Vehicle Interior Control System

Abstract

To provide a control system for vehicle interior.SOLUTION: A control system 1000 for vehicle interior comprises control elements 100, 200 for allowing a user to interact. The control element comprises: a conductive plastic sensing electrode 10 configured to provide one or a plurality of electric signals; and a non-conductive plastic cover material 20 provided on or above the sensing electrode. The sensing electrode can be coupled electrically, to a coupling circuit board 400 by mechanical engagement and / or frictional engagement for measuring the one or the plurality of electric signals. One or the plurality of electric signals is provided according to change of electric capacity caused by contact and / or movement of a conductive object and / or a pressure or force applied to the non-conductive material on / above the sensing electrode. The control system can be coupled to an electric control unit (ECU) of a vehicle for controlling one or a plurality of vehicle functions which can be controlled by a user, in response to a user interaction with the control elements.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a control system for a vehicle interior, such as an automobile, having one or more plastic-based touch-sensing control elements and / or pressure / force-sensing control elements with which a user can interact to control one or more functions of the vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Vehicle interiors, such as automobiles and aircraft, contain many user interface controls (control elements) that allow a user (driver or passenger) to control various functions of the vehicle. In automobiles, these functions include, but are not limited to, operating windows, climate control systems, navigation systems, entertainment systems, locking / unlocking doors, adjusting seats, etc. Traditionally, user interface controls have been in the form of electromechanical push buttons, switches, and rotary knobs that consist of multiple injection-molded plastic sub-components that fit together to mechanically move and actuate electronic components mounted on an underlying circuit board. The main problems with these prior art technologies are the large number of sub-components required for the assembly of relatively simple functional elements and the standard actuation mechanisms that depend on the specific electronic components and mounting configurations. This limits the complexity of the control system and the design freedom of the vehicle interior. For example, the location or placement of such conventional control elements may be driven more by mechanical / physical constraints associated with the materials used and / or the size, shape, and / or stiffness of the components than by ergonomic considerations. These multi-component control interfaces are prone to collecting dust and the grooves and gaps that separate the components allow water to seep in, potentially leading to device failure.

[0003] The increasing number of complex devices and functions available in vehicles today has created a demand for new control concepts utilizing different technologies and materials with more emphasis on simplicity, reliability, and ergonomic design. As the automotive sector, in particular, moves towards seamless integration of control interfaces into interior surfaces in response to current technology trends, there is an increasing need for seamless and adaptable control interface solutions that are flexible in styling, ergonomic design, and functionality. With the increasing amount of technology packed into vehicles that can be considered as distracting, there is also a safety drive regarding automotive control interfaces to enable users to intuitively operate the automotive control interface without having to take their eyes off the road. This has resulted in (3D) profiled control interfaces, such as raised tactile buttons, rotary knobs, and push-pull buttons, that are easily operated by users, now being integrated into the interior spaces of automobiles.

[0004] Capacitive touch-sensitive control elements and panels are currently replacing traditional electromechanical control elements because they are typically reconfigurable and can provide the functionality of buttons, switches, and / or trackpads. However, while traditional capacitive sensors are a relatively mature technology, they require sophisticated fabrication techniques and expensive materials, which increases the overall cost of a vehicle interior. In addition, this sensing technology is often incompatible with three-dimensional (3D) profiled surfaces, so capacitive touch interfaces are typically integrated into flat surfaces in vehicle interiors, limiting the range of gesture interactions that users can perform and ergonomic design considerations that can enhance driver safety. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a control system for a vehicle interior that can be seamlessly integrated anywhere in the vehicle interior without sacrificing functionality, and that utilizes ergonomic control elements / interfaces that are simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

[0006] It is with the above in mind that aspects and embodiments of the present invention have been devised. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a control system for a vehicle interior is provided, including a control element with which a user interacts. The control element may include a sensing electrode configured to provide one or more electrical signals and a non-conductive covering material provided on or above the sensing electrode. The sensing electrode may be formed from or may include a conductive plastic. The non-conductive covering material may be formed from or may include a non-conductive plastic. The non-conductive covering material may be or may include an outer layer, overlayer, or skin of the control element. The non-conductive covering material may provide one or more touch-interactive surfaces of the control element. The sensing electrode may be configured to be connectable and / or electrically connectable to a connecting circuit board by mechanical engagement and / or frictional engagement to measure one or more electrical signals. The mechanical engagement and / or frictional engagement may be mechanical contact or mechanical electrical connection. The one or more electrical signals may be provided in response to a change in capacitance (e.g., of the sensing electrode) caused by contact and / or movement of a conductive object on / above the non-conductive material provided on / above the sensing electrode. Additionally or alternatively, the change in capacitance may be caused by pressure or force exerted on the non-conductive material.The control system is connectable to an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle for controlling one or more user controllable vehicle functions in response to user interaction with the control elements.

[0008] In this context, the term "mechanical contact" means to physically contact and provide a non-permanent electrical connection between the two, i.e., not a solder joint or other form of wire bonding.

[0009] The control element is a plastic-based capacitive touch sensor and / or mechanical deformation / pressure sensor for automotive applications. The control system provides an easily manufacturable and low-cost assembly solution for an ergonomic and three-dimensionally (3D) profiled touch-sensitive and / or pressure-sensitive user interface for automotive applications. The use of conductive plastic for the sensing electrodes has several advantages over traditional touch-sensing and / or electromechanical pressure-sensing technologies that use metal electrodes. First, the material cost and weight are significantly lower than those of traditional metal electrode materials (e.g., gold, silver, or aluminum). Second, because plastic is moldable, the sensing electrodes and non-conductive materials can be formed and / or molded into almost any size, shape, or 3D form due to the nature of the molding process, allowing the plastic-based control element to be seamlessly integrated into the interior surfaces of the vehicle. Additionally, the shapes / sizes of the plastic parts can be specifically selected or designed to provide different user interactive functions, such as, for example, touch buttons, touch sliders, touch trackpads, and static rotary knobs, as well as push-pull type switches / triggers, toggle switches, push buttons, and torsion handles.

[0010] The control element can be actuated by touching the control element (i.e., the covering material above the sensing electrode) with a conductive object such as a finger, and / or by applying pressure or force (e.g., push and / or pull) to the control element to move and / or deform the sensing electrode relative to the connecting circuit board to change the distance between at least a portion of the sensing electrode and a sensing point on the connecting circuit board. Touching the control element can change the self-capacitance of the sensing electrode measured at the sensing point on the connecting circuit board, while moving / deforming the sensing electrode can change the capacitance between the sensing electrode and the sensing point, both resulting in a change in the electrical signal measured at the sensing point. In the latter case, the control element may include a movable and / or deformable conductive plastic part that directly interacts with the underlying connecting circuit board, thereby providing the functionality of a conventional electromechanical in-car switch with minimal parts.

[0011] The conductive plastic sensing electrodes can be electrically connected to the connecting circuit board by mechanical and / or frictional engagement, and can be mounted and connected to the connecting circuit board without wiring or soldering, greatly simplifying and reducing the manufacturing and assembly of the control element. The plastic sensing electrodes can be a single movable or deformable part that directly interacts with the underlying connecting circuit board, and can reduce the part count of the control element. Furthermore, the conductive plastic sensing electrodes can be secured to the connecting circuit board by mechanical and / or frictional engagement, greatly simplifying the assembly of the control system, greatly reducing the assembly time, and also reducing the associated manufacturing / assembly costs compared to traditional metal-based sensor technology. To assemble the control system, the sensing electrodes can be simply pushed, slid, and / or clipped into the appropriate location on the connecting circuit board to mechanically and electrically connect, and the frictional engagement with the connecting circuit board holds the sensing electrodes in place, maintaining the mechanical and electrical connection throughout the remainder of the assembly process and during use of the control system when installed in the vehicle.

[0012] Further practical and functional advantages of using conductive plastic electrodes for capacitive touch sensors include: The sensing electrodes can be formed / molded to match the exterior shape of the vehicle component regardless of its complexity, eliminating the need for flexible printed circuits with their associated electrode placement complexity, increased wiring, potential for wear, and increased assembly costs. Sensing electrodes are capable of covering a larger area, making them much more sensitive to capacitance changes and therefore generating a larger signal change for a given user interaction (e.g., touch or push-pull) compared to their typically smaller metal electrode counterparts. The size and shape of the sensing electrodes may be selected to tailor the electrical signal generated, for example to generate a smooth electrical signal change between a minimum and maximum signal value, thereby enabling the sensing electrodes to sense a wide range of user interactions, including customized detection of different finger movement interactions. Overall, there is significantly more design freedom regarding the control elements, electrode placement, and the touch-sensing control element itself.

[0013] The sensing electrodes and the covering material may be formed by an injection molding process. Optionally or preferably, the covering material is substantially flexible / deformable and elastic. The control system may include a connection circuit board including one or more sensing points for measuring one or more electrical signals. The connection circuit board may be configured to electrically connect to the sensing electrodes at at least one of the one or more sensing points by mechanical engagement and / or frictional engagement. The sensing electrodes may be configured to mechanically contact and electrically connect to at least one of the one or more sensing points on the connection circuit board.

[0014] The sensing electrode may include a first portion configured to face, mechanically contact, and / or engage and electrically connect with a first sensing point on a connecting circuit board. The first portion may be or include a protrusion. The mechanical contact or engagement between the first portion and the first sensing point may substantially prevent relative movement between the first portion and the first sensing point.

[0015] The first sensing point may be or may include an electrical connector that mechanically contacts, deforms, and / or connects to a first portion of the sensing electrode. EmbeddedThe sensor may include a substantially rigid mating portion configured for electrical connection, which allows electrical connection between the sensing electrode and a connecting circuit board at the first sensing point by mechanical engagement.

[0016] Further, the electrical connector may be configured to frictionally engage the first portion of the sensing electrode to secure the sensing electrode to the connecting circuit board. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting circuit board may include a fastening element configured to frictionally engage a corresponding fastening portion of the sensing electrode to secure the sensing electrode to the connecting circuit board. The frictional engagement may maintain mechanical contact (mechanical electrical connection) between the first portion and the first sensing point.

[0017] The electrical connector and / or the fixing element can be or include a protrusion protruding from the connecting circuit board, and the first portion and / or the fixed portion of the sensing electrode can be or include a recess configured to frictionally engage with the respective protrusion. Alternatively, the electrical connector and / or the fixing element can be or include a recess, opening, or through-hole in the connecting circuit board, and the first portion and / or the fixed portion of the sensing electrode can be or include a protrusion configured to frictionally engage with the respective recess.

[0018] The control element may include a plurality of said conductive plastic sensing electrodes, and a non-conductive plastic covering material may be provided on or over each of the sensing electrodes. Each of the sensing electrodes may include a non-conductive plastic covering material on the non-conductive plastic material. conductive sexual object / The two or more adjacent sensing electrodes may be configured to provide a characteristic or predefined change in one or more electrical signals in response to the movement of a conductive object across the non-conductive plastic material. The conductive object / They may be configured to interdigitate in one or more directions to provide a substantially smooth change in one or more electrical signals in response to movement of the conductive object across the non-conductive plastic material.

[0019] Mechanical contact or engagement between the first portion and the first sensing point allows the first portion to move relative to the first sensing point while maintaining constant electrical contact with the first sensing point. The first portion may be configured to allow the sensing electrode to pivot / rotate about the first portion while maintaining constant electrical contact with the first sensing point.

[0020] The sensing electrode may include a second portion configured to face a second sensing point on the connecting circuit board. The second sensing point may be on the same side of the connecting circuit board as the first sensing point or on an opposite side of the first sensing point. The second portion may be movable and / or deformable from a rest position to a first actuated position in response to a pressure / force applied to the sensing electrode to change a distance between the second portion and the second sensing point. The sensing electrode may be configured to pivot / rotate about the first portion from a rest position to the first actuated position. Optionally, the second portion may be configured to move or at least partially deform / bend relative to the first portion in response to a pressure or force applied to the second portion.

[0021] The sensing electrode can include a slot for receiving a portion of the connecting circuit board. The sensing electrode can be configured to grip and / or frictionally engage the connecting circuit board between opposing walls of the slot. The gripping and / or frictional engagement can maintain mechanical contact (mechanical electrical connection) between the first portion and the first sensing point.

[0022] The sensing electrode may include a third portion configured to face a third electrode on the connecting circuit board. The third sensing point may be located on the same side of the connecting circuit board as the second sensing point or on an opposite side of the second sensing point. The third portion may be movable and / or deformable from a rest position to a second actuated position in response to a pressure / force applied to the sensing electrode to change a distance between the third portion and the third sensing point. The sensing electrode may be configured to pivot / rotate about the first portion from a rest position to the second actuated position. Optionally, the third portion may be configured to move or at least partially deform / bend relative to the first portion in response to a pressure / force applied to the third portion.

[0023] The one or more electrical signals may be provided in response to a change in capacitance between the sensing electrode and one or more sensing points (e.g., the second and / or third sensing points) on the connecting circuit board caused by a force or pressure applied to the sensing electrode that changes a distance between one or more portions (e.g., the second and / or third portions) of the sensing electrode and a respective sensing point on the connecting circuit board. Each sensing point may be associated with a different portion of the sensing electrode.

[0024] The first, second, and third portions of the sensing electrode may be part of a single piece of conductive plastic. Alternatively, the first, second, and third portions of the sensing electrode may be or include separate pieces of conductive plastic.

[0025] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control system for a vehicle interior, including a control element for user interaction. The control element may include a sensing electrode configured to provide one or more electrical signals and a non-conductive material provided on or above the sensing electrode. The sensing electrode may be formed from or may include a conductive plastic. The non-conductive material may be formed from or may include a non-conductive plastic. The one or more electrical signals may be provided in response to a change in capacitance of the sensing electrode caused by a conductive object (such as, for example, a user's finger or thumb) being in proximity to or in contact with the non-conductive material. The non-conductive material may be or may include an outer layer, overlayer, or skin of the control element. The non-conductive material may provide one or more touch-interactive surfaces of the control element. The capacitance may be a self-capacitance of the sensing electrode. The sensing electrode may be configured to be connectable to a connecting circuit board by frictional engagement for measuring one or more electrical signals at one or more sensing points. In this context, a sensing point defines a point of electrical connection between the sensing electrode and the connecting circuit board. Thus, the one or more sensing points are considered to be on the sensing electrodes or on a connecting circuit board. The control system is connectable to an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle for controlling one or more user-controllable vehicle functions in response to user interaction with the control elements. The control system may further include a connecting circuit board for mounting the sensing electrodes. The connecting circuit board may be configured to electrically connect to the sensing electrodes at the one or more sensing points to measure one or more electrical signals. The connecting circuit board may be further configured to secure the sensing electrodes on or to the connecting circuit board by frictional engagement, such as an interference fit.

[0026] The control element of the second embodiment is a plastic-based capacitive touch sensor for automotive applications. The control system provides an easily manufacturable and low-cost assembleable solution for an ergonomic and three-dimensionally (3D) profiled touch-sensitive user interface for automotive applications.

[0027] The sensing electrode may be electrically connected to the connecting circuit board at one or more sensing points associated with the sensing electrode. When the sensing electrode is associated with more than one sensing point, each sensing point may be associated with a different portion of the sensing electrode. Each sensing point of the sensing electrode may be electrically connected to a different conductive track on the connecting circuit board. When there are multiple sensing points, each sensing point associated with the sensing electrode may provide a separate electrical signal (to the measurement module) in response to an operator interacting with the control element. Each sensing point may provide a separate electrical signal in response to a conductive object, such as an operator's finger / thumb / hand, being on or near the surface of the non-conductive plastic material proximate to each sensing point.

[0028] The connecting circuit board can include one or more electrical connectors configured to mechanically contact the sensing electrodes at one or more sensing points. Advantageously, the mechanical connection means that the sensing electrodes can be directly electrically connected to the connecting circuit board when the sensing electrodes are snapped into place during assembly, without the need for wires, solder, conductive adhesives, or other permanent electrical connection means. Additionally, the mechanical and electrical connection is maintained by a frictional engagement that secures the sensing electrodes in place.

[0029] the or each electrical connector mechanically contacts and deforms a corresponding contact portion of a sensing electrode (at each sensing point); and / or Fit Be absorbed The mating portion may be or may include a substantially rigid mating portion configured to connect the sensing electrode to the sensing electrode. The mating portion may be or may include one or more metal protrusions, pins, castellated pads, clip pins, and / or any other form of metal connector that allows for a robust mechanical connection to the sensing electrode. The mating portion and the contact portion may form a male-female connection. For example, the mating portion may be or may include a protrusion protruding from a connecting circuit board, and the contact portion may be or may include an opening or recess configured to receive the protrusion of the mating portion (or vice versa) to make the electrical connection.

[0030] Optionally or preferably, the mating portions can be biased towards the contact portions of the respective sensing electrodes, or vice versa. For example, the mating portions can be spring-loaded. Additionally or alternatively, the conductive plastic material of the sensing electrodes can be substantially elastic and can apply a reaction force against the mating portions in response to deformation (compression or bending) by the mating portions.

[0031] The one or more electrical connectors may be further configured to provide a frictional engagement and / or an interference fit between the sensing electrodes and the connecting circuit board, i.e., the one or more electrical connectors may be configured to secure the sensing electrodes on or to the connecting circuit board by frictional engagement in addition to providing a mechanical electrical connection therebetween. Additionally or alternatively, the connecting circuit board may include one or more separate connection elements / portions configured to secure the sensing electrodes on or to the connecting circuit board by frictional engagement.

[0032] The or each electrical connector and / or connection element may be or include a protrusion protruding from a connecting circuit board, and the sensing electrode may include one or more recesses configured to frictionally engage with the respective protrusion. When the electrical connector is configured to secure the sensing electrode, at least one of the recesses may be or include a contact portion of the sensing electrode. Alternatively, the or each electrical connector and / or connection element may be or include a recess, opening, or through-hole in the connecting circuit board, and the sensing electrode may include one or more protrusions configured to frictionally engage with the respective recess, opening, or through-hole.

[0033] The control element may include a plurality of conductive plastic sensing electrodes. Each of the sensing electrodes may be positioned or disposed adjacent to one another. A non-conductive material may be provided on or above each of the sensing electrodes. Thus, one or more touch-sensitive surfaces may extend above the plurality of sensing electrodes. Each of the sensing electrodes may be connected to a connecting circuit board at one or more sensing points. Each of the sensing electrodes may be configured to provide one or more electrical signals in response to a change in capacitance of the respective sensing electrode caused by a conductive object proximate to or contacting the non-conductive material on or above the respective sensing electrode.

[0034] When the multiple sensing electrodes are adjacent to one another, at least two adjacent sensing electrodes may be shaped and / or configured to interdigitate and / or interlock with one another in one or more directions. In this manner, movement of a conductive object on / across the non-conductive plastic material on or above the at least two sensing electrodes results in a characteristic signal profile change in one or more electrical signals, which may be a substantially smooth change. The at least two adjacent sensing electrodes may provide a first touch-interactive surface.

[0035] The control element may be configured such that one or more electrical signals change in response to contact and / or movement of a conductive object on / across the non-conductive plastic material with one or more sensing points of the or each sensing electrode. The change in the one or more electrical signals may result from a change in area of ​​overlap and / or a change in distance between the conductive object and the sensing electrode. Optionally or preferably, the sensing electrode may be configured to provide one or more electrical signals in response to linear and / or circular movement of a conductive object across the non-conductive plastic material.

[0036] The control element may be configured to detect one or more of a contact / touch from a user, a contact location / touch position, a speed and / or a direction of movement of the conductive object on / across a surface of the non-conductive plastic material relative to one or more sensing points based on one or more electrical signals. The control element may be formed and configured to provide a touch button function, a slider function, a track pad function, and / or a static rotary knob function.

[0037] If the change in electrical signal is caused by a change in the distance between the conductive object and the sensing point, the change can be related to a change in capacitance recorded by the sensing point depending on the position / location of the conductive object on the surface. 2 Ohm.cm to 1x10 6 It may have an electrical resistivity in the range of Ohm.cm. Having a large resistivity means that the magnitude of the measured capacitance varies more strongly with the distance between the location of the conductive object and the respective sensing point. The resistivity and / or resistance of the or each sensing electrode may be tuned via the inherent material properties (i.e., inherent resistivity) of the conductive plastic. Alternatively or additionally, the resistivity and / or resistance of the sensing electrode may be tuned without changing the inherent material properties by instead introducing one or more holes, hollows, recesses, thickness variations, and / or repeating geometric patterns / tracks into the sensing electrode. For example, the sensing electrode may be or include complex shapes and / or repeating geometric patterns to provide a predetermined resistance between any two points. There may be multiple hollows and / or recesses forming a regular array. One or more holes, hollows, and / or recesses may define a nonlinear conductive path between two points. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more hollows and / or recesses may define multiple linear and / or non-linear conductive paths between two points.

[0038] When the control element includes multiple sensing electrodes, multiple adjacent sensing electrodes may be shaped and / or configured to interdigitate, interlock and / or interlock with each other to form a 3D structure. A non-conductive material may be provided above or may cover the 3D structure to provide one or more touch-interactive surfaces. The or each touch-interactive surface may extend across or above the multiple sensing electrodes. Each sensing electrode may include one or more sensing points. The control element may include first and second touch-sensitive surfaces. Touch and / or movement of a conductive object on / across the non-conductive plastic material on or above the first and second touch-interactive surfaces may result in different / distinguishable changes in one or more electrical signals.

[0039] The touch button control element may include a first touch-interactive surface. The touch button control may be configured to detect when a conductive object is in contact with or in close proximity to a first touch-interactive surface of non-conductive material above the or each sensing electrode. When multiple sensing electrodes are present, each sensing electrode may define a sub-area of ​​the first touch-interactive surface such that a contact or touch in / on each different sub-area may be detected. In this way, the control element may provide multi-button and / or key pad functionality.

[0040] The slider control element may include a first touch-interactive surface. The slider control element may be configured to detect when a conductive object is in contact with or in close proximity to a first touch-interactive surface of non-conductive material above the or each sensing electrode. In addition, the slider control element may be configured to detect a position, direction, and / or amount of movement of a conductive object on / across the first touch-interactive surface along a single path (which may be a linear path or a curved path) based on a change in distance between the conductive object and a sensing point.

[0041] The track pad control element may include a first touch-interactive surface. The track pad pad may include a plurality of interlocking sensing electrodes. The track pad control element may be configured to detect when a conductive object is in contact with or in close proximity to a non-conductive touch-interactive surface above the or each sensing electrode. Additionally, the track pad control element may be configured to detect a position and / or a direction and / or amount of movement of a conductive object on / across the touch-interactive surface along a plurality of paths (which may be linear or curved paths) based on a change in distance between the conductive object and a sensing point and / or based on a change in overlap between the conductive object and the or each sensing electrode.

[0042] The static rotary knob control element may have a raised 3D structure with a top and a side surface. The raised 3D structure may have a top and a side. The static rotary knob control element may include a first touch-interactive surface. The first touch-interactive surface may be or include at least a portion of the side surface and / or may extend at least partially around the side surface of the 3D structure. The side surface may be substantially curved and may be configured to provide a slider function, for example, a first touch-interactive surface capable of detecting when a conductive object is in contact with or in close proximity to a side surface of a non-conductive material above the or each sensing electrode, and additionally detecting the position and / or direction and / or amount of movement of the conductive object around the side surface along a single path based on a change in distance between the conductive object and the sensing point and / or based on a change in overlap between the conductive object and the or each sensing electrode. In this way, the static rotary knob may replicate the functionality of a mechanical rotary knob without the control element rotating. Optionally, the static rotary knob control element can include a second touch-interactive surface. The second touch-interactive surface can be or can include at least a portion of the top surface. The top surface can be substantially flat or curved. The second touch-interactive surface can be configured to provide touch button and / or trackpad functionality, as described above.

[0043] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control system for a vehicle interior, including a control element for user interaction. The control element may include a sensing electrode configured to provide one or more electrical signals and a non-conductive material disposed on or above the sensing electrode. The sensing electrode may be formed from or may include a conductive plastic. The non-conductive material may be formed from or may include a non-conductive plastic. The non-conductive material may be or may include an outer layer, overlayer, or skin of the control element. The sensing electrode or control element may be configured to be connectable to a connecting circuit board including one or more sensing points for measuring one or more electrical signals. The one or more electrical signals may be provided in response to a change in capacitance between the sensing electrode and at least one of the one or more sensing points of the connecting circuit board caused by a pressure or force applied to the sensing electrode that changes a distance between the sensing electrode and at least one of the one or more sensing points on the connecting circuit board. The control system can be connectable to a vehicle electronic control unit (ECU) for controlling one or more user controllable vehicle functions in response to user interaction with a control element. The control system can include a connection circuit board for mounting the sensing electrodes. The connection circuit board can include one or more sensing points for measuring one or more electrical signals.

[0044] The control element of the third aspect is a plastic-based mechanical deformation or pressure sensor for automotive applications. As described with respect to the first aspect, the control system provides an easily manufacturable and low-cost assembleable solution for an ergonomic and three-dimensionally (3D) profiled pressure-sensitive user interface for automotive applications.

[0045] The or each sensing point on the connecting circuit board may be or may comprise an electrode. The or each electrode may be or may comprise a metal or metal alloy pad, or a conductive plastic or polymer pad. Each electrode on the connecting circuit board may face a different portion of the sensing electrode. Each portion of the sensing electrode may capacitively interact with a respective electrode on the connecting circuit board, or vice versa.

[0046] The one or more sensing points may include a first electrode or a first sensing point facing a first portion of the sensing electrode. The first electrode / sensing point may be on a first side of the connection circuit board. The sensing electrode may include a first portion configured to contact the connection circuit board. The first portion of the sensing electrode may contact the first electrode / sensing point of the connection circuit board. Optionally or preferably, the first electrode / sensing point of the connection circuit board may be a ground point or a reference point.

[0047] A capacitance measured at the second electrode / sensing point may be altered by variable interaction with the first electrode / sensing point via a second portion electrically connected to the first electrode / sensing point. The first portion may be configured to space the second portion a first distance from the second electrode / sensing point on the connecting circuit board in the rest position. The second portion may be or include one or more protrusions extending toward the connecting circuit board.

[0048] The one or more sensing points may include a second electrode / sensing point facing a second portion of the sensing electrode. The second electrode / sensing point may be on a first side of the connecting circuit board. The sensing electrode may be movable and / or deformable in response to a pressure or force applied to the sensing electrode from a rest position in which the second portion of the sensing electrode is positioned a first distance from the second electrode / sensing point of the connecting circuit board to a first actuated position in which the second portion of the sensing electrode is positioned a second distance from the second electrode / sensing point of the connecting circuit board. The second distance is different from the first distance.

[0049] The second portion may be a first distance away from the second electrode / sensing point in the rest position. The sensing electrode may be configured such that the second portion moves and / or deforms toward or away from the second electrode / sensing point in response to an applied pressure or force. The second distance may be less than the first distance and greater than or equal to zero. Thus, a force or pressure may cause the second portion to move or deform into contact with the second electrode / sensing point.

[0050] The sensing electrode may be configured to move between a rest position and a first actuated position by pivoting and / or deforming in response to an applied pressure or force.

[0051] The second portion can be configured to deform relative to the first portion toward the second electrode / sensing point or the first actuated position in response to a pressure or force applied to the second portion. In this manner, movement between the rest position and the first actuated position can result from deformation of the second portion.

[0052] The sensing electrode may be configured to pivot / rotate about the first portion between a rest position and a first actuated position in response to a pressure or force applied to the sensing electrode. Optionally or preferably, the second portion may be configured to at least partially deform / bend / move relative to the first portion, e.g., toward the first actuated position, in response to a pressure or force applied to the first portion. In this manner, movement between the rest position and the first actuated position may occur by pivoting and selectively partial deformation.

[0053] The sensing electrode may include a third portion. The one or more sensing points may include a third electrode / sensing point facing the third portion. The sensing electrode may be movable and / or deformable in response to a pressure or force applied to the sensing electrode from a rest position in which the third portion of the sensing electrode is positioned a third distance from the third electrode / sensing point of the connecting circuit board to a second actuated position in which the third portion of the sensing electrode is positioned a fourth distance from the third electrode / sensing point of the connecting circuit board. The fourth distance is different from the third distance.

[0054] The third portion may be a third distance away from the third electrode / sensing point in the rest position. The sensing electrode may be configured to move and / or deform the third portion toward or away from the third electrode / sensing point in response to an applied pressure or force. The fourth distance may be less than the third distance and greater than or equal to zero. Thus, a force or pressure can move or deform the third portion into contact with the third electrode. The first portion may be configured to move the third portion a third distance away from the third electrode / sensing point in the rest position.

[0055] The sensing electrode may be configured to move between the rest position and the second actuated position by pivoting and / or deforming in response to an applied pressure or force. The sensing electrode may be configured to pivot / rotate about the first portion between the rest position and the second actuated position. Optionally or preferably, the third portion may be configured to at least partially deform / bend / move relative to the first portion, e.g., toward the second actuated position, in response to a pressure or force applied to the third portion. In this manner, movement between the rest position and the second actuated position may occur by pivoting and selectively partial deformation.

[0056] The control element can include a handle portion for a user to handle, grip, and / or manipulate to apply force / pressure to move / deform the sensing electrode. The handle portion can be or include a protrusion or extension for a user to grip, push, pull, and / or lift to move and / or deform the sensing electrode. The handle portion can extend away from the sensing electrode and / or the connecting circuit board. The sensing electrode can include a force transmission portion extending into the handle portion. The force transmission portion can transmit force or pressure to the first and / or third portion of the sensing electrode. For example, the force transmission portion can be or include a protrusion or extension. The protrusion or extension provides a lever action that pivots and / or deforms the sensing electrode about the second portion, for example, in response to a force or pressure applied to the extension.

[0057] The sensing electrodes may be configured to pivot or rotate about the first portion in a single plane or in multiple different planes. The or each pivot plane can be substantially orthogonal or perpendicular to the plane of the connecting circuit board. The sensing electrodes may be configured to pivot / rotate between the rest position and the first operating position in a first plane substantially orthogonal to the plane of the connecting circuit board, and to pivot / rotate between the rest position and the second operating position in substantially the same plane as the first plane. Alternatively, the sensing electrodes are configured to pivot / rotate between the rest position and the second operating position in a second plane substantially orthogonal to the plane of the connecting circuit board, the second plane being different from the first plane. For example, the second plane can be at an azimuth angle (with respect to an axis orthogonal to the connecting circuit board) to the first plane between 0 degrees and 180 degrees.

[0058] The third electrode / sensing point can be on the same side (first surface) of the connecting circuit board as the second electrode / sensing point. In this case, the second and third parts can be located on the same side of the connecting circuit board. In addition, if the sensing electrode pivots between the rest position and the first / second actuated position in the same plane, the second and third parts can be located on either side of the first part. For example, the second and third parts can be located on opposite sides of the first part and / or symmetrically located with respect to the position of the first part.

[0059] Alternatively, the third electrode / sensing point can be on the opposite side (second face) of the connecting circuit board relative to the first and / or second electrode / sensing point. In this case, the second and third parts can be located on either side of the connecting circuit board. In addition, if the sensing electrodes pivot between the rest position and the first / second actuated position in the same plane, the second and third parts can be located on the same side of the first part.

[0060] The sensing electrode may include a fourth portion or extrusion, the fourth portion or extrusion being configured to contact the connection circuit board on an opposite (second) side of the connection circuit board relative to the first portion. In this manner, the sensing electrode may be configured to grip and / or frictionally engage the connection circuit board between the first and fourth portions. For example, the sensing electrode may include a slot for receiving a portion of the connection circuit board, the first and fourth portions being positioned on opposing walls / sides of the slot and adapted to contact and frictionally engage both sides of the connection circuit board when assembled. The second and third portions may be positioned on the same or opposing walls of the slot.

[0061] The fourth portion may be or may include one or more protrusions extending toward the circuit board such that the sensing electrodes can pivot / rotate about the first and fourth portions between a rest position and the first / second actuated positions.

[0062] The non-conductive plastic material can be substantially flexible / deformable and resilient. Optionally, the conductive plastic material can also be substantially flexible / deformable and resilient. The sensing electrodes can be configured to return to a rest position upon removal of pressure or force via the resilience of the non-conductive plastic material and / or the conductive plastic material.

[0063] The control element may be configured to detect one or more of a movement / deformation, a direction of the movement / deformation, and / or an amount of movement / deformation of the sensing electrode relative to the connecting circuit board (the or each sensing point on the connecting circuit board) based on one or more electrical signals. The control element may be formed and configured to provide a push button function, a push-pull type trigger or switch function, or a toggle switch.

[0064] The following features apply to the control system of any of the first, second and / or third aspects of the invention.

[0065] The control system may further include a measurement module configured to measure one or more electrical signals at one or more sensing points. The measurement module may further be configured to detect a user interaction with the control element based on the one or more electrical signals. In the first or second aspect, the measurement module may be configured to detect one or more of a contact or touch from a user / operator, a contact / touch location, a speed and / or a direction and / or an amount of movement of said conductive object on / across a surface of a non-conductive plastic material relative to one or more sensing points based on the one or more electrical signals. In the first or third aspect, the measurement module may be configured to detect one or more of a movement / deformation, a direction of movement / deformation, and / or an amount of movement / deformation of a sensing electrode relative to said or each sensing point on a connecting circuit board based on the one or more electrical signals.

[0066] The one or more sensing points may be connected or connectable to the measurement module via one or more conductive tracks or traces on a connecting circuit board. The conductive tracks may be or include a metal or metal alloy, or a conductive plastic or polymer. The conductive tracks may be printed and / or deposited in or on the connecting circuit board as known in the art. The measurement module may be configured to measure the change in capacitance at the or each sensing point, for example, individually, sequentially, and / or simultaneously at all sensing points.

[0067] The measurement module may include a capacitive sensing chip, such as a capacitive sensing microprocessor or microcontroller, with one or more sensing or input channels for measuring capacitance changes. The capacitive sensing chip may be configured to measure capacitance changes at each sensing point connected to its input pins, for example, based on one or more electrical signals. The capacitance measurement may optionally be a frequency-based measurement. In the first or second embodiment, the capacitance measurement may be based on the self-capacitance of the sensing electrode. In the first or third embodiment, the capacitance measurement may be based on a capacitance change caused by the interaction of a sensing point on a connection circuit board with a sensing electrode, for example, the sensing electrode may be connected to a reference point or ground point via one or more of the sensing point (e.g., a first sensing point) and a conductive track, and may also capacitively interact with another sensing point (e.g., a second sensing point) on the connection circuit board, or vice versa.

[0068] The measurement module may further include a processing unit or chip, the processing unit or chip configured to receive measurement data from the capacitive sensing chip to detect or determine a user interaction with the control element based on the measurement data. The processing unit or chip may be in data communication with the capacitive sensing chip. The processing unit may be configured to store, process, and / or analyze the measurement data. The processing unit may be or include one or more processors, and one or more memories that store software and / or program instructions that, when executed or executed on the one or more processors, cause the processing unit to process and / or analyze the measurement data and detect or determine a user interaction. Alternatively or additionally, the processing unit may be in communication with a remote computing device running software configured to receive, process, store, and / or analyze the measurement data from the processing unit. The processing unit may be or include a microcontroller or microprocessor chip.

[0069] The measurement module can be connected to an ECU of the vehicle. The measurement module can be in data communication with the ECU using, for example, a particular type of protocol used by the automobile ECU. The measurement module can be further configured to provide one or more control signals to the ECU that are associated with the detected user interaction. The ECU can then control one or more functions of the vehicle based on the control signals generated in response to the user interaction with the control element.

[0070] The connecting circuit board may be substantially flat and rigid, or alternatively may be substantially curved and / or flexible. The measurement module may be mounted or mountable directly on or to the connecting circuit board. Alternatively, the measurement module may be remote from the connecting circuit board and electrically connected to one or more conductive tracks on the connecting circuit board via one or more flexible interconnects. Optionally or preferably, the flexible interconnects may be or include one or more printed circuit boards, flexible printed circuit boards, wires, and / or cables.

[0071] The or each sensing electrode and the non-conductive plastic material may be formed by a molding process, optionally or preferably by an injection molding process. The non-conductive plastic material may be overmolded onto the or each sensing electrode. The conductive plastic may be or include any one of a conductive thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a conductive thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or a conductive acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The non-conductive material may be or include any one of a non-conductive TPU, a non-conductive TPE, or a non-conductive ABS. The non-conductive plastic material may be substantially flexible, elastic, and / or deformable. The conductive plastic of the sensing electrode may be substantially rigid or flexible / deformable.

[0072] The connecting circuit board may further include one or more light emitting devices, and the control element may further include one or more substantially transparent (or at least partially transparent) plastic light guide portions extending through at least a portion of the sensing electrodes and guiding light emitted from the one or more light emitting devices through the sensing electrodes. If multiple sensing electrodes are present, any number of the sensing electrodes may include a light guide portion extending therethrough and guiding light from the one or more light emitting devices. The or each light emitting device may be connected to and actuated by a measurement module. The light emitting device may be actuated in response to a detected user interaction and / or in response to one or more signals received from an ECU (e.g., a turn-on signal received upon vehicle start-up or when the vehicle headlights are activated). The or each light emitting device may be or include a light emitting diode. The one or more light guide portions may be formed by a molding process, optionally or preferably by an injection molding process. The non-conductive plastic material may be formed between the sensing electrodes and the one or more light guide portions. It can be provided so as to cover .

[0073] The control system can further include a haptic feedback module in communication with the measurement module. The measurement module can be configured to control the haptic feedback module to operate, for example, in response to detecting a user interaction. The haptic feedback module can be or include a vibration motor mounted on or to a connecting circuit board.

[0074] A control system may include a plurality of said control elements, each of which may be mounted on or in the same connecting circuit board and may be connectable to the same measurement module.

[0075] The control system of any of the first through third aspects may be incorporated into almost any part of a vehicle interior, including, but not limited to, a door handle, a door trim panel, a dashboard element, a center console, an arm rest, a head rest, a steering wheel, or a seat element.

[0076] When the control element of the first or second aspect is incorporated into a steering wheel of a vehicle, the or each sensing electrode may be configured to wrap around the steering wheel handle in the area where the driver grips or holds the steering wheel, providing finger position tracking functionality, detecting gripping or gripping pressure, hand positioning, and whether the hand is off or on the steering wheel. The sensing electrode may include a plurality of sensing electrode portions spatially distributed around the steering wheel handle. Each sensing electrode portion may have a distinct sensing point configured to provide an electrical signal in response to a touch by an operator (e.g., touch by different fingers or finger portions). The electrode portions may be distributed in a pattern or set corresponding to expected finger positions. The finger portions may be or include the proximal, middle, or distal phalanges of a finger. In this manner, the location or proximity of the touch and / or finger movement may be determined from the electrical signal provided by the respective sensing electrode portion, thereby indicating both the contact / touch area and the pressure exerted by the finger or hand on the steering wheel.

[0077] The control system may include a non-conductive plastic body or shell for supporting one or more of said control elements within a control zone. The body or shell may define a portion of a vehicle interior. The non-conductive plastic material of the or each control element may be provided, for example, as an outer layer, over / around the control zone. The non-conductive plastic material of the or each control element may be a single piece provided over / around the control zone and may be at least a part of the body as an outer layer. The plastic body or shell may be or include at least a part of one of the following parts of a vehicle interior: a door handle, a door trim panel, a dashboard element, a center console, an armrest, a headrest, a steering wheel, or a seat element.

[0078] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle including one or more control systems according to the first and / or second aspects. The vehicle may be an automobile. The vehicle may include an electronic control unit (ECU) for controlling one or more user-controllable vehicle functions. The vehicle may further include one or more user-controllable sub-systems including one or more of electric windows, electric seats, central locking, an audio system, an entertainment system, a navigation system, a climate control system, a cruise control system, and a lighting system. The one or more control systems according to the first, second and / or third aspects may be connected to the ECU and may control one or more vehicle functions in response to user interaction with the or each control element.

[0079] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a control system according to the first or second aspect. The method may include the step of moulding a sensing electrode from a conductive plastic and may further include the step of moulding a non-conductive plastic material on or above the sensing electrode. The method may further include the step of providing a connection circuit board, the connection circuit board configured to electrically connect to the sensing electrode at one or more sensing points to measure one or more electrical signals, and configured to secure the sensing electrode on or to the connection circuit board by frictional engagement. The method may include the step of positioning the sensing electrode at a mounting location on the connection circuit board, the sensing electrode being secured and electrically connected to the connection circuit board by frictional engagement at the one or more sensing points.

[0080] The step of positioning the sensing electrode may include engaging or frictionally engaging one or more fixed portions of the sensing electrode with one or more corresponding fixed elements of or on the connecting circuit board to fix the sensing electrode to the connecting circuit board by frictional engagement. The step of positioning may include engaging one or more electrical connectors of or on the connecting circuit board with one or more corresponding contact portions of the sensing electrode to electrically connect the sensing electrode to the connecting circuit board at one or more sensing points. The one or more electrical connectors may be configured to mechanically contact the one or more contact portions of the sensing electrode. The step of engaging may include mechanically engaging one or more electrical connectors of or on the connecting circuit board with one or more corresponding contact portions of the sensing electrode. The one or more electrical connectors may be or include at least some of the one or more fixing elements. The step of positioning the sensing electrode may include frictionally engaging one or more electrical connectors of / on the connecting circuit board with one or more corresponding contact portions of the sensing electrode to electrically connect and fix the sensing electrode to the connecting circuit board at one or more sensing points.

[0081] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a control system according to the first or third aspects. The method may include the step of moulding a conductive plastic sensing electrode and may further include the step of moulding a non-conductive plastic material on or over the sensing electrode. The method may further include the step of providing a connection circuit board including one or more sensing points for measuring one or more electrical signals. The method may include the step of positioning the sensing electrode at a mounting location on the connection circuit board, the sensing electrode being electrically connected to the connection circuit board at the one or more sensing points.

[0082] Positioning the sensing electrodes can include positioning the sensing electrodes around an edge of the connection circuit board to grip and / or frictionally engage the connection circuit board. Positioning the sensing electrodes can include inserting a portion of the connection circuit board into a slot in the sensing electrodes such that the sensing electrodes grip and / or frictionally engage the connection circuit board between opposing walls of the slot. The sensing electrodes can grip and / or frictionally engage both sides of the connection circuit board.

[0083] Features that are described in the context of separate aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used together and / or interchangeable. Similarly, where features are, for simplicity, described in the context of a single embodiment, they may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. Features described in the context of a system may have corresponding features that can be defined in the context of a method, and vice versa, and these embodiments are specifically contemplated.

[0084] In order that the invention may be more fully understood, embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0085] [Figure 1] FIG. 1A shows an exemplary control system including multiple control elements according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B shows the control system of FIG. 1A with the sensing electrodes visible. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the control system of FIG. [Diagram 3] 1(a) to (i) show examples of user interactions with control elements according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] A diagram showing a means for connecting sensing electrodes of a touch sensing control element to a connecting circuit board according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 1(a)-(c) are cross-sectional views of an exemplary mechanical pressure / force sensing control element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1(a)-(c) show another exemplary mechanical pressure / force sensing control element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary mechanical pressure / force sensing control element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary mechanical pressure / force sensing control element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary areas of a vehicle interior into which a control system according to the present invention may be integrated. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 shows a control system including the control element of FIG. 8 integrated into a vehicle seat. [Figure 11] FIG. 2A shows another exemplary control system including multiple control elements according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2B shows an exploded view of the control system of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary control system for a door handle area including multiple control elements according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary control system for a steering wheel including a touch sensing control element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary control element that includes a light emitting device. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary method of controlling a vehicle function using the control system of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0086] It should be noted that the figures are schematic and may not be drawn to scale. Relative dimensions and proportions of parts in these figures may be shown exaggerated or reduced in size for clarity and convenience in the drawings. The same reference symbols are generally used to refer to corresponding or similar features in modified and / or different embodiments.

[0087] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention relate to a vehicle interior control system with plastic-based control elements (i.e., user interface devices), such as buttons, switches, and trackpads, that provides the functionality of traditional capacitive touch and electromechanical actuation technologies, but with a significantly simplified structure that greatly simplifies and reduces the cost of manufacturing and assembly.

[0088] The control element includes a conductive plastic sensing electrode covered by a non-conductive plastic material / layer, with which a user can interact by touching the non-conductive plastic material / layer or by applying force or pressure to move and / or deform the underlying sensing electrode. The sensing electrodes can form a network of individual sensing electrodes that are joined, supported, and electrically isolated by the non-conductive plastic overlayer to form a complete seamless assembly. The plastic sensing electrodes and the non-conductive plastic material can be shaped and / or formed with a specific three-dimensional (3D) shape (e.g., cross-section, profile, and / or surface contour) and / or arranged to provide the control element with a wide range of user interactive functionality. In particular, the conductive plastic sensing electrodes can be designed and formed into a specific 3D shape. The particular 3D shape allows for touch sensing applications where the resistance between any two points is distinguishable and tunable in ways that may not otherwise be feasible with traditional metal electrode counterparts, and for pressure sensing applications where the control elements exhibit particular intended mechanical properties, such as being moveable, flexible, and / or deformable in response to applied force or pressure to extend the functionality of the control interface technology.

[0089] FIG. 1a illustrates an exemplary control system 1000 for a vehicle interior including a plurality of control elements of a first type 100 and a second type 200 suitable for interaction with a user or operator, such as a driver or passenger, to control one or more vehicle functions. The control elements 100, 200 include one or more conductive plastic sensing electrodes 10 configured to provide one or more electrical signals in response to user interaction with the control elements 100, 200, and a non-conductive plastic material 20 provided on or above the or each conductive plastic sensing electrode 10. The non-conductive plastic material 20 is provided as an outer layer, overlayer, or skin of the control elements 100, 200 with which the user or operator interacts (however, one or more additional layers of non-conductive material, e.g., fabrics, coatings, paints, colored plastics, etc., may be provided on or above the plastic overlayer 20, provided they do not affect the functionality of the control elements 100, 200). FIG. 1a shows the control system 1000 with the control elements 100, 200 covered by a plastic overlayer 20, and FIG. 1b shows the control system 1000 without the overlayer 20, showing the sensing electrodes 10 underlying the control elements 100, 200.

[0090] 2 shows an exploded view of the control system 1000. The control system 1000 also includes a measurement module 300 for measuring one or more electrical signals provided by the sensing electrodes 10 of each control element 100, 200, and a connection circuit board 400 for mounting and connecting the sensing electrodes 10 to the measurement module 300. The measurement module 300 is connected to the sensing electrodes 10 by conductive tracks or traces 410 on the connection circuit board 400. The measurement module 300 can be mounted on the connection circuit board 400 or can be separate from the connection circuit board 400 and connected thereto via a flexible interconnect 310, such as a USB-type cable as shown in FIG. 2.

[0091] The measurement module 300 is connectable to an electronic control unit (ECU) of a vehicle (not shown) and configured to determine one or more user interactions with the control elements 100, 200 based on the measured electrical signals and configured to generate / provide one or more control signals for the ECU associated with the detected user interactions. The ECU may then be capable of controlling one or more functions of the vehicle based on the control signals generated in response to the user interactions with the control elements 100, 200.

[0092] The first type of control element 100 is or includes a capacitive touch sensor configured to provide one or more electrical signals in response to a conductive object 500 (e.g., a user's finger or thumb) contacting or in close proximity to a surface of the plastic overlayer 20 to capacitively interact with the underlying sensing electrode 10. The second type of control element 200 is or includes a mechanical pressure sensor configured to provide one or more electrical signals in response to a pressure or force applied to the control element 200 that moves and / or deforms the sensing electrode 10 relative to a connecting circuit board 400. In this case, the movement and / or deformation of the sensing electrode 10 changes the capacitive interaction between the sensing electrode 10 and the connecting circuit board 400 below or adjacent to the sensing electrode 10, as described in more detail below. Thus, the object 500 interacting with the pressure-sensing control element 200 may be conductive or non-conductive (e.g., a user or operator may operate the control element 200 whether or not they are wearing gloves). The operation of the two types of control elements 100, 200 is described in more detail below with reference to Figures 4 to 7.

[0093] The sensing electrodes 10 and the non-conductive plastic overlayer 20 are formed by an injection molding process. The plastic overlayer 20 may be overmolded onto the sensing electrodes 10. The sensing electrodes 10 may be or include any one of a conductive thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a conductive thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or a conductive acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The plastic overlayer 20 may be or include any one of a non-conductive TPU, a non-conductive TPE, or a non-conductive ABS. For touch sensing control elements 100 that do not require movement and / or deformation of the sensing electrodes 10, the conductive plastic and non-conductive plastic material 20 of the sensing electrodes 10 may be substantially rigid. However, the non-conductive plastic material 20 may instead be substantially flexible, resilient, and / or deformable to provide certain tactile characteristics. With respect to the mechanical pressure sensing control element 200, the non-conductive plastic material 20 is substantially flexible, resilient, and / or deformable to allow the underlying sensing electrode 10 to move and / or deform. The conductive plastic of the sensing electrode 10 can be substantially rigid and / or at least partially deformable. Thus, in a control system 1000 including both types of control elements 100, 200, the overlayer 20 is substantially flexible, resilient, and / or deformable. It will be appreciated that the sensing electrode 10 may be formed of a substantially rigid material, but may be configured to exhibit at least partial deformability / flexibility due to its shape. In either case, the conductive plastic of the sensing electrode 10 should be more rigid than the plastic overlayer 20.

[0094] The control elements 100, 200 can be configured to provide a variety of different user interactive functionality. For example, the control system 1000 shown in Figures 1a, 1b, and 2 includes a variety of capacitive touch-sensing control elements 100 configured as touch buttons 100a, slider bars 100b, and static rotary knobs 100c, and the mechanical pressure-sensing control elements 200 configured as push-pull switches or triggers 200a and push buttons 200b. The operation of these control elements 100, 200 is described in more detail below.

[0095] Examples of different types of user interactions or gestures that the control elements 100, 200 can detect are shown in Figs. 3a-3i, where the movement and direction of the force applied by the user's finger / thumb 500 are indicated by arrows. Fig. 3a shows a user interacting with a touch-sensing control element 100a configured as a touch button and a pressure-sensing control element 200b configured as a push button. The touch button control element 100a is configured to detect when the user's finger / thumb 500 is in contact with or in close proximity to the surface of the plastic overlayer 20 covering the or each sensing electrode 10. The push button control element 200b is configured to detect when the user applies a force or pressure that moves and / or deforms (i.e., activates) the sensing electrode 10 in a single direction (in this case, in the same direction as the applied force / pressure). The push gesture moves / deforms the sensing electrode 10 from a rest position to an actuated position. The touch button control element 100a or push button control element 200b may be used to control certain vehicle functions by a simple "touch" and / or "touch and hold" gesture. Suitable vehicle functions include, but are not limited to, interior lighting control, wiper control, gear selection, bonnet release, and control on / off functions (e.g., lane departure warning, warning lights, tailgate open / close, engine start / stop, heating functions on / off, voice control and phone control selection, media control, cruise control, speed limiter, etc.).For example, certain vehicle features may be controlled on / off by "touching on" and "touching off," certain vehicle features having various discrete intermediate settings between the off and on states may be controlled by repeated touches to cycle through each of the intermediate settings, and certain vehicle features with variable and / or continuous ranges of settings may be controlled using a "touch and hold" gesture.

[0096] FIG. 3b illustrates a user interacting with a touch-sensing control element 100b configured as a slider bar. The slider bar control element 100b is configured to detect contact / proximity, contact location, direction of movement, and / or amount of movement of the user's finger / thumb 500 on / across the surface of the overlayer 20 primarily along a single path (defined by the shape or geometry of the slider bar). The path may be substantially linear as shown, or may be curved (not shown). In this manner, the slider bar control element 100b is capable of detecting specific directional movements and sliding finger / thumb gestures, and may be used to control certain vehicle functions with variable and / or continuous range settings by "slide up" and "slide down" gestures (or left and right, etc.), as well as simple touch gestures and / or touch-and-hold gestures. In the example shown, the slider bar 100b has a substantially elongated touch-interactive top surface 20t, however, it will be understood that other shapes and configurations are possible, for example, as shown in control element 200h of FIG. 8.

[0097] FIG. 3c shows a user interacting with a touch-sensing control element 100c configured as a static rotary knob. The static rotary knob control element 100c has a raised 3D structure with curved sides or flanks 20s, which provides similar functionality to the slider bar 100b. The static rotary knob control element 100c is configured to detect contact / proximity, contact location, direction of movement, and / or amount of movement of a user's finger / thumb 500 around the flanks 20s primarily along a single path (defined by the shape or geometry of the static rotary knob). In this way, the static rotary knob is capable of detecting rotational or twisting interactions / gestures, replicating the functionality of a mechanical rotary knob without the need for the control element 100c to rotate. Vehicle functions suitable for slider bars 100b and static rotary knobs 100c include, but are not limited to, audio / media controls (e.g., volume control, system navigation), interior lighting, heating functions, climate controls (e.g., air blower speed and temperature control), instrument panel controls, infotainment system navigation (e.g., scrolling through lists / options displayed within the vehicle interior), driving mode selection, windshield wiper operation, etc.

[0098] FIG. 3d shows a user interacting with a touch-sensing control element 100d configured as a trackpad. The trackpad control element 100d has an extended touch-interactive top surface 20t and is configured to detect contact / proximity, contact location, direction and / or amount of movement of a user's finger / thumb 500 on / across the surface of the overlayer 20 along multiple paths and / or directions, which may be linear, curved or circular. In this manner, the trackpad control element 100d is capable of detecting multiple directional movements and sliding finger / thumb gestures across the extended area (defined by the top surface 20t) and may be used to control certain vehicle functions with variable and / or continuous range settings, for example, by slide up, slide down, slide left, slide right, slide clockwise and / or slide counterclockwise, as well as simple touch gestures and / or touch and hold gestures. Suitable vehicle functions include, but are not limited to, mirror adjustment control, driver and passenger seat position, function selection confirmation, instrument panel control, infotainment system navigation, audio control, media control, etc. The static rotary knob control element 100c may also be configured with a trackpad function on the top surface 20t (described in more detail in connection with FIG. 4).

[0099] 3e and 3f show a user interacting with a mechanical pressure-sensing control element 200a, 200c configured as a push-pull switch or trigger. The push-pull control element 200a, 200c is configured to detect a force or pressure applied to the control element 200a, 200c that moves and / or deforms (i.e., actuates) the sensing electrode 10 in at least two directions as shown. In this case, different push and pull gestures move / deform the sensing electrode 10 from a rest position to first and second actuated positions. The push-pull control element 200a, 200c is configured to detect the movement / deformation, direction of movement / deformation, and / or amount of movement / deformation of the sensing electrode. Both analog rather than digital control elements 200a, 200c operate in the same manner but are configured to respond to different directions of applied force / pressure or types of push-pull gestures. The push-pull type control element 200a in Fig. 3e is configured to actuate in response to a substantially downward and upward push-pull type gesture or force, while the control element 200c in Fig. 3f is configured to actuate in response to a substantially lateral push-pull type gesture or force. Notably, the illustrated exemplary control elements 200a, 200c include handle portions 210a, 210c for handling, grasping, and / or manipulation by a user to apply force / pressure to move / deform the sensing electrodes. The handle portions 210a, 210c are shaped and configured according to the desired push-pull type gesture, as shown and as known in the art.Appropriate vehicle functions include, but are not limited to, window up / down control, driver and passenger seat position adjustment, door lock / unlock, child safety lock / unlock, lighting control, tailgate open / close, instrument panel control, infotainment system navigation, audio controls, media controls, driving mode selection, gear selection, and bonnet release.

[0100] Figure 3g shows a user interacting with another push button control element 200d, and Figure 3h shows a user interacting with a similar push-pull type control element 200e that is integrated into the steering wheel 600 for actuation in response to the user applying various forces / pressures while gripping the steering wheel 600 (without removing the user's hands from the steering wheel 600) as shown.

[0101] FIG. 3i shows an example of a user interacting with the touch sensing control element 100e and mechanical pressure sensing control element 200e incorporated into the steering wheel 600 while gripping or holding the steering wheel 600. In this case, the steering wheel 600 includes one or more touch sensing control elements 100e that are capable of detecting when the user is holding the steering wheel, i.e., hand on / off detection, grip strength detection, finger tracking, and / or hand position detection, as described in more detail with reference to FIG. 13. Grasp gestures and / or tap gestures or double tap gestures on specific areas of the control element 100e in / on the steering wheel 600 may be used to provide basic functionality, including, but not limited to, volume control, media control, window control, etc. The driver's grip strength may also be used to monitor fatigue and / or drowsiness patterns for improved driving safety.

[0102] The control system 1000 is specifically configured to be easily manufactured and assembled at low cost. The conductive plastic sensing electrodes 10 and the non-conductive plastic overlayer may be formed by injection molding. Notably, the sensing electrodes 10 of the control elements 100, 200 may be electrically connected to the connecting circuit board 400 by mechanical contact or engagement, eliminating the need for solder joints, wire bonding, and / or other forms of permanent electrical connection. That is, during assembly of the control system 1000, the sensing electrodes 10 may be easily positioned, pressed, and / or slid into the appropriate location on the connecting circuit board 400 to electrically connect to the connecting circuit board 400. Additionally, the connecting circuit board 400 is configured to secure the sensing electrodes 10 of the touch sensing control elements 100 to the connecting circuit board 400 by frictional engagement. In this manner, positioning, pressing, and / or sliding the sensing electrodes 10 of the touch sensing control element 100 into place to achieve a mechanical and electrical connection creates a frictional engagement between the connecting circuit board 400 and the sensing electrodes 10, keeping the sensing electrodes fixed in place (and thus maintaining the mechanical and electrical connection) throughout the remainder of the assembly process and during use of the control system 1000 when installed in a vehicle.

[0103] FIG. 4 shows the capacitive touch sensing control element 100c without the plastic overlayer 20 and illustrates its operation and assembly in more detail. Each sensing electrode 10 is electrically connected to a connecting circuit board 400 at one or more sensing points 430 associated with the respective sensing electrode 10 for measuring one or more electrical signals. The sensing points 430 are connected to the measurement module 300 via conductive tracks 410. When a sensing electrode 10 is associated with two or more sensing points 430, each sensing point 430 may be associated with a different portion of the sensing electrode 10 and provides a separate electrical signal to the measurement module 300 in response to a user interacting with the control element 100.

[0104] Each sensing electrode 10 is electrically connected to a sensing point 430 by an electrical connector 420 configured to mechanically contact the sensing electrode 10. As such, the sensing point 430 may include an electrical connector 420. The electrical connector 420 may include a substantially rigid mating portion 421, such as a metal pin / protrusion, that mechanically contacts, deforms, and / or engages a corresponding contact portion 11 of the sensing electrode 10. to be embeddedOptionally, the mating portion 421 may be biased towards the contact portion 11, for example, the electrical connector 420 may be a pogo pin connector with a spring-loaded mating portion 421. The electrical connector 430 is also configured to frictionally engage the sensing electrode 10 and secure the sensing electrode 10 to the connection circuit board 400, in the illustrated example by a male-female connection. The electrical connector 420 is or includes a protrusion protruding from the connection circuit board 400, and the contact portion 11 includes an opening or recess configured to receive and frictionally engage the electrical connector 420 to provide a mechanical electrical connection. Using the electrical connector 420 to provide frictional engagement is a convenient and reliable method of securing and connecting the sensing electrode 10 to the connection circuit 400. However, it will be appreciated that other mating / contact configurations may be used. For example, the mating portion 421 can be or include an opening or recess, and the contact portion 11 can be or include a protrusion configured to mechanically contact and frictionally engage the recess / opening. Alternatively or additionally, a separate fastening element can be used to frictionally engage with the sensing electrode 10, for example, the connecting circuit board 400 can include a male fastening element that frictionally engages with a corresponding female fastening portion of the sensing electrode 10, or vice versa.

[0105] The principle of operation of the touch sensing control element 100 is as follows: One or more electrical signals are provided in response to a change in the capacitance of the sensing electrode 10 caused by a conductive object 500, such as a user's finger or thumb, in proximity to or in contact with the non-conductive plastic overlayer 20 covering the sensing electrode 10. The conductive object 500 capacitively interacts with the underlying sensing electrode 10. This interaction causes a change in the self-capacitance of the sensing electrode 10, which can be measured at one or more sensing points 430 by the measurement module 300. The measured change in the self-capacitance of the sensing electrode 10 is proportional to the area of ​​overlap between the conductive object and the sensing electrode 10 and inversely proportional to the distance between them. In addition, the conductive plastic of the sensing electrode 10 has a relatively high electrical resistivity (typically substantially less than 1×10 2 ~1x10 6 ohm.cm) such that the measured change in capacitance at each sensing point 430 varies with the distance between the location of the conductive object and the individual sensing point 430. The above properties enable the touch sensing control element 100 to detect the contact / proximity, location of contact, and direction and / or amount of movement of a conductive object on / across the surface of the plastic overlayer 20 relative to one or more sensing points 430.

[0106] The exemplary static rotary knob control element 100c shown in FIG. 4 includes eight sensing electrodes 10 that interlock and / or mesh in one or more directions to form a raised 3D structure with a top surface 20t and sides 20s. Four of the sensing electrodes labeled 10t interlock / interdigitate with each other to form a portion of the top surface 20t and sides 20s, while the remaining four sensing electrodes labeled 10s form the remaining portion of the sides 20s. When a user runs or slides a finger / thumb around a plastic overlayer 20 (not shown) covering the sides 20s, the finger / thumb overlaps each of the sensing electrodes 10t, 10s in a sequential and continuously variable amount, providing a unique electrical signal. The unique electrical signal is measured by the measurement module 300 at the sensing points 430 and can be used to determine the touch location, direction and / or amount of movement around the sides 20s. The top surface 20t of the control element 100c shown in Fig. 4 provides a trackpad function. Similarly, as a user runs or slides a finger / thumb in a linear or circular movement on / across a plastic overlayer 20 (not shown) covering the top surface 20s, the finger / thumb overlaps each different sensing electrode 10t in a continuously variable amount, providing a unique electrical signal. The unique electrical signal is measured by the measurement module 300 at the sensing points 430 and can be used to determine the touch location, direction and / or amount of movement on / above the top surface 20s.

[0107] The operating principles described above may also be applied to a slider bar control element 100b. If the slider bar control element 100b includes a single sensing electrode 10 as shown in FIG. 2, the touch position, direction and / or amount of movement on / above the surface of the overlayer 20 may be determined by the measurement module 300 via the dependency of the self-capacitance measured at the individual sensing points 10 and the distance of the finger / thumb from the individual sensing points 10.

[0108] 5a-5c show cross sections through an exemplary push-pull type control element 200a to illustrate its operation. The sensing electrode 10 includes a first portion 12a, a second portion 12b, and a third portion 12c. Each portion 12a, 12b, 12c is associated with a separate sensing point 430a, 430b, 430c on a connecting circuit board 400. The sensing points 430a, 430b, 430c include conductive pads or electrodes that are connected to the measurement module 300 via conductive tracks 410. The first sensing point 430a faces the first portion 12a, the second sensing point 430b faces the second portion 12b, and the third sensing point 430c faces the third portion 12c. The first portion 12a is in mechanical contact with a first sensing point 430a that serves to ground the sensing electrode 10, while the second and third portions 12b, 12c are movable and / or deformable relative to the respective second and third sensing points 430b, 430c in response to a pressure or force applied to the sensing electrode 10. Movement of the second and / or third portions 12b, 12c causes a change in capacitance between the sensing electrode 10 and the second and / or third electrodes 430b, 430c, which can be measured by the measurement module 300 between the first sensing point 430a and the second sensing point 430b and / or between the first sensing point 430a and the third sensing point 430c, respectively. Alternatively, the capacitance measured may be the self-capacitance of the sensing electrode 10, which changes when its interaction with the second / third sensing points 430b, 430c changes in response to the movement / deformation of the second / third portions 12b, 12c. In this case, the second and third sensing points 430b, 430c may be grounded and the self-capacitance is measured at the first sensing point 12a.

[0109] The sensing electrode 10 is movable and / or deformable from a rest position shown in FIG. 5b to a first actuated position shown in FIG. 5c and to a second actuated position (not shown) in response to a pressure or force applied to the sensing electrode 10. In the rest position, both the second and third portions 12b, 12c are separated from the respective second and third sensing points 430b, 430c by a predetermined distance, which may be the same or different for the second and third portions 12b, 12c. In the first actuated position, the second portion 12b is positioned closer to or in contact with the second sensing point 430b. In the second actuated position, the third portion 12c is positioned closer to or in contact with the third sensing point 430c. The capacitance between the sensing electrode 10 and the second sensing point 430b is inversely proportional to the distance between the second portion 12b and the second sensing point 430b (similarly for the capacitance between the sensing electrode 10 and the third electrode 430c). Thus, any force or pressure applied to the sensing electrode 10 in the control element 200a that changes the distance between the respective portion 12b, 12c and the sensing point 430b, 430c can result in a change in the capacitance measurable by the measurement module 300. No contact with the second / third electrodes 430b, 430c is required. A continuous range of electrical signals can be provided for movement between the rest position and the first / second actuated position where the second / third portion 12b, 12c contacts the second / third sensing point 430b, 430c.

[0110] The first portion 12a includes one or more protrusions that separate the second and third portions 12b, 12c from the second and third sensing points 430b, 430c in the rest position. Because the second and third portions 12b, 12c extend from or are located at a predetermined distance from the first portion 12a, the sensing electrode 10 can be moved between the rest position and the first / second actuated position by pivoting about the first portion 12a, as shown in FIG. 5c. In other examples, the movement between the rest position and the first / second actuated position is possible by a combination of pivoting and at least partial deformation of the sensing electrode 10 relative to the first portion 12a. The control element 200a includes a handle portion 210a that protrudes or extends away from the connecting circuit board 400 for handling, grasping, and / or manipulation by a user via a push interaction / gesture, a pull interaction / gesture, and / or a lift / lower interaction / gesture to apply a force / pressure to move / deform the sensing electrode 10, as shown in FIG 5c. The sensing electrode 10 includes a force transmission portion 13 that extends into the handle portion 210a and transmits a force or pressure to the sensing electrode 10 (i.e., the first and / or third portion). As can be seen, the force transfer portion 13 includes a protrusion or extension that provides a lever action to apply a torque to the sensing electrode 10 and cause the second and / or third portions 12b, 12c to move, pivot and / or deform about the first portion 12a. In the example shown, the handle portion 210a and the force transfer portion 13 are substantially curved such that the control element 200a can be actuated in response to a substantially upward / downward interaction / gesture.However, it will be appreciated that the control element 200a may be configured to actuate in response to a substantially lateral interaction / gesture via an appropriately shaped handle portion 210a and force transmission portion 13 (e.g., the handle portion 210c of the control element 200c shown in FIG. 3f). It is noted that the control element 200c shown in FIG. 3f is identical to the control element 200a shown in FIGS. 5a-5b, except for the shape of the handle portion 210c and the force transmission portion 13, which extend substantially straight up in a direction perpendicular to the connecting circuit board 400.

[0111] 5a-5c show a push-pull type control element 200a with two actuation positions and a handle portion 210a, it will be understood that additional actuation positions are possible by adding additional portions to the sensing electrode 10 that extend from or are spaced apart from the first portion 12a. Furthermore, the handle portion 210a is not required, e.g., a user could instead apply force or pressure directly above the second and / or third portions 12b, 12c. Furthermore, it will be understood that the third portion 12c and the third sensing point 430c are not required. For example, a push button control element 200b, 200d with a single actuation position could be constructed with just the first and second portions 12a, 12b and the first and second sensing points 430a, 430b. In this case, the sensing electrode 10 of the push button control element 200c may be configured to move only between the rest position and the first actuated position by deformation of the sensing electrode 10. The first portion 12a of the sensing electrode 10 of the push button may be configured to contact the first sensing point 430a, and the second portion 12b may be configured to be deformable / movable to change its distance from the second sensing point 430b in response to a force / pressure applied to / on the second portion 12b. In an alternative configuration (not shown), the sensing electrode 10 of the push button control element 200b may be electrically floating (i.e., not grounded or connected to a sensing point in the rest position) and may result in a change in the measured electrical signal when it is moved / deformed into contact with the first and / or second sensing points 430a, 430b.

[0112] The push-pull type control element 200a shown in Figures 5a-5c is configured to be mounted on one side (first side) of the connection circuit board 400. Figures 6a-6c show an alternative configuration of a push-pull type control element 200f configured to be mounted on an edge of the connection circuit board 400. In this case, the sensing electrode 10 includes a slot 15 for receiving and frictionally engaging a portion 401 of the connection circuit board 400 between first and second opposing walls 15a, 15b of the slot 15, as shown in Figures 6a and 6b. The control element 200f otherwise operates in the same manner as the control element 200a shown in Figures 5a-5c. The portion 401 can be provided on an outer edge of the connection circuit board 400, or on an edge formed / provided by an opening 402 in the connection circuit board 400, as shown in Figure 6b. The first, second and third portions 12a-12c of the sensing electrode 10 described above are formed / positioned on the first opposing wall 15a of the slot 15, and the first, second and third sensing points 430a-430c are positioned on a portion 401 of the connection circuit board 400 facing the respective first, second and third portions 12a-12c. The second opposing wall 15b includes an extrusion 12d configured to contact an opposite (second) side of the connection circuit board 400 relative to the first portion 12a, so as to grip and / or frictionally engage the connection circuit board 400 between the first portion 12a and the extrusion 12d. In this manner, the sensing electrode 10 can be mounted and fixed to the connection circuit board 400 by pressing and / or sliding the sensing electrode 10 into place, greatly simplifying assembly. The extrusion 12d is positioned substantially opposite the first portion 12a and includes a protrusion that extends toward the connecting circuit board 400 such that the sensing electrodes can pivot / rotate about the first portion 12a and the extrusion 12d between a rest position and a first / second actuated position.

[0113] While the second and third sensing points 430b, 430c are positioned on the same side (first face) of the connection circuit board 400 of the control element 200f in Figures 6a-6c, in an alternative configuration, the second and third sensing points 430b, 430c may be positioned on opposite sides of the connection circuit board 400 (not shown). In this case, one of the second and third portions 12b, 12c would be formed / positioned on a first opposing wall 15a of the slot 15, and the other of the second and third portions 12b, 12c would be formed / positioned on a second opposing wall 15a of the slot 15. In use, a user grasps the end of the push-pull type control element 200f that overhangs the edge of the connection circuit board 400 and applies force or pressure to move the sensing electrode 10 between a rest position and a first or second actuated position, as shown in Figure 6c. As described above with reference to control element 200a of Figures 5a-5c, where only one actuation position is required, such as, for example, a push or pull type button / trigger control element, third electrode 430c and third portion 12c may be omitted (and first and second sensing points 430a, 430b may be located on the same or opposite sides of connecting circuit board 400). Additionally, while the example shown in Figures 6a-6c responds to a substantially upward / downward push-pull type interaction / gesture, it will be appreciated that control element 200f may be configured to respond to a substantially lateral push-pull type interaction / gesture, for example, by incorporating a handle portion (not shown) similar to that shown in Figure 3f.

[0114] 7 and 8 show further configurations of the mechanical pressure sensing control element 200. The control element 200g shown in FIG. 7 is configured to detect a press interaction / gesture with a single actuation position. Similar to FIG. 6(c), the press control element 200g includes a sensing electrode 10, which includes a slot 15 for receiving and frictionally engaging a portion 401 of a connection circuit board 400. The sensing electrode 10 includes a first portion 12a and a second portion 12b positioned on opposite sides of the slot. The first and second portions 12a, 12b are connected by a force transmission portion 13. The connection circuit board 400 includes first and second sensing points 430a and 430b, where the first sensing point 430a is connected to the measurement module 300 via a conductive track and the second sensing point 430b is preferably a ground / reference electrode. The first sensing point 430a includes a through hole or opening 402, and the first portion 12a includes a complementary protrusion configured to frictionally engage the opening 402 and mechanically contact the first sensing point 430a. The sensing electrode 10 is configured to be substantially deformable and flexible to such an extent that a user can press the non-conductive material 20 at the corresponding location to bend / deform the force transfer portion 13. Thus, the second portion 12b of the control element 200g moves from its rest position to its actuated position to contact the second electrode 430b on the connecting circuit board 400. This movement causes a change in the capacitance between the sensing electrode 10 and the second sensing point 430b, which can be measured by the measurement module 300 between the first sensing point 430a and the second sensing point 430b.

[0115] The control element 200h shown in FIG. 8 is configured to detect torsional interactions or gestures and push-pull type gestures. The torsional control element 200h includes a pair of push-pull type control elements 200b that operate in the same manner as described above with respect to FIGS. 5a-5c. The first, second, and third sensing points 430a-430c of the connection circuit board 400 are shown for convenience with only one of the pair of control elements 200b. The pair of push-pull type control elements 200b are disposed in a spaced apart relationship with their rotational or pivotal axes substantially aligned. The force transmission portion 13 of each electrode 10 extends into the handle portion 210h for a user to grasp and apply a torsional or push-pull type force. When a user applies a torsional force (either clockwise or counterclockwise) to the handle portion 210h, the sensing electrodes 10 of each of the pair of control elements 200b move and / or deform in opposite directions. Thus, one of the control elements 200b moves / deforms to its first actuation position, while the other moves / deforms to its second actuation position. It will be appreciated that the torsional control element 200h can also be used to detect push-pull type gestures, in which case the sensing electrodes 10 of each of the pair of control elements 200b move and / or deform in the same direction. The torsional control element 200h may be suitable for seat control and / or lighting control in a vehicle interior. The torsional control element 200h may further include one or more touch buttons and / or slider bar control elements 100b, for example, for selecting and controlling seats and / or lights, as shown.

[0116] Each of the above-mentioned configurations of the pressure-sensing control element 200 accommodates a variation of use cases, however, it will be understood that the number of electrode portions 12a, 12b, and 12c, as well as their arrangement, are not limited to a given use case. For example, in the control element 200g, the first sensing point 430a of the connection circuit board 400 can become a ground / reference electrode instead of the second sensing point 430b. Another example is to remove the second sensing point 430b from the connection circuit board 400, resulting in the control element 200g becoming a capacitive push button rather than a pressure-sensitive button. That is, the control element 200g will provide a capacitive touch button function, but is movable / deformable to provide positive tactile feedback to the operator. In a further example of control elements 200a, 200f, 200g, and 200h, the first, second, and third portions 12a-12c of the sensing electrode 10 are separate pieces of conductive plastic bounded by a plastic overlayer 20 that is substantially flexible and is preferably overmolded onto the separate electrodes.

[0117] The exemplary control system 1000 shown in Figures 1a, 1b, and 2 may be suitable for incorporation into a center console (not shown) of a vehicle. However, variations of the control system may be incorporated into almost any location within a vehicle interior. Figure 9 illustrates exemplary locations within a vehicle interior 5000 into which a control system in accordance with the present invention may be incorporated, including, but not limited to, door handles 5100, door trim panels 5200, dashboard elements 5300, seat elements (e.g., arm rests 5400, head rests 5500, lower seat portions 5700), center console 5800, and steering wheel 5600.

[0118] FIG. 10 shows control systems 5500 and 5700 integrated into a vehicle seat 2100, including a torsional control element 200h for controlling the seat position and headrest position, respectively. FIG. 11a shows a control system 5800 for a vehicle center console or armrest. The system 5800 includes a pair of push-pull type control elements 200c, a track pad 100d, and a slider bar 100b. FIG. 11b shows an exploded view of the control system 5800. The system 5800 includes a plastic body 800 defining a control zone for supporting the connecting circuit board 400 and the control elements 100, 200. A plastic overlayer 20 covers the entire control zone. FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of the control system 5100 for a vehicle door handle. The system 5100 includes a push-pull control element 200f for operating windows, a push button control element 200d for locking and unlocking the vehicle, a number of touch button control elements 100a for selecting a window to be operated by the push-pull control element 200f, and a number of touch button control elements 100a for mirror control.

[0119] FIG. 13 illustrates a control system 5600 for a vehicle steering wheel 600. The control system 5600 includes a touch-sensing control element 100e for detecting finger position, grip / grasp strength / pressure, hand positioning, and / or whether the hand is on or off the steering wheel. In this example, the sensing electrode 10 is configured to wrap around the steering wheel handle 600 in the area where the driver grips or holds the steering wheel 600 and includes multiple sensing electrode portions 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d spatially distributed around the steering wheel handle. Each sensing electrode portion 10a-10d is connected by a mechanical electrical connector 420 (in this example, a spring clip connector) to a separate sensing point on the connection circuit board 400 and provides a separate electrical signal in response to a touch by the driver (e.g., a touch by a different finger or finger portion). The finger portion may be or include a proximal, middle, or distal phalange of the finger. The electrode portions 10a-10d are distributed in a pattern corresponding to expected finger positions. In this manner, the location or proximity of a touch and / or finger movement relative to the sensing electrode 10 may be determined from the electrical signals provided by each sensing electrode portion 10a-10d.

[0120] The control elements 100, 200 described above may further include one or more visual indicator elements or icons, for example, highlighting the control element 100, 200 and / or the function of the control element 100, 200. The icons may be passive icons formed, for example, by an additional layer of colored plastic 40 overmolded onto the plastic overlayer 20, as shown in Figure 2, or may be printed graphics. Alternatively or additionally, the visual elements may be or include light-emitting elements, for example, the icons may light up.

[0121] FIG. 14 shows an example of a touch-sensing control element 100a including a light-emitting element 30. A connecting circuit board 400 includes one or more light-emitting devices 440, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and the control element 100a includes one or more substantially transparent plastic light guide portions 30 that extend through at least a portion of the sensing electrodes 100 and guide light emitted from the one or more LEDs 440 through the sensing electrodes 100. The or each light guide portion 30 may be configured to fit over or above the LEDs 440. This can improve light coupling into the light guide portion 30 and can also aid in positioning or locating the control element 100b on the connecting circuit board during assembly. The or each LED 440 is actuated by and connected to the measurement module 300 via one or more conductive tracks 410. Depending on the configuration of the control system, the sensing electrode 10 may be configured to at least partially wrap around the light guide portion 30, as shown in Figure 14, or may be configured with an aperture for the light guide portion to fit within, as shown in Figure 2. Each control element 100a may be illuminated by a separate LED 440, or multiple control elements 110a may be illuminated by the same LED 440. A variation of the light guide portion 30 is shown in Figure 12.

[0122] Also, the light guide portion 30 is preferably formed by injection molding and may be integrated with the sensing electrodes 10 during assembly. A plastic overlayer 20 is then overmolded over the sensing electrodes 10 and the light guide portion 30 such that light emitted through the one or more LEDs 440 is able to pass through the plastic overlayer 20 and be visible to a user. The or each light guide portion 30 is configured to diffuse the light transmitted therethrough such that the entire light guide portion 30 is substantially uniformly illuminated.

[0123] The control element 100, 200 may further include a decorative element 40 applied over the plastic overlayer 20 and / or the light guide portion 30. The decorative element 40 may be or include a raised element or a recessed portion to provide tactile feedback to the operator. The decorative element 40 may be an ink / paint that is screen printed or spray painted onto the surface. Alternatively, the decorative element 40 may be formed by etching away areas from the spray painted or screen printed surface of the control element 100, 200.

[0124] The measurement module 300 is configured to measure one or more electrical signals at one or more sensing points 430. The measurement module may be configured to measure the electrical signals simultaneously or individually. For example, the measurement module 300 may be configured to sequentially (i.e., one at a time) scan through each sensing point 430 on the connection circuit board 400 and measure each electrical signal separately. For example, the measurement module 300 may include a multiplexer function. The scanning frequency is sufficiently high compared to a typical moving speed of the conductive object 500 or the sensing electrode 10 to minimize any measurement delay and to provide a user perception that the measurement / detection is occurring in real time. For example, the scan rate may be in the range 100-200 Hz. The scan rate may be slower or faster depending on the application.

[0125] The measurement module 300 is further configured to detect user interaction with the control element 100, 200 based on the one or more electrical signals. The measurement module 300 is configured to detect one or more of a contact or touch from a user / operator, a contact / touch location, a speed and / or a direction and / or an amount of movement of said conductive object 500 on / across the surface of the plastic overlayer 20 relative to one or more sensing points 430 based on the one or more electrical signals provided by the touch sensing control element 100. In addition, the measurement module 300 may be configured to detect one or more of a movement / deformation, a direction of movement / deformation, and / or an amount of movement / deformation of the sensing electrode 10 relative to said or each sensing point 430 on the connecting circuit board 400 based on the one or more electrical signals provided by the touch sensing control element 100.

[0126] The measurement module 300 includes a capacitive sensing chip (not shown), such as a capacitive sensing microprocessor or microcontroller, with one or more sensing or input channels for measuring capacitance changes. The capacitive sensing chip can measure the self-capacitance change at the sensing point 430 for the touch sensing control element 100, and / or can measure the capacitance change between a pair of sensing points 430 for the mechanical pressure sensing control element 200. In the latter case, the sensing electrode 10 of the mechanical pressure sensing control element 200 is connected to a sensing point 430b on the connection circuit board 400, which serves as a ground or reference point, so that the capacitance is effectively measured between the sensing electrode 10 and the sensing points 430a, 430c. The capacitance measurement can optionally be a frequency-based measurement.

[0127] The measurement module 300 further includes a processing unit or chip (not shown) in data communication with the capacitive sensing chip and is capable of receiving measurement data therefrom. The processing unit / chip includes one or more processors and one or more memories storing software programs that, when executed or executed on the one or more processors, cause the processing unit / chip to process and / or analyze the measurement data and determine user interaction or gesture information. The user interaction or gesture information can include one or more of a contact or touch from a user / operator, a contact / touch location, a speed and / or direction and / or amount of movement of said conductive object 500 on / across the surface of the plastic overlayer 20 with respect to the touch sensing control element 100, and / or a movement / deformation, a direction of movement / deformation, and / or an amount of movement / deformation of the sensing electrode 10 with respect to the sensing point 430 on the connecting circuit board 400 with respect to the mechanical pressure sensing control element 200. Processing and / or analyzing the measurement data may include filtering, smoothing, differentiating, peak finding, and / or comparing the data to one or more predefined thresholds. The processing unit / chip is then configured to generate one or more control signals that, when provided to a vehicle ECU, will trigger the ECU to control one or more vehicle functions.

[0128] An exemplary method 6000 of controlling one or more vehicle functions using the control system 1000 of the present invention is shown in FIG. 15. In step S1, a user interacts with the control element 100, 200 via any of the gestures described above. This involves touching the control element 100, 200 and / or applying a force or pressure to the control element 100, 200, resulting in a change in one or more electrical signals provided. In step S2, the one or more electrical signals are measured by the measurement module 300, preferably over a predetermined period of time. The measurement data waveform is acquired as a digital signal by the capacitive sensing chip and / or the processing unit / chip. The digital signal is processed through the processing unit / chip through one or more filters (e.g., low pass filters, etc.) to reduce noise and smooth the signal. This can refine the signal characteristics and simplify its use in other algorithms. In step S3, the signal characteristics are analyzed using further algorithms to extract one or more signal features for classifying information. This may involve extracting one or more of signal amplitude, turning points (peaks / valleys), spacing between turning points, and / or derivatives (first and / or second order). In step S4, the extracted signal features are clustered and passed to a classification model to detect different signal patterns and classify user interactions as events (e.g., opening or closing a window or changing a volume level). Step S4 may further include generating one or more control or event signals associated with or identifying the user interaction / event for sending to the ECU. In step S5, the control / event signals are sent to the ECU to trigger one or more vehicle functions.

[0129] Any of the control systems 1000 described above may further include a haptic feedback module 450 in communication with the measurement module 300. For example, the haptic feedback module 450 may include a vibration motor 450 mounted on or to the connecting circuit board 400, and the measurement module 300 may be configured to control the vibration motor 450. The vibration motor 450 may be either an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) or a linear resonant actuator (LRA) as known in the art. Varying vibration feedback patterns may be configured and provided in response to detection of various stages of actuation / movement of the control element 100, 200 and / or user interaction.

[0130] From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art, which variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art and which may be used instead of or in addition to features already described herein.

[0131] Although the appended claims are directed to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the present disclosure also includes any novel feature, or any novel combination of features explicitly or implicitly disclosed herein, or any generalization thereof, whether or not it pertains to the same invention as currently claimed in any claim, and whether or not it alleviates any or all of the same technical problems that the present invention alleviates.

[0132] Features that are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0133] For completeness, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, the words "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality, and any reference signs in the claims are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 10 Conductive plastic sensing electrode 10a to 10d Sensing electrode part 10s Sensing electrode 10t Sensing electrode 11 Contact area 12a First Part 12b Second Part 12c Third Part 12d Extrusion section 13 Force transmission section 15 Slots 15a first opposing wall 15b second opposing wall 20 Non-conductive plastic materials, non-conductive materials, plastic overlayers 20s side 20t top surface 30 Light guide part, light emitting element 40 Decorative elements, colored plastic 100 Control Elements 100a Touch button control element 100b Slider bar control element 100c Static Rotary Knob Control Element 100d Trackpad control element, touch-sensing control element 100e Touch Sensing Control Elements 200 Control Elements 200a Push-pull control elements, push-pull switches or triggers 200b Push button control elements, pressure sensing control elements 200c Push-pull type control element 200d Push Button Control Element 200e Push-Pull Control Elements, Mechanical Pressure Sensing Control Elements 200f Push-pull type control element 200g press control element 200h Torsion Control Element 210a Handle part 210c Handle part 210h Handle part 300 Measurement Module 310 Flexible Interconnect 400 Connection circuit board 401 part 402 Through holes or openings 410 Conductive Tracks or Traces 420 Electrical Connectors 421 Fitting part 430 Sensing Point 430a First sensing point 430b Second sensing point, second electrode 430c Third sensing point, third electrode 440 Light emitting devices, LEDs 450 Haptic feedback module, vibration motor 500 Conductive object, finger / thumb 600 Steering Wheel Handle 800 Plastic body 1000 Control System 2100 Vehicle seats 5000 Vehicle Interior 5100 Door Handle 5200 Door trim panel 5300 Dashboard Elements 5400 Armrest 5500 Headrest 5600 Steering Wheel 5700 Lower seat part 5800 Center Console, Control System 6000 ways S1~S5 steps

Claims

1. A vehicle control system for a vehicle interior, the vehicle control system comprising: a plurality of control elements for a user to interact with to control one or more user-controllable vehicle functions, each of the plurality of control elements comprising: a conductive plastic sensing electrode configured to provide one or more electrical signals in response to user interaction with the control element; a non-conductive plastic covering material disposed on or above the sensing electrode; a connecting circuit board including a plurality of sensing points for measuring one or more electrical signals provided by the control element; each of the sensing electrodes is configured to electrically connect to at least one of the sensing points of the connection circuit board by mechanical and frictional engagement to provide the one or more electrical signals; The plurality of control elements a first type of control element, the sensing electrode configured to provide the one or more electrical signals in response to a change in capacitance caused by contact and movement of a conductive object on / across the non-conductive plastic covering on / above the sensing electrode; a second type of control element, wherein the sensing electrode is configured to provide the one or more electrical signals in response to a change in capacitance caused by a pressure or force applied to the non-conductive plastic covering material on / above the sensing electrode; and wherein the non-conductive plastic covering of the control element is part of a single three-dimensionally profiled piece of non-conductive plastic material disposed over / around the control element to provide user interactive areas with different functionality; The vehicle control system is connectable to an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle to control one or more user-controllable vehicle functions in response to user interaction with the one or more control elements.

2. 10. The vehicle control system of claim 1, wherein the sensing electrode and the covering material are formed by an injection molding process.

3. The vehicle control system of claim 2 , wherein the covering material is substantially flexible / deformable and resilient.

4. 3. The vehicle control system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensing electrode includes a first portion of the sensing electrode of the first type of control element, the first portion configured to face, mechanically contact and engage a first sensing point on the connecting circuit board to electrically connect them.

5. A vehicle control system as described in claim 4, wherein the mechanical engagement between the first portion of the sensing electrode of the first type control element and the first sensing point substantially prevents relative movement between the first portion and the first sensing point.

6. 6. The vehicle control system of claim 4 or 5, wherein the first sensing point includes an electrical connector having a substantially rigid mating portion configured to mechanically contact, deform, and engage and electrically connect with the first portion of the sensing electrode.

7. The vehicle control system of claim 6, wherein the electrical connector is further configured to frictionally engage the first portion of the sensing electrode and secure the sensing electrode to the connecting circuit board.

8. A vehicle control system as described in claim 6 or 7, wherein the connecting circuit board includes a fixing element configured to frictionally engage a corresponding fixed portion of the sensing electrode and fix the sensing electrode to the connecting circuit board.

9. The vehicle control system of claim 8, wherein the frictional engagement maintains the mechanical contact between the first portion and the first sensing point.

10. The electrical connector and the fixing element are or include protrusions protruding from the connecting circuit board, and the first portion and the fixed portion of the sensing electrode include recesses configured to frictionally engage the respective protrusions, or 10. The vehicle control system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the electrical connector and the fixed element are or include recesses, openings, or through-holes in the connecting circuit board, and the first portion and the fixed portion of the sensing electrode are or include protrusions configured to frictionally engage with respective recesses.

11. 11. A vehicle control system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the control element includes a plurality of the conductive plastic sensing electrodes, the non-conductive plastic covering material being provided on or over each sensing electrode, and each sensing electrode being configured to provide a change in the one or more electrical signals in response to movement of a conductive object on / across the non-conductive plastic material.

12. 12. The vehicle control system of claim 11, wherein two or more adjacent sensing electrodes are configured to interdigitate with one another in one or more directions to provide a substantially smooth change in the one or more electrical signals in response to movement of the conductive object on / across the non-conductive plastic material.

13. 5. The vehicle control system of claim 4, wherein the mechanical engagement between the first portion and the first sensing point allows the first portion to move relative to the first sensing point while maintaining constant electrical contact with the first sensing point.

14. The vehicle control system of claim 13 , wherein the first portion is configured to allow the sensing electrode to pivot / rotate about the first portion while maintaining constant electrical contact with the first sensing point.

15. 14. The vehicle control system of claim 4 or 13, wherein the sensing electrode includes a second portion, the second portion facing a second sensing point on the connecting circuit board, and configured to be movable and deformable from a rest position to a first actuated position in response to a pressure / force applied to the sensing electrode to change a distance between the second portion and the second sensing point while the first portion maintains constant electrical contact with the first sensing point.

16. The vehicle control system of claim 15, wherein the sensing electrode is configured to pivot / rotate around the first portion from the rest position to the first operating position.

17. A vehicle control system as described in claim 16, wherein the second portion is configured to move or at least partially deform / bend relative to the first portion in response to pressure or force applied to the second portion.

18. 16. The vehicle control system of claim 4, 5 or 15, wherein the sensing electrode includes a slot for receiving a portion of the connection circuit board, and the sensing electrode is configured to grip and frictionally engage opposite sides of the connection circuit board between opposing walls of the slot.

19. The vehicle control system of claim 18, wherein the mechanical contact between the first portion and the first sensing point is maintained by a gripping action and frictional engagement.

20. 19. The vehicle control system of claim 13, wherein the second sensing point is on the same side of the connection circuit board as the first sensing point or on an opposite side of the connection circuit board as the first sensing point.

21. 20. The vehicle control system of claim 13, wherein the sensing electrode includes a third portion, the third portion facing a third sensing point on the connecting circuit board, and configured to be movable and deformable from a rest position to a second actuated position in response to a pressure / force applied to the sensing electrode so as to change a distance between the third portion and the third sensing point.

22. The vehicle control system of claim 21, wherein the sensing electrode is configured to pivot / rotate around the first portion from the rest position to the second operating position.

23. The vehicle control system of claim 22, wherein the third portion is configured to move or at least partially deform / bend relative to the first portion in response to a pressure / force applied to the third portion.

24. 24. The vehicle control system according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the third sensing point is on the same side of the connection circuit board as the second sensing point or on an opposite side of the connection circuit board as the second sensing point.

25. 25. The vehicle control system of claim 22, wherein the first, second, and third portions of the sensing electrode are part of a single piece of conductive plastic, or the first, second, and third portions of the sensing electrode are separate pieces of conductive plastic.

26. The vehicle control system further includes a measurement module connected to the or each sensing point of the connection circuit board, the measurement module comprising: measuring the one or more electrical signals; detecting a user interaction with the one or more control elements based on the one or more electrical signals; 26. A vehicle control system as claimed in any preceding claim, configured to provide one or more control signals to the ECU associated with the detected user interaction.

27. ​​A vehicle control system as described in claim 26, wherein the measurement module is mounted on or to the connecting circuit board and connected to the one or more sensing points via one or more conductive tracks.

28. 28. The vehicle control system of claim 27, wherein the measurement module is separate from the connecting circuit board and electrically connected to one or more conductive tracks on the connecting circuit board via a flexible interconnect.

29. 30. The vehicle control system of claim 28, wherein the flexible interconnect is or includes one or more of a printed circuit board, a flexible printed circuit board, a wire, and a cable.

30. 30. A vehicle control system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the connecting circuit board further includes a light emitting device, and the control element further includes one or more substantially transparent plastic light guide portions extending through the sensing electrodes to guide light emitted from the light emitting device through the sensing electrodes.

31. A vehicle control system as described in claim 30, wherein the non-conductive plastic material is arranged to cover the sensing electrode and the one or more light guide portions.

32. 29. The vehicle control system of claim 26, further comprising a haptic feedback module in communication with the measurement module, the measurement module configured to control the haptic feedback module to operate in response to detecting a user interaction.

33. 33. The vehicle control system of claim 32, wherein the haptic feedback module is or includes a vibration motor mounted on or to the connecting circuit board.

34. 34. The vehicle control system of claim 1, wherein each of the control elements is formed and configured to provide at least one of a touch button function, a trackpad function, a slider function, a static rotary knob function, a push button function, and / or a push or pull type trigger / switch function.

35. 35. The vehicle control system of claim 1, further comprising a non-conductive plastic body for supporting one or more of the control elements within a control zone, the body being or comprising at least a portion of one of the following parts of a vehicle interior: a door handle, a door trim panel, a dashboard element, a center console, an armrest, a headrest, a steering wheel, or a seat element.

36. an electronic control unit (ECU) for controlling one or more user-controllable vehicle functions; one or more user-controllable systems including one or more of electric windows, electric seats, central locking, an audio system, an entertainment system, a navigation system, a climate control system, a cruise control system, and a lighting system; A vehicle control system according to any one of claims 1 to 35, in communication with the ECU to control the one or more vehicle functions in response to user interaction with the one or more control elements; Including, vehicles.

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