EP2487661B1 - Wireless remote control with tactile interface for multimedia and hands-free telephony equipment for an automobile - Google Patents

Wireless remote control with tactile interface for multimedia and hands-free telephony equipment for an automobile Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2487661B1
EP2487661B1 EP12151632.2A EP12151632A EP2487661B1 EP 2487661 B1 EP2487661 B1 EP 2487661B1 EP 12151632 A EP12151632 A EP 12151632A EP 2487661 B1 EP2487661 B1 EP 2487661B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
keys
remote
lateral
finger
control device
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EP12151632.2A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2487661A1 (en
Inventor
Jean-François Vuillet
Fabrice Barriez
Marc Flambard
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Parrot Drones SAS
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Parrot Drones SAS
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C17/00—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a touch-sensitive wireless remote control for multimedia equipment and "hands free" telephony of a motor vehicle.
  • Such a remote control is intended to drive a proper equipment that is usually placed on the dashboard, in a place that is often too far from the driver so that it can reach easily without hindering driving. It is for this reason that the equipment is completed by a remote control intended to facilitate access to commands of the basic functions of the equipment.
  • Such a wireless remote control is particularly suitable for equipment installed "retrofit" on a vehicle.
  • This remote control can be fixed on the steering wheel or on a support stuck on the dashboard, within reach of the driver.
  • the use of a wireless transmission of the controls allows in particular a mounting on the steering wheel of the remote control in the form of an insert, requiring no wire connection to the equipment.
  • the new generation equipment generally include the possibility of coupling the audio system of the vehicle not only to a hands-free telephone installation but also to a sound reproduction device such as a player, or a data storage medium audio such as a "USB key" or an SD card or other. It is then necessary to make available to the user, in addition to commands specific to telephony, commands such as: source selection, next song / previous song, play / pause, fine tuning of the sound volume, etc.
  • a remote control manipulable by a motor vehicle driver imposes an ergonomics, and the remote control must be melt in the cabin environment, while maintaining safety and driving pleasure.
  • steering wheel controls by an attached element fixed on the steering wheel may introduce discomfort to driving, especially if the driver must reflect or turn his eyes from the road to select the remote control button to operate .
  • the US 2009/0002217 A1 describes a wireless remote control box juxtaposed i) a large-area tactile surface, on which keys appear to activate various specific functions by finger contact, ii) conventional push-button contactors disposed at the periphery of the touch surface and to activate other specific functions.
  • Pushbutton contactors are, for example, "dumb” contactors intended to activate variable contextual functions whose wording is displayed on the central touching surface near each contactor.
  • This device is however not adapted to the particular environment, described above, a remote-controlled automotive equipment by a box that is not hand-held, but fixed on the steering wheel or on a support stuck to the board on board.
  • a remote-controlled automotive equipment by a box that is not hand-held, but fixed on the steering wheel or on a support stuck to the board on board.
  • it is important to focus on a very small surface a large number of commands, accessible with a single finger, for example a thumb, without the hand leaving the steering wheel, and above all which prevents the unintentional sending of commands when driving the vehicle.
  • a remote control for controlling a multimedia equipment and "hands-free" telephony, whereby the driver of a motor vehicle can transmit or receive a phone call without leaving the hands of the steering wheel and, similarly, start or stop playback of a music source, increase or decrease the playback volume, move to the previous or next song, etc.
  • This remote control 10 comprises a housing consisting essentially of a body 12 enclosing the various electronic circuits and closed by a cover 14 whose upper face, apparent, carries the various control keys.
  • the body 12 of the housing of the remote control 10 is fixed to the steering wheel 16 by means of a strap 18 for securing the housing 10 at the location chosen by the driver, generally within reach of the thumb where it is held. wheel.
  • the overall dimensions of the housing of the remote control 10 are for example of the order of 50 x 46 mm, so as to allow a discreet installation on the steering wheel with minimal discomfort for handling thereof.
  • the remote control 10 comprises a central button 20 of circular shape, the operation of which will be explained below, and two pairs 22, 24 of side keys arranged on opposite edges of the remote control, symmetrically with respect to a central axis 26.
  • the pair of side keys 22 comprises, for example, a key 22a corresponding to the stall function and a key 22b for launching the voice recognition function, these two keys 22a and 22b preferably being of similar size and arranged symmetrically on either side of an axis perpendicular to the central axis 26.
  • the pair of side keys 24 comprises, arranged in the same way, a key 24a for the on-hook control and a key 24b for the selection of the audio source that we want to read.
  • the central key 20 is advantageously arranged with a shoulder 28 recessed relative to the outer surface of the lid, that is to say with respect to the various keys 22a, 22b, 24a and 24b.
  • This tactile sensation can be further increased by giving the central key 20 a dome shape, slightly curved, as can be seen on the section of the Figure 2 .
  • the housing is also provided with light-emitting diodes 30 and 32, for example a green diode 30 on the stall key and a red diode 32 on the hang-up key, to allow easy operation of the remote control in a low-light environment.
  • these light-emitting diodes 30, 32 are powered only on detection (as will be explained below) of the approach of a finger near any one of the central or lateral keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b.
  • the Figure 2 illustrates more precisely how the cover 14 is hinged to the body 12 of the housing.
  • this lid is movable to pivot about a central axis 34, so as to cause a slight tilting to the left (with the conventions of the Figure 2 ) by a support 36 on one or other of the side keys 22a or 22b, or to the right by a support 38 on one or other of the keys 24a and 24b.
  • the lid 14 has only one degree of freedom with respect to the body 12, so for example that the support indifferently on the key 22a or the key 22b will have exactly the same effect with respect to the displacement of the lid relative to the body 12 (arrows 40), and the same for the keys 24a and 24b.
  • the lid 14 is a monoblock element fitted on the body 12 by means of an anti-tearing snap-in system 42 enabling the two parts 12 and 14 to be assembled without play.
  • the reaction forces will come (i) on the one hand from the elastic return effect of the element located under the cover (an electromechanical contactor or pushbutton, described more bottom) and (ii) on the other hand the deformation of the cover 14.
  • the controlled deformation of the plastic parts thus makes it possible to increase and to dose the actuating force of the controls, to prevent any unintentional sending of orders due to a too sensitive system.
  • the central key 20 is movable by depression (arrow 44), so as to trigger a function by an axial depression resulting from the support of a finger on the central key 20.
  • the central key 20 also allows, thanks to its circular shape, the detection of movements of the finger either by sliding from left to right or vice versa (arrow 46 on the Figure 1 ), either by a circular movement of the finger in a clockwise direction or in the opposite direction (arrows 48 on the Figure 1 ), guided movement by the shoulder 28 of the recess of the central key 20 relative to the rest of the lid.
  • the Figure 3 shows the case with the lid 14 open.
  • This cover carries on its inner face a set of capacitive touch sensors 50 and 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, respectively disposed at the right of the central and lateral keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b.
  • These tactile sensors are carried by a flexible printed circuit disposed on the inner face of the cover 14.
  • This flexible printed circuit is extended by a series of conductors terminating in a connector 56 connected to the circuit 58 disposed in the body 12 of the housing and carrying the various electronic components of the remote control.
  • This circuit 56 carries in particular three electromechanical push button contactors, namely: a central contactor 60 located in line with the central key 20 (when the cover 14 is closed on the housing 12); a lateral contactor 62 located in line with the pair 22 of lateral keys 22a, 22b and common to these two keys; and a lateral contactor 64 located in line with the pair of keys 24a and 24b and common to these two keys.
  • the central contactor 60 is actuated by an axial support on the central key 20 (arrow 44 on the Figure 2 ).
  • the lateral switch 62 is actuated by pressing on any one of the lateral keys 22a or 22b (arrow 36 on the Figure 2 ) due to the pivoting (arrow 40) of the cover 14 on the body 10 following the pressing on one or the other of these keys.
  • the lateral contactor 64 is actuated by pressing on any one of the lateral keys 24a or 24b (arrow 38 on the Figure 2 ) due to the pivoting of the cover 14 on the body 10 following the pressing on one or the other of these keys.
  • the contactors 60, 62, 64 when actuated by one of the movements just mentioned, deliver the user a return both tactile (feeling of sudden depression of the push button) and auditory (click), which allows him to validate the order by a non-visual means.
  • the push-button switches 60, 62 and 64 also provide, by the spring included in their actuating rod, a return effect on the keys.
  • This booster effect can be increased by the deformation of the plastic parts with respect to the side keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b, as explained above, to make the system less sensitive to involuntary actuations.
  • the spring member 70 carries a central element 72 in contact with the central key, and uncoupled from the housing and the elastic elements 68, 70 by flexible arms 74 also providing a spring effect to the against the support exercised over the central key, which allows to control precisely the operating conditions of the latter.
  • the Figure 5 illustrates, in isolation, the flexible printed circuit carrying the various tactile sensors 50 and 52a, 52b, 54a and 54b.
  • the lateral sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b are so configured that, once the flexible circuit is placed inside the cover, these sensors are located at the right of the respective keys 22a, 22b, 24a and 24b, so as to selectively detect the touch of a finger on one or other of these four keys.
  • the regions of the flexible circuit carrying the sensors 52a and 52b are connected to the central sensor 50 by a bridge, and likewise for the region carrying the sensors 54a and 54b. These two bridges allow relative movement of the central pushbutton, and therefore of the central sensor 50, relative to the remainder of the cover.
  • the latter is disposed vis-à-vis the central key 20, and has a particular configuration with four elementary sensors 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d.
  • This sensor is for example a multizone touch pad type overlap (overlapping zones), comprising four zones distributed approximately symmetrically on four quadrants.
  • This component which is in itself of a known type (marketed for example by Cypress Semiconductor Corp.), was chosen because it allows an excellent discrimination of the movements with only four sensors, thus four signals to be analyzed, and requires this is much less computation means than a matrix type sensor, for which the movement is much more difficult to analyze. Note that it is possible to use, instead of a four-zone sensor, a three-zone sensor (three sectors disposed substantially at 120 °), but at the cost of less precision.
  • the sensor 50 delivers four values corresponding to the different zones 50a, 50b, 50c and 50d, hereinafter referred to as "raw values".
  • the accuracy is of the order of 15%.
  • This multi-zone touch pad sensor is particularly well suited to detecting the rotational movements of one end of the finger (arrows 48 of the Figure 1 ), or rectilinear movement of this finger across the central key (arrows 46).
  • the Figure 6 illustrates in the form of a block diagram the different elements of the electronic circuit of the remote control unit 10.
  • the assembly is controlled by a low-power microcontroller 76, powered by a battery 78 of the button-button type.
  • This microcontroller is connected to the three contactors 60, 62, 64, so as to detect the state thereof (depressed or released); it is also connected to the various capacitive touch sensors 50 (with its four zones 50a to 50d) and 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, via an interface circuit 80.
  • the microcontroller is also coupled to a circuit radio transmitter 82 for the transmission of commands, for example on a frequency of 433 MHz.
  • the transmitter circuit 82 transmits signals to a remote device 84, which is coupled to or embedded in the multimedia equipment that is to be controlled.
  • the remote equipment 84 comprises a receiver circuit 86 of the signals emitted by the transmitter 82 of the remote control 10, which signals are transmitted to a microcontroller 88 making it possible to issue CMD commands for controlling multimedia equipment and hands-free telephony. : unhook / unhook, volume increase / decrease, source selection, next / previous song, etc.
  • the microcontroller 76 of the remote control 10 whose autonomy must be preserved, only part of the control detection processes will be carried out within the remote control 10, a another part being performed within the remote equipment 84, by the microcontroller 88 of the latter.
  • the detection and analysis of the movement of the finger on the central touch sensor 20 are performed remotely by the microcontroller 88 of the remote equipment 84, because this analysis requires the implementation of relatively complex algorithms.
  • the remote control 10 will then simply transmit to the remote equipment 84 the raw signals delivered (after scanning) by each of the sub-sensors 50a to 50d.
  • the state of the push-button switches 60, 62 and 64 and that of the Touch sensors associated with the pair of side keys 22 and 24 will be analyzed directly by the microcontroller 76 of the remote control 10.
  • One of the original features of the system of the invention resides in the combination of (i) touch sensors - namely a multizone sensor for the central key 20 and a sensor for each of the four side keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b - with (ii) three pushbutton contactors - namely a central contactor 60 associated with the central key 20, a lateral contactor 62 associated with the pair of keys 22a and 22b and a lateral contactor 64 associated with the pair of keys 24a and 24b .
  • each of the contactors 62 and 64 two touch zones are associated with the same contactor: respectively 22a, 22b for the contactor 62 and 24a, 24b for the contactor 64.
  • the contact with one of these four keys 22a, 22b, 24a or 24b must, to validate the taking into account of the command, be confirmed by the depression and the change of state of the corresponding contactor.
  • the remote control incorporates an accelerometer. It is indeed advantageous to detect the orientation in the space of the remote control with respect to an absolute reference, and to make the two reversible functions (from right to left vs. left to right) depending on whether the remote control is mounted to the right or left of the steering wheel.
  • this action is completely independent of the tilt of the steering wheel, and therefore accessible at any time, unlike a conventional solution type button or Joystick type joystick .
  • the Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the various steps of the algorithm executed by the microcontroller 76 of the remote control 10 for the analysis of the signals delivered by the sensors and contactors.
  • the algorithm detects the possible approach of a finger (test 104).
  • a finger approach is made if one of the capacitive touch sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b of the lateral key pairs 22, 24, or if one of the sensors 50a to 50d of the central key 20, delivers a signal exceeding a predetermined threshold.
  • a signal is simultaneously detected on several of the lateral capacitive touch sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, or on one of the lateral sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b and on at least one of the central sensors 50a to 50d simultaneously, this situation will not be considered as intended to activate a command and will not be considered as a "finger approach" in the sense of the algorithm. Indeed, this situation is most likely a maneuvering the steering wheel in which the user's hand touches the remote control unit 10, without wanting to send a command to the remote telephony equipment or audio.
  • the microcontroller 76 of the remote control is set sleep (step 106) for a predetermined period, for example 125 ms, to limit the overall power consumption. Indeed, in practice, it is sufficient to test the approach of a finger at regular intervals (eight times per second in this example) to ensure sufficient detection with respect to the reaction time of the user.
  • the microcontroller 76 is awake and the sensors are read (step 108), then the possible approach of a finger is sought by return to the test 104.
  • the LEDs 30 and 32 are lit (step 110), to facilitate the use of the remote control in the dark.
  • the next step (test 112) is to detect a change of state of the contactors 60, 62 or 64, that is to say a transition from the relaxed state to the depressed state or vice versa. If so, if the contactor is one of the side contactors 62 or 64, the algorithm determines which is the corresponding touch sensor that is active (52a or 52b, or 54a or 54b, respectively), and activates the control CMD associated with the corresponding side key (22a or 22b, or 24a or 24b, respectively), if the transition is a transition from the relaxed state to the depressed state. Conversely, if the transition is from the pressed state to the relaxed state, the CMD command is disabled. If the contactor in question is the central contactor 60, the corresponding command is directly activated or deactivated.
  • this sensor comprises a multi-zone touch pad 50 with four capacitive sensors 50a to 50d distributed approximately symmetrically over four quadrants, thus producing four sensor signals to be analyzed.
  • the Figure 8 illustrates a typical example of a signal delivered by one of these capacitive sensors 50a to 50d.
  • This figure gives, more specifically, an example of variation of the signal S outputted as a function of time, for a finger approach maneuver, followed by a contact, a movement of the finger on the sensor and withdrawal of the finger.
  • the approach of the finger is characterized by a sudden increase of the signal with a peak 90 followed by a decrease 92, characteristic of an edge effect.
  • the signal then varies according to the greater or lesser area sensor in contact or near the finger.
  • the withdrawal of the finger is characterized by a sharp drop of the signal, as in 94.
  • the actual approach of the finger will be validated only on detecting the decay 92, and the portion of the analyzed signal will be the one after the instant t 1 corresponding to the end of this decay.
  • the relaxation of the finger will be detected by a sudden drop in the signal, as in 94, and the values of S after the instant t 2 corresponding to the beginning of this fall will be eliminated.
  • the filtered portion of the signal, analyzed to determine the movement of the finger on the central pellet, will therefore be that between times t 1 and t 2 .
  • a signal comparable to that of Figure 8 is obtained for each of the four sensors 50a to 50d.
  • these values in their raw state, are collected and digitized and sent as is by the remote control to the remote equipment for analysis.
  • the Figure 9 is a flowchart of the different steps of the algorithm, executed by the microcontroller 88 of the remote equipment 84, used to perform this analysis of the movement of the finger on the multi-zone tactile pad 50.
  • the algorithm detects the reception of data (step 204), which is as indicated above the four raw digital data delivered by the respective touch sensors 50a to 50d at a given instant. These data are first filtered (step 206), so that they are taken into account only if a decrease of the signal (characteristic decay 92 of the signal) is detected.
  • Figure 8 representative of the approach of a finger) on at least one of the sensors. Indeed, one can have an increase of the signal on one or more other sensors, according to the position of the finger on the multizone pellet, concurrently with a decrease on at least one of the other zones, revealing the approach and the contact of a finger.
  • the next step (block 208) consists in converting the four signals of the sensors into data in two perpendicular directions X and Y.
  • This conversion can be performed using conventional algorithms, which will not be described in detail, from the respective levels of the signals on the four sensors 50a to 50d corresponding to the four quadrants of the multi-zone pellet.
  • the remote control will analyze essentially the movement of the finger, detected by comparing two by two the raw data emitted successively by the remote control, that is to say the relative variations of the signals from one sampling time to the next (concretely, as indicated above , at intervals of 10 to 15 ms).
  • a relative variation of the signals between the sensors 50a and 50d will translate a variation in X of the movement of the finger, while a relative variation between the sensors 50c and 50d will translate a variation along Y.
  • test 210) is to determine if the motion is a rotation: if we detect variations simultaneously in X and Y, this variation will be interpreted as a rotation.
  • the algorithm proceeds to an analysis (step 212) to determine the approximate angular position of the finger on the multizone pellet from the four signals of the sensors 50a to 50d.
  • the algorithm then waits for the reception of new data sent by the remote control (step 214) and, if there is no distance from the finger (test 216), analyzes the new angular position (repetition of step 212), and and so on, so as to define a succession of points corresponding to the movements of rotation of the finger on the central key 20.
  • the rotation is likened to a succession of small elementary translations without releasing the finger contact; from the movement thus detected, the algorithm can determine the direction and the amplitude of the rotation, so as to generate a command for increasing or decreasing the sound volume of the equipment (or scrolling in a menu, or another order of the same nature).
  • the algorithm detects a displacement of the finger in rotation exceeding a certain threshold, it considers that there is an action requested by the user, which is translated by a step of sound volume, plus or minus according to the direction of this displacement. The position reached is then considered as a new starting point, and the analysis is repeated until a new threshold is exceeded, and so on.
  • the distance of the finger from the user at step 216 is detected by a sudden drop in the signal (as in 94 on the Figure 8 ) appearing simultaneously on the four sensors.
  • the algorithm then starts waiting for reception of new data (return to step 204).
  • step 210 If, in step 210, the algorithm had determined that the movement of the finger was not a rotational movement, the algorithm tests whether or not the finger has moved away (test 218, identical to the test 216 previously described). In the absence of remoteness, the algorithm returns to step 204, so as to acquire new data, until the distance of the finger is detected.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Selective Calling Equipment (AREA)
  • Position Input By Displaying (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne une télécommande sans fil à interface tactile pour un équipement multimédia et de téléphonie "mains libres" de véhicule automobile.The invention relates to a touch-sensitive wireless remote control for multimedia equipment and "hands free" telephony of a motor vehicle.

Une telle télécommande est destinée à piloter un équipement proprement dit qui est en général placé sur la planche de bord, à un endroit qui se révèle souvent trop éloigné du conducteur pour qu'il puisse l'atteindre aisément sans gêner la conduite. C'est pour cette raison que l'équipement est complété par une télécommande destinée à faciliter l'accès aux commandes des fonctions de base de l'équipement.Such a remote control is intended to drive a proper equipment that is usually placed on the dashboard, in a place that is often too far from the driver so that it can reach easily without hindering driving. It is for this reason that the equipment is completed by a remote control intended to facilitate access to commands of the basic functions of the equipment.

Une telle télécommande sans fil est particulièrement adaptée aux équipements installés en "seconde monte" sur un véhicule.Such a wireless remote control is particularly suitable for equipment installed "retrofit" on a vehicle.

Cette télécommande peut être fixée sur le volant ou sur un support collé sur la planche de bord, à portée de main du conducteur. L'utilisation d'une transmission sans fil des commandes permet en particulier un montage sur le volant de la télécommande sous forme d'un élément rapporté, ne nécessitant pas de fil de liaison à l'équipement.This remote control can be fixed on the steering wheel or on a support stuck on the dashboard, within reach of the driver. The use of a wireless transmission of the controls allows in particular a mounting on the steering wheel of the remote control in the form of an insert, requiring no wire connection to the equipment.

Pour une simple fonction de téléphonie "mains libres", le nombre de commandes nécessaires reste relativement limité : décrochage/raccrochage, appel d'une fonction de reconnaissance vocale, contrôle du volume.For a simple "hands-free" telephony function, the number of commands required is relatively limited: unhooking / unplugging, calling a voice recognition function, volume control.

En revanche, l'arrivée de nouveaux équipements comportant un nombre de plus en plus grand de fonctionnalités et de contrôles conduit à des difficultés de mise en oeuvre d'une telle télécommande.However, the arrival of new equipment with a growing number of features and controls leads to difficulties in implementing such a remote control.

En effet, les équipements de nouvelle génération intègrent généralement la possibilité de coupler le système audio du véhicule non seulement à une installation de téléphonie mains libres mais également à un appareil de reproduction sonore tel qu'un baladeur, ou encore un support de stockage de données audio tel qu'une "clef USB" ou une carte SD card ou autre. Il est alors nécessaire de mettre à la disposition de l'utilisateur, outre les commandes propres à la téléphonie, des commandes telles que : sélection de source, morceau suivant/morceau précédent, lecture/pause, réglage fin du volume sonore, etc.Indeed, the new generation equipment generally include the possibility of coupling the audio system of the vehicle not only to a hands-free telephone installation but also to a sound reproduction device such as a player, or a data storage medium audio such as a "USB key" or an SD card or other. It is then necessary to make available to the user, in addition to commands specific to telephony, commands such as: source selection, next song / previous song, play / pause, fine tuning of the sound volume, etc.

Or, une télécommande manipulable par un conducteur de véhicule automobile impose une ergonomie irréprochable, et la télécommande doit se fondre dans l'environnement de l'habitacle, tout en préservant la sécurité et le plaisir de conduite.However, a remote control manipulable by a motor vehicle driver imposes impeccable ergonomics, and the remote control must be melt in the cabin environment, while maintaining safety and driving pleasure.

En particulier, les commandes au volant par un élément rapporté fixé sur le volant risquent d'introduire une gêne à la conduite, notamment s'il faut que le conducteur réfléchisse ou détourne son regard de la route pour sélectionner le bouton de la télécommande à actionner.In particular, steering wheel controls by an attached element fixed on the steering wheel may introduce discomfort to driving, especially if the driver must reflect or turn his eyes from the road to select the remote control button to operate .

De plus, les commandes doivent se trouver à proximité immédiate de la main en toutes circonstances, mais elles ne doivent pas non plus être actionnées par inadvertance.In addition, the controls must be in the immediate vicinity of the hand in all circumstances, but they must also not be operated inadvertently.

Le but de l'invention est de remédier à ces difficultés, en proposant une télécommande :

  • qui puisse conserver de petites dimensions malgré un nombre élevé de commandes différentes, de manière à permettre une installation plus discrète et une gêne moindre lors de la manipulation du volant ;
  • dont la conception mécanique permette une réalisation simplifiée et robuste ;
  • dont toutes les fonctions soient accessibles d'un seul doigt, par exemple du pouce, sans que la main ne quitte le volant ; et
  • qui empêche l'envoi involontaire de commandes lors de la conduite du véhicule, en imposant certaines actions mécaniques précises ou un guidage du doigt du conducteur pour l'envoi effectif de commandes.
The object of the invention is to remedy these difficulties by proposing a remote control:
  • which can keep small dimensions despite a large number of different controls, so as to allow a more discreet installation and less inconvenience when handling the steering wheel;
  • whose mechanical design allows a simplified and robust construction;
  • all the functions of which are accessible by a single finger, for example a thumb, without the hand leaving the steering wheel; and
  • which prevents the involuntary sending of commands when driving the vehicle, by imposing certain precise mechanical actions or a guidance of the driver's finger for the actual sending of orders.

Comme on le verra par la suite, l'invention permet de réaliser une telle télécommande permettant de concentrer sur une très petite surface un nombre important de commandes, en offrant (par exemple et de manière non limitative) :

  • décrochage du téléphone en cas d'appel incident ;
  • raccrochage en fin d'appel ;
  • changement de source musicale ;
  • lancement de la fonction de reconnaissance vocale (notamment pour l'appel à un répertoire pour la composition d'un numéro de téléphone, ou bien pour la recherche d'u morceau de musique),
  • départ/arrêt de la lecture de la musique ;
  • augmentation/diminution du volume sonore ;
  • lecture du morceau suivant ;
  • lecture du morceau précédent.
As will be seen later, the invention allows for such a remote control to focus on a very small area a large number of orders, offering (for example and not limited to):
  • phone stall in case of an incidental call;
  • hang-up at end of call;
  • change of musical source;
  • launching the voice recognition function (in particular for calling a directory for dialing a telephone number, or searching for a piece of music),
  • start / stop of music playback;
  • increase / decrease in sound volume;
  • playback of the next song;
  • playing the previous song.

Il s'agit de pouvoir piloter d'un seul doigt toutes ces fonctions par des commandes intégrées dans un espace minimum, tout en offrant une ergonomie d'utilisation très satisfaisante et une gêne minimale malgré la présence de la télécommande rapportée sur le volant du véhicule.It is a question of being able to pilot with one finger all these functions by commands integrated in a minimum space, while offering a very satisfactory ergonomics of use and a minimum discomfort in spite of the presence of the remote control reported on the steering wheel of the vehicle .

Le US 2009/0002217 A1 décrit un boitier de télécommande sans fil juxtaposant i) une surface tactile de grande étendue, sur laquelle apparaissent des touches permettant d'activer diverses fonctions spécifiques par contact du doigt, à ii) des contacteurs conventionnels à bouton-poussoir disposés à la périphérie de la surface tactile et permettant d'activer d'autres fonctions spécifiques. Les contacteurs à bouton-poussoir sont par exemple des contacteurs "muets" destinés à activer des fonctions contextuelles variables dont le libellé est affiché sur la surface tactile centrale à proximité de chaque contacteur.The US 2009/0002217 A1 describes a wireless remote control box juxtaposed i) a large-area tactile surface, on which keys appear to activate various specific functions by finger contact, ii) conventional push-button contactors disposed at the periphery of the touch surface and to activate other specific functions. Pushbutton contactors are, for example, "dumb" contactors intended to activate variable contextual functions whose wording is displayed on the central touching surface near each contactor.

Cet appareil n'est toutefois pas adapté à l'environnement particulier, décrit plus haut, d'un équipement automobile télécommandé par un boitier qui n'est pas tenu à la main, mais fixé sur le volant ou sur un support collé sur la planche de bord. Il importe dans ce cas de concentrer sur une très petite surface un nombre important de commandes, accessibles d'un seul doigt, par exemple du pouce, sans que la main ne quitte le volant, et surtout qui empêche l'envoi involontaire de commandes lors de la conduite du véhicule.This device is however not adapted to the particular environment, described above, a remote-controlled automotive equipment by a box that is not hand-held, but fixed on the steering wheel or on a support stuck to the board on board. In this case, it is important to focus on a very small surface a large number of commands, accessible with a single finger, for example a thumb, without the hand leaving the steering wheel, and above all which prevents the unintentional sending of commands when driving the vehicle.

Ce but est atteint, selon l'invention, par une télécommande sans fil à interface tactile du type général divulgué par le US 2009/0002217 A1 précité correspondant au préambule de la revendication, comprenant les éléments originaux énoncés dans la partie caractérisante d cette revendication 1. Les sous-revendications visent des formes de réalisation subsidiaires avantageuses.This object is achieved, according to the invention, by a wireless remote control with a tactile interface of the general type disclosed by the US 2009/0002217 A1 cited above in the preamble of the claim, including the original elements set forth in the characterizing part of this claim 1. The subclaims relate to advantageous subsidiary embodiments.

On va maintenant décrire un exemple de mise en oeuvre du dispositif de l'invention, en référence aux dessins annexés où les mêmes références numériques désignent d'une figure à l'autre des éléments identiques ou fonctionnellement semblables.

  • La Figure 1 est une vue d'ensemble de dessus, en perspective, de la télécommande de l'invention, telle qu'elle apparaît à l'utilisateur lorsqu'elle est montée sur le volant du véhicule.
  • La Figure 2 est une vue en coupe de la télécommande, selon II-II de la Figure 1.
  • La Figure 3 montre la télécommande avec son couvercle ouvert, laissant apparaître les divers capteurs tactiles capacitifs et les éléments de circuit, notamment les contacteurs à bouton-poussoir.
  • La Figure 4 montre le corps de la télécommande avec les circuits électroniques, ainsi que la pièce-ressort flexible permettant de contrôler l'effet tactile lors d'une action du doigt sur le couvercle pivotant.
  • La Figure 5 est une vue en plan du circuit flexible portant les différents capteurs capacitifs tactiles, montrant en détail la configuration de ces divers capteurs.
  • La Figure 6 est un schéma général par blocs des différents éléments fonctionnels du circuit de la télécommande de l'invention.
  • La Figure 7 est un organigramme illustrant les différentes étapes de l'algorithme exécuté par le microcontrôleur de la télécommande, pour l'analyse des signaux délivrés par les capteurs et contacteurs.
  • La Figure 8 illustre un exemple typique de signal délivré par l'un des capteurs capacitifs de la pastille tactile multizone.
  • La Figure 9 est un organigramme des différentes étapes de l'algorithme, exécuté par le microcontrôleur de l'équipement distant, pour l'analyse du mouvement du doigt sur la pastille tactile multizone.
◊An embodiment of the device of the invention will now be described with reference to the appended drawings in which the same reference numerals designate identical or functionally similar elements from one figure to another.
  • The Figure 1 is an overall view from above, in perspective, of the remote control of the invention, as it appears to the user when it is mounted on the steering wheel of the vehicle.
  • The Figure 2 is a sectional view of the remote control, according to II-II of the Figure 1 .
  • The Figure 3 shows the remote control with its lid open, revealing the various capacitive touch sensors and circuit elements, including push-button contactors.
  • The Figure 4 shows the body of the remote control with the electronic circuits, as well as the flexible spring-piece for controlling the tactile effect when an action of the finger on the pivoting lid.
  • The Figure 5 is a plan view of the flexible circuit carrying the various capacitive touch sensors, showing in detail the configuration of these various sensors.
  • The Figure 6 is a block diagram of the various functional elements of the circuit of the remote control of the invention.
  • The Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the different steps of the algorithm performed by the microcontroller of the remote control, for the analysis of the signals delivered by the sensors and contactors.
  • The Figure 8 illustrates a typical example of a signal delivered by one of the capacitive sensors of the multi-zone touch pad.
  • The Figure 9 is a flowchart of the different steps of the algorithm, executed by the microcontroller of the remote equipment, for the analysis of the movement of the finger on the multi-zone touch pad.
◊

Sur les figures, on a représenté une télécommande, désignée de façon générale par la référence 10, destinée au pilotage d'un équipement multimédia et de téléphonie "mains libres", grâce à laquelle le conducteur d'un véhicule automobile peut émettre ou recevoir un appel téléphonique sans quitter les mains du volant et, de la même façon, lancer ou arrêter la lecture d'une source musicale, augmenter ou diminuer le volume de reproduction, passer au morceau précédent ou suivant, etc.In the figures, there is shown a remote control, generally designated by the reference 10, for controlling a multimedia equipment and "hands-free" telephony, whereby the driver of a motor vehicle can transmit or receive a phone call without leaving the hands of the steering wheel and, similarly, start or stop playback of a music source, increase or decrease the playback volume, move to the previous or next song, etc.

Cette télécommande 10 comprend un boîtier constitué essentiellement d'un corps 12 enfermant les différents circuits électroniques et fermé par un couvercle 14 dont la face supérieure, apparente, porte les différentes touches de commande. Le corps 12 du boîtier de la télécommande 10 est fixé au volant 16 au moyen d'une sangle 18 permettant d'assujettir ce boîtier 10 à l'endroit choisi par le conducteur, généralement à portée du pouce à l'endroit où il tient le volant.This remote control 10 comprises a housing consisting essentially of a body 12 enclosing the various electronic circuits and closed by a cover 14 whose upper face, apparent, carries the various control keys. The body 12 of the housing of the remote control 10 is fixed to the steering wheel 16 by means of a strap 18 for securing the housing 10 at the location chosen by the driver, generally within reach of the thumb where it is held. wheel.

Les dimensions hors tout du boîtier de la télécommande 10 sont par exemple de l'ordre de 50 x 46 mm, de manière à permettre une installation discrète sur le volant avec une gêne minimale pour la manipulation de celui-ci.The overall dimensions of the housing of the remote control 10 are for example of the order of 50 x 46 mm, so as to allow a discreet installation on the steering wheel with minimal discomfort for handling thereof.

La télécommande 10 comporte une touche centrale 20 de forme circulaire, dont on exposera plus bas le fonctionnement, et deux paires 22, 24 de touches latérales disposées sur des bords opposés de la télécommande, symétriquement par rapport à un axe central 26. La paire de touches latérales 22 comprend par exemple une touche 22a correspondant à la fonction de décrochage et une touche 22b de lancement de la fonction de reconnaissance vocale, ces deux touches 22a et 22b étant de préférence de dimensions semblables et disposées symétriquement de part et d'autre d'un axe perpendiculaire à l'axe central 26. De la même façon, la paire de touches latérales 24 comprend, disposées de la même façon, une touche 24a pour la commande du raccrochage et une touche 24b pour la sélection de la source audio que l'on veut lire.The remote control 10 comprises a central button 20 of circular shape, the operation of which will be explained below, and two pairs 22, 24 of side keys arranged on opposite edges of the remote control, symmetrically with respect to a central axis 26. The pair of side keys 22 comprises, for example, a key 22a corresponding to the stall function and a key 22b for launching the voice recognition function, these two keys 22a and 22b preferably being of similar size and arranged symmetrically on either side of an axis perpendicular to the central axis 26. In the same way, the pair of side keys 24 comprises, arranged in the same way, a key 24a for the on-hook control and a key 24b for the selection of the audio source that we want to read.

La touche centrale 20 est avantageusement disposée avec un épaulement 28 en retrait par rapport à la surface extérieure du couvercle, c'est-à-dire par rapport aux diverses touches 22a, 22b, 24a et 24b.The central key 20 is advantageously arranged with a shoulder 28 recessed relative to the outer surface of the lid, that is to say with respect to the various keys 22a, 22b, 24a and 24b.

Cette disposition en retrait présente un double avantage :

  • elle permet au conducteur de trouver la touche centrale 20 sur la télécommande simplement en posant son pouce, sans regarder la télécommande et donc sans détourner son regard de la route ;
  • lorsque le doigt est posé sur la touche centrale, elle guide le mouvement de celui-ci, notamment pour permettre à l'extrémité du doigt de suivre un mouvement circulaire sur cette touche (le détail des mouvements du doigt sur la touche centrale sera décrit plus bas).
This indented provision has two advantages:
  • it allows the driver to find the central key 20 on the remote just by putting his thumb, without looking at the remote control and thus without looking away from the road;
  • when the finger is placed on the central key, it guides the movement of the latter, in particular to allow the end of the finger to follow a circular movement on this key (the details of the movements of the finger on the central key will be described more low).

Il est donc possible d'utiliser la commande en aveugle. Cette sensation tactile peut être encore accrue en donnant à la touche centrale 20 une forme de dôme, légèrement bombée, comme cela est visible sur la coupe de la Figure 2.It is therefore possible to use the blind command. This tactile sensation can be further increased by giving the central key 20 a dome shape, slightly curved, as can be seen on the section of the Figure 2 .

Le boîtier est également pourvu de diodes électroluminescentes 30 et 32, par exemple une diode verte 30 sur la touche de décrochage et une diode rouge 32 sur la touche de raccrochage, pour permettre une utilisation simple de la télécommande dans un environnement à faible luminosité. Avantageusement, ces diodes luminescentes 30, 32 ne sont alimentées que sur détection (de la manière que l'on exposera plus bas) de l'approche d'un doigt près de l'une quelconque des touches centrale 20 ou latérales 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b.The housing is also provided with light-emitting diodes 30 and 32, for example a green diode 30 on the stall key and a red diode 32 on the hang-up key, to allow easy operation of the remote control in a low-light environment. Advantageously, these light-emitting diodes 30, 32 are powered only on detection (as will be explained below) of the approach of a finger near any one of the central or lateral keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b.

La Figure 2 illustre plus précisément la manière dont le couvercle 14 est articulé sur le corps 12 du boîtier. En effet, ce couvercle est mobile à pivotement autour d'un axe médian 34, de manière à engendrer un léger basculement vers la gauche (avec les conventions de la Figure 2) par un appui 36 sur l'une ou l'autre des touches latérales 22a ou 22b, ou vers la droite par un appui 38 sur l'une ou l'autre des touches 24a et 24b. Le couvercle 14 ne dispose que d'un seul degré de liberté par rapport au corps 12, de sorte par exemple que l'appui indifféremment sur la touche 22a ou sur la touche 22b aura exactement le même effet en ce qui concerne le déplacement du couvercle par rapport au corps 12 (flèches 40), et de même pour les touches 24a et 24b.The Figure 2 illustrates more precisely how the cover 14 is hinged to the body 12 of the housing. Indeed, this lid is movable to pivot about a central axis 34, so as to cause a slight tilting to the left (with the conventions of the Figure 2 ) by a support 36 on one or other of the side keys 22a or 22b, or to the right by a support 38 on one or other of the keys 24a and 24b. The lid 14 has only one degree of freedom with respect to the body 12, so for example that the support indifferently on the key 22a or the key 22b will have exactly the same effect with respect to the displacement of the lid relative to the body 12 (arrows 40), and the same for the keys 24a and 24b.

Le couvercle 14 est un élément monobloc emboîté sur le corps 12 au moyen d'un système d'encliquetage anti-arrachement 42 permettant d'assembler sans jeu les deux pièces 12 et 14.The lid 14 is a monoblock element fitted on the body 12 by means of an anti-tearing snap-in system 42 enabling the two parts 12 and 14 to be assembled without play.

Ainsi, lorsque les touches latérales 22 ou 24 sont actionnées, les efforts de réaction proviendront (i) d'une part de l'effet de rappel élastique de l'élément situé sous le couvercle (un contacteur électromécanique ou bouton-poussoir, décrit plus bas) et (ii) d'autre part de la déformation du couvercle 14. La déformation maîtrisée des pièces en plastique permet ainsi de majorer et de doser l'effort d'actionnement des commandes, pour empêcher tout envoi involontaire de commandes du fait d'un système trop sensible.Thus, when the side keys 22 or 24 are actuated, the reaction forces will come (i) on the one hand from the elastic return effect of the element located under the cover (an electromechanical contactor or pushbutton, described more bottom) and (ii) on the other hand the deformation of the cover 14. The controlled deformation of the plastic parts thus makes it possible to increase and to dose the actuating force of the controls, to prevent any unintentional sending of orders due to a too sensitive system.

En ce qui concerne l'agencement mécanique de la touche centrale 20, celle-ci est mobile par enfoncement (flèche 44), de manière à pouvoir déclencher une fonction par un enfoncement axial résultant de l'appui d'un doigt sur cette touche centrale 20.Regarding the mechanical arrangement of the central key 20, it is movable by depression (arrow 44), so as to trigger a function by an axial depression resulting from the support of a finger on the central key 20.

La touche centrale 20 permet en outre, grâce à sa forme circulaire, la détection de mouvements du doigt soit par glissement de la gauche vers la droite ou l'inverse (flèche 46 sur la Figure 1), soit par un mouvement circulaire du doigt dans le sens des aiguilles d'une montre ou dans le sens inverse (flèches 48 sur la Figure 1), mouvement guidé par l'épaulement 28 du renfoncement de la touche centrale 20 par rapport au reste du couvercle.The central key 20 also allows, thanks to its circular shape, the detection of movements of the finger either by sliding from left to right or vice versa (arrow 46 on the Figure 1 ), either by a circular movement of the finger in a clockwise direction or in the opposite direction (arrows 48 on the Figure 1 ), guided movement by the shoulder 28 of the recess of the central key 20 relative to the rest of the lid.

La touche centrale 20 permet ainsi les commandes suivantes :

  • jouer/arrêter la lecture de la musique, par enfoncement de la touche (flèche 44) ;
  • morceau suivant/morceau précédent, par un glissement rectiligne en travers de la touche centrale 20, à droite ou à gauche (flèches 46) ;
  • augmenter/baisser le volume, par un mouvement de rotation du doigt sur la zone tactile (flèches 48).
The central key 20 thus allows the following commands:
  • play / stop music playback by pressing the key (arrow 44);
  • next piece / piece preceding, by a rectilinear slip across the central key 20, right or left (arrows 46);
  • increase / decrease the volume, by a movement of rotation of the finger on the touch zone (arrows 48).

La Figure 3 montre le boîtier avec le couvercle 14 ouvert. Ce couvercle porte sur sa face intérieure un ensemble de capteurs tactiles capacitifs 50 et 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, disposés respectivement au droit des touches centrale 20 et latérales 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b. Ces capteurs tactiles, dont la géométrie sera décrite plus en détail en référence à la Figure 5 ci-après, sont portés par un circuit imprimé souple disposé sur la face intérieure du couvercle 14. Ce circuit imprimé souple est prolongé par une série de conducteurs se terminant par un connecteur 56 relié au circuit 58 disposé dans le corps 12 du boîtier et portant les différents composants électroniques de la télécommande.The Figure 3 shows the case with the lid 14 open. This cover carries on its inner face a set of capacitive touch sensors 50 and 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, respectively disposed at the right of the central and lateral keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b. These tactile sensors, the geometry of which will be described in more detail with reference to the Figure 5 below, are carried by a flexible printed circuit disposed on the inner face of the cover 14. This flexible printed circuit is extended by a series of conductors terminating in a connector 56 connected to the circuit 58 disposed in the body 12 of the housing and carrying the various electronic components of the remote control.

Ce circuit 56 porte en particulier trois contacteurs électromécaniques à bouton-poussoir, à savoir : un contacteur central 60 situé au droit de la touche centrale 20 (lorsque le couvercle 14 est refermé sur le boîtier 12) ; un contacteur latéral 62 situé au droit de la paire 22 de touches latérales 22a, 22b et commun à ces deux touches ; et un contacteur latéral 64 situé au droit de la paire 24 de touches 24a et 24b et commun à ces deux touches.This circuit 56 carries in particular three electromechanical push button contactors, namely: a central contactor 60 located in line with the central key 20 (when the cover 14 is closed on the housing 12); a lateral contactor 62 located in line with the pair 22 of lateral keys 22a, 22b and common to these two keys; and a lateral contactor 64 located in line with the pair of keys 24a and 24b and common to these two keys.

Le contacteur central 60 est actionné par un appui axial sur la touche centrale 20 (flèche 44 sur la Figure 2). Le contacteur latéral 62 est actionné par un appui sur l'une quelconque des touches latérales 22a ou 22b (flèche 36 sur la Figure 2) du fait du pivotement (flèche 40) du couvercle 14 sur le corps 10 suite à l'appui sur l'une ou l'autre de ces touches. De la même façon, le contacteur latéral 64 est actionné par un appui sur l'une quelconque des touches latérales 24a ou 24b (flèche 38 sur la Figure 2) du fait du pivotement du couvercle 14 sur le corps 10 suite à l'appui sur l'une ou l'autre de ces touches.The central contactor 60 is actuated by an axial support on the central key 20 (arrow 44 on the Figure 2 ). The lateral switch 62 is actuated by pressing on any one of the lateral keys 22a or 22b (arrow 36 on the Figure 2 ) due to the pivoting (arrow 40) of the cover 14 on the body 10 following the pressing on one or the other of these keys. In the same way, the lateral contactor 64 is actuated by pressing on any one of the lateral keys 24a or 24b (arrow 38 on the Figure 2 ) due to the pivoting of the cover 14 on the body 10 following the pressing on one or the other of these keys.

Les contacteurs 60, 62, 64, lorsqu'ils sont actionnés par l'un des mouvements que l'on vient de citer, délivrent à l'utilisateur un retour à la fois tactile (sensation d'enfoncement brusque du bouton-poussoir) et auditif (clic), ce qui lui permet de valider la commande par un moyen non visuel.The contactors 60, 62, 64, when actuated by one of the movements just mentioned, deliver the user a return both tactile (feeling of sudden depression of the push button) and auditory (click), which allows him to validate the order by a non-visual means.

Les contacteurs à bouton-poussoir 60, 62 et 64 assurent également, par le ressort inclus dans leur tige d'actionnement, un effet de rappel sur les touches. Cet effet de rappel peut être accru par la déformation des pièces en plastique en ce qui concerne les touches latérales 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b, comme exposé plus haut, pour rendre le système moins sensible aux actionnements involontaires.The push-button switches 60, 62 and 64 also provide, by the spring included in their actuating rod, a return effect on the keys. This booster effect can be increased by the deformation of the plastic parts with respect to the side keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b, as explained above, to make the system less sensitive to involuntary actuations.

Il est également possible de prévoir en complément une pièce-ressort 66, illustrée Figure 4, montée sur le corps 12 du boîtier et présentant des éléments latéraux élastiques flexibles 68, 70, procurant un effet de ressort supplémentaire. En ce qui concerne la touche centrale, la pièce-ressort 70 porte un élément central 72 en contact avec la touche centrale, et découplé du boîtier et des éléments élastiques 68, 70 par des bras flexibles 74 procurant également un effet de ressort à l'encontre de l'appui exercé sur la touche centrale, ce qui permet de maîtriser de façon précise les conditions d'actionnement de cette dernière.It is also possible to provide in addition a spring-piece 66, illustrated Figure 4 mounted on the body 12 of the housing and having flexible resilient side members 68, 70, providing an additional spring effect. With regard to the central key, the spring member 70 carries a central element 72 in contact with the central key, and uncoupled from the housing and the elastic elements 68, 70 by flexible arms 74 also providing a spring effect to the against the support exercised over the central key, which allows to control precisely the operating conditions of the latter.

La Figure 5 illustre, pris isolément, le circuit imprimé flexible portant les divers capteurs tactiles 50 et 52a, 52b, 54a et 54b.The Figure 5 illustrates, in isolation, the flexible printed circuit carrying the various tactile sensors 50 and 52a, 52b, 54a and 54b.

Les capteurs latéraux 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, sont configurés de manière que, une fois le circuit flexible placé à l'intérieur du couvercle, ces capteurs se trouvent au droit des touches respectives 22a, 22b, 24a et 24b, de manière à détecter sélectivement le contact d'un doigt sur l'une ou l'autre de ces quatre touches.The lateral sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b are so configured that, once the flexible circuit is placed inside the cover, these sensors are located at the right of the respective keys 22a, 22b, 24a and 24b, so as to selectively detect the touch of a finger on one or other of these four keys.

Les régions du circuit flexible portant les capteurs 52a et 52b sont reliées au capteur central 50 par un pont, et de même pour la région portant les capteurs 54a et 54b. Ces deux ponts permettent un mouvement relatif du bouton-poussoir central, et donc du capteur central 50, par rapport au reste du couvercle.The regions of the flexible circuit carrying the sensors 52a and 52b are connected to the central sensor 50 by a bridge, and likewise for the region carrying the sensors 54a and 54b. These two bridges allow relative movement of the central pushbutton, and therefore of the central sensor 50, relative to the remainder of the cover.

En ce qui concerne le capteur 50, celui-ci est disposé en vis-à-vis de la touche centrale 20, et présente une configuration particulière avec quatre capteurs élémentaires 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d. Ce capteur est par exemple une pastille tactile multizone de type overlap (à chevauchement de zones), comprenant quatre zones réparties de façon approximativement symétrique sur quatre quadrants. Ce composant, qui est en lui-même d'un type connu (commercialisé par exemple par Cypress Semiconductor Corp.), a été choisi car il permet une excellente discrimination des mouvements avec seulement quatre capteurs, donc quatre signaux à analyser, et nécessite de ce fait beaucoup moins de moyens de calcul qu'un capteur de type matriciel, pour lequel le mouvement est beaucoup plus difficile à analyser. On notera qu'il est possible d'utiliser, au lieu d'un capteur à quatre zones, un capteur à trois zones (trois secteurs disposés sensiblement à 120°), mais au prix d'une précision moindre.With regard to the sensor 50, the latter is disposed vis-à-vis the central key 20, and has a particular configuration with four elementary sensors 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d. This sensor is for example a multizone touch pad type overlap (overlapping zones), comprising four zones distributed approximately symmetrically on four quadrants. This component, which is in itself of a known type (marketed for example by Cypress Semiconductor Corp.), was chosen because it allows an excellent discrimination of the movements with only four sensors, thus four signals to be analyzed, and requires this is much less computation means than a matrix type sensor, for which the movement is much more difficult to analyze. Note that it is possible to use, instead of a four-zone sensor, a three-zone sensor (three sectors disposed substantially at 120 °), but at the cost of less precision.

Le capteur 50 délivre quatre valeurs correspondant aux différentes zones 50a, 50b, 50c et 50d, ci-après désignées "valeurs brutes". La précision est de l'ordre de 15 %.The sensor 50 delivers four values corresponding to the different zones 50a, 50b, 50c and 50d, hereinafter referred to as "raw values". The accuracy is of the order of 15%.

Ce capteur à pastille tactile multizone est en particulier bien approprié à la détection des mouvements de rotation d'une extrémité du doigt (flèches 48 de la Figure 1), ou de déplacement rectiligne de ce doigt en travers de la touche centrale (flèches 46). On décrira plus bas l'algorithme permettant de discriminer entre mouvement de translation et mouvement de rotation, et de déterminer le sens de la rotation ou de la translation.This multi-zone touch pad sensor is particularly well suited to detecting the rotational movements of one end of the finger (arrows 48 of the Figure 1 ), or rectilinear movement of this finger across the central key (arrows 46). We will describe below the algorithm allowing to discriminate between translation movement and rotational movement, and to determine the direction of rotation or translation.

La Figure 6 illustre sous forme de schéma par blocs les différents éléments du circuit électronique du boîtier de télécommande 10.The Figure 6 illustrates in the form of a block diagram the different elements of the electronic circuit of the remote control unit 10.

L'ensemble est piloté par un microcontrôleur 76 à faible consommation, alimenté par une batterie 78 du type pile-bouton. Ce microcontrôleur est relié aux trois contacteurs 60, 62, 64, de manière à détecter l'état de ceux-ci (enfoncés ou relâchés) ; il est également relié aux divers capteurs tactiles capacitifs 50 (avec ses quatre zones 50a à 50d) et 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, par l'intermédiaire d'un circuit d'interface 80. Le microcontrôleur est par ailleurs couplé à un circuit émetteur radio 82 pour la transmission des commandes, par exemple sur une fréquence de 433 MHz.The assembly is controlled by a low-power microcontroller 76, powered by a battery 78 of the button-button type. This microcontroller is connected to the three contactors 60, 62, 64, so as to detect the state thereof (depressed or released); it is also connected to the various capacitive touch sensors 50 (with its four zones 50a to 50d) and 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, via an interface circuit 80. The microcontroller is also coupled to a circuit radio transmitter 82 for the transmission of commands, for example on a frequency of 433 MHz.

Le circuit émetteur 82 émet des signaux à destination d'un équipement distant 84, qui est couplé à l'équipement multimédia que l'on souhaite contrôler, ou incorporé dans celui-ci. L'équipement distant 84 comprend un circuit récepteur 86 des signaux émis par l'émetteur 82 de la télécommande 10, signaux qui sont transmis à un microcontrôleur 88 permettant de délivrer des commandes CMD servant au contrôle de l'équipement multimédia et de téléphonie mains libres : décrochage/raccrochage, augmentation/diminution du volume, sélection de source, morceau suivant/ précédent, etc.The transmitter circuit 82 transmits signals to a remote device 84, which is coupled to or embedded in the multimedia equipment that is to be controlled. The remote equipment 84 comprises a receiver circuit 86 of the signals emitted by the transmitter 82 of the remote control 10, which signals are transmitted to a microcontroller 88 making it possible to issue CMD commands for controlling multimedia equipment and hands-free telephony. : unhook / unhook, volume increase / decrease, source selection, next / previous song, etc.

Pour être plus flexible aux évolutions algorithmiques et ne pas charger en calcul le microcontrôleur 76 de la télécommande 10, dont il convient de préserver l'autonomie, une partie seulement des traitements de détection des commandes sera effectuée au sein même de la télécommande 10, une autre partie en étant effectuée au sein de l'équipement distant 84, par le microcontrôleur 88 de ce dernier.To be more flexible to algorithmic evolutions and not to load in computation the microcontroller 76 of the remote control 10, whose autonomy must be preserved, only part of the control detection processes will be carried out within the remote control 10, a another part being performed within the remote equipment 84, by the microcontroller 88 of the latter.

Plus précisément, comme on le décrira plus en détail en référence aux Figures 7 à 9 ci-après, la détection et l'analyse du mouvement du doigt sur le capteur tactile central 20 sont effectuées à distance par le microcontrôleur 88 de l'équipement distant 84, car cette analyse requiert la mise en oeuvre d'algorithmes relativement complexes. La télécommande 10 se contentera alors de transmettre à l'équipement distant 84 les signaux bruts délivrés (après numérisation) par chacun des sous-capteurs 50a à 50d. En revanche, l'état des contacteurs à bouton-poussoir 60, 62 et 64 et celui des capteurs tactiles associés aux paires de touches latérales 22 et 24 seront analysés directement par le microcontrôleur 76 de la télécommande 10.More specifically, as will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 7 to 9 below, the detection and analysis of the movement of the finger on the central touch sensor 20 are performed remotely by the microcontroller 88 of the remote equipment 84, because this analysis requires the implementation of relatively complex algorithms. The remote control 10 will then simply transmit to the remote equipment 84 the raw signals delivered (after scanning) by each of the sub-sensors 50a to 50d. On the other hand, the state of the push-button switches 60, 62 and 64 and that of the Touch sensors associated with the pair of side keys 22 and 24 will be analyzed directly by the microcontroller 76 of the remote control 10.

On va maintenant décrire la manière dont fonctionne cette télécommande selon l'invention.We will now describe how this remote control works according to the invention.

L'une des originalités du système de l'invention réside dans la combinaison (i) de capteurs tactiles - à savoir un capteur multizone pour la touche centrale 20 et un capteur pour chacune des quatre touches latérales 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b - avec (ii) trois contacteurs à bouton-poussoir - à savoir un contacteur central 60 associé à la touche centrale 20, un contacteur latéral 62 associé à la paire de touches 22a et 22b et un contacteur latéral 64 associé à la paire de touches 24a et 24b.One of the original features of the system of the invention resides in the combination of (i) touch sensors - namely a multizone sensor for the central key 20 and a sensor for each of the four side keys 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b - with (ii) three pushbutton contactors - namely a central contactor 60 associated with the central key 20, a lateral contactor 62 associated with the pair of keys 22a and 22b and a lateral contactor 64 associated with the pair of keys 24a and 24b .

On notera que pour chacun des contacteurs 62 et 64 deux zones tactiles sont associées au même contacteur : respectivement 22a, 22b pour le contacteur 62 et 24a, 24b pour le contacteur 64.Note that for each of the contactors 62 and 64 two touch zones are associated with the same contactor: respectively 22a, 22b for the contactor 62 and 24a, 24b for the contactor 64.

Le contact avec l'une de ces quatre touches 22a, 22b, 24a ou 24b devra, pour valider la prise en compte de la commande, être confirmé par l'enfoncement et le changement d'état du contacteur correspondant.The contact with one of these four keys 22a, 22b, 24a or 24b must, to validate the taking into account of the command, be confirmed by the depression and the change of state of the corresponding contactor.

Ceci permet d'obtenir un système à la fois compact (un contacteur est commun à deux touches) et moins sensible aux commandes involontaires (du fait de la nécessité de combiner la détection par un capteur tactile avec la détection du changement d'état du contacteur). En outre, l'enfoncement du contacteur procure à l'utilisateur un retour tactile et auditif (sensation du "clic" et bruit associé) permettant de valider la commande.This makes it possible to obtain a system that is both compact (a contactor is common to two keys) and less sensitive to involuntary controls (because of the need to combine the detection by a touch sensor with the detection of the change of state of the contactor ). In addition, the depression of the contactor provides the user a tactile and auditory feedback (sensation of "click" and associated noise) to validate the command.

On notera par ailleurs que la touche centrale 20 permet à elle seule de réaliser cinq commandes différentes :

  • lecture ou arrêt (pression centrale sur la touche, permettant d'actionner le contacteur 60),
  • morceau suivant (glissement du doigt de la gauche vers la droite),
  • morceau précédent (glissement du doigt de la droite vers la gauche),
  • augmentation du volume (rotation du doigt dans le sens horaire), et
  • diminution du volume (rotation du doigt dans le sens antihoraire).
Note also that the central key 20 alone allows for five different commands:
  • reading or stopping (central pressing of the key, enabling actuator 60 to be actuated),
  • following piece (sliding of the finger from left to right),
  • previous piece (sliding of the finger from the right to the left),
  • volume increase (clockwise rotation of the finger), and
  • decrease in volume (rotation of the finger counterclockwise).

De préférence, pour les commandes morceau suivant/morceau précédent, la télécommande incorpore un accéléromètre. Il est en effet avantageux de permettre de détecter l'orientation dans l'espace de la télécommande par rapport à un repère absolu, et de rendre réversibles les deux fonctions (de la droite vers la gauche vs. de la gauche vers la droite) suivant que la télécommande se trouve montée à droite ou à gauche sur le volant.Preferably, for the next song / previous song commands, the remote control incorporates an accelerometer. It is indeed advantageous to detect the orientation in the space of the remote control with respect to an absolute reference, and to make the two reversible functions (from right to left vs. left to right) depending on whether the remote control is mounted to the right or left of the steering wheel.

En ce qui concerne le mouvement de rotation sur la zone tactile de la touche centrale, cette action est complètement indépendante de l'inclinaison du volant, et par conséquent accessible à tout moment, contrairement à une solution classique de type bouton ou manette de type joystick. Regarding the rotational movement on the touch zone of the central key, this action is completely independent of the tilt of the steering wheel, and therefore accessible at any time, unlike a conventional solution type button or Joystick type joystick .

On notera que, grâce à la solution de l'invention, toutes les fonctions sont accessibles avec le pouce, d'un seul doigt, sans que la main ne quitte le volant.Note that, thanks to the solution of the invention, all functions are accessible with the thumb of a single finger, without the hand leaving the wheel.

Une solution constituée uniquement de capteurs tactiles n'aurait pas permis d'empêcher les commandes non volontaires. En revanche, l'association des commandes tactiles à des contacteurs à bouton-poussoir, à effet mécanique, permet d'enregistrer les actions en les distinguant des simples contacts de proximité de la main.A solution consisting solely of tactile sensors would not have prevented non-voluntary orders. On the other hand, the combination of tactile controls with push-button contactors, with mechanical effect, makes it possible to record the actions by distinguishing them from simple proximity contacts of the hand.

La Figure 7 est un organigramme illustrant les différentes étapes de l'algorithme exécuté par le microcontrôleur 76 de la télécommande 10 pour l'analyse des signaux délivrés par les capteurs et contacteurs.The Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the various steps of the algorithm executed by the microcontroller 76 of the remote control 10 for the analysis of the signals delivered by the sensors and contactors.

Après les étapes initiales 100 et 102 d'initialisation, l'algorithme détecte l'approche éventuelle d'un doigt (test 104).After the initial initialization steps 100 and 102, the algorithm detects the possible approach of a finger (test 104).

On considérera qu'il y a approche d'un doigt si l'un des capteurs tactiles capacitifs 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b des paires de touches latérales 22, 24, ou si l'un des capteurs 50a à 50d de la touche centrale 20, délivre un signal dépassant un seuil prédéterminé. Toutefois, si l'on détecte un signal simultanément sur plusieurs des capteurs tactiles capacitifs latéraux 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, ou sur l'un des capteurs latéraux 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b et sur au moins l'un des capteurs centraux 50a à 50d simultanément, cette situation ne sera pas considérée comme destinée à activer une commande et ne sera pas considérée comme une "approche d'un doigt" au sens de l'algorithme. En effet, cette situation correspond très vraisemblablement à une manoeuvre du volant dans laquelle la main de l'utilisateur effleure le boîtier de télécommande 10, sans pour autant volonté d'envoyer une commande à l'équipement distant de téléphonie ou audio.It will be considered that a finger approach is made if one of the capacitive touch sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b of the lateral key pairs 22, 24, or if one of the sensors 50a to 50d of the central key 20, delivers a signal exceeding a predetermined threshold. However, if a signal is simultaneously detected on several of the lateral capacitive touch sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b, or on one of the lateral sensors 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b and on at least one of the central sensors 50a to 50d simultaneously, this situation will not be considered as intended to activate a command and will not be considered as a "finger approach" in the sense of the algorithm. Indeed, this situation is most likely a maneuvering the steering wheel in which the user's hand touches the remote control unit 10, without wanting to send a command to the remote telephony equipment or audio.

Si le test 104 est négatif (aucune approche du doigt en vue de l'envoi d'une commande), le microcontrôleur 76 de la télécommande est mis en sommeil (étape 106) pendant une période prédéterminée, par exemple 125 ms, pour limiter la consommation électrique globale. En effet, en pratique, il suffit de tester l'approche d'un doigt à intervalles réguliers (huit fois par seconde dans cet exemple) pour assurer une détection suffisante par rapport au temps de réaction de l'utilisateur.If the test 104 is negative (no approach to the finger to send a command), the microcontroller 76 of the remote control is set sleep (step 106) for a predetermined period, for example 125 ms, to limit the overall power consumption. Indeed, in practice, it is sufficient to test the approach of a finger at regular intervals (eight times per second in this example) to ensure sufficient detection with respect to the reaction time of the user.

A l'issue de la période de mise en sommeil, le microcontrôleur 76 est réveillé et les capteurs sont lus (étape 108), puis l'approche éventuelle d'un doigt est recherchée par retour au test 104.At the end of the dormant period, the microcontroller 76 is awake and the sensors are read (step 108), then the possible approach of a finger is sought by return to the test 104.

Si le test 104 a détecté l'approche d'un doigt en vue de l'envoi d'une commande, les LEDs 30 et 32 sont allumées (étape 110), pour faciliter l'utilisation de la télécommande dans l'obscurité.If the test 104 has detected the approach of a finger to send a command, the LEDs 30 and 32 are lit (step 110), to facilitate the use of the remote control in the dark.

L'étape suivante (test 112) consiste à détecter un changement d'état des contacteurs 60, 62 ou 64, c'est-à-dire une transition de l'état relâché vers l'état enfoncé ou l'inverse. Dans l'affirmative, si le contacteur est l'un des contacteurs latéraux 62 ou 64, l'algorithme détermine quel est le capteur tactile correspondant qui est actif (52a ou 52b, ou bien 54a ou 54b, respectivement), et active la commande CMD associée à la touche latérale correspondante (22a ou 22b, ou bien 24a ou 24b, respectivement), si la transition est un passage de l'état relâché à l'état enfoncé. Inversement, si la transition est de l'état appuyé à l'état relâché, la commande CMD est désactivée. Si le contacteur en question est le contacteur central 60, la commande correspondante est directement activée ou désactivée.The next step (test 112) is to detect a change of state of the contactors 60, 62 or 64, that is to say a transition from the relaxed state to the depressed state or vice versa. If so, if the contactor is one of the side contactors 62 or 64, the algorithm determines which is the corresponding touch sensor that is active (52a or 52b, or 54a or 54b, respectively), and activates the control CMD associated with the corresponding side key (22a or 22b, or 24a or 24b, respectively), if the transition is a transition from the relaxed state to the depressed state. Conversely, if the transition is from the pressed state to the relaxed state, the CMD command is disabled. If the contactor in question is the central contactor 60, the corresponding command is directly activated or deactivated.

L'étape suivante (test 116) dépend du point de savoir s'il y a lieu ou non d'envoyer une commande CMD, c'est-à-dire si une commande a été activée ou désactivée à l'étape 114, ou non (pas de changement d'état des contacteurs à l'étape 112) :

  • dans l'affirmative, la commande est émise par l'émetteur radio 82 de la télécommande 10 à destination de l'équipement distant (étape 118) ;
  • dans la négative, ce sont les signaux bruts délivrés par les quatre capteurs capacitifs 50a à 50d de la pastille tactile centrale multizone 50 qui sont transmis à l'équipement distant (étape 120, pour être interprétés par ce dernier).
The next step (test 116) depends on whether or not to send a CMD command, that is, whether a command has been enabled or disabled in step 114, or no (no change of state of the contactors in step 112):
  • if so, the command is transmitted by the radio transmitter 82 of the remote control 10 to the remote equipment (step 118);
  • in the negative, it is the raw signals delivered by the four capacitive sensors 50a to 50d of the multi-zone central touch pad 50 which are transmitted to the remote equipment (step 120, to be interpreted by the latter).

L'étape suivante consiste à détecter l'éloignement éventuel du doigt (test 122), c'est-à-dire la disparition du signal sur l'ensemble des capteurs capacitifs centraux 50a à 50d et latéraux 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b :

  • dans l'affirmative, l'algorithme s'achève par extinction des LEDs (étape 124), et retour à l'étape 104 pour mise en sommeil du microcontrôleur jusqu'à nouvelle détection d'une approche d'un doigt, etc. ;
  • dans la négative, l'algorithme revient à l'étape 112 de test du changement d'état des contacteurs, de manière à :
    • soit réitérer la commande, si celle-ci avait été activée au précédent passage à l'étape 114 et n'a toujours pas été désactivée (tant que le contacteur est enfoncé, la commande est réémise à intervalles réguliers à destination de l'équipement distant) ;
    • soit émettre les nouvelles valeurs des signaux des capteurs tactiles de la pastille multizone centrale, qui ont pu varier depuis la précédente itération : pour permettre une analyse du mouvement du doigt sur cette pastille et décrire son mouvement, il convient en effet d'envoyer des valeurs successives des signaux de capteurs à intervalles relativement brefs, par exemple toutes les 10 à 15 ms, pour assurer une bonne réactivité de l'algorithme d'analyse de ce mouvement.
The next step is to detect the possible distance of the finger (test 122), that is to say the disappearance of the signal on all the central capacitive sensors 50a to 50d and lateral 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b:
  • in the affirmative, the algorithm ends with extinction of the LEDs (step 124), and return to step 104 for putting the microcontroller to sleep until a new approach of a finger is detected, etc. ;
  • in the negative, the algorithm returns to step 112 of the state change test of the contactors, so as to:
    • or repeat the command, if it had been activated at the previous passage to step 114 and still has not been disabled (as long as the contactor is pressed, the command is re-issued at regular intervals to the remote device );
    • either to emit the new values of the signals of the tactile sensors of the central multizone pellet, which could vary since the previous iteration: to allow an analysis of the movement of the finger on this pellet and to describe its movement, it is indeed necessary to send values successive sensor signals at relatively short intervals, for example every 10 to 15 ms, to ensure good responsiveness of the algorithm for analyzing this movement.

On va maintenant décrire la manière dont sont analysés les signaux délivrés par les capteurs 50a à 50d de la pastille centrale multizone 50.The manner in which the signals delivered by the sensors 50a to 50d of the multi-zone central pellet 50 are analyzed will now be described.

Comme on l'a indiqué plus haut, ce capteur comprend une pastille tactile multizone 50 à quatre capteurs capacitifs 50a à 50d répartis de façon approximativement symétrique sur quatre quadrants, produisant donc quatre signaux de capteur à analyser.As mentioned above, this sensor comprises a multi-zone touch pad 50 with four capacitive sensors 50a to 50d distributed approximately symmetrically over four quadrants, thus producing four sensor signals to be analyzed.

La Figure 8 illustre un exemple typique de signal délivré par l'un de ces capteurs capacitifs 50a à 50d.The Figure 8 illustrates a typical example of a signal delivered by one of these capacitive sensors 50a to 50d.

Cette figure donne, plus précisément, un exemple de variation du signal S délivré en sortie en fonction du temps, pour une manoeuvre d'approche du doigt, suivie d'un contact, d'un déplacement du doigt sur le capteur puis de retrait du doigt.This figure gives, more specifically, an example of variation of the signal S outputted as a function of time, for a finger approach maneuver, followed by a contact, a movement of the finger on the sensor and withdrawal of the finger.

L'approche du doigt se caractérise par une augmentation brutale du signal avec un pic 90 suivi d'une décroissance 92, caractéristique d'un effet de bord. Le signal varie ensuite en fonction de la plus ou moins grande surface de capteur en contact ou à proximité du doigt. Le retrait du doigt se caractérise par une chute brutale du signal, comme en 94.The approach of the finger is characterized by a sudden increase of the signal with a peak 90 followed by a decrease 92, characteristic of an edge effect. The signal then varies according to the greater or lesser area sensor in contact or near the finger. The withdrawal of the finger is characterized by a sharp drop of the signal, as in 94.

L'approche effective du doigt ne sera validée que sur détection de la décroissance 92, et la partie du signal analysée sera celle postérieure à l'instant t1 correspondant à la fin de cette décroissance. De façon comparable, le relâchement du doigt sera détecté par une chute brutale du signal, comme en 94, et les valeurs de S postérieures à l'instant t2 correspondant au début de cette chute seront éliminées. La partie filtrée du signal, analysée pour déterminer le mouvement du doigt sur la pastille centrale, sera donc celle comprise entre les instants t1 et t2.The actual approach of the finger will be validated only on detecting the decay 92, and the portion of the analyzed signal will be the one after the instant t 1 corresponding to the end of this decay. In a comparable manner, the relaxation of the finger will be detected by a sudden drop in the signal, as in 94, and the values of S after the instant t 2 corresponding to the beginning of this fall will be eliminated. The filtered portion of the signal, analyzed to determine the movement of the finger on the central pellet, will therefore be that between times t 1 and t 2 .

Un signal comparable à celui de la Figure 8 est obtenu pour chacun des quatre capteurs 50a à 50d. Comme on l'a indiqué plus haut, ces valeurs, à leur état brut, sont recueillies et numérisées puis envoyées telles quelles par la télécommande à l'équipement distant pour analyse.A signal comparable to that of Figure 8 is obtained for each of the four sensors 50a to 50d. As mentioned above, these values, in their raw state, are collected and digitized and sent as is by the remote control to the remote equipment for analysis.

La Figure 9 est un organigramme des différentes étapes de l'algorithme, exécuté par le microcontrôleur 88 de l'équipement distant 84, servant à effectuer cette analyse du mouvement du doigt sur la pastille tactile multi-zone 50.The Figure 9 is a flowchart of the different steps of the algorithm, executed by the microcontroller 88 of the remote equipment 84, used to perform this analysis of the movement of the finger on the multi-zone tactile pad 50.

Après les étapes initiales (blocs 200 et 202), l'algorithme détecte la réception de données (étape 204), qui sont comme indiqué plus haut les quatre données numériques brutes délivrées par les capteurs tactiles respectifs 50a à 50d à un instant donné. Ces données sont tout d'abord filtrées (étape 206), de manière qu'elles ne soient prises en compte que si l'on détecte une décroissance du signal (décroissance caractéristique 92 de la Figure 8, représentative de l'approche d'un doigt) sur l'un au moins des capteurs. En effet, on peut avoir une augmentation du signal sur un ou plusieurs autres des capteurs, selon la position du doigt sur la pastille multizone, concurremment avec une décroissance sur l'une au moins des autres zones, révélatrice de l'approche et du contact d'un doigt.After the initial steps (blocks 200 and 202), the algorithm detects the reception of data (step 204), which is as indicated above the four raw digital data delivered by the respective touch sensors 50a to 50d at a given instant. These data are first filtered (step 206), so that they are taken into account only if a decrease of the signal (characteristic decay 92 of the signal) is detected. Figure 8 , representative of the approach of a finger) on at least one of the sensors. Indeed, one can have an increase of the signal on one or more other sensors, according to the position of the finger on the multizone pellet, concurrently with a decrease on at least one of the other zones, revealing the approach and the contact of a finger.

L'étape suivante (bloc 208) consiste à convertir les quatre signaux des capteurs en une donnée selon deux directions perpendiculaires X et Y. Cette conversion peut être réalisée au moyen d'algorithmes classiques, qui ne seront pas décrits en détail, à partir des niveaux respectifs des signaux sur les quatre capteurs 50a à 50d correspondant aux quatre quadrants de la pastille multizone. On notera que, dans le cas présent, on analysera essentiellement le mouvement du doigt, détecté en comparant deux par deux les données brutes émises successivement par la télécommande, c'est-à-dire les variations relatives des signaux d'un instant d'échantillonnage au suivant (concrètement, comme indiqué plus haut, à intervalles de 10 à 15 ms). Ainsi, par exemple, une variation relative des signaux entre les capteurs 50a et 50d traduira une variation en X du mouvement du doigt, tandis qu'une variation relative entre les capteurs 50c et 50d traduira une variation selon Y.The next step (block 208) consists in converting the four signals of the sensors into data in two perpendicular directions X and Y. This conversion can be performed using conventional algorithms, which will not be described in detail, from the respective levels of the signals on the four sensors 50a to 50d corresponding to the four quadrants of the multi-zone pellet. It should be noted that, in the present case, will analyze essentially the movement of the finger, detected by comparing two by two the raw data emitted successively by the remote control, that is to say the relative variations of the signals from one sampling time to the next (concretely, as indicated above , at intervals of 10 to 15 ms). Thus, for example, a relative variation of the signals between the sensors 50a and 50d will translate a variation in X of the movement of the finger, while a relative variation between the sensors 50c and 50d will translate a variation along Y.

L'étape suivante (test 210) consiste à déterminer si le mouvement est une rotation : si l'on détecte des variations simultanément en X et Y, cette variation sera interprétée comme une rotation.The next step (test 210) is to determine if the motion is a rotation: if we detect variations simultaneously in X and Y, this variation will be interpreted as a rotation.

Dans le cas d'un mouvement de rotation, l'algorithme procède à une analyse (étape 212) permettant de déterminer la position angulaire approximative du doigt sur la pastille multizone à partir des quatre signaux des capteurs 50a à 50d. L'algorithme ensuite attend la réception de nouvelles données envoyées par la télécommande (étape 214) et, s'il n'y a pas éloignement du doigt (test 216) analyse la nouvelle position angulaire (réitération de l'étape 212), et ainsi de suite, de manière à définir une succession de points correspondant aux mouvements de rotation du doigt sur la touche centrale 20. La rotation est assimilée à une succession de petites translations élémentaires sans relâchement du contact du doigt ; à partir du mouvement ainsi détecté, l'algorithme pourra déterminer le sens et l'amplitude de la rotation, de manière à générer une commande d'augmentation ou de diminution du volume sonore de l'équipement (ou de défilement dans un menu, ou autre commande de même nature).In the case of a rotational movement, the algorithm proceeds to an analysis (step 212) to determine the approximate angular position of the finger on the multizone pellet from the four signals of the sensors 50a to 50d. The algorithm then waits for the reception of new data sent by the remote control (step 214) and, if there is no distance from the finger (test 216), analyzes the new angular position (repetition of step 212), and and so on, so as to define a succession of points corresponding to the movements of rotation of the finger on the central key 20. The rotation is likened to a succession of small elementary translations without releasing the finger contact; from the movement thus detected, the algorithm can determine the direction and the amplitude of the rotation, so as to generate a command for increasing or decreasing the sound volume of the equipment (or scrolling in a menu, or another order of the same nature).

Plus précisément, dès que l'algorithme détecte un déplacement du doigt en rotation dépassant un certain seuil, il considère qu'il y a une action demandée par l'utilisateur, qui est traduite par un pas de volume sonore, en plus ou en moins selon le sens de ce déplacement. La position atteinte est considérée alors comme un nouveau point de départ, et l'analyse est réitérée jusqu'à trouver un nouveau dépassement du seuil, etc.More precisely, as soon as the algorithm detects a displacement of the finger in rotation exceeding a certain threshold, it considers that there is an action requested by the user, which is translated by a step of sound volume, plus or minus according to the direction of this displacement. The position reached is then considered as a new starting point, and the analysis is repeated until a new threshold is exceeded, and so on.

L'éloignement du doigt de l'utilisateur à l'étape 216 est détecté par une chute brusque du signal (comme en 94 sur la Figure 8) apparaissant simultanément sur les quatre capteurs. L'algorithme se met alors en attente de réception de nouvelles données (retour à l'étape 204).The distance of the finger from the user at step 216 is detected by a sudden drop in the signal (as in 94 on the Figure 8 ) appearing simultaneously on the four sensors. The algorithm then starts waiting for reception of new data (return to step 204).

Si, à l'étape 210, l'algorithme avait déterminé que le mouvement du doigt n'était pas un mouvement de rotation, l'algorithme teste s'il y a ou non éloignement du doigt (test 218, identique au test 216 précédemment décrit). En l'absence d'éloignement, l'algorithme revient à l'étape 204, de manière à acquérir de nouvelles données, jusqu'à ce que l'éloignement du doigt soit détecté.If, in step 210, the algorithm had determined that the movement of the finger was not a rotational movement, the algorithm tests whether or not the finger has moved away (test 218, identical to the test 216 previously described). In the absence of remoteness, the algorithm returns to step 204, so as to acquire new data, until the distance of the finger is detected.

L'algorithme détermine alors, à partir des valeurs successivement acquises, si le mouvement présente bien un caractère rectiligne (test 220). Cette détermination est effectuée en prenant au moins trois points du déplacement, typiquement le premier point, le dernier point et un point situé approximativement au milieu, en vérifiant que ces trois points sont alignés (à un seuil d'incertitude près) :

  • si le mouvement est effectivement rectiligne, alors l'algorithme en analyse la direction, X ou Y, et le sens (étape 222) et génère une commande correspondante à destination des circuits de l'équipement : morceau suivant/morceau précédent, etc. ;
  • si le test est négatif, ceci signifie que le mouvement (qui par ailleurs n'a pas été analysé comme un mouvement de rotation) est trop erratique pour pouvoir être correctement interprété. Aucune action n'est engagée et l'algorithme se met en attente de la réception de nouvelles données (retour au bloc 204).
The algorithm then determines, from the successively acquired values, whether the movement has a rectilinear character (test 220). This determination is made by taking at least three points of the displacement, typically the first point, the last point and a point situated approximately in the middle, verifying that these three points are aligned (to a threshold of uncertainty):
  • if the movement is actually rectilinear, then the algorithm analyzes the direction, X or Y, and direction (step 222) and generates a corresponding command to the circuits of the equipment: next song / previous song, etc. ;
  • if the test is negative, this means that the movement (which otherwise has not been analyzed as a rotational movement) is too erratic to be correctly interpreted. No action is taken and the algorithm waits for the reception of new data (return to block 204).

Claims (12)

  1. A tactile-interface wireless remote-control device for a multimedia and hands-free phone equipment of a motor vehicle, comprising:
    - a case (10) with a body (12) supporting an apparent face including a plurality of zones forming control keys (20, 22a, 22b, 24a, 24b) associated with a corresponding plurality of tactile sensors (50, 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b), said keys comprising:
    • a central key (20) comprising a multi-zone tactile patch (50) activatable in a differentiated manner as a function of the displacement of a finger of the user on the surface of this patch, and
    • at least one pair of lateral keys (22a, 22b; 24a, 24b) arranged on an edge of the case:
    - means (76) for selectively producing control signals as a function of a corresponding key operated by a user;
    - radio emitter means (80), for emitting to a remote equipment messages containing said control signals; and
    - a set of push-button electromechanical contactors (60, 62, 64), comprising lateral contactors (62; 64);
    characterized in that:
    - said set of contactors (60, 62, 64) and said at least one pair of lateral keys (22a, 22b; 24a, 24b) are configured with a lateral contactor (62; 64) common to the keys of each pair of lateral keys;
    - said apparent face is mobile and/or deformable with respect to the case body so as to allow the selective operation of each of said lateral contactors by exerting an effort (36, 38) on one or the other of the keys of the pair of lateral keys corresponding to this contactor; and
    - the remote-control device comprises selector means adapted, upon detection of a transition of state of a lateral contactor, to select one of said control signals as a function of which of the tactile sensors (52a, 52b; 54a, 54b) is activated by a contact with a corresponding one of the lateral keys (22a, 22b; 24a, 24b) of the pair of keys associated with this contactor.
  2. The remote-control device of claim 1, comprising two pairs of lateral keys (22a, 22b, 24a, 24b) arranged symmetrically on either side of the central key (20) with, for each pair, a common associated lateral contact (62, 64).
  3. The remote-control device of claim 1, wherein the central key (20) is mobile and/or deformable in the push-in direction (44) with respect to the case body, and a central push-button electromechanical contactor (60) is further provided, which is operable by said push-in operation on the central key.
  4. The remote-control device of claim 1, wherein the central key (20) extends in a median plane (28) set back from the median plane of the control keys of the apparent face of the case.
  5. The remote-control device of claim 1, wherein said apparent face is formed on a lid (14) of the case body, said lid carrying two pairs (22, 24) of lateral keys (22a, 22b, 24a, 24b) arranged symmetrically on either side of the central key (20), and being articulated on the case body, around a pivoting axis (34) oriented along a diameter of the central key and forming an axis of symmetry for the two pairs of lateral keys.
  6. The remote-control device of claim 1, wherein means are provided for analysing the displacement of a finger of the user on the surface of the multi-zone tactile patch (50), adapted to discriminate between a rectilinear movement (46) and a circular movement (48) of the finger, and to determine the direction of this circular or rectilinear movement.
  7. The remote-control device of claim 6, wherein an accelerometer is further provided, which is adapted to determine the orientation of the remote-control device case in an absolute reference system, and to invert if need be the indication of said direction of rectilinear movement as a function of said orientation.
  8. The remote-control device of claim 6, wherein the analysis means of said displacement are means implemented by a circuit that is incorporated in the case.
  9. The remote-control device of claim 6, wherein the radio emitter means are adapted to emit signals representative of said displacement of a finger of the user on the surface of the multi-zone tactile patch, so as to allow the analysis of said displacement by means implemented by a circuit of the remote equipment.
  10. The remote-control device of claim 1, comprising means for inhibiting the production of said control signals in case of concomitant detection i) of a displacement of a finger of the user on the surface of the multi-zone tactile patch and ii) of a contact on at least one of the tactile sensors associated with the lateral keys.
  11. The remote-control device of claim 1, wherein the tactile sensors (50, 52a, 52b, 54a, 54b) are capacitive sensors, and means are provided for periodically reading the state of these sensors and activating the means for producing the control signals and the radio emitter means only in case of detection of activation of one of the capacitive sensors following the contact by a finger of the user.
  12. The remote-control device of claim 1, further comprising lighting means (30, 32) associated with each pair of lateral keys (22, 24) and means for activating selectively and temporarily these lighting means upon detection of an approach of a finger of the user by one of the tactile sensors associated with these keys.
EP12151632.2A 2011-02-10 2012-01-18 Wireless remote control with tactile interface for multimedia and hands-free telephony equipment for an automobile Not-in-force EP2487661B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1151058A FR2971607B1 (en) 2011-02-10 2011-02-10 WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL WITH TOUCH INTERFACE FOR MULTIMEDIA AND HANDS-FREE TELEPHONY EQUIPMENT OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

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EP2487661A1 EP2487661A1 (en) 2012-08-15
EP2487661B1 true EP2487661B1 (en) 2017-03-15

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US (1) US20120208604A1 (en)
EP (1) EP2487661B1 (en)
CN (1) CN102707633B (en)
FR (1) FR2971607B1 (en)

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US8981982B2 (en) * 2013-04-05 2015-03-17 Maxlinear, Inc. Multi-zone data converters
US10964139B2 (en) * 2013-05-15 2021-03-30 Triteq Lock And Security, L.L.C. Access control electronics for wireless locks
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CN111267937A (en) * 2019-11-20 2020-06-12 北京云驾科技有限公司 Bluetooth WeChat control device fixed on steering wheel

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FR2971607B1 (en) 2013-08-23
EP2487661A1 (en) 2012-08-15
CN102707633A (en) 2012-10-03
CN102707633B (en) 2016-08-31
FR2971607A1 (en) 2012-08-17
US20120208604A1 (en) 2012-08-16

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