JP5405876B2 - Operator discriminating device and in-vehicle device control device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an operator position discriminating apparatus and an in-vehicle apparatus control apparatus that determine the position of an operator with respect to an operation unit of an in-vehicle apparatus mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile. The present invention relates to an operator discriminating device and an in-vehicle device control device that can discriminate.

  2. Description of the Related Art An operation restriction device (see, for example, Patent Document 1 (pages 4-6 and 1-8)) is known as a means for determining an operator for an operation unit of an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle. In this operator restriction device, whether or not the vehicle is traveling is detected by the travel detection unit, and the operations of the passenger and the driver approaching the display unit are detected by the passenger operation detection sensor and the driver operation detection sensor, respectively. . In addition, when the operation control unit determines that the vehicle is not traveling based on information from the activation switch, the display unit can be operated. When the vehicle is traveling, the activation switch detects the passenger operation detection sensor and the driver operation detection. The sensor is activated.

  The operation control unit disables the operation of the display unit when it is determined that the operator is a driver based on the outputs of the passenger motion detection sensor and the driver motion detection sensor. When it is determined that there is no such operation, the display unit can be operated.

  An operator discriminating method (see, for example, Patent Document 2 (page 3-8, FIG. 1-15)) is also known. This operator discrimination method is a touch panel unit that detects a change in capacitance at a plurality of positions with respect to an operation input operation that makes contact with a part of the surface of the touch panel, and performs input detection according to position information. When the operation discriminating unit determines whether the touch panel unit is operated from two opposite directions from the change in capacitance detected at a plurality of positions in a non-contact state before contacting a part of the panel surface. Has been.

JP-A-8-184449 JP 2008-197934 A

  However, in the operation restriction device disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above, the operations of the passenger and the driver approaching the display unit by the passenger operation detection sensor and the driver operation detection sensor configured by an infrared sensor or the like, respectively. Is detected. For this reason, the sensor may be exposed and the appearance may be impaired. For example, in order to discriminate the operator more accurately and reliably in the vicinity of the display unit, it is necessary to finely set the detection area of the sensor. There are problems such as.

  Further, in the operator discrimination method disclosed in Patent Document 2 described above, a large number of capacitance sensors are arranged on the touch panel portion, and a change in capacitance at the time of non-contact is detected to discriminate an operation direction. Therefore, there is a problem that the circuit design becomes complicated and expensive. Further, in the configuration in which the change in capacitance is simply detected, there is a problem that it is difficult to accurately determine which operator's hand is coming from because the detection range of the sensor is ambiguous.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an operator discriminating device and an in-vehicle device control device that can be configured at low cost and can discriminate an operator accurately and reliably in order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art. .

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, an operator determination device according to the present invention includes an operation unit of an in-vehicle device provided between a driver's seat of a vehicle and other seats, the driver's seat, and others. A sensor electrode provided between at least one of the seats of the seat, an auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode, and at least the sensor electrode is connected, and the electrostatic capacity based on the capacitance from the connected electrode A switch capable of selectively switching between a detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value, a first connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is not connected to the detection circuit, and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is connected to the detection circuit A comparison value comparing a switch, a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the first connection state, and a second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state; And the first Or a determination means for determining whether or not the human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode based on the second capacitance value and determining the position of the operator with respect to the operation section based on the determination result It is characterized by comprising.

  The change-over switch is configured to be able to open, connect to the ground, or to a predetermined potential, for example, when the auxiliary switch is in the first connection state.

  The shield switch further includes a shield drive circuit that applies a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode, and the changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit, for example, in the first connection state. ing.

  An operator determination device according to the present invention is provided between an operation unit of an in-vehicle device provided between a driver's seat and other seats of a vehicle and at least one of the driver's seat and other seats. A sensor electrode, an auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode, a detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on the capacitance from the sensor electrode, and a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode on the auxiliary electrode A first driving state for connecting the auxiliary electrode to the shield driving circuit, and a second connecting state for opening the auxiliary electrode, connecting to the ground, or a predetermined potential. A changeover switch that can be switched to, a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the first connection state, and a second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state. Compared ratio Based on the value and the first or second capacitance value, it is determined whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, and based on the determination result, the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit And a discriminating means for discriminating between.

  Furthermore, an operator determination device according to the present invention is provided between an operation unit of an in-vehicle device provided between a driver's seat of a vehicle and other seats and at least one of the driver seat and other seats. A sensor electrode; an auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode; a detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the connected electrode; and connecting the sensor electrode to the detection circuit. A first changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state and a second connection state in which the sensor electrode is not connected to the detection circuit; and when the sensor electrode is in the first connection state, A second change-over switch that is switchable to connect the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit without connecting the auxiliary electrode to the detection circuit and when the first change-over switch is in the second connection state; Connection status A comparison value comparing the first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case with the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state, and the first or first And determining means for determining whether or not the human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode based on the capacitance value of 2, and determining the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit based on the determination result. It is characterized by that.

  The first changeover switch is configured to be able to open, connect to the ground or a predetermined potential of the sensor electrode in the second connection state, for example, and the second changeover switch is, for example, in the first connection state. Sometimes, the auxiliary electrode is open, grounded, or connectable to a predetermined potential.

  A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode, or a potential equivalent to the auxiliary electrode for the sensor electrode, and the first changeover switch includes, for example, the second connection The sensor electrode is configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit when in a state, and the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state, for example. ing.

  A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equivalent to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode is further provided, and the first changeover switch opens the auxiliary electrode in the second connection state, grounds, or has a predetermined potential, for example. The second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state, for example.

  A shield drive circuit for applying a potential equivalent to that of the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode is further provided, and the first changeover switch can connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state, for example. The second changeover switch is configured such that, for example, the auxiliary electrode can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential in the first connection state.

  The auxiliary electrode is disposed, for example, so as to surround the sensor electrode.

  For example, the determination unit calculates a comparison value by multiplying a value obtained by dividing the first capacitance value by the second capacitance value by a predetermined coefficient, and the comparison value is set to a predetermined value. Whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode is determined based on whether or not the threshold value is greater than the threshold value.

  The detection circuit includes, for example, a first initial capacitance that is an initial capacitance of the first capacitance value when there is no human body within the detection range on the sensor electrode, and a human body within the detection range on the sensor electrode. And a second initial capacitance that is an initial capacitance of the second capacitance value when there is no data, and the determination means obtains the first initial capacitance from the first capacitance value, for example. A comparison value obtained by subtracting the first detection value subtracted from the second detection value obtained by subtracting the second initial capacitance from the second capacitance value, and the first or second detection value. Based on this, it is determined whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode.

  Reference voltage adjusting means for setting the output of the detection circuit to a reference voltage is further provided, and the detection circuit is, for example, an initial value of the first capacitance value when there is no human body within a detection range on the sensor electrode. A first set value for setting the first initial capacitance, which is a capacitance, to the reference voltage, and an initial capacitance of the second capacitance value when there is no human body within the detection range on the sensor electrode. A second setting value for adjusting a second initial capacitance to the reference voltage is obtained, and a first capacitance value adjusted by the first setting value and the second setting value are obtained. And the second capacitance value adjusted by the first setting value is output by subtracting the reference voltage from the first capacitance value adjusted by the first setting value, for example. Is the first detection value, and the second detection value Whether or not the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, based on the comparison value obtained by subtracting the reference voltage as the second detection value and the first or second detection value. Determine whether.

  For example, when the determination unit determines that there is a human body within a detection range on the sensor electrode, the first capacitance value, the second capacitance value, the first detection value, and the Based on one of the second detection values, a signal corresponding to the distance of the human body to the sensor electrode is output, and when it is determined that there is no human body within the detection range on the sensor electrode, the output is Set to a predetermined potential.

  The predetermined potential is, for example, a ground potential or a reference potential.

  For example, when the determination unit determines that the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode, the first capacitance value, the second capacitance value, the first detection value, and Based on any one of the second detection values, a signal corresponding to the distance of the human body to the sensor electrode is output, and when it is determined that there is no human body within the detection range on the sensor electrode, the output Is high impedance.

  An in-vehicle device control device according to the present invention comprises an operator discriminating device according to the above invention, and a control means for controlling an operation mode of the in-vehicle device during vehicle travel according to a discrimination result from the operator discriminating device. An in-vehicle device control apparatus provided, wherein the sensor electrode is provided between the operation unit and the driver's seat, and the control unit determines that the human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode. When it judges, it controls so that operation of the said vehicle equipment cannot be performed.

  Further, an in-vehicle device control device according to the present invention includes an operator discriminating device according to the above invention and a control means for controlling an operation mode of the in-vehicle device during vehicle travel according to a discrimination result from the operator discriminating device. The sensor electrode is provided between the operation unit and the other seats, and the control means has a human body within a detection range on the sensor electrode. Control is performed so that the vehicle-mounted device can be operated when the determination means determines.

  The in-vehicle device is, for example, at least one of a car navigation device, an air conditioner device, a car audio device, and a window opening / closing control device mounted on a vehicle.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the operator discrimination | determination apparatus and vehicle equipment control apparatus which can be comprised cheaply and can discriminate | determine an operator correctly and reliably can be provided.

It is a block diagram which shows the example of a functional structure of the vehicle equipment control apparatus provided with the operator discrimination device concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example in the vehicle interior of the vehicle by which the same vehicle equipment control apparatus is mounted. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an operator determination part. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of the detection operation of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an electric force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the detection image of the hand by the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the operation control processing procedure by the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an operator determination part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and operator determination part of the vehicle equipment control apparatus concerning other embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the operation control processing procedure by the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an operator determination part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and operator determination part of the vehicle equipment control apparatus concerning further another embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the operation | movement concept at the time of the detection operation | movement of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 1st detection operation of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an electric-force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 1st detection operation of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an electric-force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object at the time of 1st detection operation of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an electric-force line. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part and operator determination part of the vehicle equipment control apparatus concerning further another embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an operator determination part.

  Exemplary embodiments of an operator determination device and an in-vehicle device control device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an in-vehicle device control device including an operator discrimination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a vehicle interior of a vehicle in which the in-vehicle device control device is mounted. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an in-vehicle device control device 100 incorporating an operator discrimination device is mounted on a vehicle 1, and controls a first capacitance sensor unit 10 and a second capacitance sensor unit 20. Part 50.

  The in-vehicle device 90 is, for example, a car navigation device, an air conditioner device, a car audio device, a window opening / closing control device, and the like, and includes a display unit 30 and an operation unit 32 here. The display unit 30 and the operation unit 32 are connected to, for example, the control unit 50, and the control unit 50 is further connected to the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 and the vehicle state determination unit 80. ing.

  The control unit 50 includes an operator determination unit 60 and an operation control unit 70 therein, and is connected to the vehicle state determination unit 80. Thereby, the control unit 50 is displayed on the display screen of the display unit 30 of the in-vehicle device 90 based on information from the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the operation unit 32, and the vehicle state determination unit 80. Various types of information can be displayed and the operation mode of the in-vehicle device 90 can be controlled.

  The first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 operate an in-vehicle device 90 provided between a driver's seat 2 and other seats (here, for convenience of explanation) 3. The sensor electrode provided between the part 32 and the driver's seat 2 and the passenger seat 3 is provided, and a human body is detected as a detection target. Specifically, the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 detect the hand at the tip of the forearm in the upper limb of the human body.

  The control unit 50 determines the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit 32 of the in-vehicle device 90 by the operator determination unit 60 based on information from the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, and determines which seat (seat ) And the operation control unit 70 controls the operation mode of the in-vehicle device 90 based on the determination result.

  The display unit 30 includes, for example, a display device or a touch panel device, and displays various information processed by the in-vehicle device 90 so as to be visible to the occupant. The operation unit 32 includes various buttons, switches, knobs, and the like, and accepts an operation input to the in-vehicle device 90 by the operator. The vehicle state determination unit 80 determines the state of the vehicle 1 (specifically, the traveling state) based on information from various sensors and the like mounted on the vehicle 1.

  The in-vehicle device control device 100 configured as described above is based on the information from the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, and the detection range on each sensor electrode is determined by the operator determination unit 60 of the control unit 50. It is determined whether or not there is a hand (or whether or not the hand has passed to touch the operation unit 32) to determine the position of the operator.

  Then, according to the determination result and the information from the vehicle state determination unit 80, for example, when it is determined by the operation control unit 70 that the operator is from the driver's seat 2 traveling the vehicle, the in-vehicle device 90 cannot be operated. Or when it is determined that the operator is from the passenger seat 3, the vehicle 1 is controlled so that it can be operated regardless of the traveling state of the vehicle 1. As a result, it is possible to avoid danger and prevent accidents associated with the operation of the in-vehicle device 90 while the vehicle is being driven by the driver (driver).

  The in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 may be configured to include only the first capacitance sensor unit 10 or the second capacitance sensor unit 20. In this case, the operation mode of the in-vehicle device 90 may be controlled as follows. That is, for example, when only the first capacitance sensor unit 10 is arranged, the vehicle-mounted device 90 can be operated when a hand is detected, and only the second capacitance sensor unit 20 is arranged. Makes it impossible to operate the in-vehicle device 90 when a hand is detected while the vehicle is running. This also makes it possible to avoid danger and prevent accidents associated with the operation of the in-vehicle device 90 by the driver while the vehicle is running.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the operator determination unit of the in-vehicle device control device, and FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an operation concept during the detection operation of the in-vehicle device control device. It is explanatory drawing. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the detection object and the lines of electric force during the detection operation of the in-vehicle device control device, and FIG. 6 shows the operation concept during the detection operation of the in-vehicle device control device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 of the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 are, for example, on the surface of the in-vehicle device 90 between the driver seat 2 and the passenger seat 3 and the operation unit 32. It can be installed or built in. The first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 include a sensor electrode 11 formed in a rectangular (rectangular) flat plate shape, a shield electrode 12 formed on the back side of the sensor electrode 11, and the sensor electrode 11. And auxiliary electrodes 13 formed in a square shape so as to surround the sensor electrode 11.

  Each sensor electrode 11 and auxiliary electrode 13 are arranged in a state of being insulated from each other. The shield electrode 12 is preferably larger than the sensor electrode 11 in order to reduce the sensor sensitivity on the back side.

  The sensor electrode 11 detects a hand (existing) in the detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 shields the hand from being detected on the back side of the sensor electrode 11. The auxiliary electrode 13 is for changing the equicapacitance line (surface) on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11 so that the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 have directivity. In addition, the shield electrode 12 may be provided in the outer peripheral side of the auxiliary electrode 13 together with the aspect mentioned above, for example.

  The operator determination unit 60 is connected to the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 independently (in a separate system), for example, the CV conversion circuit 21 directly connected to the sensor electrode 11, The switch SW includes an A / D converter 22 and a CPU 23, and further includes a shield drive circuit 24. The changeover switch SW for switching the connection of the auxiliary electrode 13 between the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24 is provided. Is provided.

  The CV conversion circuit 21 converts a capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 or the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 into a voltage (Voltage). The A / D converter 22 converts an analog signal indicating a voltage from the CV conversion circuit 21 into a digital signal.

  The CPU 23 controls the entire operator discriminating device, controls the operation of the changeover switch SW, and determines (detects) the detection target (hand) in the detection area. The shield drive circuit 24 drives, for example, the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 to the same potential as the sensor electrode 11.

  The operator determination unit 60 includes a storage unit (not shown) such as a RAM used as a temporary storage area of the CPU 23 and a data storage ROM. The first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are formed on a substrate (not shown), for example. As this board | substrate, any board | substrate of a flexible printed board, a rigid board | substrate, or a rigid flexible board | substrate is employable, for example. In addition, the operator determination unit 60 may be mounted and integrally provided on the same surface side or the back surface side of the substrate on which at least one of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 is formed.

  The sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13 are substrates made of an insulator such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyimide (PI), polyamide (PA), glass epoxy resin, or ceramic. It can be composed of copper, a copper alloy, a metal member (conductive material) such as aluminum or iron, an electric wire, or the like patterned on top.

  Next, the detection operation by the operator determination device of the vehicle-mounted device control device 100 configured as described above will be described. First, an operation (operation 1) when the changeover switch SW is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 side under the control of the CPU 23 will be described. In the case of this operation 1, the connection state of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10, 20 with the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the control unit 20 of the auxiliary electrode 13 is as shown in FIG.

  That is, only the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. The electric capacity is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21. At this time, since the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is covered with the shield electrode 12 connected to the shield drive circuit 24, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is almost equal, which will be described later. The same applies to the second operation.

  Although both detection objects A and B are at substantially the same distance from the sensor electrode 11, the above-described equal capacitance line (surface) M is shown in FIG. 4 due to the influence of the auxiliary electrode 13 connected to the shield drive circuit 24. The sensor sensitivity for the detection target B is lower than the sensor sensitivity for the detection target A.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 5A, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection object A existing near the center of the sensor electrode 11 are the electric lines of force P2 from the auxiliary electrode 13 (shield). 5), the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection object B existing outside the sensor electrode 11, as shown in FIG. It can be said that it is easily affected by the force line P2 (shield).

  For this reason, in the operation 1, both the detection objects A and B exist at the same distance from the sensor electrode 11, but the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is the detection object of the detection object A. It becomes larger than the object B. The first capacitance value C1 detected during such operation 1 is stored in the storage unit by the CPU 23.

  In the case of this operation 1, by connecting the auxiliary electrode 13 to the shield drive circuit 24, the sensor at the electrode end (end on the auxiliary electrode 13 side) of the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the sensor sensitivity at the center of the sensor electrode 11 is detected. The sensitivity can be lowered, and the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 can have a slight directivity.

  However, in this operation 1, since the sensor sensitivity of the electrode end of the sensor electrode 11 is only slightly lowered, for example, the detection existing at a position closer to the sensor electrode 11 than the detection object B shown in FIG. The capacitance value of the object C (see FIG. 4) is substantially equal to the capacitance value of the detection object A, and the equal capacitance line (surface) M is in a state as shown in FIG. End up. For this reason, the difference between the detection objects A and C cannot be determined, and it must be said that this is a state in which a stronger directivity cannot be provided.

  Next, an operation (operation 2) when the changeover switch SW is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 side under the control of the CPU 23 will be described. In the case of this operation 2, the connection state of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10, 20 with the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the control unit 20 of the auxiliary electrode 13 is as shown in FIG.

  That is, since the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the capacitance between the detection objects A and B is changed by the CV conversion circuit 21 by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13. Detected. At this time, as described above, the sensor sensitivity on the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is almost equal, but the equivalent capacitance line (surface) M on the detection surface side (front surface side) of the sensor electrode 11 is in the state shown in FIG. Thus, it can be said that there is no directivity in the range of 180 ° on the detection surface side.

  For this reason, in the operation 2, substantially the same capacitance value is detected for both detection objects A and B existing at substantially the same distance from the sensor electrode 11. Then, the second capacitance value C2 detected during such operation 2 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23 in the same manner as the first capacitance value C1.

  In this way, when the electrostatic capacitance line (surface) M on the detection surface side by the sensor electrode 11 is varied by the above-described operation 1 and operation 2, and there is a slight directivity on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11. The detected first capacitance value C1 and the second capacitance value C2 detected when there is no directivity on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11 are acquired.

  Thereafter, in the operator discrimination device of the in-vehicle device control device 100 of the present example, the following operation is performed. First, the first capacitance value C1 stored in the storage means by the CPU 23 is compared with the second capacitance value C2. For example, in the case of the operation 2 described above, since the capacitance values detected from both the detection objects A and B are substantially the same value, the detection objects A and B are at an approximately equal distance from the sensor electrode 11. It turns out that there is.

  Next, in the case of the operation 1, since the electrostatic capacitance value of the detection target B is smaller than the detection target A, the detection target B should be outside the detection electrode A with respect to the sensor electrode 11. Becomes clear. Based on these considerations, the CPU 23 compares the second capacitance value C2 with the first capacitance value C1 to determine how much the detection target is outside the central portion of the sensor electrode 11. (That is, whether or not the detection target is within a predetermined range including at least a region facing the detection surface of the sensor electrode 11 (hereinafter, may be abbreviated as “in the detection range”)). ) Can be determined.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a hand detection image by the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100. According to the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 configured and operated as described above, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, within the detection range Z <b> 1 formed on the surface of the in-vehicle device 90 by the first capacitance sensor unit 10. It can be determined whether or not there is an operator's hand 91 on the passenger seat 3 side. Similarly, for example, the second capacitance sensor unit 20 can determine whether or not the operator's hand 92 on the driver's seat 2 side is within the detection range Z2 formed on the surface of the in-vehicle device 90. .

  Since the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the surface of the in-vehicle device 90 (specifically, on the sensor electrode 11) are determined by the set directivity, the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 are set on the sensor electrodes 11. If these are set to a narrow region, there is no possibility that these hands 91 and 92 are erroneously detected. Based on the determination result of determining whether or not the hands 91 and 92 are present, the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 performs control so that the in-vehicle device 90 can be operated as described above when the hand 91 is present, When the hand 92 is present and the vehicle is traveling, control is performed so that the in-vehicle device 90 cannot be operated as described above. Here, the operation control process will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation control processing procedure by the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100. In the following, it is assumed that the same reference numerals are assigned to portions that overlap with the portions that have already been described, and descriptions thereof are omitted. As shown in FIG. 7, first, the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 waits until the processing is started, for example, triggered by the ignition key of the vehicle 1 being an accessory or ON (N in step S101).

  Then, when the process is started (Y in step S101), the connection state of the auxiliary electrode 13 by the changeover switch SW is changed to the first and second connection states described above by the control of the CPU 23 of the operator determination unit 60 in the control unit 50. The capacitance values (first and second capacitance values C1 and C2) are detected (step S102), for example, based on the capacitance value from the first capacitance sensor unit 10. It is determined whether or not there is (step S103).

  When it is determined that the value is based on the capacitance value from the first capacitance sensor unit 10 (Y in step S103), the capacitance values C1 and C2 are compared to compare the first capacitance. The comparison value 1 in the sensor unit 10 is calculated (step S104), and the detection object (hand 91) is the sensor electrode 11 of the in-vehicle device 90 based on the first capacitance value C1 or the second capacitance value C2. It is determined whether or not it is close to the top (step S106), and the calculated comparison value 1 is, for example, a predetermined threshold value that is set in advance (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value). Etc.) (step S107).

  When it is determined that the hand 91 is in close proximity (Y in step S106) and the comparison value 1 is determined to be equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (Y in step S107), the hand 91 is determined to be detected. (Step S108), operation control is performed (Step S109). In the operation control in this case, since the operator determination unit 60 determines that the hand 91 is from the passenger seat 3 side, the operation control unit 70 responds to all operation inputs to the operation unit 32 of the in-vehicle device 90. An operation mode (normal mode) in which the operation of the in-vehicle device 90 is executable is executed.

  When it is determined that the hand 91 is not in proximity (N in step S106) or when it is determined that the comparison value 1 is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (N in step S107), the hand 91 is not detected. Determination is made (step S111).

  On the other hand, when it is determined not to be based on the capacitance value from the first capacitance sensor unit 10 (N in step S103), it is based on the capacitance value from the second capacitance sensor unit 20. Therefore, the capacitance values C1 and C2 are compared to calculate the comparison value 2 in the second capacitance sensor unit 20 (step S105), and the first capacitance value C1 or the second static value is calculated. Based on the capacitance value C2, it is determined whether or not the detection target (hand 92) is close to the sensor electrode 11 of the in-vehicle device 90 (step S106), and the calculated comparison value 2 is set in advance, for example. It is determined whether or not it is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold value (or less than the predetermined threshold value or less than the predetermined threshold value) (step S107).

  When it is determined that the hand 92 is close (Y in step S106) and the comparison value 2 is determined to be greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold (Y in step S107), the hand 92 is determined to be detected. (Step S108), operation control is performed (Step S109). In the operation control in this case, since the operator determination unit 70 determines that the hand 92 is from the driver's seat 2 side, the vehicle 1 is traveling based on information from the vehicle state determination unit 80. The operation control unit 70 executes an operation mode (restricted mode) in which the operation of the in-vehicle device 90 according to all the operation inputs to the operation unit 32 of the in-vehicle device 90 cannot be executed or a partial operation can be executed.

  When it is determined that the hand 92 is not in proximity (N in step S106) or when it is determined that the comparison value 2 is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (N in step S107), the hand 92 is not detected. Determination is made (step S111).

  If the operation control process is performed in this manner, an operation mode corresponding to an operation input to the operation unit 32 of the in-vehicle device 90 can be appropriately adopted according to the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit 32 of the in-vehicle device 90. Thereby, without impairing the convenience of operation of the in-vehicle device 90 by the passengers other than the driver's seat 2, it is possible to avoid danger and prevent accidents associated with the operation of the in-vehicle device 90 by the driver while the vehicle is running. Can do.

  After the operation control in step S109 or after the non-detection is determined in step S111, for example, it is determined whether or not the process is ended by using the ignition key of the vehicle 1 as a trigger (step S109). S110). If it is determined that the process is to be terminated (Y in step S110), the series of operation control processes according to this flowchart is terminated. If it is determined that the process is not completed (N in step S110), the process proceeds to step S102, and the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are detected. And the subsequent processing is repeated.

  Specifically, for example, in step S106, when the first capacitance value C1 is larger than an arbitrary threshold value Th1 as a predetermined threshold value, the hands 91 and 92 are applied to the sensor electrode 11. It is set so that it can be determined that it is close. At this time, for example, in step S107, the comparison value α or the comparison value β calculated by a calculation formula such as the comparison value α = (a × C1) − (b × C2) or the comparison value β = d × C1 / C2. However, when it is smaller than an arbitrary threshold value Th2 as a predetermined threshold value set in advance, it is set so that it can be determined that it is outside the detection range Z1, Z2.

  Thereby, even if the hands 91 and 92 are close to each other (Y in step S106), the process proceeds to step S107, and the comparison values 1 and 2 are smaller than the threshold value Th2 (in step S107). N), it is recognized that the hands 91 and 92 are outside the detection ranges Z1 and Z2, and it is determined that the hands 91 and 92 are not detected (step S111).

  Only when the hands 91 and 92 are close to each other (Y in step S106) and the comparison values 1 and 2 are equal to or greater than the threshold Th2 (Y in step S107), the hands 91 and 92 are It can be configured to be detected (step S108). Thus, according to the vehicle-mounted device control apparatus 100 of this example, the proximity of the hands 91 and 92 to the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the surface of the vehicle-mounted device 90 (on the sensor electrode 11) is accurately detected. For example, it is possible to determine the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit 32 of the in-vehicle device 90 and to perform operation control for executing the operation mode of the in-vehicle device 90 according to the operator.

  It should be noted that the calculation formulas for the coefficients a, b, c and the comparison values α, β and the threshold values Th1, Th2 and the calculation formulas for the comparison values α, β in the comparison values α, β described above are the first and Since it changes depending on factors such as the sensor shape of the second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the surrounding environment of the installation, and the characteristics of the detection target, these factors are sequentially set while taking a profile at the time when the factors are determined. That's fine.

  In the example described above, the proximity of the hands 91 and 92 is determined by comparing the first capacitance value C1 with the value obtained by dividing the first capacitance value C1 by the second capacitance value C2. Comparing the capacitance value C1 with the value obtained by dividing the capacitance value C1 by the sum of the first capacitance value C1 and the second capacitance value C2, or using other calculation methods You may make it determine.

  Thus, according to the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 of the present example, for example, when the threshold Th2 is large, the directionality of the sensor sensitivity of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is high and small. The case can be low. Therefore, it is possible to arbitrarily adjust the directivity and arbitrarily set the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the surface of the first capacitance sensor unit 10 disposed on the in-vehicle device 90 by arbitrarily adjusting the directivity. The hands 91 and 92 on the sensor electrodes 11 in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 having desired directivity can be detected reliably and accurately with a simple configuration.

  The CV conversion circuit 21 of the operator determination unit 60 described above uses, for example, a well-known timer IC in which the duty ratio of the output pulse is changed by a resistor and a capacitor, but is not limited thereto. Absent.

  That is, for example, a method in which a sine wave is applied to directly measure an impedance from a voltage change or a current value due to a capacitance value, a method in which an oscillation circuit is configured including a capacitance value to be measured, and an oscillation frequency is measured, RC A charge / discharge circuit is configured to measure the charge / discharge time, a charge charged with a known voltage is transferred to a known capacity and the voltage is measured, or an unknown capacity is charged with a known voltage and the charge is charged. There is a method to measure the number of times until the known capacity is charged to a predetermined voltage by moving it to a known capacity multiple times, setting a threshold value for the detected capacitance value, or a waveform of the capacitance May be processed as a trigger when the corresponding capacitance waveform is obtained.

  In addition, it is assumed that the CV conversion circuit 21 of the operator determination unit 60 converts the capacitance into a voltage. However, it is only necessary to convert it into data that can be handled electrically or as software. It may be converted into a width or directly into a digital value.

  Further, in the above-described in-vehicle device control apparatus 100, the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13 of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are connected to the operation unit 32 of the in-vehicle device 90, the driver seat 2, and the like. The first capacitance value C1 of only the sensor electrode 11 and the second capacitance value C2 of the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are compared with each other by being arranged between the passenger seat 3 and the hand 91. , 92 has been described by way of example, but the following may be used, for example.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the operator determination unit of the in-vehicle device control apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. The in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 of this example has a configuration in which a dummy sensor electrode (dummy electrode) 19 is arranged in addition to the sensor electrode 11, and the CV conversion circuit 21 of the operator determination unit 60 performs a differential operation. It is structured as a thing.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the plus side input end of the differential amplifier circuit, and the dummy electrode 19 is connected to the minus side input end, so that the electrostatic capacitance Ca is determined from the value of the capacitance Ca. The value of the capacitance Cb is subtracted, and the output value is compared with a threshold value by a comparator or the like to detect the hands 91 and 92.

  As an operation of such a CV conversion circuit 21, for example, when the switch S1 is open (OFF), the switch S2 is grounded (GND), and the switch S3 is closed (ON), the switch S3 is operated. When open (OFF), switch S2 is switched to Vr, and switch S1 is connected to the inverting input of the operational amplifier, capacitances Ca and Cf are charged with CaVr, and capacitances Cb and Cf are charged with CbVr.

  Next, after the switch S1 is opened (OFF) and the switch S2 is grounded (GND), the output voltage V when the switch S1 is grounded (GND) is measured. The voltage at this time is V / Vr = {(Cf + Ca) / Cf} − {(Cf + Cb) / Cf}, and a voltage corresponding to the ratio between the capacitance Ca and the capacitance Cb is output.

  As described above, the CV conversion circuit 21 is configured to perform a differential operation (differential circuit), so that the temperature characteristics of the circuit can be canceled and common mode noise can be reduced. At this time, for example, the dummy electrode 19 is connected to the negative input end of the differential amplifier circuit. However, if the dummy electrode 19 is capacitively coupled to the hands 91 and 92, the sensitivity of the sensor itself is lowered. The dummy electrode 19 is formed to have a sufficiently small area with respect to the electrode 11, or another shield electrode 48 having the same potential is provided between the dummy electrode 19 and the hands 91 and 92, thereby Capacitive coupling needs to be reduced.

  In the shield drive circuit 24 described above, when the duty ratio changes according to the capacitance C, the output waveform of the sensor electrode 11 changes depending on the measured capacitance. Therefore, a 1 × amplifier circuit may be configured with a voltage follower such as an operational amplifier or a source follower such as an FET, and the voltage of the sensor electrode 11 may be input and the output thereof connected to the shield electrode 12 or the like. .

  In addition, when the CV conversion circuit 21 operates differentially, the shield drive circuit 24 has a rectangular waveform of the voltage Vr and GND with the output waveform of the sensor electrode 11 and the frequency is the switching frequency of the switch. Since it does not vary depending on the capacitance value, the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier shown in FIG. 9 may be connected to the shield electrode 12 or the like. However, when a driving current is required, a rectangular wave of Vr and GND may be separately generated through an operational amplifier with a high output current.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the shield electrode 12 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24, and the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 or the switching switch SW. For example, when the CV conversion circuit 21 is differentially operated, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the negative side input terminal shown in FIG. The shield electrode 12 may be connected to the shield drive circuit 24, and the auxiliary electrode 13 may be connected to the plus side input end.

  In this case, in the operation 2 described above, the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the sensor electrode 11 and there is almost no directivity. However, in the operation 1 described above, the capacitance between the auxiliary electrode 13 and the hands 91 and 92 is reduced. Since the value for the coupling is subtracted from the capacitance value of the sensor electrode 11, the result is a loose directivity. Similar to the case described above, the same effect can be obtained by comparing the detection values in the operation 1 and the operation 2.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the auxiliary switch 13 is configured to be connected to the shield drive circuit 24 during the operation 1 and connectable to the CV conversion circuit 21 during the operation 2 by the changeover switch SW. The equal capacitance line (surface) M is configured to be variable between 1 and operation 2. However, the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 at the time of operation 1, for example, and is open at the time of operation 2. It is configured to be connectable to ground or a predetermined potential, or, for example, open in operation 1, connected to ground or a predetermined potential, and connected to CV conversion circuit 21 in operation 2. However, the same effect can be obtained. In this way, the auxiliary electrode 13 is connected to the open state by the changeover switch SW, or connected to the ground or other potential (including a potential equivalent to the ground, pulse, charging voltage, sine wave, etc.). May be.

  Note that the change-over switch SW only needs to have a structure capable of switching electrical connection. For example, an electronic circuit switch such as an FET or a photo MOS relay or a mechanical switch such as a contact switch can be employed. In addition to the above-described shape, the sensor electrode 11 may have various shapes such as a circle, a rectangle, and a polygon. When the back side of the sensor electrode 11 is also in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2, a shield is used. The electrode 12 may not be installed.

  The auxiliary electrode 13 is arranged so as to surround the entire periphery of the sensor electrode 11, but if the detection range Z1, Z2 can be set, the auxiliary electrode 13 is in a state of surrounding a part or adjacent to the part. For example, when the sensor electrode 11 is surrounded, the sensor electrode 11 may be arranged concentrically (the center is the same).

  Next, a capacitance sensor unit and an operator determination unit according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 according to the above-described embodiment, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the operator determination unit 60 is the second that indicates the capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13. Either the capacitance value C2 or the first capacitance value C1 indicating the capacitance detected only by the sensor electrode 11 is used.

  For this reason, the capacitance value detected by the structure around the installation place of the sensor electrode 11 (including the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20) may differ. In such a case, the comparison result obtained by comparing the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 may change depending on the structure around the place where the sensor electrode 11 is installed. In order to avoid such a situation, the internal configuration of the operator determination unit 60 may be further set as follows, for example.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the operator determination unit of the in-vehicle device control device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is an operation control process by the in-vehicle device control device. The flowchart which shows the example of a procedure, FIG. 12 is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of the electrostatic capacitance sensor part of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus, and an operator determination part. In the following description, parts that are the same as those already described are denoted by the same reference numerals, description thereof is omitted, and parts not particularly related to the present invention may not be specified.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in addition to the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24 described above, the operator determination unit 20 of the present example approaches a determination circuit 25 including, for example, a CPU, and hands 91 and 92. An initial capacity storage device 26 that stores an electrostatic capacitance value (initial capacity) when not being switched, a switch control circuit 27 that controls the switching operation of the selector switch SW, and a buffer 28 are configured.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 having the operator determination unit 60 configured as described above, for example, after the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are installed in the in-vehicle device 90, the hand operation is performed. Capacitance values (initial capacities) in operation 1 and operation 2 when the switches 91 and 92 are not close to the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are controlled by the switch control circuit 27. To detect each.

  Then, these values are stored in the initial capacity storage device 26, and the initial capacity is determined from the first and second electrostatic capacitance values C1 and C2 in the actual operations 1 and 2 described above in the determination circuit 25. These initial capacities stored in the storage device 26 are subtracted and compared, and it is determined whether or not the hands 91 and 92 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the surface of the in-vehicle device 90 based on the comparison result.

  Specifically, the initial capacity is the first initial capacity when the changeover switch SW is connected to the shield drive circuit 24 side by the control of the switch control circuit 27, and is the first initial capacity. When the SW is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 side, the operation 2 is stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 as the second initial capacity.

  Then, in the actual operation 1, the determination circuit 25 subtracts the first initial capacity stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 from the detected first capacitance value C1 and performs the first detection. A value (detection value 1), and in the case of operation 2, the second detection value is obtained by subtracting the second initial capacitance stored in the initial capacitance storage device 26 from the detected second capacitance value C2. (Detection value 2).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11, first, the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 waits until processing is started, for example, triggered by the ignition key of the vehicle 1 being turned on as an accessory or ON (N in step S201). When the process is started (Y in step S201), the first detection value and the second detection value as described above are calculated (step S202), and for example, the capacitance from the first capacitance sensor unit 10 is calculated. It is determined whether the value is based on the value (step S203).

  When it is determined that the value is based on the capacitance value from the first capacitance sensor unit 10 (Y in step S203), the determination circuit 25 compares the detected values 1 and 2 with a comparison value. 1 is calculated (step S204), and it is determined whether or not the detection object (hand 91) is close based on the calculated comparison value 1 and the first detection value or the second detection value (step S204). S206) The comparison value 1 between the first detection value and the second detection value is, for example, not less than a predetermined threshold value set in advance (or not more than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value). It is determined whether or not (step S207).

  That is, here, it is determined whether or not the hand 91 is in the detection range Z1 based on the detection values 1 and 2 and the comparison result. Note that the detection value 2 in the operation 2 in which the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 is a detection value in a state where there is no directivity of the sensor sensitivity. The output depends on the approach to the first capacitance sensor unit 10.

  When it is determined that the hand 91 is close (Y in step S206) and it is determined that the comparison value 1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (Y in step S207), the hand 91 is determined to be detected. (Step S208), the normal mode operation control as described above is performed (Step S209).

  If it is determined that the hand 91 is close (Y in step S206), but it is determined that the comparison value 1 is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (N in step S207), the hand 91 is determined not to be detected. (Step S211), for example, a non-detection signal A (for example, a high impedance or a predetermined voltage) that is a disable signal indicating that the hand 91 does not exist within the detection range Z1 when the directivity is provided. Output as judgment output.

  Further, for example, based on the first or second detection value (or the first or second capacitance value C1, C2), it is determined whether or not the hand 91 is close (step S206). If it is determined that they are not in close proximity (N in step S206), the process proceeds to step S211 and it is determined that the hand 91 is not detected. For example, the hand 91 is not within the detection range Z1 on the sensor electrode 11. A non-detection signal B (a signal different from the non-detection signal A) is output as a determination output.

  On the other hand, when it is determined not to be based on the capacitance value from the first capacitance sensor unit 10 (N in step S203), based on the capacitance value from the second capacitance sensor unit 20 Therefore, the determination circuit 25 compares the detection values 1 and 2 to calculate the comparison value 2 in the second capacitance sensor unit 20 (step S205), and the calculated comparison value 2 and the first or first comparison value. It is determined whether or not the detection target (hand 92) is in proximity based on the detection value 2 (step S206), and the comparison value 2 between the first detection value and the second detection value is, for example, in advance It is determined whether or not it is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value) (step S207).

  That is, here, it is determined whether or not the hand 92 is within the detection range Z2 based on the detection values 1 and 2 and the comparison result. Note that the detection value 2 in the operation 2 in which the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13 are connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 is a detection value in a state where there is no directivity of the sensor sensitivity. The output depends on the approach to the second capacitance sensor unit 20.

  If it is determined that the hand 92 is close (Y in step S206) and it is determined that the comparison value 2 is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (Y in step S207), the hand 92 is determined to be detected. (Step S208), the operation control in the restriction mode as described above is performed (Step S209).

  Although it is determined that the hand 92 is in close proximity (Y in step S206), if it is determined that the comparison value 2 is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (N in step S207), the hand 92 is determined not to be detected. (Step S211), for example, a non-detection signal A (for example, a high impedance or a predetermined voltage) that is a disable signal indicating that the hand 92 does not exist within the detection range Z2 when the directivity is provided. Output as judgment output.

  Further, for example, based on the first or second detection value (or the first or second capacitance value C1, C2), it is determined whether or not the hand 92 is close (step S206). If it is determined that they are not close (N in Step S206), the process proceeds to Step S211 and it is determined that the hand 92 is not detected. For example, the hand 92 is not within the detection range Z2 on the sensor electrode 11. A non-detection signal B (a signal different from the non-detection signal A) is output as a determination output.

  After determining the detection of the hands 91 and 92 and performing the operation control, or after determining non-detection (after step S209 or step S211), for example, the processing is triggered by turning off the ignition key of the vehicle 1 Is determined (step S210), and if it is determined that the process is to be ended (Y in step S210), the series of operation control processes according to this flowchart is ended. When it is determined that the process is not ended (N in Step S210), the process proceeds to Step S202 and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  In this way, by using the output of the determination circuit 25 as an enable signal or a disable signal, for example, according to the determination result, the enable signal is obtained when the hands 91 and 92 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the surface of the in-vehicle device 90. Is input to the buffer 28, and the detection value 1 is output from the buffer 28. When the hands 91 and 92 are not within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the surface of the in-vehicle device 90, the determination output is fixed to a predetermined voltage such as a ground voltage or a reference voltage as a disable signal, or a high impedance Output.

  When the hands 91 and 92 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11, in addition to the detection value 1, the detection value 2 and the first or second capacitance values C1 and C2 are output. May be. The detection value 1, the detection value 2, and the first and second electrostatic capacitance values C1 and C2 indicate values corresponding to the distances of the hands 91 and 92 to the sensor electrode 11.

  As described above, according to the operator determination unit 60 configured as described above, when the hands 91 and 92 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2, a detection value corresponding to the distance is output and is not within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2. Since the output is a predetermined voltage or the like, it is possible to determine whether or not the hands 91 and 92 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2, and if so, how long the distance is. That is, it is possible to increase the intensity of the directivity of the sensor sensitivity of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 and to set the directivity in more detail.

  Further, as another example of a method for avoiding the dependence on the structure around the place where the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are installed, the reference voltage is adjusted as follows. It is also possible to hold these. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, the operator determination unit 60 in this example includes a reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 and a subtraction circuit 31 in addition to the CV conversion circuit 21 and the shield drive circuit 24. .

  The reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 adjusts the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 to the reference potential at the time of initial capacitance measurement of the first and second initial capacitances as described above. 41, a control circuit 42, a register 43, a D / A converter 44, and an adjustment unit 45.

  For example, the reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 inputs the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 from the positive input terminal of the comparator 41 and inputs the reference voltage (Reference Voltage: RV) from the negative input terminal, and compares the two. The set value of the register 43 is changed under the control of the control circuit 42 based on the comparison result.

  The output of the register 43 is converted from a digital signal to an analog signal by the D / A converter 44, and then the voltage is adjusted by the adjustment unit 45. Adjust the input. Thus, in the operation 1 when the hands 91 and 92 are not close to the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. At this point, the set value of the register 43 is fixed, the output of the first initial capacitance is used as the reference voltage, and the set value (set value 1) at that time is stored.

  At the same time, in the operation 2 when the hands 91 and 92 are not close to the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is closest to the reference potential. The set value of the register 43 is fixed, the output of the second initial capacitance is used as the reference voltage, and the set value at that time (set value 2) is stored.

  In the actual operation 1, the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 when the register 43 is fixed to the set value 1 is input to the positive input terminal of the subtraction circuit 31, for example, and the reference voltage RV is negative. The value is input to the side input terminal, and the output is subtracted by the reference voltage RV to obtain the detected value 1. Further, in the actual operation 2, the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 when the register 43 is fixed to the set value 2 is input to, for example, the plus side input terminal of the subtraction circuit 31, and the reference voltage RV is minus. The value is input to the side input terminal, and the output is subtracted by the reference voltage RV to obtain the detection value 2.

  Then, by comparing these detection value 1 and detection value 2, whether or not there are hands 91 and 92 within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11 and if so, how far is it? Is determined. The input to the CV conversion circuit 21 is adjusted by, for example, increasing or decreasing the input capacitance by applying the voltage of the D / A converter 44 to the adjustment unit 45 including a fixed capacitor connected to the input. Can be realized.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the operator determination unit of the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 are diagrams for explaining the concept of the operation during the detection operation, and FIGS. 15 to 17 are for explaining the relationship between the detection object and the lines of electric force during the first detection operation (operation 3) of the in-vehicle device control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing of.

  18-20 is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the detection target object and an electric force line at the time of the 2nd detection operation (operation | movement 4) of the same vehicle equipment control apparatus 100. FIG. It should be noted that a description overlapping the part already described in the above-described embodiment may be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the in-vehicle device control device 100 according to the present embodiment has the same configuration as the in-vehicle device control device 100 according to the above-described embodiment, and the first and second capacitance sensor units 10, 20 and an operator determination unit 60. The first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 include a sensor electrode 11, a shield electrode 12, and an auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A formed in a square shape so as to surround the sensor electrode 11 like the auxiliary electrode 13. And is configured.

  The sensor electrode 11 is provided mainly for detecting the hands 91 and 92 existing in the detection area on the detection surface side. The shield electrode 12 has the above-described action. The auxiliary electrode 13A is provided mainly to vary the equal capacitance line (surface) on the equal electrostatic side on the detection surface side of the sensor electrode 11.

  The operator determination unit 60 is directly connected to the CV conversion circuit 21 connected to the sensor electrode 11 or the auxiliary electrode 13A, the A / D converter 22, the CPU 23, and the shield electrode 12, and the sensor electrode 11 or And a shield drive circuit 24 connected to the auxiliary electrode 13A.

  In addition, the operator determination unit 60 switches the input from the sensor electrode 11 to the CV conversion circuit 21 or the shield drive circuit 24, and the input from the auxiliary electrode 13A to the shield drive circuit 24 or the C−. A second changeover switch SW2 for switching to the V conversion circuit 21 is provided. The first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2 are configured to be switchable to the A side and the B side (see FIG. 13 and the like), respectively.

  The CV conversion circuit 21 converts the capacitance detected by the sensor electrode 11 or the auxiliary electrode 13A into a voltage. The A / D converter 22 operates in the same manner as described above. The CPU 23 controls the entire operator discriminating device, and controls the operation of the alternate connection (an alternative connection to the A side or B side) of the first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2, for example. The detection of the detection object (hand) in the detection region (proximity or presence of hand) is determined. The shield drive circuit 24 drives the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A or the sensor electrode 11 to the same potential as the sensor electrode 11.

  The structures and configurations of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 and the operator determination unit 60 and the structures and configurations of the electrodes 11 to 13A are the same as those already described in the above-described embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted here. Note that the first changeover switch SW1 is configured such that, for example, when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the sensor electrode 11 can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential. The second changeover switch SW2 May be configured such that when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, the auxiliary electrode 13A can be opened, grounded, or connected to a predetermined potential.

  The shield drive circuit 24 is configured to give the auxiliary electrode 13A a potential equivalent to that of the sensor electrode 11, or to give the sensor electrode 11 a potential equivalent to that of the auxiliary electrode 13A. The sensor electrode 11 can be connected to the shield drive circuit 24 when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the second changeover switch SW2 has the sensor electrode 11 connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. The auxiliary electrode 13 </ b> A may be configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit 24.

  Further, the shield drive circuit 24 is configured to apply a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode 11 to the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the first changeover switch SW1 is used when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. The auxiliary electrode 13A is configured to be open, grounded, or connectable to a predetermined potential, and the second changeover switch SW2 connects the auxiliary electrode 13A to the shield drive circuit 24 when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. It may be configured to be connectable to.

  The shield drive circuit 24 is configured to give the sensor electrode 11 the same potential as the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the first changeover switch SW1 is used when the sensor electrode 11 is not connected to the CV conversion circuit 21. The auxiliary electrode 13A is configured to be connectable to the shield drive circuit 24, and the second changeover switch SW2 opens the auxiliary electrode 13A when the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, grounds, or a predetermined potential. It may be configured to be connectable to.

  Next, the detection operation by the operator determination device of the vehicle-mounted device control device 100 configured as described above will be described. First, under the control of the CPU 23, the first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2 are both switched to the A side, the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13A are shielded. An operation (operation 3) when connected to the drive circuit 24 will be described.

  In the case of the operation 3, the connection state of the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A with the control unit 20 is as shown in FIG. That is, as described above, only the sensor electrode 11 is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the auxiliary electrode 13A are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. Therefore, the detection object X, Capacitance C between Y and W is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21.

  In addition, since the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 of each electrostatic capacitance sensor part 10 and 20 is the state covered with the shield electrode 12, the sensor sensitivity of the back surface side of the sensor electrode 11 is the surface (detection of the sensor electrode 11). Since only the electric lines of force that wrap around from the surface) are detected, it is considerably smaller than the surface side. Here, the detection object X is described as a detection object existing in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2, and the detection objects Y and W are described as detection objects existing outside the detection ranges Z1 and Z2.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X are less affected by the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13A.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 16, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target Y at a distance substantially equal to the detection target X are affected by the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the auxiliary electrode 13A. In response to this, it decreases compared to the case of the detection object X. For this reason, the detection target Y is weaker in capacitive coupling with the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target X.

  Thereby, the identification of the detection objects X and Y during the operation 3 (that is, the distinction between the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 or the detection ranges Z1 and Z2) can be easily performed. However, as shown in FIG. 17, in the detection target W closer to the sensor electrode 11 than the detection target Y, the electric lines of force P1 from the sensor electrode 11 are the same as those for the detection target X in FIG. , The output from the CV conversion circuit 21 is the same.

  That is, the detection target object X and the detection target object W are on the equipotential surface (line) M in FIG. 14, and the detection value (capacitance value) in the operation 3 is the same. For this reason, it is difficult to identify whether the detection object W exists in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 or outside the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 only by the operation 3. In this embodiment as well, as in the above-described embodiment, the determination is not made only by the operation 3, but the electrostatic capacitance as the first capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 at the time of the operation 3 is determined. The capacitance value C1 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23.

  Next, under the control of the CPU 23, the first and second change-over switches SW1 and SW2 are both switched to the B side, the auxiliary electrode 13A is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the sensor electrode 11 are connected. The operation (operation 4) when connected to the shield drive circuit 24 will be described.

  In addition, the structure corresponding to FIG. 14 which shows the connection state with the operator determination part 60 of the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A in the operator discrimination | determination apparatus of the vehicle equipment control apparatus 100 in the case of this operation | movement 4 is Since the selector switches SW1 and SW2 in FIG. 14 are switched to the B side, illustration and description are omitted here.

  In the case of the operation 4, only the auxiliary electrode 13A is connected to the CV conversion circuit 21, and the shield electrode 12 and the sensor electrode 11 are connected to the shield drive circuit 24. Capacitance C between Y and W is detected by the CV conversion circuit 21. It is assumed that various conditions such as the arrangement positions of the detection objects X, Y, and W with respect to the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are the same as those in the operation 3.

  And in the case of this operation | movement 4, as shown in FIG. 18, the electric force line P2 (shield) from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target X has a big influence with respect to the electric force line P1 from 13 A of auxiliary electrodes. . For this reason, the detection object X has weak capacitance coupling with the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is compared with the detection object X in the operation 3. Become smaller.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19, the electric force line P2 (shield) from the sensor electrode 11 with respect to the detection target Y decreases compared to the case with respect to the detection target X, and the electric force line P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A. Increases compared to the case of the detection object X. For this reason, in the case of the operation 4, the detection target Y has a strong capacitive coupling with the auxiliary electrode 13A, and the capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 is the detection target in the operation 3. Compared to the case for the object Y, it becomes larger.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 20, the electric lines of force P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A with respect to the detection object W are larger than the electric lines of force P1 from the auxiliary electrode 13A with respect to the detection object X in FIG. Since the influence of the electric lines of force P2 (shield) from the electrode 11 is also small, in the operation 4, the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 in the detection target W is larger than that in the detection target X. Then, the capacitance value C2 as the second capacitance value detected by the CV conversion circuit 21 during the operation 4 is stored in the storage means by the CPU 23.

  If the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 are detected in this way, the CPU 23 compares these capacitance values C1 and C2 stored in the storage means. For example, in the detection object X described above, the first capacitance value C1 in the operation 3 is larger than the second capacitance value C2 in the operation 4, but in the detection object Y, the operation The first capacitance value C1 at 3 is smaller than the second capacitance value C2 at operation 4. And in the detection target W, the 1st electrostatic capacitance value C1 in the operation | movement 3 and the 2nd electrostatic capacitance value C2 in the operation | movement 4 become comparable.

  As described above, the CPU 23 determines how far the detection target exists from the center of the sensor electrode 11 by comparing the value of the capacitance value C2 with the capacitance value C1. Is possible. At this time, if the comparison value of the capacitance values C1 and C2 is, for example, a predetermined threshold value or more (or less than a predetermined threshold value or less than a predetermined threshold value), the sensor electrode 11 If it is set so that it can be determined that it is within the upper detection ranges Z1 and Z2, directivity can be arbitrarily given.

  In the explanatory diagrams shown in FIG. 14 to FIG. 20, the detection value in the operation 3 is larger than the detection value in the operation 4 for the detection target X, and the detection value in the operation 3 is the operation 4 in the detection target Y. In the detection target W, the detection value in the operation 3 and the detection value in the operation 4 are about the same, but the arrangement shape of the sensor electrode 11 and the auxiliary electrode 13A When various conditions such as the arrangement area change, the vertical relationship between the operation 3 and the operation 4 in the detection objects X, Y, and W changes.

  However, the ratio (C2 / C1) of the second capacitance value C2 in the operation 4 to the first capacitance value C1 in the operation 3 is always the detection object X <the detection object Y (or the detection object W). Therefore, it is possible to distinguish. Therefore, if the value of the comparison expression between the operation 3 and the operation 4 is changed for each condition, the detection objects X, Y, and W can be determined. Note that the comparison formulas, comparison values, various coefficients, predetermined threshold values (Th1, Th2), and the like are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted here.

  Although there are cases where it cannot be expressed by a mathematical expression depending on the conditions, the capacitance values C1 and C2 at the position of the detection target (hand) are measured and profiled in advance, and each profile and the actual detection value Should be compared.

  Thus, according to this in-vehicle device control apparatus 100, for example, when the predetermined threshold value Th2 is large, the directivity intensity of the sensor sensitivity of the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is high. In the case of small size, the directivity intensity can be low, so the directivity of the sensor sensitivity can be arbitrarily set, and the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11 can be arbitrarily determined, with a simple configuration A detection object (hand) can be detected reliably.

  Note that the various configurations and operations of the CV conversion circuit 21 of the operator determination unit 60 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted here. In the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, the sensor electrode 11, the shield electrode 12, and the auxiliary electrode 13A are arranged, and the electrostatic capacitance value C1 of the sensor electrode 11 and the electrostatic capacitance value C2 of the auxiliary electrode 13A. However, as described with reference to FIG. 9 in the above-described embodiment, the dummy electrode 19 is disposed and the CV conversion is performed. The circuit 21 may be configured to perform a differential operation. Since the various configurations and operations are the same as those described above, the description thereof is omitted here.

  Further, since the various configurations and operations of the modified example of the shield drive circuit 24 and the modified examples of the first and second changeover switches SW1 and SW2 are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, Description is omitted.

  In the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, since the auxiliary electrode 13A is arranged so as to surround the entire periphery of the sensor electrode 11, each of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is provided with the sensor electrode 11. When there is a direction having the same directivity in all directions of the detection surface (that is, the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 are the same in any direction with respect to the sensor electrode 11) but not desired to have directivity, for example, You can do it.

  That is, the auxiliary electrode 13A is not disposed in a direction in which directivity is not desired, and the auxiliary electrode 13A is formed in a U shape, a C shape, an L shape, a semicircle, or the like, for example. It is also possible to reduce the directivity in the direction where there is no noise.

  In addition, since the output from the CV conversion circuit 21 of the operator determination unit 60 described above is either the first capacitance value C1 or the second capacitance value C2, the sensor electrode 11 ( The capacitance values detected may vary depending on the structure around the installation location of the capacitance sensor units 10 and 20).

  Then, the comparison result obtained by comparing the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 may change depending on the structure around the place where the sensor electrode 11 is installed. In order to avoid such a situation, the configuration of the operator determination unit 60 may be further configured as follows, for example.

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the capacitance sensor unit and the operator determination unit of the in-vehicle device control device 100 according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the whole structure of an electrostatic capacitance sensor part and an operator determination part. Note that, in the above-described embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to portions overlapping with the already described portions, and the description is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the operator determination unit 60 includes a CV conversion circuit 21, a shield drive circuit 24, a determination circuit 25, an initial capacity storage device 26 that stores the above-described initial capacity, and each of the switches SW1 and SW2. A switch control circuit 27 for controlling the switching operation and a buffer 28 are provided.

  As an outline of the detection operation of the operator discriminating device of the in-vehicle device control apparatus 100 having such an operator determining unit 60, for example, the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 are installed at predetermined installation locations. Thereafter, the capacitance value (initial capacitance) when the hands 91 and 92 are not approaching the first and second capacitance sensor units 10 and 20 is controlled by the switch control circuit 27 so that the changeover switches SW1 and SW2 are set. Each value is detected by switching, and these values are stored in the initial capacity storage device 26.

  Then, the initial capacitance stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 is subtracted from the first and second capacitance values C1 and C2 in the actual operation 3 and 4 described above in the determination circuit 25 and compared. It is determined whether or not the hands 91 and 92 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 on the sensor electrode 11 based on the comparison result.

  Specifically, the initial capacity is set as the first initial capacity at the time of the above operation 3 when the respective switches SW1 and SW2 are connected to the A side under the control of the switch control circuit 27. The switch at the time of the above operation 4 when the switches SW1 and SW2 are connected to the B side is stored in the initial capacity storage device 26 as the second initial capacity.

  In the actual operation 3, the determination circuit 25 subtracts the first initial capacitance stored in the initial capacitance storage device 26 from the detected first capacitance value C1 and performs the first detection. A value (detection value 1), and in the case of operation 4, the second detection value is obtained by subtracting the second initial capacitance stored in the initial capacitance storage device 26 from the detected second capacitance value C2. (Detection value 2).

  After that, the determination circuit 25 compares the detection value 1 and the detection value 2, and determines whether or not the hands 91 and 92 are in the detection ranges Z1 and Z2 based on the comparison result. For example, the detection value 1 at the time of the operation 3 is an output depending on the approach of the hand 91 to the first capacitance sensor unit 10. Since subsequent operations, functions, effects, and the like are the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  The first and second initial capacitances described above may be, for example, digitally converted from the voltage at the time of initial capacitance measurement by an A / D converter or the like and held in a register or a memory. Thus, it is possible to hold these by adjusting the reference voltage. That is, as shown in FIG. 22, the operator determination unit 60 includes a CV conversion circuit 21, a shield drive circuit 24, a reference voltage adjustment circuit 40, and a subtraction circuit 31.

  The reference voltage adjustment circuit 40 adjusts the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 to the reference potential at the time of initial capacitance measurement of the first and second initial capacitances as described above. 41, a control circuit 42, a register 43, a D / A converter 44, and an adjustment unit 45. Since these configurations, operations, and the like are also the same as those described in the above-described embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  The output of the first and second initial capacitors is set as a reference voltage by the reference voltage adjustment circuit 40, and the output of the CV conversion circuit 21 thus set to the reference voltage is applied to, for example, the positive side input terminal of the subtraction circuit 31. Then, the reference voltage RV is input to the negative input terminal, the output is subtracted by the reference voltage RV, and the first and second initial capacitances are subtracted. Similarly, the hands 91 and 92 are within the detection ranges Z1 and Z2. It can be determined whether or not there is, and if so, how long it is.

  As described above, according to the operator discriminating device according to the above-described embodiment, the operator can be discriminated accurately and surely with a low-cost configuration, and the vehicle-mounted device control device 100 including the operator discriminating device is provided. According to the above, it is possible to avoid danger and prevent accidents associated with the operation of the vehicle-mounted device 90 by the driver while the vehicle is running without impairing the convenience of operation of the vehicle-mounted device 90 by the operator other than the driver's seat 2. .

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Vehicle 2 Driver's seat 3 Passenger seat 10 1st electrostatic capacitance sensor part 11 Sensor electrode 12 Shield electrode 13 Auxiliary electrode 13A Auxiliary electrode 19 Dummy electrode 20 2nd electrostatic capacitance sensor part 21 CV conversion circuit 22 A / D conversion 23 CPU
24 Shield Drive Circuit 25 Judgment Circuit 26 Initial Capacity Storage Device 27 Switch Control Circuit 31 Subtraction Circuit 32 Operation Unit 40 Reference Voltage Adjustment Circuit 41 Comparator 42 Control Circuit 43 Register 44 D / A Converter 50 Control Unit 60 Operator Determination Unit 70 Operation Control unit 80 Vehicle state determination unit 100 In-vehicle device control device

Claims (13)

An operation unit of an in-vehicle device provided between the driver's seat and other seats of the vehicle, and a sensor electrode provided between the operation portion and at least one of the driver's seat and other seats;
An auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode;
A detection circuit connected to at least the sensor electrode and detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the connected electrode;
A changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is not connected to the detection circuit and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is connected to the detection circuit;
A comparison value comparing a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the first connection state with a second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state; and the first A determination unit that determines whether or not the human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode based on the first or second capacitance value, and determines the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit based on the determination result An operator discrimination device characterized by comprising: 2. The operator determination device according to claim 1, wherein the change-over switch is configured to be able to open, ground, or connect the auxiliary electrode to a predetermined potential in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
The operator determination device according to claim 1, wherein the change-over switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state. An operation unit of an in-vehicle device provided between the driver's seat and other seats of the vehicle, and a sensor electrode provided between the operation portion and at least one of the driver's seat and other seats;
An auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode;
A detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on a capacitance from the sensor electrode;
A shield drive circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
A selector switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is connected to the shield drive circuit and a second connection state in which the auxiliary electrode is opened, grounded or connected to a predetermined potential;
A comparison value comparing a first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the first connection state with a second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the second connection state; and the first A determination unit that determines whether or not the human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode based on the first or second capacitance value, and determines the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit based on the determination result An operator discrimination device characterized by comprising: An operation unit of an in-vehicle device provided between the driver's seat and other seats of the vehicle, and a sensor electrode provided between the operation portion and at least one of the driver's seat and other seats;
An auxiliary electrode provided in the vicinity of the sensor electrode;
A detection circuit for detecting a capacitance value based on the capacitance from the connected electrodes;
A first changeover switch capable of selectively switching between a first connection state in which the sensor electrode is connected to the detection circuit and a second connection state in which the sensor electrode is not connected to the detection circuit;
When the sensor electrode is in the first connection state, the auxiliary electrode is not connected to the detection circuit, and when the first changeover switch is in the second connection state, the auxiliary electrode is connected to the detection circuit. A switchable second changeover switch,
A comparison value comparing the first capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case of the first connection state and the second capacitance value from the detection circuit in the case of the second connection state. And whether the human body is within the detection range on the sensor electrode based on the first or second capacitance value, and the position of the operator with respect to the operation unit is determined based on the determination result An operator discriminating apparatus comprising: a discriminating means for discriminating. The first changeover switch is configured to be able to open the sensor electrode, connect to ground or a predetermined potential in the second connection state,
The operator discriminating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to open, connect to a ground or a predetermined potential of the auxiliary electrode when in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equivalent to the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode, or for applying a potential equivalent to the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode;
The first changeover switch is configured to connect the sensor electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state,
The operator determination device according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equal to that of the sensor electrode to the auxiliary electrode;
The first changeover switch is configured to be able to open the sensor electrode, connect to ground or a predetermined potential in the second connection state,
The operator determination device according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to connect the auxiliary electrode to the shield drive circuit in the first connection state. A shield driving circuit for applying a potential equivalent to that of the auxiliary electrode to the sensor electrode;
The first changeover switch is configured to connect the sensor electrode to the shield drive circuit in the second connection state,
The operator discriminating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the second changeover switch is configured to be able to open, connect to a ground or a predetermined potential of the auxiliary electrode when in the first connection state. The operator determination device according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary electrode is arranged so as to surround the sensor electrode. The operator discrimination device according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
In accordance with a determination result from the operator determination device, an in-vehicle device control device including a control unit that controls an operation mode of the in-vehicle device during vehicle travel,
The sensor electrode is provided between the operation unit and the driver seat,
The in-vehicle device control apparatus, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the in-vehicle device when the determination unit determines that the human body is within a detection range on the sensor electrode. The operator discrimination device according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
In accordance with a determination result from the operator determination device, an in-vehicle device control device including a control unit that controls an operation mode of the in-vehicle device during vehicle travel,
The sensor electrode is provided between the operation unit and the other seats,
The said control means controls so that operation of the said vehicle equipment can be performed when the said discrimination means determines that a human body exists in the detection range on the said sensor electrode. The vehicle equipment control apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. The in-vehicle device control device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the in-vehicle device is at least one of a car navigation device, an air conditioner device, a car audio device, and a window opening / closing control device mounted on a vehicle.

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