Switch module, vehicle window assembly, pillar assembly, and vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to a switch module, a vehicle window assembly, a pillar assembly, and a vehicle. The switch module comprises a main control board, and a main sensor assembly and an auxiliary sensor assembly which are connected to the main control board, wherein the main sensor assembly comprises a main voltage sensor and a main capacitance sensor; and the auxiliary sensor assembly comprises an auxiliary voltage sensor and an auxiliary capacitance sensor. A main capacitance sensing area and a touch-control surface of the main capacitance sensor form a first interface, an auxiliary capacitance sensing area and a touch-control surface of the auxiliary capacitance sensor form a second interface, and a minimum distance formed between the first interface and the second interface is greater than or equal to zero.

Description

Switch module, window assembly, pillar assembly and vehicle

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] This application refers to the Chinese patent application entitled “SWITCH MODULE, WINDOW ASSEMBLY, PILLAR ASSEMBLY AND VEHICLE” filed on January 22, 2024, application number 2024100883342, which is incorporated into this application in its entirety by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of touch technology, and in particular to a switch module, a window assembly, a pillar assembly, and a vehicle. Background Art

[0004] A touch switch is a switching device that drives the circuit to activate the corresponding function by tapping instead of mechanical pressing. Compared with mechanical switches in related technologies, touch switches have been increasingly used due to their high degree of intelligence and convenient operation.

[0005] However, the touch switch in the related art is prone to false triggering due to operator's accidental touch or complex external environment (such as electromagnetic interference), which reduces the effective triggering of the touch switch.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] Based on this, the present application provides a switch module, a window assembly, a pillar assembly and a vehicle.

[0008] In a first aspect, the present application provides a switch module, comprising: a main control board, and a main sensor assembly and an auxiliary sensor assembly connected to the main control board;

[0009] The main sensor assembly includes a main pressure sensor and a main capacitance sensor, and the auxiliary sensor assembly includes an auxiliary pressure sensor and an auxiliary capacitance sensor;

[0010] The main pressure sensor and the auxiliary pressure sensor are used to convert the pressure signal into an electrical signal when the touch surface of the outer cover is subjected to an external force;

[0011] The primary capacitance sensor includes a primary capacitance sensing area, the auxiliary capacitance sensor includes an auxiliary capacitance sensing area, the primary capacitance sensing area and the touch surface form a first interface, the auxiliary capacitance sensing area and the touch surface form a second interface, and a minimum distance between the first interface and the second interface is greater than or equal to zero.

[0012] The main control board is used to determine the output signal according to the electrical signals generated by the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly.

[0013] In one embodiment, the main control board is further configured to:

[0014] determining that the output signals are valid signals when the primary pressure sensor and the primary capacitance sensor output valid signals and the auxiliary pressure sensor and the auxiliary capacitance sensor output invalid signals;

[0015] In the case where the primary pressure sensor and the primary capacitance sensor output valid signals, the auxiliary pressure sensor outputs an invalid signal, and the auxiliary capacitance sensor outputs a valid signal, the output signal is determined to be a valid signal.

[0016] In one embodiment, the main control board is further configured to:

[0017] When the main pressure sensor outputs an invalid signal and the main capacitance sensor outputs a valid signal, or when the main pressure sensor outputs a valid signal and the main capacitance sensor outputs an invalid signal, determining that the output signal is an invalid signal;

[0018] In a case where the primary pressure sensor and the primary capacitance sensor output valid signals, and the auxiliary pressure sensor outputs a valid signal, it is determined that the output signal is an invalid signal.

[0019] In one embodiment, there are at least two auxiliary sensor components, and a minimum distance between the second interface formed by the auxiliary capacitive sensing areas of adjacent auxiliary sensor components and the touch surface is greater than or equal to zero.

[0020] In one embodiment, a plurality of secondary sensor assemblies are arranged around the primary sensor assembly.

[0021] In one embodiment, the switch module also includes a module housing and a transmission line. A cavity is provided inside the module housing, the main control board is located in the cavity, the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly are provided on the outer surface of the module housing, and the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly are electrically connected to the main control board through the transmission line.

[0022] In one embodiment, the transmission line is a flexible transmission line.

[0023] In one embodiment, the switch module further includes a vibration motor and an elastic body. The vibration motor is fixed to the module housing through the elastic body, and the vibration motor is electrically connected to the main control board.

[0024] In one embodiment, the switch module further includes a light-emitting device connected to the main control board; the light-emitting device is used to generate a light signal under the action of the output signal, and a light-transmitting portion is provided on the module housing, and the light-emitting device is arranged opposite to the light-transmitting portion.

[0025] In one embodiment, the switch module further includes a light-evening film; the light-evening film covers the light-transmitting portion.

[0026] In one embodiment, the switch module further includes a light-shielding component; the light-shielding component is fixed to the module housing and is located outside the module housing, and the light-shielding component surrounds the light-emitting device and the light-uniform film.

[0027] In a second aspect, the present application provides a vehicle window assembly, comprising a vehicle window glass, a fixed base plate, and any one of the above-mentioned switch modules; the switch module is fixed to the vehicle window glass via the fixed base plate.

[0028] In a third aspect, the present application provides a column assembly, comprising a column outer cover, a fixed base plate, and any one of the above-mentioned switch modules; the switch module is fixed to the column outer cover via the fixed base plate.

[0029] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides a vehicle comprising any of the above-mentioned switch modules.

[0030] In one embodiment, the switch module is disposed on the vehicle window glass and / or on the vehicle pillar.

[0031] The details of one or more embodiments of the present application are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for describing the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of the present application and are not to be construed as constituting any limitation on the present invention. Those skilled in the art can also derive other embodiments and corresponding drawings of other embodiments based on these drawings.

[0033] FIG1 is a structural block diagram of a switch module in one embodiment;

[0034] FIG2 is a schematic diagram showing the distribution of sensor components on the outer cover in one embodiment;

[0035] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of sensor components in one embodiment;

[0036] FIG4 is a schematic structural diagram of a switch module in one embodiment;

[0037] FIG5 is a schematic structural diagram of a switch module in another embodiment;

[0038] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle window assembly according to an embodiment;

[0039] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of a column assembly in one embodiment;

[0040] FIG8 is a schematic structural diagram of a column assembly according to another embodiment;

[0041] Description of reference numerals:

[0042] 100——switch module; 110——main control board;

[0043] 120 - Main sensor assembly; 121 - Main pressure sensor; 122 - Main capacitance sensor;

[0044] 130 - auxiliary sensor assembly; 131 - auxiliary pressure sensor; 132 - auxiliary capacitance sensor;

[0045] 140——module housing; 141——light-transmitting portion;

[0046] 150——Transmission line;

[0047] 160 - vibration assembly; 161 - vibration motor; 162 - elastic body;

[0048] 170——light emitting device; 180——light uniforming film; 190——light shielding component;

[0049] 200——Window assembly; 210——Window glass;

[0050] 220——Fixed bottom plate; 221——Accommodation groove;

[0051] 230——hollow light-shielding layer; 240——sealing component;

[0052] 300——pillar assembly; 310——pillar outer cover. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application more clear, the following further describes this application in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0054] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "disposed on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or indirectly on the other element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or indirectly connected to the other element. In addition, connection can be used for both fixing and coupling or communication.

[0055] It should also be noted that, in this article, relational terms such as first and second are merely used to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply the existence of any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Moreover, the terms "include", "comprise" or any other variants thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that the process, method, article or equipment comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or also include elements inherent to such process, method, article or equipment. In the absence of further restrictions, the elements defined by the statement "comprising a..." do not exclude the presence of other identical or equivalent elements in the process, method, article or equipment comprising the elements. In addition, the terms "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom" etc. do not constitute absolute spatial relationship restrictions, but are only relative concepts.

[0056] A touch switch is a switching device that drives the circuit to activate the corresponding function by tapping instead of mechanical pressing. Compared with mechanical switches in related technologies, touch switches have been increasingly used due to their high degree of intelligence and convenient operation.

[0057] However, the touch switch in the related art is prone to false triggering due to operator's accidental touch or complex external environment (such as electromagnetic interference), which reduces the effective triggering of the touch switch.

[0058] In order to reduce false triggering and improve effective triggering, the present application provides a switch module. As shown in FIG1 , the switch module 100 includes: a main control board 110 , and a main sensor assembly 120 and an auxiliary sensor assembly 130 connected to the main control board 110 .

[0059] As shown in FIG. 1 , the main sensor assembly 120 includes a main pressure sensor 121 and a main capacitance sensor 122 , and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 includes an auxiliary pressure sensor 131 and an auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 .

[0060] The main pressure sensor 121 and the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 are used to convert pressure signals into electrical signals when the touch surface of the outer cover is subjected to external force;

[0061] The primary capacitance sensor 122 is formed with a primary capacitance sensing area, the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 is formed with an auxiliary capacitance sensing area, the primary capacitance sensing area and the touch surface form a first interface, the auxiliary capacitance sensing area and the touch surface form a second interface, and a minimum distance between the first interface and the second interface is greater than or equal to zero;

[0062] The main control board 110 is used to determine an output signal according to the sensing signal of the main sensor assembly 120 and the sensing signal of the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 .

[0063] The main control board 110 is the data signal processing center in the switch module 100 and can be referred to as a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The main control board 110 is electrically connected to the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130. It receives electrical signals from the primary pressure sensor 121 and primary capacitance sensor 122 in the main sensor assembly 120, as well as the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 and auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 in the auxiliary sensor assembly 130, and determines an output signal based on the electrical signals from each sensor.

[0064] The electrical signals generated by each sensor can be either valid or invalid. For example, a pressure sensor can output a valid signal when sensing valid pressure and an invalid signal when sensing a change in capacitance. A capacitance sensor can output a valid signal when sensing a change in capacitance and an invalid signal when sensing a change in capacitance. A valid signal can be a high-level signal, such as 1, while an invalid signal can be a low-level signal, such as 0.

[0065] The main control board 110 includes a power interface and a transmission interface. The power interface is connected to an external power source via a power transmission line to power the switch module 100. The transmission interface is connected to an external device or functional module to be controlled via a data transmission line to output a determined output signal to the external device or functional module. For example, the power interface can be a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) interface, and the transmission interface can be a hardwired interface.

[0066] The output signal is used to control the operating state of the external device or functional module, such as turning it on or off. For example, when the switch module 100 is used in a vehicle, the switch module 100 can be connected to the vehicle's interior dome light, and the main control board 110 can control the interior dome light to turn on or off through the output signal.

[0067] The output signal of the main control board 110 can be either a valid signal or an invalid signal. A valid signal can be used to change the operating state of an external device or functional module, such as switching from on to off or from off to on. An invalid signal cannot change the operating state of an external device or functional module.

[0068] The switch module 100 described above can be used in any terminal device. It is installed on the outer cover, powered by a power transmission line, and electrically connected to other devices or functional modules in the terminal device via data transmission lines to control the operating status of these connected devices or functional modules. In practical applications, the switch module 100 is installed on the inner side of the outer cover and then mounted in the terminal device. The auxiliary sensor assembly 130 and the main sensor assembly 120 form sensing areas on the outer side of the outer cover. The outer side of the outer cover serves as a touch surface for users to touch and trigger the switch module 100.

[0069] The outer cover plate can be a panel made of any material suitable for the passage of an electric field. In one or more embodiments, the outer cover plate can be glass (e.g., soda-lime glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, alkali-containing borosilicate glass and / or alkali aluminoborosilicate glass) or glass ceramic. Examples of suitable glass ceramics include Li2O-Al2O3-SiO2 system (i.e., LAS system) glass ceramics; MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 system (i.e., MAS system) glass ceramics; and glass ceramics containing a crystalline phase, which is any one or more of the following substances: mullite, spinel, α-quartz, β-quartz solid solution, petalite, lithium disilicate, β-spodumene, nepheline and aluminum oxide. In addition, the glass can be chemically strengthened, thermally strengthened, mechanically strengthened, or a combination thereof.

[0070] In one embodiment, the outer cover plate may be a laminated glass. Laminated glass generally includes two glass plates arranged opposite to each other and an intermediate layer arranged between the two glass plates. In one or more embodiments, the intermediate layer may be selected from the following materials: polyvinylbutyral (PVB) resin, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), ionomer, polyvinyl chloride copolymer and thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU).

[0071] In one embodiment, the outer cover plate can be colored. Specifically, a shielding layer can be formed by screen printing ceramic ink on the glass surface or glass ceramic surface and then sintering it, or by coating organic ink and then drying it to form a shielding layer. The coloring of the outer cover plate can hide the switch module in appearance.

[0072] In addition, in one embodiment, when the outer cover is colored, a specific mark can be added by applying inks of different colors or by laser etching a portion of the shielding layer to facilitate the user to identify the location of the main sensor assembly.

[0073] In one embodiment, the outer cover plate may be made of plastic material, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polycarbonate (PC) or the like.

[0074] As shown in Figure 2, the switch module 100 includes a primary capacitive sensor 122 with a primary capacitive sensing area M and a secondary capacitive sensor 132 with a secondary capacitive sensing area N. The primary capacitive sensing area M forms a first interface C1 with the touch surface P of the outer cover O, while the secondary capacitive sensing area N forms a second interface C2 with the touch surface P. By setting the minimum distance S between the first interface C1 and the second interface C2 to be greater than or equal to 0, the secondary sensor assembly 130 is relatively dispersed from the primary sensor assembly 120, resulting in a dispersed distribution of their capacitive sensing areas. This prevents the capacitive sensing area of ​​the secondary sensor assembly 130 from interfering with the user's touch behavior when touching the primary sensor assembly 120, potentially causing the switch module to malfunction.

[0075] It should be noted that if a user intentionally triggers the switch module 100, they will accurately press the primary capacitive sensing area M of the main sensor assembly 120 without touching the secondary capacitive sensing area N of the secondary sensor assembly 130, which is farther away from the main sensor assembly 120. Consequently, only the main sensor assembly 120 generates a valid signal, and both the primary voltage sensor 121 and the primary capacitive sensor 122 in the main sensor assembly 120 generate valid signals. If the user unintentionally triggers the switch module 100, such as accidentally touching or approaching the primary capacitive sensing area M of the main sensor assembly 120, the main sensor assembly 120 may not be effectively pressed, resulting in an invalid signal in the sensor signal generated by the main sensor assembly 120. Alternatively, if the user unintentionally approaches or touches the secondary capacitive sensing area N of the secondary sensor assembly 130, which is farther away from the main sensor assembly 120, a valid signal may be generated in the secondary sensor assembly 130. Based on this, the main control board 110 in the switch module 100 can determine and output a corresponding output signal based on the electrical signals generated by each sensor in the main sensor assembly 120 and the secondary sensor assembly 130.

[0076] In an embodiment of the present application, the switch module provided includes a main control board, and a main sensor assembly and an auxiliary sensor assembly connected to the main control board; the main sensor assembly includes a main pressure sensor and a main capacitance sensor, and the auxiliary sensor assembly includes an auxiliary pressure sensor and an auxiliary capacitance sensor. The main pressure sensor and the auxiliary pressure sensor are used to convert the pressure signal into an electrical signal when the touch surface of the outer cover is subjected to an external force. The main capacitance sensor forms a main capacitance sensing area, the auxiliary capacitance sensor forms an auxiliary capacitance sensing area, the main capacitance sensing area and the touch surface form a first interface, the auxiliary capacitance sensing area and the touch surface form a second interface, and the minimum distance formed between the first interface and the second interface is greater than or equal to zero. The main control board is used to determine the output signal based on the electrical signals generated by the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly. The above-mentioned switch module is not only equipped with a main sensor component, but also with an auxiliary sensor component, and the capacitive sensing areas formed by the main sensor component and the auxiliary sensor component on the touch surface are dispersed. Then, the main control board comprehensively determines whether the user intentionally triggers the switch module based on the electrical signals generated by the main sensor component and the auxiliary sensor component to generate a corresponding output signal, which reduces the arbitrariness of the output signal judgment and improves the matching degree between the output signal and the user's actual intention, thereby reducing false triggering of the switch and improving effective triggering.

[0077] The main control board 110 may determine the output signal based on the validity of the electrical signals generated by the primary pressure sensor 121 and the primary capacitance sensor 122 in the primary sensor assembly 120, and the secondary pressure sensor 1321 and the secondary capacitance sensor 132 in the secondary sensor assembly 130. Based on this, in one embodiment, the main control board 110 is further configured to:

[0078] In the case where the primary pressure sensor 121 and the primary capacitance sensor 122 output valid signals and the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 and the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 output invalid signals, determining that the output signals are valid signals;

[0079] When the primary pressure sensor 121 and the primary capacitance sensor 122 output valid signals, the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 outputs an invalid signal, and the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 outputs a valid signal, the output signal is determined to be a valid signal.

[0080] In some embodiments, when the main control board 110 receives a valid signal output by the main pressure sensor 121 and the main capacitance sensor 122, and the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 and the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 output an invalid signal, it indicates that the user intentionally triggers the switch module 100, and the main control board 110 determines that the output signal is a valid signal; when the main control board 110 receives a valid signal output by the main pressure sensor 121 and the main capacitance sensor 122, and the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 outputs an invalid signal, while the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 outputs a valid signal, it also indicates that the user intentionally triggers the switch module 100, but accidentally touches / approaches the auxiliary capacitance sensing area, and the main control board 110 determines that the output signal is a valid signal.

[0081] Next, the case where an invalid signal is output is described. In one embodiment, the main control board 110 is further configured to:

[0082] When the main pressure sensor 121 outputs an invalid signal and the main capacitance sensor 122 outputs a valid signal, or when the main pressure sensor 121 outputs a valid signal and the main capacitance sensor 122 outputs an invalid signal, the output signal is determined to be an invalid signal.

[0083] In a case where the primary pressure sensor 121 and the primary capacitance sensor 122 output valid signals, and the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 outputs a valid signal, it is determined that the output signal is an invalid signal.

[0084] In some embodiments, when the main control board 110 receives an invalid signal from the primary pressure sensor 121 and a valid signal from the primary capacitance sensor 122, or when the main pressure sensor 121 outputs a valid signal and the main capacitance sensor 122 outputs an invalid signal, it indicates that the user has not effectively triggered the switch module 100. In this case, regardless of whether the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 and the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 output valid signals, the main control board 110 determines that the output signal is an invalid signal. Furthermore, when the main control board 110 receives a valid signal from the primary pressure sensor 121 and the primary capacitance sensor 122, and the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 outputs a valid signal, it also indicates that the user has not effectively triggered the switch module 100. In this case, regardless of whether the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 outputs a valid signal, the main control board 110 determines that the output signal is an invalid signal.

[0085] It should be noted that, when the primary pressure sensor 121 and the primary capacitance sensor 122 , as well as the auxiliary pressure sensor 131 and the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 all output invalid signals, the main control board 110 determines that the output signals are also invalid signals.

[0086] In an embodiment of the present application, the main control board is used to determine that the output signal is a valid signal when the main pressure sensor and the main capacitance sensor output a valid signal and the auxiliary pressure sensor and the auxiliary capacitance sensor output an invalid signal; determine that the output signal is a valid signal when the main pressure sensor and the main capacitance sensor output a valid signal, the auxiliary pressure sensor output an invalid signal, and the auxiliary capacitance sensor outputs a valid signal. Also, when the main pressure sensor outputs an invalid signal and the main capacitance sensor outputs a valid signal, or when the main pressure sensor outputs a valid signal and the main capacitance sensor outputs an invalid signal, determine that the output signal is an invalid signal; when the main pressure sensor and the main capacitance sensor output a valid signal and the auxiliary pressure sensor outputs a valid signal, determine that the output signal is an invalid signal. The main control board in the above-mentioned switch module determines the output signal based on the validity of the electrical signals generated by each sensor in the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly, and cooperates with the above-mentioned control logic to ensure the normal operation of the switch module, thereby improving the stability of the switch module operation.

[0087] In practical applications, the switch module 100 may include one main sensor assembly 120 and one auxiliary sensor assembly 130, or may include one main sensor assembly 120 and multiple auxiliary sensor assemblies 130. Therefore, in one embodiment, there are at least two groups of auxiliary sensor assemblies 130, and the minimum distance between the auxiliary capacitive sensing areas of adjacent auxiliary sensor assemblies 130 and the second interface formed by the touch surface is greater than or equal to zero.

[0088] Among them, the minimum distance between the auxiliary capacitance sensing areas of the adjacent auxiliary sensor components 130 and the second interface formed by the touch surface is greater than or equal to zero, indicating that the spacing between the adjacent auxiliary sensor components 130 is large and the settings are relatively dispersed, so that the capacitance sensing areas of the two are also dispersed. It can also avoid the situation where the capacitance sensing area of ​​the auxiliary sensor component 130 interferes with the user's touch behavior when the user touches the main sensor component 120, thereby causing the switch module to fail to work normally.

[0089] In some embodiments, when the switch module 100 includes a plurality of auxiliary sensor assemblies 130 , the plurality of auxiliary sensor assemblies 130 are disposed around the main sensor assembly 120 .

[0090] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the switch module 100 is applied to a vehicle, including 1 main sensor component 120 and 4 auxiliary sensor components 130. The main sensor component 120 includes 1 pressure sensor T1 and 1 capacitance sensor P1, and each auxiliary sensor component 130 also includes 1 pressure sensor T2 and 1 capacitance sensor P2.

[0091] The main sensor assembly 120 is located at position A, and the four auxiliary sensor assemblies 130 are located at positions B, C, D, and E. In the embodiment of the present application, both the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 are sensor assemblies in which a pressure sensor and a capacitance sensor are stacked.

[0092] The touch control logic of the switch module 100 is as follows:

[0093] 1) T1=0, touch pressure is invalid

[0094] When the main pressure sensor T1 outputs an invalid signal, even if P1 = 1, P2 = 0, and T2 = 0, this type of trigger is still determined to be an invalid trigger, and the switch module 100 outputs an invalid signal.

[0095] 2) P1=0, touch pressure is invalid

[0096] When the main capacitance sensor P1 outputs an invalid signal, even if T1 = 1, P2 = 0, and T2 = 0, this type of trigger is still determined to be an invalid trigger, and the switch module 100 outputs an invalid signal.

[0097] 3) T1=1,P1=1,T2=0,P2=0,touch and pressure are effective

[0098] When only the primary pressure sensor T1 and the primary capacitance sensor P1 output valid signals, the current trigger is determined to be a valid trigger, and the switch module 100 outputs a valid signal.

[0099] 4) T1=1, P1=1, T2=1, P2=1, touch and pressure are invalid

[0100] When the main pressure sensor T1 and the main capacitance sensor P1 as well as the auxiliary pressure sensor T2 and the auxiliary capacitance sensor P2 all output valid signals, it indicates that this is caused by a scenario such as car washing, and the trigger is determined to be invalid, and the switch module 100 outputs an invalid signal.

[0101] 5) T1=1,P1=1,T2=0,P2=1,touch and pressure are effective

[0102] When the primary pressure sensor T1 and primary capacitance sensor P1 output valid signals, the auxiliary pressure sensor T2 outputs an invalid signal, and the auxiliary capacitance sensor P2 outputs a valid signal, the trigger is determined to be valid, and the switch module 100 outputs an invalid signal. This touch logic prevents situations where the user's contact with the primary sensor assembly 120 causes the switch module 100 to fail to trigger effectively (e.g., being unable to unlock a vehicle on a rainy day) even when the auxiliary capacitance sensor 132 continues to output a valid signal (e.g., due to interference such as water droplets).

[0103] 6) T1=1, P1=1, T2=1, P2=0, touch and pressure are invalid

[0104] When the auxiliary pressure sensor T2 outputs a valid signal, it indicates that this is caused by scenes such as car washing or heavy rain. Even if T1 = 1 and P1 = 1, this type of trigger is still determined to be an invalid trigger, and the switch module 100 outputs an invalid signal.

[0105] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 , the switch module 100 further includes a module housing 140 and a transmission line 150 .

[0106] Among them, a cavity is set inside the module shell 140, and the main control board 110 is located in the cavity; the main sensor component 120 and the auxiliary sensor component 130 are set on the outer surface of the module shell 140; the main sensor component 120 and the auxiliary sensor component 130 are electrically connected to the main control board 110 through the transmission line 150.

[0107] In some embodiments, the transmission line 150 is a flexible transmission line.

[0108] The module housing 140 is used to provide a cavity for accommodating the main control board 110 to protect the main control board 110. The transmission line 150 is used to realize signal transmission between the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 and the main control board 110.

[0109] In some embodiments, the module housing 140 can be integrally formed or formed in separate pieces. For example, the module housing 140 can be formed by assembling a C-shaped upper protective cover and a C-shaped lower protective cover by snap-fitting or ultrasonic welding. The module housing 140 is provided with a through-hole extending through the housing for the flexible transmission line 150 to pass through, electrically connecting the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 to the main control board 110.

[0110] In some embodiments, the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 can be disposed on a circuit board as a sensing layer in the switch module 100. For example, the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 can be disposed on a flexible printed circuit (FPC), and an FPC cable structure can be used to electrically connect the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 (i.e., the sensing layer) to the main control board 110, thereby enabling signal transmission between the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130 and the main control board 110.

[0111] In some embodiments, the main control board 110 can be fixed to the module housing 140 in the cavity of the module housing 140 by snapping or heat welding. In order to improve structural stability, the sensing layer can be adhered to the outer surface of the module housing 140 by hot melt adhesive.

[0112] In practice, users trigger the switch module 100 by pressing the sensor's location. To ensure uniform force on the sensor, a soft rubber pad is placed between the sensing layer and the outer surface of the module housing 140. This pad is shaped to conform to the shape of the circuit board in the sensing layer. Typically, the rubber pad is coated with glue on both sides, with one side bonded to the outer surface of the module housing 140 and the other to the sensing layer.

[0113] In an embodiment of the present application, the switch module provided further includes a module housing and a transmission line; a cavity is provided inside the module housing, and a main control board is located within the cavity; a main sensor assembly and an auxiliary sensor assembly are provided on the outer surface of the module housing; and the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly are electrically connected to the main control board via a transmission line. The transmission line is a flexible transmission line. In the above-mentioned switch module, the module housing accommodates the main control board within the cavity formed by the module housing to provide all-round protection for the main control board and reduce the probability of damage, while the flexible transmission line can be bent to position the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly on the outer surface of the module housing, thereby improving space utilization and realizing a miniaturized design of the switch module.

[0114] In one embodiment, the switch module 100 further includes a vibration assembly 160 . As shown in FIG5 , the vibration assembly 160 includes a vibration motor 161 and an elastic body 162 .

[0115] The elastic body 162 is disposed in the inner cavity, and the vibration motor 161 is fixed to the module housing 140 through the elastic body 162 ; the vibration motor 161 passes through the module housing 140 , and is electrically connected to the main control board 110 .

[0116] The vibration assembly 160 is used to provide vibration feedback. When the output signal is valid, the main control board 110 controls the vibration assembly to vibrate, providing feedback to the user that the switch module 100 has been triggered. Conversely, when the output signal is invalid, the main control board 110 does not control the vibration assembly 160 to vibrate.

[0117] The vibration motor 161 is the main structure within the vibration assembly 160 that generates vibrations. In some embodiments, the vibration motor 161 may be a linear motor. The vibration motor 161 is inserted through the module housing 140 and is secured thereto. It is connected to the main control board 110 via a rigid wire or FPC connection, enabling the main control board 110 to control the vibration motor 161.

[0118] The elastic body 162 is disposed between the vibration motor 161 and the module housing 140, and is in close contact with the inner surfaces of the vibration motor 161 and the module housing 140, respectively, to cushion the impact of the vibration of the vibration motor 161 on the module housing 140. In some embodiments, the contact surface of the elastic body 162 and the vibration motor 161 can be of the same shape and size, typically a square shape. The elastic body 162 can be fixed to the inner surface of the module housing 140 by snapping or bonding.

[0119] In an embodiment of the present application, the switch module provided further includes a vibration motor and an elastic body; the elastic body is disposed within the inner cavity; the vibration motor is secured to the module housing via the elastic body and extends through the module housing, and is electrically connected to the main control board. In this switch module, the vibration motor can provide tactile feedback to the user, indicating whether the switch module has been triggered, without requiring the user to shift their gaze, thereby enhancing the convenience of feedback.

[0120] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5 , the switch module 100 further includes a light emitting device 170 connected to the main control board 110 .

[0121] The light emitting device 170 is used to generate a light signal under the action of the output signal; a light-transmitting portion 141 is provided on the module housing 140 , and the light emitting device 170 is arranged opposite to the light-transmitting portion 141 .

[0122] Lighting device 170 is used to provide light feedback. When the output signal from main control board 110 is valid, it can control lighting device 170 to illuminate or extinguish, providing feedback to the user that switch module 100 has been triggered. Conversely, when the output signal is invalid, main control board 110 does not control lighting device 170 to illuminate.

[0123] In this embodiment, there is no specific limitation on the type, structure, shape, or number of the light-emitting devices 170, which can be used to implement light language feedback under the control of the main control board 110. For example, the light-emitting devices 170 can be LED lamp beads, which can be mounted on the main control board 110 using surface mount technology (SMT) and arranged to form a ring-shaped light strip.

[0124] In some embodiments, the light-emitting device 170 is integrated with the main control board 110 and disposed within the cavity of the module housing 140, and is disposed opposite the light-transmitting portion 141. When the light-emitting device 170 emits light, light can be transmitted through the light-transmitting portion 141. The light-transmitting portion 141 can be an integrated light-transmitting plate (such as a glass light-transmitting plate) disposed on the module housing 140, or it can be a through groove or through hole that passes through a single side of the module housing 140.

[0125] To enhance the light signal feedback effect, as shown in Figure 5, a through slot or hole can be provided on the module housing 140, extending through one side of the housing 140, to serve as a light-transmitting portion 141. The light-emitting device 170 is electrically connected to the main control board 110 through this light-transmitting portion 141. The sensing layer can be designed with appropriate relief to expose the light-emitting device 170. For example, the position on the sensing layer corresponding to the light-transmitting portion 141 can be hollowed out instead of the main sensor assembly 120 and auxiliary sensor assembly 130.

[0126] In an embodiment of the present application, the switch module further includes a light-emitting device connected to the main control board; the light-emitting device is configured to generate a light signal in response to an output signal; and the module housing is provided with a light-transmitting portion, with the light-emitting device positioned opposite the light-transmitting portion. In this switch module, the light-emitting device can provide user feedback through light signals to indicate whether the switch module has been triggered, which is suitable for use in applications with poor visibility and improves feedback effectiveness.

[0127] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5 , the switch module 100 further includes a light-homogenizing film 180 .

[0128] The light uniforming film 180 covers the light-transmitting portion 141 .

[0129] The light homogenizing film 180 plays a role in homogenizing the light, and is used to homogenize the light generated by the light emitting device 170 so that the switch module 100 emits uniform and non-glaring light.

[0130] In some embodiments, the light-emitting device 170 is housed in the module housing 140, and a light-dispersing film 180 can be provided on the light-transmitting portion 141. Alternatively, the light-dispersing film 180 can be provided on the outer surface of the module housing 140. Alternatively, the light-dispersing film 180 can be provided on the side of the sensing layer away from the module housing 140 to cover the light-transmitting portion 141. The light-dispersing film 180 can be fixed to the surface of the module housing 140 or the sensing layer by adhesive bonding. In this embodiment, the placement of the light-dispersing film 180 is not specifically limited, as long as it covers the light-transmitting portion 141.

[0131] In some embodiments, the light-homogenizing film 180 may be a diffusion film. It should be noted that other optical films may be positioned corresponding to the light-transmitting portion 141 to improve the lighting effect of the light-emitting device 170. For example, a light-enhancing film may be provided to enhance the brightness of the light, and a filter may be provided to change the color of the light. If multiple optical films are provided, they may be stacked, and the stacking order may be customized as needed, and this is not specifically limited in this embodiment.

[0132] In an embodiment of the present application, the switch module provided further includes a light-homogenizing film covering the light-transmitting portion. In the switch module, the light-homogenizing film can be used to homogenize the light generated by the light-emitting device, so that the switch module emits uniform, non-glaring light, thereby improving lighting comfort.

[0133] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5 , the switch module 100 further includes a light shielding component 190 .

[0134] The light shielding component 190 is fixed to the module housing 140 and is located outside the module housing 140 ; ​​the light shielding component 190 surrounds the light emitting device 170 and the light uniforming film 180 .

[0135] The light shielding member 190 is used to prevent light from leaking out, thereby increasing the brightness of the light. In some embodiments, the light shielding member 190 can be a light-shielding closed-cell foam strip, which is disposed on the outer surface of the module housing 140, surrounding the light-emitting device 170 and the light-distributing film 180. For example, the light shielding member 190 can be fixed to the outer surface of the module housing 140 by adhesive bonding.

[0136] In an embodiment of the present application, the switch module further includes a light shielding member secured to and located outside the module housing, surrounding the light-emitting device and the light-distributing film. In the switch module, the light shielding member reduces light leakage from the light-emitting device, thereby preventing a decrease in brightness caused by such light leakage and thereby improving brightness.

[0137] The present application also provides a vehicle window assembly. As shown in FIG6 , the vehicle window assembly 200 includes a vehicle window glass 210 , a fixed base plate 220 and a switch module 100 .

[0138] The switch module 100 is fixed to the vehicle window glass 210 via a fixing base plate 220 .

[0139] The specific structure and function of the switch module 100 in the vehicle window assembly provided in this embodiment can be found in the corresponding embodiments of Figures 1 to 5 above.

[0140] As shown in FIG. 6 , the fixing base plate 220 includes a receiving groove 221 . The receiving groove 221 is used to place and fix the switch module 100 and to place the sensing layer in the switch module 100 close to the surface of the vehicle window glass 210 .

[0141] For example, the fixing base plate 220 can be fixed to the surface of the vehicle window glass 210 by bonding, so as to fix the switch module 100 to the vehicle window glass 210. For example, polyurethane (PU) glue, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) glue, or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) glue can be used to bond the fixing base plate 220 to the surface of the vehicle window glass 210.

[0142] In some embodiments, the switch module 100 and the fixed base plate 220 can be fixed with screws. For example, self-tapping screws are used to lock and compress the fixed base plate 220 and the module housing 140 of the switch module 100. The locking and pressing force can be transmitted to the elastic body 162 and the vibration motor 161 through the upper protective cover of the module housing 140, so that the vibration motor 161 is pressed against the surface of the vehicle window glass 210 without loosening, thereby ensuring long-term vibration feedback. The locking and pressing force is also transmitted to the sensing layer through the lower protective cover of the module housing 140, so that the main sensor assembly 120 and the auxiliary sensor assembly 130, as well as the light-diffusing film 180, are pressed against the surface of the vehicle window glass 210 without loosening, thereby ensuring long-term touch sensing.

[0143] In some embodiments, the vehicle window glass 210 can be glass located anywhere in the vehicle. For example, the vehicle window glass 210 can be a front windshield, a rear windshield, a sunroof, or a rear quarter window. The vehicle window glass 210 can be tempered glass, single-layer glass, or laminated glass.

[0144] It should be noted that the window glass 210 in the window assembly 200 is the outer cover plate for arranging the switch module 100 .

[0145] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG6 , a hollow light shielding layer 230 is provided on the surface of the vehicle window glass 210 where the switch module 100 is fixed.

[0146] The switch module 100 includes a light emitting device 170 , and the hollow area of ​​the hollow light shielding layer 230 is arranged opposite to the light emitting device 170 .

[0147] The hollow light-shielding layer 230 includes a light-transmissive hollow area and an opaque light-shielding area. In some embodiments, the hollow light-shielding layer 230 can be an ink layer, and can be formed on the surface of the vehicle window glass 210 by screen printing and sintering a screen pattern.

[0148] The hollowed-out area of ​​the hollowed-out light-shielding layer 230 on the vehicle window glass 210 corresponds to the position of the light-emitting device 170. For example, when the light-emitting device 170 is a ring-shaped light strip formed by arranging multiple lamp beads, the hollowed-out area of ​​the hollowed-out light-shielding layer 230 is a ring-shaped area corresponding to the position of the light-emitting device 170.

[0149] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6 , the vehicle window assembly 200 further includes a sealing component 240 disposed around the switch module 100 .

[0150] The sealing member 240 is used to isolate the vehicle window glass 210 on which the switch module 100 is installed from the vehicle side panel. For example, the sealing member 240 can be arranged around the switch module 100 along the edge of the vehicle window glass 210 .

[0151] In the aforementioned vehicle window assembly 200, the fixed base plate 220 accommodates the switch module 100 via the receiving groove 221 and secures the switch module 100 to the vehicle window glass 210, forming a primary seal for the switch module 100. A sealing member 240, disposed around the switch module 100, isolates the switch module 100 from the vehicle's side panel, forming a secondary seal for the switch module 100. Together, these two seals form a protective cavity for the switch module 100, reducing external influences on the vehicle interior while protecting the switch module 100 from dust, dirt, and moisture. This reduces the likelihood of touch failure of the switch module 100 due to environmental influences and increases its service life.

[0152] The present application also provides a column assembly. As shown in FIG. 7 , the column assembly 300 includes a column outer cover plate 310 , a fixed base plate 220 and a switch module 100 .

[0153] The switch module 100 is fixed to the pillar outer cover 310 via the fixing base plate 220 .

[0154] The specific structure and function of the switch module 100 in the column assembly 300 provided in this embodiment can be found in the corresponding embodiments of Figures 1 to 5 above.

[0155] As shown in FIG7 , the fixing base plate 220 includes a receiving groove 221 for accommodating and securing the switch module 100 and placing the sensing layer in the switch module 100 close to the surface of the pillar outer cover 310. For example, the fixing base plate 220 can be secured to the surface of the pillar outer cover 310 by bonding, thereby securing the switch module 100 to the pillar outer cover 310.

[0156] In some embodiments, the switch module 100 and the fixed base plate 220 can be fixed by screws, so that the vibration motor 161 is pressed tightly against the glass outer cover 310 without loosening, thereby ensuring the vibration feedback effect for a long time, and the main sensor component 120 and the auxiliary sensor component 130, as well as the uniform light film 180 are pressed tightly against the surface of the glass outer cover 310 without loosening, thereby ensuring touch sensing for a long time.

[0157] In some embodiments, the pillar cover plate 310 can be installed on any pillar in the vehicle, as long as it matches the corresponding pillar specifications. The switch module 100 is then secured to the vehicle pillar by fixing the base plate 200 and the pillar cover plate 310. For example, the pillar cover plate 310 can be installed on the A-pillar between the front windshield and the door, the B-pillar between the front door and the rear door, or the C-pillar between the rear windshield and the door. The pillar assembly 300 shown in FIG8 secures the switch module 100 to the B-pillar.

[0158] The pillar outer cover 310 may be made of glass or plastic.

[0159] It should be noted that the column outer cover 310 in the column assembly 300 is an outer cover for arranging the switch module 100 .

[0160] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7 , similar to the window assembly 200 , a hollow light-shielding layer 230 may be provided on the surface of the pillar outer cover 310 where the switch module 100 is fixed, and the pillar assembly 300 may also include a sealing component 240 disposed around the switch module 100 .

[0161] The configuration and function of the hollow light-shielding layer 230 and the sealing component 240 in the embodiment of the present application are detailed in the aforementioned embodiment of the vehicle window assembly 200 and will not be repeated here.

[0162] The present application also provides a vehicle, which includes a switch module 100 .

[0163] The specific structure and function of the switch module 100 in the vehicle provided in this embodiment can be found in the embodiments corresponding to the aforementioned Figures 1 to 5 .

[0164] The switch module 100 can be disposed at any position in the vehicle. In one embodiment, the switch module 100 is disposed on a vehicle window glass and / or a vehicle pillar.

[0165] The switch module 100 may be disposed on a vehicle window glass to form a vehicle window assembly, or the switch module 100 may be disposed on a vehicle pillar to form a vehicle pillar assembly.

[0166] The specific structure and function of the window assembly are detailed in the embodiment corresponding to FIG. 6 , and the specific structure and function of the pillar assembly are detailed in the embodiments corresponding to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 .

[0167] The above content is a further detailed description of the present invention in conjunction with specific / preferred embodiments, and it cannot be determined that the specific implementation of the present invention is limited to these descriptions. For ordinary technicians in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, without departing from the concept of the present invention, they can also make several substitutions or modifications to these described embodiments, and these substitutions or modifications should be considered to belong to the scope of protection of the present invention. In the description of this specification, the reference terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "preferred embodiments", "examples", "specific examples", or "some examples" and the like mean that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0168] The above-described embodiments merely represent several implementation methods of the present application. While the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that a person skilled in the art could make various modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present application, all of which fall within the scope of protection of the present application. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present patent application shall be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A switch module, wherein, The switch module includes: a main control board, and a main sensor assembly and an auxiliary sensor assembly connected to the main control board; The main sensor assembly includes a main pressure sensor and a main capacitance sensor, and the auxiliary sensor assembly includes an auxiliary pressure sensor and an auxiliary capacitance sensor; The main pressure sensor and the auxiliary pressure sensor are configured to convert a pressure signal into an electrical signal when an external force acts on the touch surface of the outer cover plate; The main capacitance sensor forms a main capacitance sensing area, the auxiliary capacitance sensor forms an auxiliary capacitance sensing area, a first interface is formed between the main capacitance sensing area and the touch surface, a second interface is formed between the auxiliary capacitance sensing area and the touch surface, and The minimum distance formed between the first interface and the second interface is greater than or equal to zero; The main control board is configured to determine an output signal according to the electrical signals generated by the main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly.

2. The switch module according to claim 1, wherein, The main control board is further configured to: When the main pressure sensor and the main capacitance sensor output valid signals, and the auxiliary pressure sensor and the auxiliary capacitance sensor output invalid signals, determine that the output signal is a valid signal; When the main pressure sensor and the main capacitance sensor output valid signals, the auxiliary pressure sensor outputs an invalid signal, and the auxiliary capacitance sensor outputs a valid signal, determine that the output signal is a valid signal.

3. The switch module according to claim 1, wherein The main control board is further configured to: When the main pressure sensor outputs an invalid signal and the main capacitance sensor outputs a valid signal, or when the main pressure sensor outputs a valid signal and the main capacitance sensor outputs an invalid signal, determine that the output signal is an invalid signal; When the main pressure sensor and the main capacitance sensor output valid signals, and the auxiliary pressure sensor outputs a valid signal, determine that the output signal is an invalid signal.

4. The switch module according to claim 1, wherein There are at least two auxiliary sensor assemblies, and the minimum distance formed between the second interfaces formed between the auxiliary capacitance sensing areas of the adjacent auxiliary sensor assemblies and the touch surface is greater than or equal to zero.

5. The switch module according to claim 2, wherein, A plurality of the auxiliary sensor assemblies are arranged around the main sensor assembly.

6. The switch module according to claim 1, wherein The switch module further includes a module housing and a transmission line. A cavity is provided inside the module housing. The main control board is located in the cavity. The main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly are arranged on the outer surface of the module housing. The main sensor assembly and the auxiliary sensor assembly are electrically connected to the main control board through the transmission line.

7. The switch module according to claim 6, wherein, The transmission line is a flexible transmission line.

8. The switch module according to claim 6, wherein, The switch module further includes a vibration motor and an elastic body. The vibration motor is fixed to the module housing through the elastic body. The vibration motor is electrically connected to the main control board.

9. The switch module according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The switch module further includes a light-emitting device connected to the main control board; the light-emitting device is configured to generate an optical signal under the action of the output signal. A light-transmitting portion is provided on the module housing. The light-emitting device is disposed opposite to the light-transmitting portion.

10. The switch module according to claim 9, wherein, The switch module further includes a light homogenizing film; the light homogenizing film covers the light-transmitting portion.

11. The switch module according to claim 10, wherein, The switch module further includes a light-shielding component; the light-shielding component is fixed to the module housing and located outside the module housing, and the light-shielding component surrounds the light-emitting device and the light homogenizing film.

12. A window assembly, wherein, The window assembly includes a window glass, a fixed bottom plate, and the switch module according to any one of claims 1-11 above; the switch module is fixed to the window glass through the fixed bottom plate.

13. A column assembly, wherein, The pillar assembly includes a pillar outer cover plate, a fixed bottom plate, and the switch module according to any one of claims 1-11 above; the switch module is fixed to the pillar outer cover plate through the fixed bottom plate.

14. A vehicle, wherein, The vehicle includes the switch module according to any one of claims 1-11 above.

15. The vehicle according to claim 14, wherein, The switch module is disposed on the window glass.

16. The vehicle according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The switch module is disposed on a vehicle pillar.

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