JPH0858493A - Switch system for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To operate plural control objective apparatuses and to extensively improve workability while reducing the number of switches operated by a user to the possible minimum. CONSTITUTION: This switch system is constituted by providing a switch part 2 provided with the number of switches free to operate by one hand and a controller 1 to select functions high in possibility of use from several operational functions of a plural number of control objective equipment 4, 5, 6 and to allocate a plural number of these selected functions so as to make them in a state possible to access by each of the switches of the switch part 2. Consequently, as the number of the switches operated by a user is extensively reduced, workability of the switches is improved and switch operation is made possible even during drive.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a vehicle switch system for easily operating various devices (air conditioners, audio devices, GPS, etc.) mounted on a vehicle.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A group of switches for operating various devices mounted on an automobile, such as an air conditioner, an audio system device, a GPS, etc., is provided at a central portion of an instrument panel (a portion between a driver seat and a passenger seat). ) Are arranged in a group for each switch group. In this configuration, since a large number of switches are arranged centrally, when the user wants to operate one desired switch in each switch group, the panel part where the switch groups are arranged is operated. It was necessary to find a desired switch and operate the switch while visually recognizing it. For this reason, the operability when operating the switches is poor, and it has been quite difficult for the driver to operate a desired switch among the above switch groups during driving.

On the other hand, a remote control device in which switch groups for audio equipment such as a radio, a cassette tape deck, and a CD deck are collectively arranged is provided by an audio equipment manufacturer. However, in the case of this remote control device, the switches are only arranged on the compact remote control main body, and since the number of switches is as large as before, there is also the drawback that it is difficult to operate the switches, It was almost impossible to operate inside.

On the other hand, a switch system called so-called electro-multivision is provided by an automobile manufacturer. This is configured to have a display capable of displaying pictures, characters and the like, and a touch switch section provided on the screen of this display. In this configuration, the item showing each device is displayed on the initial screen of the display,
When the user touches the part where the item indicating the device to be operated is displayed with his / her finger, the switch group for operating the device is configured to be switched and displayed on the screen of the display. By touching the formed switch portion with a finger, the switch operation desired by the user can be executed. With this configuration, it is not necessary to search for one switch among many switches, and
The operability of the switch is considerably improved because only one switch of the relatively small number of switches displayed on the electro-multivision screen is touched.

[0005]

However, in the above configuration, when a switch operation of another device, such as an air conditioner, is executed in a screen state in which a switch group for a radio is displayed, the initial screen is changed from the above screen state. The configuration is such that it is possible to perform the operation of returning to, and further the operation of setting the screen for displaying the switch group for the air conditioner, and then operating the desired switch. Therefore, there is a drawback that the switch operation is very troublesome, and it is almost impossible to operate the switch while driving.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle for which a plurality of control target devices can be operated while the number of switches operated by the user is minimized, and the operability can be greatly improved. To provide a switch system.

[0007]

A vehicle switch system according to the present invention comprises a switch section provided with a switch of a number that can be operated by one hand, and has a plurality of control functions for a plurality of control target devices. It is characterized by comprising a function allocating means for selecting a function having a high possibility of use from the above and allocating a plurality of the selected functions so as to make them accessible to each switch of the switch section.

Further, in the case of the above construction, the switch portion is provided so as to be operated in the up, down, left, right or pushing directions by being held by one hand, and each of the above-mentioned switches when operated in each of the above directions. A switch body that outputs a switch signal that specifies a direction, a shift push switch that is provided on the operation knob of the switch body so that it can be pushed by the thumb of one hand, and that outputs a shift signal when the push operation is performed, and the operation knob In addition, it is preferable to include three push switches provided so as to be able to be pushed in by a finger other than the thumb of one hand and outputting a switch signal when the pushing operation is performed.

Furthermore, it is more preferable that a display device is provided which displays a highly usable function selected from the operation functions of the controlled equipment and an accessible allocation relationship with each switch of the switch section. This is the preferred configuration.

[0010]

According to the above means, the switch portion is provided with the number of switches that can be operated with one hand, and
A function having a high possibility of being used is selected from the operation functions of the plurality of control target devices, and the selected plurality of functions are assigned so that they can be accessed by the switches of the switch section. As a result, the number of switches operated by the user is significantly reduced, so that the operability of the switches is improved and the switches can be operated even during driving. Since a function with a high possibility of use is selected from among the operation functions of the plurality of control target devices, it is possible to perform the minimum necessary control for the plurality of control target devices even with the few switches described above. You can do it.
Incidentally, among the operation functions of a plurality of control target devices, the functions that are less likely to be used, that is, the functions that cannot be operated by the switch section, are controlled by the respective controls provided on the instrument panel in the same manner as the conventional configuration. The switches in the switch group for the target device may be operated.

In the case of the above configuration, the switch portion is provided so as to be operated in the up, down, left, right or pushing directions by being grasped by one hand, and the respective directions are specified when operated in the respective directions. A switch body that outputs a switch signal, a push push switch for outputting a shift signal when the push knob is operated with the thumb of one hand to output a shift signal, and a thumb of one hand on the operation knob If it is composed of three push switches that are provided so that they can be pushed in by a finger other than the above and that outputs a switch signal when pushed, five types of switches can be operated with one hand x 2 + 3
It is possible to obtain 16 kinds of switch signals of 2 kinds. Furthermore, in this case, regarding the three push switches that can be pushed, if the push operation is performed for a short time and the push operation is performed for a long time (for example, 2 seconds or more), three types of push switches are further provided. It is possible to obtain x2 switch signals (a total of 22 types of switch signals). Therefore, when a function that is highly likely to be used is selected from among the operation functions of a plurality of control target devices, these selected functions are accessed by each switch of the switch unit (in this case, 22 kinds of switch signals). It is fully possible to assign to possible states.

Further, if a function having a high possibility of use selected from the respective operation functions of the control target equipment and a display device for displaying an accessible allocation relationship with each switch of the switch section are provided, it is possible to use Even when the person does not sufficiently remember the allocation relationship, it is possible to operate the switch while checking the display device. It should be noted that if the user sufficiently stores the allocation relationship, the switch unit can be operated by so-called blind touch.

[0013]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a switch system for an automobile will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, in FIG. 1 showing the electrical configuration of the switch system in the form of functional blocks, a function allocating means such as a controller 1 is configured to include a microcomputer, and a control program for controlling the operation of the switch system is provided. I remember. Controller 1 above
Receives various switch signals from the switch unit 2,
While driving and controlling the display 3, which is a display device,
It is configured to give an operation signal to a plurality of control target devices such as the information system device 4, the air conditioning system device 5, and the audio system device 6.

Here, in the automobile of this embodiment, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) is used as the information system device 4.
), TEL (telephone) and FAX, and as the air conditioning system equipment 5, for example, A / C (air conditioner) and air purifier,
Further, as the audio system device 6, for example, radio, TV
(TV), cassette tape deck and CD deck (compact disc deck) are installed.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the switch body 7 of the switch section 2 has an operation knob 8 having a substantially rectangular box shape.
And a switch body (not shown) that supports the operation knob 8 so that it can be swung upward, downward, leftward, and rightward and pushed. Switch body 7
Is provided so that the operating knob 8 can be operated in the up, down, left, right direction or pushing direction by gripping the operating knob 8 with one hand of the user (driver), for example, the left hand. Switch signals that specify each direction when operated in each direction (in this case, 5 types of switch signals)
Is configured to output. The switch body 7 is disposed, for example, at a rear side of the shift lever so as to be easily gripped and operated by the driver's left hand. The switch main body 7 is not limited to the above position, but may be, for example, the left side portion of the steering wheel of the instrument panel, and the point is that it can be easily operated by the driver's left hand. Any part will do.

Further, a momentary push switch 9 is provided on the right side surface of the operation knob 8 in FIG. 2 so as to be pushed in by the thumb of the driver's left hand. The push switch 9 is configured to output a shift signal when pushed, and constitutes a shift push switch. In addition, the operation knob 8 shown in FIG.
On the middle upper surface portion, three momentary type push switches 10, 11, 12 are provided so that they can be pushed in by a finger (for example, a ring finger, a middle finger, an index finger) other than the thumb of the left hand. These push switches 10, 11,
The reference numerals 12 are each configured to output a switch signal when pushed. Therefore, the switch unit 2 is provided with a switch body 7 and four push switches 9 to 12, specifically, as many switches as can be operated with one hand (left hand).

Although the switch section 2 is a switch that can be operated with one hand, it outputs five types of switch signals from the switch body 7 and three push switches 1
Three types of switch signals are output from 0, 11, and 12, and a shift signal is output from the shift push switch 9. As a result, the switch unit 2 is configured to be able to provide the switch signals of 5 types × 2 + 3 types × 2 = 16 types to the controller 1. Further, in the case of the present embodiment, for each switch signal from the three push switches 10, 11, 12 if the push operation is possible, the controller 1 performs a short push operation on each switch and a long time (for example, 2 seconds). As described above, since it is configured so as to be distinguished from the case where the pushing operation is performed, it is possible to further obtain 3 types × 2 switch signals (that is, a total of 22 types of switch signals).

Also, three push switches 10, 1
Each of the pressing operation surfaces 1 and 12 is provided with a touch switch (neither is shown) for detecting whether or not a finger is touching. Each switch signal output from these touch switches is also provided to the controller 1.

On the other hand, the display 3 is composed of a liquid crystal display, a CRT display or the like, and the drive mode thereof is controlled by the controller 1 so that the display screen has a display mode as shown in FIGS. 3 to 10, which will be described later in detail. In this way, the operation function assigned to the state accessible by each switch of the switch unit 2 is displayed. The display 3 is arranged, for example, in a portion of the instrument panel that is easily visible to the driver.

Next, the plurality of controlled devices 4, 5, 6
Among the operation functions of, the functions accessible by the switches of the switch unit 2 will be described. First, FIG. 11, FIG. 12 and FIG.
It shows in FIG. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the information device 4 has an operation function from “ON / OFF” to “Information” for GPS.
L has an operation function from "memory call" to "numeric keypad", and FAX has an operation function from "memory call" to "numeric keypad". As shown in FIG. 12, the air-conditioning system device 5 has an operation function from “AUTO / OFF” to “air volume” for the air conditioner (AC) and one operation function for the front defroster. The machine has an operation function of "AUTO / OFF".

Further, as the audio equipment 6, FIG.
As shown in 3, there is an operation function of "OFF" to turn off all audio equipment, an operation function from "Mute" to "DSP mode" for the amplifier, and "SEEK" and "BAND" for the radio. There is an operation function, and for cassette tape decks, "PLAY / ST
There are operation functions from "OP" to "Dolby", and for CD decks "PLAY / STOP" to "Rewind"
There is an operation function up to, there is an operation function of "channel selection" and "brightness" for the TV, and in addition, there is an operation function of "traffic information" for adjusting the radio to the station of traffic information. still,
In this case, a switch group for operating each of the above-described operation functions is centrally arranged, for example, in the central portion of the instrument panel for each device, and each device is operated by operating these switch groups. Is configured to be operable. Further, the main body of each device such as GPS, TV, and TEL is appropriately arranged at an appropriate portion of the instrument panel or a portion between the driver's seat and the passenger seat.

Here, it is difficult to assign all of the above-mentioned operation functions to each switch of the switch section 2, and even if they are assigned, it is difficult for the user to remember the assignment relationship, so the present invention The operator selects a function that is highly likely to be used from the above-mentioned operation functions, particularly a function that the driver highly needs to use even while the vehicle is running, and selects a plurality of these (relatively small number). It is configured that only the operation function of 1 is assigned to the state accessible by each switch of the switch unit 2. Specifically, in FIG. 11, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13, the operation function surrounded by a solid line rectangle is selected. In this case, the operating function selection criteria are the frequency and urgency of each operating function, the priority of use of each controlled device, and the ease of operating each operating function (in other words, functions that require complicated operations). Except)
And to reduce the number of operating functions selected as much as possible.

When assigning each selected operation function to each switch of the switch unit 2, the image of the content of each operation function and the sense of the actual operation mode of each switch are related to each other as comfortably as possible. It corresponds. Further, in this case, the strength of the user's intention when operating the operation function, the length of time for which each switch of the switch unit 2 is continuously operated, and the shift push switch 9 and other switches are simultaneously operated. The operation mode and the operation speed of each switch are assigned so as to correspond appropriately.

Now, FIG. 14 shows a specific assignment relationship between each selected operation function and each switch of the switch unit 2. In the table of FIG. 14, “no shift” means that the switch body 7 and the three push switches 10, 11 and 12 are operated without pushing the shift push switch 9.
Represents the case of operating. The phrase "with shift" refers to the case where the switch body 7 and the three push switches 10, 11 and 12 are simultaneously operated while the shift push switch 9 is being pressed. Also, three push switches 10, 1
Regarding 1 and 12, “press once” means an operation of pressing and immediately releasing the finger, and “2 seconds or more” means
This is an operation in which the pushing operation is continued for 2 seconds or more.

The above-mentioned allocation relationship is based on the following conditions. That is, (1) the number of switches is minimized. (2) Depending on the degree of learning, the switch operation can be executed without visually recognizing the display screen of the display 3. (3) Prioritize urgent operation functions (eg, repeat, mute, traffic information).
(4) Frequently used operation functions can be operated with one action (including the operation of pressing continuously for 2 seconds or more) across the hierarchical structure. (5) The operation function that is dangerous when operated incorrectly should be operated by two actions. (6) As the operation modes of the three push switches 10, 11 and 12, two modes of pressing once and continuously pressing for 2 seconds or more are prepared. (7) Even if the operation target device (so-called directory or major classification) changes, the arrangement of switches for each operation function is not changed.

Further, by allocating as in the table of FIG. 14, there are operation functions that can be operated without changing the operation target device and operation functions that cannot be operated unless the operation target device is changed. Like FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of the relationship between the two. In FIG. 15, what is surrounded by a double solid line box is an operation target device (directory) that can be directly moved and operated,
Those surrounded by a solid square indicate operation functions that can be directly operated, and those surrounded by a broken rectangle indicate an operation target device (directory) or operation function that cannot be operated without changing the operation target device (directory). . A solid line indicates a route to an operation function that can be directly operated, and a broken line indicates a route to an operation function that cannot be operated unless the operation target device (directory) is changed.

Next, the operation of the display 3 and each device to be controlled when the switch section 2 having the above-mentioned configuration is operated will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 10. First,
In the initial state when the power is turned on, the initial screen of the display 3 has a display mode as shown in FIG. That is, “audio” is displayed in the area 13 above the left end of the display screen of the display 3, and the first push switch 10 of the switch unit 2 is displayed in the area 14 adjacent to the right of this area 13.
Is displayed, and the second push switch 11 of the switch unit 2 is displayed in the area 15 adjacent to the right of the area 14.
Is displayed, and the third push switch 12 of the switch unit 2 is displayed in the area 16 adjacent to the right of this area 15.
Is displayed.

In the area 17 below the area 13, a "tape" indicating that the cassette tape deck is currently assigned as an operation target as the audio system device 6 is displayed, and the area 17 is also displayed. Is highlighted, for example. An area 18 below the area 14 is an area for displaying an operation function assigned to the first push switch 10, and this area 18 has an A side / B side of the tape on an upper side thereof. "A" indicating that the operation function to select is assigned as the operation target
“Surface / Surface B” is displayed, and “OFF” indicating that the operation function for turning off the audio system device 6 is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the lower side.
Further, an area 19 below the area 15 is an area for displaying an operation function assigned to the second push switch 11, and in this area 19, a mute (sound volume of the audio system device 6 is set). “Mute” indicating that the operation function of “(reducing the number)” is assigned as the operation target is displayed. An area 20 below the area 16 is an area for displaying the operation function assigned to the third push switch 12, and the operation function of the traffic information is assigned to this area 20 as an operation target. “Traffic information” indicating that the traffic is being displayed is displayed.

A symbol indicating the switch body 7 that can be operated in the upward, downward, left, and right directions is displayed in the central portion of the region 21 adjacent to the right of the regions 16 and 20, and the left and right parts of this symbol are displayed. "Previous song" and "Next song" indicating that the operation function to select the previous song and the next song of the tape is assigned as the operation target are displayed and can be pushed into the area 22 at the upper right end. “PUSH” is displayed as a symbol indicating the switch body 7, and “REPEAT” indicating that the repeat operation function is assigned as the operation target is displayed in the area 23 below the area 22. . In addition, regarding the characters and symbols displayed in the above-mentioned areas 13 to 16 and the central part of the area 21 and the area 22, the display contents are not changed, that is, the "audio" and the switch portion 2 are not changed. The symbol representing the switch and the symbol are configured to be constantly displayed.

In the state shown in FIG. 3, for example, when the first push switch 10 is pushed once, the A side / B side of the tape is switched and the first push switch 1 is pressed.
If you continue pressing 0 for 2 seconds or longer, the audio device is turned off. Further, when the second push switch 11 is pressed once, the mute (the function of reducing the volume of the sound of the audio device 6) is executed. Further, when the third push switch 12 is pushed once, the radio is selected as the station for traffic information. When the switch body 7 is operated to the left, the previous song of the cassette tape is selected, and when the switch body 7 is operated to the right, the next song of the cassette tape is selected. Further, when the switch body 7 is pushed in, a repeat is executed.

When a finger touches the pushing operation surface of the three push switches 10 to 12, the area 14 corresponding to the push switch 10 to 12 touched by the finger is touched while the finger is touching.
16 are displayed in reverse video (see FIG. 4 or 6).

When the user presses the shift push switch 9 of the switch section 2 in the screen state shown in FIG. 3, the display contents of the screen are switched as shown in FIG.
Specifically, “GPS” indicating that the operation function for selecting GPS is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the upper side of the area 18 indicating the operation function assigned to the first push switch 10, and “Point registration” indicating that the operation function for selecting GPS point registration is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the lower side. Also,
“A /” indicating that the operation function for selecting A / C is assigned as the operation target on the upper side of the area 19 indicating the operation function assigned to the second push switch 11.
“C” is displayed, and “inside air / outside air” indicating that the operation function of selecting inside air / outside air of A / C is assigned as an operation target is displayed on the lower side thereof.

Further, "audio" indicating that the operation function for selecting an audio device is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the upper side of the area 20 indicating the operation function assigned to the third push switch 12. , "Call" indicating that the operation function for selecting a TEL call is assigned as an operation target is displayed on the lower side thereof. An area 2 for indicating each operation function assigned to each operation of the upper, lower, left, and right directions of the switch body 7.
1, "radio" and "CD" are displayed on the left and right parts, and "volume UP" and "volume DOWN" are displayed on the upper and lower parts, as shown in FIG.

When the first push switch 10 is pushed once in the state shown in FIG. 4, GPS is selected and the screen of the display 3 is switched to the display mode shown in FIG. Specifically, G is provided on the upper side of the area 18 corresponding to the first push switch 10.
The "current position" indicating that the operation function for selecting the current position of the PS is assigned as the operation target is displayed,
"Registration", which indicates that the operation function for selecting GPS location registration is assigned as an operation target, is displayed on the lower side thereof, and the area 18 is highlighted. In addition, the area 19 corresponding to the second push switch 11
“Mute” indicating that the mute operation function is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the screen. Furthermore, 3
In the area 20 corresponding to the second push switch 12, "traffic information" indicating that the operation function of the traffic information is assigned as the operation target is displayed. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, in the area 21 corresponding to each operation of the upper, lower, left, and right directions of the switch body 7, “SCR
"OLL" is displayed.

When the first push switch 10 is pushed once in the state shown in FIG.
When the first push switch 10 is continuously pushed for 2 seconds or longer, the GPS point registration operation is performed. Also, the switch body 7 is up
When it is operated in the downward, left, and right directions, a process of scrolling (SCROLL) the display content displayed on the display screen of the GPS device main body in the operated direction is executed. The operation when the push switch or the like other than the above is operated is the same as the operation when the push switch or the like is operated on the screen of FIG.

Further, when the user presses the shift push switch 9 of the switch section 2 in the screen state of FIG. 5, the display contents of the screen are switched as shown in FIG.
Specifically, “GPS ON” indicating that the operation function for turning on the GPS is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the upper side of the area 18 indicating the operation function assigned to the first push switch 10, GP on the lower side
“GPS OFF” indicating that the operation function for turning off S is assigned as the operation target is displayed. Further, as shown in FIG. 6, in the area 21 for indicating each operation function assigned to each operation of the upper, lower, left and right directions of the switch body 7, as shown in FIG. Is displayed, and “scale UP” and “scale DOW” are displayed on the upper and lower parts.
N ”is displayed. In addition, the display of the area other than the above is
It is the same as the display on the display screen of FIG.

Then, in the state of FIG. 6, when the first push switch 10 is pushed once, for example, the process of turning on the GPS is executed, and when the first push switch 10 is pushed continuously for 2 seconds or more. , GP
The process of turning off S is executed. In addition, the switch body 7
When is operated in the up or down direction, G
A process is executed in which the scale of the display content displayed on the display screen of the device body of the PS is UP or DOWN. On the other hand, 2
When the second push switch 11 is pressed once,
A / C is selected as the device to be controlled, and the display 3
The screen changes to a display mode as shown in FIG.

Specifically, the first push switch 1
In the area 18 indicating the operation function assigned to 0, the A / C
“Inside air / outside air” indicating that the operation function for switching the inside air / outside air is assigned as an operation target is displayed, and the area 18 is highlighted. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, nothing is displayed on the upper, lower, left, and right parts in the area 21 for indicating each operation function assigned to each of the up, down, left, and right operations of the switch body 7. The display of the area other than the above is the same as the display of the display screen of FIG.

Then, in the screen state of FIG.
When the second push switch 10 is pressed once,
The operation of switching the inside air / outside air of A / C is executed. on the other hand,
When the shift push switch 9 is pushed in the screen state of FIG. 7, the display contents of the screen are switched as shown in FIG. Specifically, “A / C” indicating that the operation function for selecting A / C is assigned as the operation target is provided on the upper side of the area 19 indicating the operation function assigned to the second push switch 11. "Inside / Outside" that is displayed and indicates that the operation function for selecting A / C inside / outside is assigned as the operation target
Is displayed and the area 19 is highlighted. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, in the area 21 for showing each operation function assigned to each operation of the upper, lower, left, and right directions of the switch main body 7, as shown in FIG. Is displayed,
“Temperature UP” and “Temperature DOWN” are displayed in the upper and lower parts. The display mode of the area other than the above is the same as the display mode of the display screen of FIG.

Here, when the switch body 7 is operated in the up and down directions in the screen state of FIG. 8, processing for increasing or decreasing the set temperature of the A / C corresponding to the operated direction is executed. Also, the third push switch 1
When 2 is pushed once, the audio system device 6 is selected as the device to be controlled, and the screen of the display 3 is changed to that shown in FIG.
The display mode (initial screen) shown in FIG.

Next, the operation for selecting the TEL call will be described. In this case, in the display screen state of FIG. 4, FIG. 6 or FIG. 8, that is, when the shift push switch 9 is pushed, if the third push switch 12 is continuously pushed for 2 seconds or more,
TEL is selected as the device to be controlled, and display 3
Screen is switched to the display mode (initial screen) as shown in FIG.

Specifically, the first push switch 1
In the area 18 corresponding to 0, "auto dial 1" indicating that the operation function for selecting and executing the call set in the auto dial 1 is assigned as an operation target is displayed, and the area 18 is highlighted. . Further, in the area 19 corresponding to the second push switch 11, "auto dial 2" indicating that the operation function for selecting and executing the call set in the auto dial 2 is assigned as the operation target is displayed. Further, in the area 20 corresponding to the third push switch 12, "auto dial 3" indicating that the operation function for selecting and executing the call set in the auto dial 3 is assigned as the operation target is displayed. Then, in the area 21 corresponding to each of the upward, downward, left, and right operations of the switch body 7, as shown in FIG. 9, the "listening volume UP" and the "listening volume DO" are provided in the upper and lower parts.
WN ”is displayed, and nothing is displayed on the left and right parts.
The display of the area other than the above is the same as the display of the display screen of FIG.

In the state of FIG. 9 described above, when the first push switch 10 is pressed once, for example, the call set in the auto dial 1 is executed. Similarly, when the second push switch 11 or the third push switch 12 is pushed once, the call set to the auto dial 2 or 3 is executed, respectively. Further, when the switch body 7 is operated in the up and down directions, the reception volume of the TEL is increased or decreased according to the operated direction.
N processing is executed.

On the other hand, when the shift push switch 9 is pushed in the screen state of FIG. 9, the display contents of the screen are switched as shown in FIG. Specifically, 3
“End” indicating that the operation function for selecting the end of the TEL call is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the upper side of the area 20 indicating the operation function assigned to the th push switch 12 and the lower side thereof. “Call” indicating that the operation function for selecting a TEL call is assigned as an operation target is displayed in the area, and the area 20 is highlighted. In addition, an area 2 for indicating each operation function assigned to each operation of the upper, lower, left, and right directions of the switch body 7.
As shown in FIG. 10, “Radio” and “CD” are displayed on the left and right parts, and “Volume UP” and “Volume DOWN” are displayed on the upper and lower parts. The display mode of the area other than the above is the same as the display mode of the display screen of FIG.

Then, when the third push switch 12 is pushed once in the state shown in FIG.
After the EL call is finished, the screen of the display 3 is shown in FIG.
The display mode (initial screen) as shown in FIG. Further, when the second push switch 11 is pressed once, A / C is selected as the device to be controlled, and the screen of the display 3 is switched to the display mode as shown in FIG. 7. Similarly, the operation when a push switch or the like other than those described above is operated is the same as the operation when the push switch or the like is operated on the screen of FIG. 4 or 8.

Now, the operation for selecting, for example, a radio as the audio equipment 6 in place of the cassette tape deck will be described. In this case, FIG. 4, FIG.
Alternatively, when the switch body 7 is swung leftward in the display screen state of FIG. 10, that is, in the state where the shift push switch 9 is pushed, the radio is selected as the control target of the audio system device 6. In this case, when the radio is selected, the contents displayed on the screen of the display 3 are switched. Although this display screen is not shown, it will be briefly described below.

That is, when the radio is selected, "radio" is displayed in the area 17 corresponding to the audio and
The area 17 is highlighted. Then, the area 1 showing the operation function assigned to the first push switch 10.
"F" indicating that the operation function to switch the radio to FM / AM is assigned to the upper part of 8 as the operation target
“M / AM” is displayed, and “OFF” indicating that the operation function of turning off the radio is assigned as the operation target is displayed on the lower side thereof. In addition, in the area 21 for indicating each operation function assigned to each operation of the upper, lower, left, and right directions of the switch body 7, "previous station" and "next station" are displayed in the left and right parts, and "SEEKUP" and "SEEK DOWN" are displayed on the part. The display of the area other than the above is the same as the display of the display screen of FIG.

When the first push switch 10 is pushed once in the above screen state, an operation (processing) for switching and setting the radio to FM / AM is executed,
When the first push switch 10 is continuously pushed for 2 seconds or longer, the radio is turned off. Also,
When the switch body 7 is operated up or down, the radio receiving station will be UP or DOWN corresponding to the operated direction.
When the process of automatically SEEKing in the direction is executed and the switch body 7 is operated in the left or right direction, the process of selecting the receiving station of the radio as the previous station or the next station is executed corresponding to the operated direction. The operation when the push switch or the like other than the above is operated is the same as the operation when the push switch or the like is operated in the screen state of FIG.

On the other hand, when the shift push switch 9 is pushed in the above screen state, the display 3
The display content of the screen of changes. Although not shown in the figure, a simple explanation is that “radio” is displayed in the area 17 corresponding to audio.
Is displayed, the area 17 is highlighted. Further, in the area 21 for indicating each operation function assigned to each operation of the upper, lower, left, and right directions of the switch body 7, “tape” and “CD” are displayed on the left and right parts, and on the upper and lower parts. “Volume UP” and “Volume DOWN” are displayed.
The display mode of the area other than the above is the same as the display mode of the display screen of FIG.

When the switch body 7 is operated to the left or right in the above screen state, the cassette tape deck or the CD is controlled as the control target of the audio system device 6.
The deck is selected and the screen of the display 3 is switched.
In this case, if the cassette tape deck is selected,
The screen is switched to the initial screen shown in FIG. 3, and the operation is performed as described above. In addition, when the CD deck is selected,
Details will be described later. The operation when the push switch or the like other than the above is operated is the same as the operation when the push switch or the like is operated on the screen of FIG.

Next, an operation for selecting, for example, a CD deck as the audio equipment 6 in place of the cassette tape deck will be described. In this case, as shown in FIGS.
When the switch main body 7 is operated in the right direction in the display screen state of FIGS. 8 and 10 or the display screen state in which the above-mentioned CD deck can be selected, that is, in the state where the shift push switch 9 is pushed, the audio system device is operated. 6
The CD deck is selected as the control target of. in this case,
When the CD deck is selected, the contents displayed on the screen of the display 3 are switched. Although this display screen is not shown, it will be briefly described below.

That is, when the CD deck is selected, "CD" is displayed in the area 17 corresponding to the audio and the area 17 is highlighted. Then, nothing is displayed on the upper side of the area 18 showing the operation function assigned to the first push switch 10, and the CD is displayed on the lower side thereof.
“OFF” indicating that the operation function for turning off the deck is assigned as the operation target is displayed. Further, in the area 21 for indicating each operation function assigned to each of the upward, downward, left, and right operations of the switch body 7, "previous song" and "next song" are displayed in the left and right parts, and "DIS
“K UP” and “DISK DOWN” are displayed.
The display of the area other than the above is the same as the display of the display screen of FIG.

When the first push switch 10 is continuously pressed for 2 seconds or longer in the above screen state, the processing for turning off the CD deck is executed. When the switch body 7 is operated up or down, the DISKU of the CD deck is UP or D corresponding to the operated direction.
When the OWN processing is executed and the switch body 7 is operated in the left or right direction, the processing for selecting the CD to the previous music or the next music is executed in accordance with the operated direction. The operation when a push switch other than the above is operated is
The operation is the same as when the push switches or the like are operated in the screen state of FIG.

On the other hand, when the shift push switch 9 is pushed in the above screen state, the display 3
The display content of the screen of changes. Although not shown in the figure, a brief description will be made. In a state where "CD" is displayed in the area 17 corresponding to audio, the area 17 is highlighted. Further, in the area 21 for indicating each operation function assigned to each operation of the upper, lower, left, and right directions of the switch body 7, “tape” and “radio” are displayed on the left and right parts, and on the upper and lower parts. “Volume UP” and “Volume DOWN” are displayed.
The display mode of the area other than the above is the same as the display mode of the display screen of FIG.

When the switch body 7 is operated to the left or right in the above screen state, the cassette tape deck or the radio is selected as the control target of the audio system device 6, and the screen of the display 3 is switched. In this case, when the cassette tape deck is selected,
The screen is switched to the initial screen and the operation is performed as described above. Also, when the radio is selected, the operation is performed as described above. The operation when the push switch or the like other than the above is operated is the same as the operation when the push switch or the like is operated on the screen of FIG.

According to this embodiment having such a configuration, the switch section 2 provided with the number of switches that can be operated with one hand is provided, and the plurality of control target devices 4, 5, 6 are provided.
Select a function that is highly likely to be used from among the operating functions of
The controller 1 assigns the plurality of selected operation functions so that the switches of the switch unit 2 can access each other. As a result, when the user (driver) operates a plurality of control target devices 4, 5, and 6, the number of switches to be operated is significantly reduced, so the operability of the switches is improved and the driver is not driving. Even if the switch operation is possible. In this case, since a function with a high possibility of use is selected from among the operation functions of the plurality of control target devices 4, 5, and 6, it is possible to control a plurality of control target devices even with a small number of switches in the switch unit 2 described above. 4, 5, 6
Can be controlled to the minimum necessary.

In the case of the above embodiment, the switch unit 2
And a switch main body 7 that is operably provided in an up, down, left, right, or pushing direction by gripping with one hand and outputs a switch signal for specifying each direction when operated in each of the above directions, and this switch. A shift push switch 9 is provided on the operation knob 8 of the main body 7 so as to be pushed by a thumb of one hand and outputs a shift signal when the push operation is performed, and the push knob 9 can be pushed by a finger other than the thumb of one hand on the operation knob 8. Three push switches 10, 11 and 12 which are provided and output a switch signal when the push operation is performed.
Since it is composed of and, the number of switches that can be operated with one hand (in this case, 5) is 5 types x 2+
It is possible to obtain 3 types × 2 = 16 types of switch signals. Since the switch body 7 is a so-called joystick key, it is easy for the user to handle.

Further, in this case, with respect to the three push switches 10, 11, 12 which can be pushed, the push switches are pushed for a short time (one push) and for a long time (for example, 2 seconds or more). If it is distinguished from the time, three types of switch signals (two in total) (total 22
It is possible to obtain the type of switch signal). Therefore, when a function having a high possibility of being used is selected from among the operation functions of the plurality of control target devices 4, 5, and 6, the selected plurality of functions are provided to each switch of the switch unit 2 (in this case, 22 types). It is fully possible to assign to the accessible state by the switch signal of.

Further, a display 3 for displaying an accessible allocation relationship between each switch of the switch section 2 and an operation function having a high possibility of use selected from the respective operation functions of the controlled devices 4, 5, 6 is displayed. Since the configuration is provided, even when the user does not sufficiently store the allocation relationship, it is possible to operate the switch while checking the display 3, and the operability is greatly improved. It should be noted that if the user sufficiently stores the allocation relationship, the switch unit 2 can be operated by a so-called blind touch (without looking at the display 3), and the driver operates the switch unit 2 while driving the automobile. Very easy to do.

Particularly, in the above embodiment, the operation function (A /
C, GPS, audio equipment, etc.) is configured so that it can be operated only in the shift state in which the shift push switch 9 is pushed in. Therefore, if the switch body 7 of the switch section 2 is erroneously touched, Even if the main body 7 or the push switches 9 to 12 are erroneously operated, there is almost no problem. Further, if one of the control target devices 4, 5 and 6 is being operated and the other control target devices 4, 5 and 6 are desired to be operated, the shift push switch 9 is depressed to bring the shift state. ,
As shown in FIGS. 4, 6, 8 and 10, the other control target devices 4, 5 and 6 can be directly operated, so that the operability and usability of the switch are improved for the user. Greatly improved.

In the above embodiment, the switch main body 7 of the switch unit 2 is held and operated by the left hand of the driver, but may be held and operated by the right hand. Specifically, the position of the shift push switch 9 is provided on the left side surface of the operation knob 8 of the switch body 7 in FIG. 2, and the switch body 7 is located on the right hand of the instrument panel and the inner surface of the driver's door. It may be configured so as to be disposed in a region that can be operated by.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the switch body 7 which is a so-called joystick is used as the switch section 2, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a mouse used in a personal computer may be used. In this case, an operation function that is highly likely to be used is selected from among the operation functions of the control target devices 4, 5 and 6, and these selected operation functions are made accessible by the switches of the mouse. The allocation control may be configured to be performed in substantially the same manner as in the above embodiment.

[0063]

As is apparent from the above description, the present invention is provided with a switch section provided with a number of switches that can be operated with one hand, and among the operation functions of a plurality of controlled devices. Since a function allocating means for allocating a function having a high usability and allocating a plurality of the selected functions so as to make them accessible by each switch of the switch section is adopted, It is possible to operate a plurality of control target devices while reducing the number of devices as much as possible, and it is possible to significantly improve operability.

Further, in the case of the above construction, the switch portion is provided so as to be operated in the up, down, left, right or pushing direction by grasping the switch portion with one hand, and the switch for specifying each direction when operated in each direction. A switch body that outputs a signal, a push push switch for outputting a shift signal when the push knob is operated to push in the operation knob of this switch body with the thumb of one hand, and an operation knob other than the thumb of one hand Since it is composed of three push switches that are provided so that they can be pushed in by a finger and that outputs a switch signal when pushed, 5 types x 2 + 3 types x 2 = 16 although they can be operated with one hand
It is possible to obtain different types of switch signals. Furthermore, in this case, regarding the three push switches that can be pushed, if the push operation is performed for a short time and the push operation is performed for a long time (for example, 2 seconds or more), three types of push switches are further provided. X2 switch signals (total 22
It is possible to obtain the type of switch signal).

On the other hand, since the operating function having a high possibility of being selected from the operating functions of the control target equipment and the display device for displaying the accessible allocation relationship with each switch of the switch section are provided, Even when the user does not sufficiently remember the above-mentioned allocation relationship (when he / she is not familiar with the switch operation), it is possible to easily perform the switch operation while checking the display device.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of a switch section.

[Figure 3] Front view of the display screen of the display

FIG. 4 is a front view of a display screen of a display showing different display modes.

FIG. 5 is a front view of a display screen of a display showing different display modes.

FIG. 6 is a front view of a display screen of a display showing different display modes.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a display screen of a display showing different display modes.

FIG. 8 is a front view of a display screen of a display showing different display modes.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a display screen of a display showing different display modes.

FIG. 10 is a front view of a display screen of a display showing different display modes.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing each operation function of the information system device.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing each operation function of an air conditioning system device.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing each operation function of audio equipment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an assignment relationship between an operation function having a high possibility of being selected from the operation functions of a plurality of control target devices and each switch of the switch unit 2.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the relationship between an operation function that can be operated without changing the operation target device and an operation function that cannot be operated unless the operation target device is changed.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 is a controller (function assigning means), 2 is a switch unit, 3 is a display (display device), 4 is information system equipment,
5 is an air conditioning system device, 6 is an audio system device, 7 is a switch body, 8 is an operation knob, 9 is a push switch for shifting,
Reference numerals 10, 11, and 12 denote push switches.

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. A switch section provided with a number of switches that can be operated with one hand, and a function with a high possibility of use is selected from each operation function of a plurality of control target devices. A switch system for a vehicle, comprising: a function assigning unit that assigns a function so that each switch of the switch section can access the function. 2. The switch portion is provided so as to be operable in an up, down, left, right or pushing direction by being gripped with one hand, and when the switch portion is operated in each of the directions, the respective direction is specified. Switch body that outputs a switch signal, a switch push switch that is provided on the operation knob of this switch body so that it can be pushed in by the thumb of one hand, and that outputs a shift signal when the push operation is performed, and one hand on the operation knob The switch for a vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising: three push switches that are provided so as to be able to be pushed in by a finger other than the thumb and that outputs a switch signal when the pushing operation is performed. system. 3. A display device for displaying a highly-usable function selected from among the operation functions of the control target device and an accessible allocation relationship with each switch of the switch section. The switch system for vehicles according to claim 1 or 2.