interior of the passenger compartment other than the audio system refers to, for example, in-vehicle devices such as a car navigation system, air conditioning system, electric seat adjustment system, electric window adjustment system, electric door mirror adjustment system, and driver assistance system.

[0066] Specifically, these in-vehicle devices, including audio equipment, are not used unless a power source such as the ignition power and / or accessory power is turned on. In other words, even if the predetermined design 17 is not displayed on the surface member 3 when the power is off, it does not cause any inconvenience to the occupant. Therefore, when the power is off, the predetermined design 17 is hidden on the surface member 3 to prevent the occupant from feeling confused by the numerous switches on the in-vehicle equipment. On the other hand, for example, when the vehicle is in motion, the power is on and the predetermined design 17 is displayed on the surface member 3. Therefore, even when the vehicle is in motion, the occupant can confidently operate, for example, the audio equipment via the switch device 1, which provides a tactile sense of physical operation.

[0067] Furthermore, it is more preferable that the switch device 1 be used in an audio system located on the instrument panel of a vehicle. Audio systems typically have a relatively large number of switches. The instrument panel where the audio system is located is in a place that is easily visible to passengers. Therefore, by applying the switch device 1 to the audio system, the design of the vehicle interior can be more effectively improved.

[0068] As described above, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes at least one switch 29 that is covered by the surface member 3 without protruding from the front side of the surface member 3. When at least one light source 9 is energized, a predetermined design 17 is displayed on the front side of the surface member 3 to indicate the operating position of at least one switch 29. Therefore, at least one switch 29 enables a passenger who sees at least one switch 29 to operate it in a timely manner. Moreover, the surface member 3 is elastic, and the switch 29 is a push-type switch. Therefore, at least one switch 29 provides the passenger with a comfortable click sensation that is not hindered by the surface member 3. Thus, the vehicle switch device 1 can have excellent functionality as a switch. Furthermore, since at least one switch 29 is hidden behind the surface member 3 when at least one light source 9 is not energized, the occupant will not be able to see the size, shape, or position of at least one switch 29. Moreover, the surface member 3 is usually fitted with at least one of the patterns and colors that match the interior of the vehicle, and at least one switch 29 does not protrude from the front side of the surface member 3. Therefore, at least one switch 29 enhances the design by blending in with the interior without causing the occupant any inconvenience caused by having to see at least one switch 29. Thus, the vehicle switch device 1 can have excellent design in the vehicle interior.

[0069] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes at least one switch 29, including at least one first switch 33 having the highest surface 33a among the at least one switch 29. The surface member 3 continuously covers the surface 33a of the at least one first switch 33 and the surface 16a of the first part 16, which is a portion of the main body 15 located at a height equal to or greater than the surface 33a of the at least one first switch 33, when the at least one first switch 33 is in the off state before it is pressed, and is maintained at a height equal to or greater than the surface 33a of the at least one first switch 33 between the at least one first switch 33 and the first part 16. By specifically defining the positional relationship between the first switch 33, the main body 15, and the surface member 3 in this way, the vehicle switch device 1 can reliably cover the at least one first switch 33, and consequently the at least one switch 29, with the surface member 3 without them protruding from the front side of the surface member 3.

[0070] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes at least one switch 29, which includes at least one first switch 33 having the highest surface 33a among at least one switch 29, and at least one second switch 35 having a surface 35a located at a height of less than or equal to the surface 33a of at least one first switch 33 and being different from at least one first switch 33. The surface member 3 continuously covers the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35 in the off state before the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35 are pressed, and is maintained at a height of at least the surface 35a of the at least one second switch 35 between the at least one first switch 33 and the at least one second switch 35. In this way, by specifically defining the positional relationship between at least one first switch 33, at least one second switch 35, and the surface member 3, the vehicle switch device 1 can reliably cover the surface member 3 with at least one first switch 33, at least one second switch 35, and consequently at least one switch 29, without them protruding from the front side of the surface member 3.

[0071] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes at least one switch 29, including at least one first switch 33 having the highest surface 33a among the at least one switch 29. The at least one first switch 33 is located at a height of or less than the surface 15a of the main body 15 when the at least one first switch 33 is in the off state before it is pressed. The surface member 3, when the at least one first switch 33 is in the off state, continuously covers the surface 33a of the at least one first switch 33 and the surface 15a of the main body 15 at the height of the surface 15a of the main body 15. By specifically defining the positional relationship between the at least one first switch 33, the main body 15, and the surface member 3 in this way, the vehicle switch device 1 can reliably cover the at least one first switch 33, and by extension the at least one switch 29, with the surface member 3 without them protruding from the front side of the surface member 3.

[0072] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment is an electrical switch and includes at least one switch 29 used when the power is ON, and at least one light source 9 that is energized when the power is ON. Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 can reduce the feeling of complexity experienced by passengers due to seeing many switches by not displaying a predetermined design 17 on the front surface of the surface member 3 when the power is OFF and it is not expected that at least one switch 29 will be used. Also, the vehicle switch device 1 can ensure that passengers can reliably operate at least one switch 29 by displaying a predetermined design 17 on the front surface of the surface member 3 when the power is ON and it is expected that at least one switch 29 will be used. Thus, the vehicle switch device 1 can further improve both its functionality as a switch and its design in the vehicle interior.

[0073] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes a back member 19 that is stretchable, positioned between the surface member 3 and the main body 15, and has a color that blocks light emitted from at least one light source 9. The back member 19 has the light-blocking color removed or removed in a portion of the back member 19 that corresponds to the shape of a predetermined design 17 displayed on the surface member 3, allowing light to pass through to display the predetermined design 17. The back member 19 blocks light in all other parts except the light-passing portion 36, which is the portion that allows light to pass through. Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 can clearly display the predetermined design 17 on the front side of the surface member 3. Moreover, because the back member 19 of the vehicle switch device 1 is stretchable, it does not impair the tactile click sensation when the occupant presses at least one switch 29 from the front side of the surface member 3. Thus, the vehicle switch device 1 can have excellent functionality as a switch. Furthermore, the shape of the light-transmitting portion 36 of the rear member 19 can be easily changed. For this purpose, the vehicle switch device 1 can be easily modified to change the predetermined design 17 displayed on the front side of the surface member 3, thereby increasing its versatility.

[0074] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes a surface member 3 made of woven fabric and a back member 19 made of nonwoven fabric. Woven fabric has a weaving pattern in which the threads are arranged in a regular manner. By appropriately adjusting the weaving pattern, light can be easily transmitted between the threads. Therefore, if woven fabric is used, the surface member 3 can be made to have not only excellent elasticity but also excellent light transmission. Nonwoven fabric, on the other hand, has fibers that are irregularly intertwined. Therefore, even if nonwoven fabric is relatively thin, it eliminates gaps through which light can pass, effectively blocking light. Therefore, if nonwoven fabric is used, the back member 19 can be made to have not only excellent elasticity but also excellent light-shielding properties. Accordingly, by combining the surface member 3 made of woven fabric with excellent light transmission properties and the back member 19 made of nonwoven fabric with excellent light-shielding properties, the vehicle switch device 1 can display a predetermined design 17 more clearly on the front side of the surface member 3.

[0075] Furthermore, in the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment, the line thickness of the light-transmitting portion 36, which is the portion of the back member 19 that allows light to pass through, is thinner than the nominal value of the line thickness of the predetermined design 17 displayed on the front side of the surface member 3. Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 can make the predetermined design 17 into a desired shape by preventing the lines of the predetermined design 17 from becoming excessively thick due to light diffusion.

[0076] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes a waterproof surface member 3 and an adhesive layer 37 between the surface member 3 and the back member 19 that is light-transmitting and adheres the surface member 3 and the back member 19 together. The surface member 3 and the adhesive layer 37 prevent water from entering the back member 19 and below the back member 19. Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 can protect electronic components from short circuits caused by water when energized, thereby maintaining its functionality as a switch.

[0077] Furthermore, in the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment, the surface member 3, adhesive layer 37, and back member 19 are integrated as a multilayer structure 39. Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 improves the adhesion between the surface member 3 and the back member 19 via the adhesive layer 37, and also improves manufacturability by reducing the number of parts required for assembly.

[0078] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment includes a main body portion 15 which is integrally molded with the multilayer structure 39 and is positioned on the back side of the rear member 19, and a resin member 5. Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 improves the adhesion between the multilayer structure 39 and the resin member 5, and further reduces the number of parts required for assembly, thereby improving manufacturability.

[0079] Furthermore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment is used in an audio device installed on the instrument panel of a vehicle, or in the interior of the vehicle cabin other than the audio device. Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 can provide the in-vehicle equipment in the cabin with excellent operability that has a click feel and excellent design that harmonizes with the interior.

[0080] Therefore, the vehicle switch device 1 according to this embodiment can have not only functionality as a switch, but also excellent design features within the vehicle.

[0081] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0082] 1...Vehicle switch device (switch device), 3...Surface member, 3a...Surface, 5...Resin member, 7...Switch element, 9...Light source, 11...Substrate, 13...Case, 15...Main body, 15a...Surface, 16...First part, 16a...Surface, 17, 17c, 17d, 17e...Predetermined design, 19...Back member, 21...Bottom, 23...Protruding part, 23a...Surface, 25a...First slit, 25b...Second slit, 27...Plate part, 27a...Fixed end, 27b...Protrusion, 29...Switch, 31...Button member, 32, 32a...Transparent part, 33...First switch, 33a...Surface, 35...Second switch, 35a...Surface, 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, 36e, 36f, 36g...Light-transmitting part, 37...Adhesive layer, 39...Multilayer structure.

Claims

1. A surface member having a front side exposed to the vehicle compartment, a back side not exposed to the vehicle compartment, light transmission from the back side to the front side, and elasticity, and having at least one of a pattern and a color applied to it, The surface member has a light-transmitting button member that is positioned on the back side of the surface member and covered, and at least one push-type switch that allows the button member to be operated from the front side of the surface member, The system includes at least one light source that, when energized, illuminates the back of each of the button members with light to display a predetermined design on the surface member indicating the operating position of at least one switch, and when not energized, does not illuminate with light to conceal the operating position of at least one switch from the surface member, The system comprises at least a portion of each of the at least one switches and a main body that houses the at least one light source, A vehicle switch device in which at least one of the switches is covered by the surface member without protruding from the front side of the surface member.

2. The at least one switch includes at least one first switch having the highest surface among the at least one switch, The vehicle switch device according to claim 1, wherein the surface member continuously covers the surface of the at least one first switch and the surface of a first portion of the main body which is located at a height greater than or equal to the surface of the at least one first switch when the at least one first switch is pressed in the off state, and is maintained at a height greater than or equal to the surface of the at least one first switch between the at least one first switch and the first portion.

3. The at least one switch includes at least one first switch having the highest surface among the at least one switch, and at least one second switch having a surface located at a height lower than or equal to the surface of the at least one first switch and being different from the at least one first switch. The vehicle switch device according to claim 1, wherein the surface member continuously covers the at least one first switch and the at least one second switch in the off state before the at least one first switch and the at least one second switch are pressed, and is maintained at a height greater than or equal to the surface of the at least one second switch between the at least one first switch and the at least one second switch.

4. The at least one switch includes at least one first switch having the highest surface among the at least one switch, The at least one first switch is located at a height below the surface of the main body when it is in the off state before the at least one first switch is pressed. The vehicle switch device according to claim 1, wherein the surface member, when the at least one first switch is in the off state, continuously covers the surface of the at least one first switch and the surface of the main body at the height of the surface of the main body.

5. The aforementioned at least one switch is an electrical switch, which is used when the power is ON. The vehicle switch device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one light source is energized when the power supply is in the ON state.

6. The back member is stretchable and positioned between the surface member and the main body, and is colored to block the light irradiated from the at least one light source, The vehicle switch device according to claim 1, wherein the rear member allows light to pass through in order to display the predetermined design by removing the color from the portion of the rear member located at a position corresponding to the shape of the predetermined design displayed on the surface member, or by removing the portion of the rear member.

7. The material of the surface member is woven fabric. The vehicle switch device according to claim 6, wherein the back member is made of nonwoven fabric.

8. The vehicle switch device according to claim 6, wherein the thickness of the line of the light-transmitting portion of the back member, which is the portion that allows light to pass through, is thinner than the nominal value of the line thickness of the predetermined design displayed on the front side of the surface member.

9. The surface member has waterproof properties, The vehicle switch device according to claim 6, further comprising an adhesive layer between the surface member and the back member, which is light-transmitting and adheres the surface member and the back member together.

10. The vehicle switch device according to claim 9, wherein the surface member, the adhesive layer, and the back member are integrated as a multilayer structure.

11. The vehicle switch device according to claim 10, wherein the main body is an assembly of multiple members, and includes a resin member that is integrally molded with the multilayer structure and arranged on the back side of the rear member.

12. A vehicle switch device according to claim 5, used in an audio device provided on an instrument panel.

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