Vehicle Window Control Switching During Automatic Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional power window switches in vehicles face usability issues when switching operation targets, leading to unintended operations and potential safety hazards, particularly when automatic operations are ongoing.

Innovation Solution

A control apparatus with a selection input unit, operation input unit, and control unit that allows selective operation of vehicle windows or other mechanisms, enabling seamless switching between operation targets and controlling operations based on user intent and safety considerations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional power window switch with timer unit is used to operate multiple windows, then the device can control front and rear windows with a single switch, but the system lacks the ability to prevent unintended operations when switching between operation targets during automatic operations

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAbility to operate multiple windows (front and rear) with a single switchVSAvoidPrevention of unintended operations when switching targets

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit dynamically changes the operational state of the first operation target based on real-time detection of selection operations. When a selection operation for the second operation target is detected during automatic operation, the control unit transitions the first operation target from automatic operation mode to a state where it can be re-selected, preventing unintended continuous operation while maintaining system versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit implements feedback by continuously monitoring selection operations and operation states. When the second operation target is selected during automatic operation of the first target, the system detects this change and provides feedback by preventing further automatic operation of the first target until it is re-selected, thereby ensuring reliable operation switching

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If the first operation target continues automatic operation until maximum or minimum operation amount is reached, then the operation completes automatically without continuous user input, but the system cannot respond to new selection operations for the second operation target during the automatic operation

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAutomatic completion of window operation without continuous inputVSAvoidAbility to switch to second operation target during automatic operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit dynamically adjusts the automatic operation state based on detected selection operations. When a selection operation for the second operation target is detected during automatic operation of the first target, the control unit transitions the first target to a selectable state, allowing the system to respond to user intent while maintaining the ability to complete operations automatically when no selection changes occur

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a selection switch is added to allow switching between front and rear window operation targets, then the system gains target selection capability, but the complexity of the control system increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAbility to select between first and second operation targetsVSAvoidComplexity of control system with multiple switches and timer units

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit serves multiple functions: it controls automatic operation of the first operation target, detects selection operations for the second operation target, prevents unintended operations, and manages the selectable state transitions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated switches for each operation target, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit merges the functions of operation control, selection detection, and state management into a single integrated control system. By combining these functions, the patent reduces the number of separate components (switches, timer units) needed while achieving the same operational versatility, thereby simplifying the overall device structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12534948B2Control apparatus

Publication Date: 2026.01.27 ALPS ALPINE CO LTD

AI summary

A control apparatus includes a selection input unit for receiving a selection operation to select either a first or second operation target provided in a vehicle as an operation target; an operation input unit for receiving an operation input for operating the operation target; and a control unit for operating the operation target according to either one of a first operation input that operates the operation target only while the operation input is being performed or a second operation input that causes the operation target to perform a continuous operation until a maximum or minimum operation amount. The control unit changes the continuous operation of the first operation target when the second operation target is selected while the first operation target is performing the continuous operation, or the second operation target is selected and the first or second operation input is performed with respect to the second operation target.