Hidden Armrest Touch Switches for Precise Window Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional automotive window control systems with physical toggle switches are complex, limited in design freedom, and require full operator attention for precise window positioning, with a risk of inadvertently engaging auto mode when manual mode is desired.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle door trim interior with a capacitive touch sensor system integrated into the armrest, featuring a smart surface interface with hidden switches and symbols, allowing for precise window positioning control through a position control switch activated by a touch sensor, enabling the window regulator to move to a selected position without continuous operator attention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional physical toggle switches are used for window control, then the control system is simple and reliable, but the design freedom is limited and the system complexity increases due to packaging constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical toggle switches with capacitive touch sensors integrated into the soft trim skin. This substitution eliminates the need for physical switch mechanisms, reducing mechanical complexity while enabling more flexible design configurations and integration options within the door panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates capacitive touch sensors into the soft trim skin, utilizing flexible thin film technology to embed control elements within the aesthetic surface. This approach allows switches to be concealed within the skin while maintaining design flexibility and eliminating the need for protruding mechanical components.
2Ease of operation
If rocker style mechanical switches are used to control window motion, then the window can be moved to full up or down positions, but the operator must maintain full attention throughout the glass travel to stop at any location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates position control switches that allow the operator to pre-select desired window positions before initiating movement. The system then automatically executes the positioning action, eliminating the need for continuous monitoring during the window's travel and freeing the operator from constant attention requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The window control system performs the positioning action autonomously once the operator selects a target position. The motor-driven window regulator automatically moves the glass to the selected location without requiring further operator intervention, allowing the system to service itself during the positioning process.
3Productivity
If auto up or down mode is engaged, then the window reaches full position automatically, but the operator may inadvertently engage auto mode when manual mode was desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates control functions into distinct segments: actuation switches for initiating window movement and position control switches for selecting specific positions. This segmentation allows operators to choose manual or automatic positioning deliberately, reducing the risk of inadvertent auto mode engagement while maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces position control switches as an intermediary between the operator's intent and the window motor action. This intermediate control layer provides a deliberate selection step that prevents accidental auto mode activation while still enabling efficient automatic positioning when intentionally selected.
4Shape
If touch sensors are integrated into the soft trim skin, then the switches are not visually perceivable and aesthetics are improved, but the switches require intuitive understanding by the operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes visual indicators such as color changes or illumination in the soft trim skin to indicate the location and state of capacitive touch sensors. These subtle visual cues maintain the aesthetic appearance by integrating seamlessly into the skin while providing sufficient information for operators to locate and understand the controls intuitively.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The capacitive touch sensor system provides intuitive and ergonomic control over window positioning, reducing the risk of inadvertent actuation and allowing for precise window placement between full up and full down positions, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A vehicle door trim interior with a capacitive touch sensor system integrated into the armrest
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle door trim interior, including: an armrest; a surface depression located in the armrest, wherein the surface depression is covered with a skin; at least one actuation switch located below the skin and in the surface depression; and a position control switch associated with least one actuation switch, the position control switch only becoming active upon actuation of the at least one actuation switch.