Power seat operating device having seesaw type switch for vehicle

A power seat operating device for a vehicle has a switch module for operating a power seat of the vehicle. In particular, the switch module includes a plurality of seesaw type switches to control operation directions of the power seat, and the operation directions of the power seat according to the operation of each switch is displayed with arrows on a display, thereby improving the switch operating convenience of the user such as accurately controlling the operation direction of the power seat according to the switch operation by the user, and accurately recognizing a selection state and an operation direction of the switch desired by the user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0155252, filed on Nov. 19, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a power seat operating device having a seesaw type switch for a vehicle.

BACKGROUND

Generally, a power seat for a vehicle includes a seat cushion for seating, a seatback against which the back leans, and a headrest supporting a neck and a head, as an essential configuration, and additionally, further includes power mechanism configurations for adjusting various positions of a seat.

Particularly, the side portion of the power seat is mounted with a switch module for adjusting the seat cushion, the seatback, and the like to various locations.

The switch module adopts a structure in which several switches are combined and arranged for the forward and backward movement adjustment in the seat, the height adjustment in the seat cushion, the extension adjustment for the front portion of the seat cushion, the bolster angle adjustment in the seatback, the reclining adjustment in the seatback, the support direction adjustment in a lumbar support installed within the seatback, and the like.

Further, a touch sensor is embedded in each switch of the switch module, such that the selection state and operating direction of the switch may be displayed through a display around a driver seat together with the sensing operation of the touch sensor when the user's hand touches the switch.

Therefore, the user may easily, visually recognize the selection state and the operation direction of the switch displayed on the display while keeping an eye on the front during driving.

That is, the user may easily, visually recognize the selection state and the operation direction of the switch displayed on the display, thereby eliminating the user's inconvenience such as turning the head toward the switch module while bending the upper body for directly confirming the operating state of the switch module mounted on the side portion of the seat.

Meanwhile, the switch module may be composed of a first switch for the adjustment in a total of six directions such as the forward and backward movement adjustment in the entire seat (two directions), the up and down of the front portion of the seat cushion (two directions), and the vertical height adjustment in the seat cushion (two directions), a second switch for the extension adjustment for the front portion of the seat cushion (two directions), a third switch for the reclining adjustment in the seatback (two directions), a fourth switch for the bolster angle adjustment in the seatback (two directions), a fifth switch for the support direction adjustment in the lumbar support (four directions), and the like.

Further, touch sensors may be embedded in the first to fifth switches.

Therefore, when the touch operation is performed in which the user's hand touches the surface of one switch of the first to fifth switches desired by the user to operate, a sensing signal of the touch sensor embedded in the corresponding switch is output to a controller, and subsequently, the arrow indicating the operation direction of the power seat according to the operating of the switch touched by the user's hand may be displayed on the display by the control of the controller.

Therefore, the operation direction of the power seat according to the operating of the switch touched by the user's hand may be displayed on the display, such that the user may visually, easily recognize the operation direction of the power seat according to the switch operating.

For example, when the touch operation is performed in which the user's hand touches the first switch for the adjustment in a total of six directions such as the forward and backward movement adjustment in the seat (two directions), the up and down of the front portion of the seat cushion (two directions), and the height adjustment in the seat cushion (two directions), as illustrated inFIG.23, a total of six arrows guiding the operation direction of the power seat according to the operating of the first switch are simultaneously displayed on a display200together with the sensing operation of the touch sensor embedded in the first switch, such that the user may visually, easily recognize that the first switch is being selected.

However, we have discovered that even if the user touches any portion of the first switch, a total of six arrows guiding the operation direction of the power seat by the operating of the first switch are simultaneously displayed on the display, such that there is a disadvantage in that the user does not accurately receive the guidance for the operation direction of the first switch and the operation direction of the power seat actually desired by the user.

Likewise, even in the case of the second switch to the fifth switch, even if the user touches any portion of the second to fifth switches, all operation directions of the power seat according to the operating of the second to fifth switches are simultaneously displayed on the display by the arrows, such that there is a disadvantage in that the user does not accurately receive the guidance for the operation directions of the second to fifth switches and the operation direction of the power seat actually desired by the user.

For example, even if the touch operation is performed in which the user's hand touches the surface of the rear end of the first switch for the forward movement adjustment (e.g., pushing the first switch forward) of the seat, a total of six arrows guiding the operation direction of the power seat according to the operating of the first switch are simultaneously displayed on a display, such that the user may recognize that his/her hand touches the first switch, but there is a disadvantage in that the user does not accurately receive the guidance for the operation direction of the first switch for the forward movement adjustment in the seat and the operation direction of the power seat (e.g., the forward movement adjustment in the seat) according to the operating of the first switch.

That is, if the touch operation is performed in which the user's hand touches the surface of the rear end of the first switch for the forward movement adjustment (e.g., operating of pushing the first switch forward) of the seat, the user may accurately recognize the operation direction of the first switch for the forward movement adjustment in the seat when only one arrow guiding the forward movement adjustment in the seat is displayed on the display, but as described above, a total of six arrows guiding all operation directions of the power seat which may be operated by the operating of the first switch are simultaneously displayed on the display, such that there is a problem in that the user does not accurately receive the guidance for the operation direction of the first switch desired by the user, thereby rather increasing the inconvenience when the user handles the switch.

The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the disclosure and accordingly it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known to a person of ordinary skill in the art.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a power seat operating device having a seesaw type switch for a vehicle, which may embed a plurality of touch sensors for guiding each operation direction of a power seat for each seesaw type switch of a switch module for operating the power seat such that one arrow guiding the operation direction of the power seat according to the sensing operation of each touch sensor is displayed on a display, thereby improving the convenience of the switch operating of the user, such as accurately guiding the operation direction of the power seat according to the operating of the switch to the user, and accurately recognizing the selection state and operation direction of the switch desired by the user.

In one form of the present disclosure, a power seat operating device for a vehicle includes: a switch module including a plurality of seesaw type switches operating an input and configured to adjust a power seat to a desired location in a desired direction; a plurality of touch sensors embedded in each seesaw type switch of the plurality of seesaw type switches and configured to each generate a sensing signal corresponding to an operation direction of the power seat when touched by a user; a main controller determining the operation direction of the power seat, according to a sensing signal of the touch sensor of the plurality of touch sensors, which performs the sensing operation by the touch; and a display displaying the operation direction of the power seat determined by the main controller by one arrow to visually guide the operation direction of the power seat to the user.

The switch module may be provided in a structure in which a seesaw type first switch for operating the forward and backward movement operation of a seat, a second seesaw type switch for operating the vertical height adjustment operation of the seat, a third seesaw type switch for operating the front portion up and down operation of a seat cushion, a seesaw type fourth switch for operating the extension operation for the front portion of the seat cushion, and a seesaw type fifth switch for operating the reclining operation of a seatback, a push button type sixth switch for operating the support direction adjustment operation of a lumbar support, and a rotary knob type seventh switch for operating the bolster angle adjustment operation of the seatback are disposed in a predetermined arrangement.

The seesaw type first switch is composed of a first switch cover; a 1-1st touch sensor and a 1-2nd touch sensor spaced apart from each other and attached to the bottom surface portion of the first switch cover; a first moving block mounted on the bottom surface portion of the first switch cover; a 1-1st plunger and a 1-2nd plunger connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the first moving block to press a tact switch mounted on the main controller; a 1-1st conductive spring connecting between the 1-1st touch sensor and the main controller; and a 1-2nd conductive spring connecting between the 1-2nd touch sensor and the main controller.

In one form, both side ends of the first switch cover are formed with a 1-1st electrode exposure hole and a 1-2nd electrode exposure hole, respectively, a 1-1st electrode inserted into the 1-1st electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 1-1st touch sensor, and a 1-2nd electrode inserted into the 1-2nd electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 1-2nd touch sensor.

The seesaw type second switch is composed of a second switch cover; a 2-1st touch sensor and a 2-2nd touch sensor spaced apart from each other and attached to the bottom surface portion of the second switch cover; a second moving block mounted on the bottom surface portion of the second switch cover; a 2-1st plunger and a 2-2nd plunger connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the second moving block to press a tact switch mounted on the main controller; a 2-1st conductive spring connecting between the 2-1st touch sensor and the main controller; and a 2-2nd conductive spring connecting between the 2-2nd touch sensor and the main controller.

In another form, both side ends of the second switch cover are formed with a 2-1st electrode exposure hole and a 2-2nd electrode exposure hole, respectively, a 2-1st electrode inserted into the 2-1st electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 2-1st touch sensor, and a 2-2nd electrode inserted into the 2-2nd electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 2-2nd touch sensor.

The seesaw type third switch is composed of a third switch cover; a 3-1st touch sensor and a 3-2nd touch sensor spaced apart from each other and attached to the bottom surface portion of the third switch cover; a third moving block mounted on the bottom surface portion of the third switch cover; a 3-1st plunger and a 3-2nd plunger connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the third moving block to press a tact switch mounted on the main controller; a 3-1st conductive spring connecting between the 3-1st touch sensor and the main controller; and a 3-2nd conductive spring connecting between the 3-2nd touch sensor and the main controller.

In one form, both side ends of the third switch cover are formed with a 3-1st electrode exposure hole and a 3-2nd electrode exposure hole, respectively, a 3-1st electrode inserted into the 3-1st electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 3-1st touch sensor, and a 3-2nd electrode inserted into the 3-2nd electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 3-2nd touch sensor.

The seesaw type fourth switch is composed of a fourth switch cover; a 4-1st touch sensor and a 4-2nd touch sensor spaced apart from each other and attached to the bottom surface portion of the fourth switch cover; a fourth moving block mounted on the bottom surface portion of the fourth switch cover; a 4-1st plunger and a 4-2nd plunger connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the fourth moving block to press a tact switch mounted on the main controller; a 4-1st conductive spring connecting between the 4-1st touch sensor and the main controller; and a 4-2nd conductive spring connecting between the 4-2nd touch sensor and the main controller.

In one form, both side ends of the fourth switch cover are formed with a 4-1st electrode exposure hole and a 4-2nd electrode exposure hole, respectively, a 4-1st electrode inserted into the 4-1st electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 4-1st touch sensor, and a 4-2nd electrode inserted into the 4-2nd electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 4-2nd touch sensor.

The seesaw type fifth switch is composed of a fifth switch cover; a 5-1st touch sensor and a 5-2nd touch sensor spaced apart from each other and attached to the bottom surface portion of the fifth switch cover; a fifth moving block mounted on the bottom surface portion of the fifth switch cover; a 5-1st plunger and a 5-2nd plunger connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the fifth moving block to press a tact switch mounted on the main controller; a 5-1st conductive spring connecting between the 5-1st touch sensor and the main controller; and a 5-2nd conductive spring connecting between the 5-2nd touch sensor and the main controller.

In one form, both side ends of the fifth switch cover are formed with a 5-1st electrode exposure hole and a 5-2nd electrode exposure hole, respectively, a 5-1st electrode inserted into the 5-1st electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 5-1st touch sensor, and a 5-2nd electrode inserted into the 5-2nd electrode exposure hole and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 5-2nd touch sensor.

The push button type sixth switch is composed of a sixth switch cover partitioned into the forward protrusion operating region of the lumbar support, the backward contraction operating region thereof, the ascending operating region thereof, and the descending operating region thereof; a 6-1st touch sensor embedded in the forward protrusion operating region of the lumbar support of the sixth switch cover and connected to the main controller such that a signal may be output; a 6-2nd touch sensor embedded in the backward contraction operating region of the lumbar support of the sixth switch cover and connected to the main controller such that a signal may be output; a 6-3rd touch sensor embedded in the ascending operating region of the lumbar support of the sixth switch cover and connected to the main controller such that a signal may be output; and a 6-4th touch sensor embedded in the descending operating region of the lumbar support of the sixth switch cover and connected to the main controller such that a signal may be output.

In one form, an integrated signal output path of the 6-1st touch sensor, the 6-2nd touch sensor, the 6-3rd touch sensor, and the 6-4th touch sensor is connected to the main controller by a flexible cable such that a signal may be transmitted.

The rotary knob type seventh switch is composed of a seventh switch cover mounted on a predetermined location of the circumferential portion of the sixth switch; a 7-1st touch sensor embedded in a garnish plate adjacent to one side surface of the seventh switch cover and connected to the main controller such that a signal may be output; and a 7-2nd touch sensor embedded in a garnish plate adjacent to the other side surface of the seventh switch cover and connected to the main controller such that a signal may be output.

In another form, the 7-1st touch sensor and the 7-2nd touch sensor are connected to the main controller by a conductive spring such that a signal may be transmitted.

Through the above configuration, the present disclosure provides the following effects.

First, by embedding the plurality of touch sensors for each seesaw type switch of the switch module for operating the power seat such that the arrow guiding the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing operation of each touch sensor is accurately displayed on the display, the user may accurately recognize the operation direction of the switch for operating the power seat to the desired position and the operation direction of the power seat according to the switch operating.

Second, the user may accurately recognize the switch selection state and the switch operation direction, and the operation direction of the power seat according to the switch operating while watching the seat and arrow images displayed on the display, thereby improving the switch operating convenience of the user.

It is understood that the term “automotive” or “vehicular” or other similar term as used herein is inclusive of motor automotives in general such as passenger automobiles including sports utility automotives (operation SUV), buses, trucks, various commercial automotives, watercraft including a variety of boats and ships, aircraft, and the like, and includes hybrid automotives, electric automotives, plug-in hybrid electric automotives, hydrogen-powered automotives and other alternative fuel automotives (e.g., fuels derived from resources other than petroleum). As referred to herein, a hybrid automotive is an automotive that has two or more sources of power, for example both gasoline-powered and electric-powered automotives.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter,FIG.1illustrates a switch module of a power seat operating device for a vehicle according to one form of the present disclosure.

The side portion of a seat (e.g., one side portion of a seat cushion) is mounted with a switch module100including seesaw type first to seventh switches110,120,130,140,150,160,170for operating the operation of a power seat.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the switch module100may be composed of a seesaw type first switch110for the forward and backward movement adjustment (two directions) of the entire seat, a second seesaw type switch120for the vertical height adjustment (two directions) of a seat cushion, a third seesaw type switch130for the front portion up and down adjustment (two directions) of the seat cushion, a seesaw type fourth switch140for the extension adjustment (two directions) for the front portion of the seat cushion, a seesaw type fifth switch150for the reclining adjustment (two directions) of a seatback, a push button type sixth switch160for the support direction adjustment (four directions) of a lumbar support, a rotary knob type seventh switch170for the bolster angle adjustment (two directions) of the seatback, and the like.

The seesaw type refers to a type in which one side end of the switch moves downward and the other side end thereof moves upward when the operating of selectively pressing one side end of both ends of the switch is performed, the push button type refers to a type of vertically pressing and operating the switch, and the rotary knob type refers to a type of rotating and operating the switch at a predetermined angle.

Particularly, a plurality of touch sensors for guiding each operation direction of the power seat are embedded in each of the first switch to the seventh switch110,120,130,140,150,160,170configuring the switch module100.

When a sensing signal of the touch sensor in which the sensing operation is performed of the plurality of touch sensors is received in a main controller, the main controller determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the corresponding touch sensor, and then transmits a control signal for the display on a display.

Therefore, a seat image may be displayed on the display and one or more arrow images guiding the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch determined by the main controller may be displayed.

Therefore, the user may accurately recognize the switch selection state and the switch operation direction, and the operation direction of the power seat according to the switch operating while watching the seat and arrow images displayed on the display, thereby improving the switch operating convenience of the user.

FIGS.2and3are diagrams illustrating a first switch of the switch module according to another form of the present disclosure, and a reference numeral110indicates the seesaw type first switch.

The seesaw type first switch110is configured for the forward and backward movement operating of the seat, and includes a first switch cover111forming the appearance.

Both side ends of the first switch cover111are formed with a 1-1st electrode exposure hole111-1and a 1-2nd electrode exposure hole111-2, respectively.

Particularly, the bottom surface portion of the first switch cover111has a 1-1st touch sensor112-1and a 1-2nd touch sensor112-2spaced apart from each other and attached.

At this time, a 1-1st electrode116-1inserted into the 1-1st electrode exposure hole111-1and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 1-1st touch sensor112-1, and a 1-2nd electrode116-2inserted into the 1-2nd electrode exposure hole111-2and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 1-2nd touch sensor112-2.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface or the other side surface of the first switch cover111, the touch sensing may be performed by contacting the 1-1st electrode116-1or the 1-2nd electrode116-2.

Further, the bottom surface portion of the first switch cover111is mounted with a first moving block113capable of seesaw motion.

Further, a 1-1st plunger114-1and a 1-2nd plunger114-2are connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the first moving block113to be movable upward and downward, respectively.

At this time, since the main controller180is provided in a printed circuit board (PCB) type, predetermined locations of the main controller180are mounted with a pair of tact switches181pressed by the 1-1st plunger114-1and the 1-2nd plunger114-2.

Further, the 1-1st touch sensor112-1and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 1-1st conductive spring115-1such that the sensing signal of the 1-1st touch sensor112-1may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Likewise, the 1-2nd touch sensor112-2and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 1-2nd conductive spring115-2such that the sensing signal of the 1-2nd touch sensor112-2may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface of the first switch cover111, the sensing of the 1-1st touch sensor112-1is performed by contacting the 1-1st electrode116-1, and the sensing signal of the 1-1st touch sensor112-1is output to the main controller180through the 1-1st conductive spring115-1.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 1-1st touch sensor112-1as the forward movement direction of the seat.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the forward movement direction of the seat to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.4A, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the forward movement direction of the seat may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the forward movement operation of the seat may be performed when currently pressing one side surface of the first switch cover111in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the first switch cover111.

At this time, when the user actually presses the one side surface of the first switch cover111in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the first switch cover111, the 1-1st plunger114-1presses the tact switch181while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch181and applies a driving signal to a motor for the forward movement operation of the seat.

Of course, when the user releases a force of pressing the one side surface of the first switch cover111, the 1-1st plunger114-1and the first switch cover111move upward to the original locations by an elastic reaction force of the tact switch181.

On the other hand, when the user's hand touches the other side surface of the first switch cover111, the sensing of the 1-2nd touch sensor112-2is performed by contacting the 1-2nd electrode116-2, and the sensing signal of the 1-2nd touch sensor112-2is output to the main controller180through the 1-2nd conductive spring115-2.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 1-2nd touch sensor112-2as the backward movement direction of the seat.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the backward movement direction of the seat to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.4B, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the backward movement direction of the seat may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the backward movement operation of the seat may be performed when currently pressing the other side surface of the first switch cover111in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the first switch cover111.

At this time, when the user actually presses the other side surface of the first switch cover111in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the first switch cover111, the 1-2nd plunger114-2presses the tact switch181while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes the pressed signal of the tact switch181and applies a driving signal to the motor for the backward movement of the seat.

FIGS.5and6are diagrams illustrating a second switch of the switch module according to some forms of the present disclosure, and a reference numeral120indicates a second seesaw type switch.

The seesaw type second switch120is configured for operating the vertical height adjustment (two directions) of the seat, and includes a second switch cover121forming the appearance.

Both side ends of the second switch cover121are formed with a 2-1st electrode exposure hole121-1and a 2-2nd electrode exposure hole121-2, respectively.

Particularly, the bottom surface portion of the second switch cover121has a 2-1st touch sensor122-1and a 2-2nd touch sensor122-2spaced apart from each other and attached.

At this time, a 2-1st electrode126-1inserted into the 2-1st electrode exposure hole121-1and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 2-1st touch sensor122-1, and a 2-2nd electrode126-2inserted into the 2-2nd electrode exposure hole121-2and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 2-2nd touch sensor122-2.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface or the other side surface of the second switch cover121, the touch sensing may be performed by contacting the 2-1st electrode126-1or the 2-2nd electrode126-2.

Further, the bottom surface portion of the second switch cover121is mounted with a second moving block123capable of seesaw motion.

Further, a 2-1st plunger124-1and a 2-2nd plunger124-2are connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the second moving block123to be movable upward and downward, respectively.

At this time, since the main controller180is provided in a printed circuit board (PCB) type, predetermined locations of the main controller180are mounted with a pair of tact switches182pressed by the 2-1st plunger124-1and the 2-2nd plunger124-2.

Further, the 2-1st touch sensor122-1and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 2-1st conductive spring125-1such that the sensing signal of the 2-1st touch sensor122-1may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Likewise, the 2-2nd touch sensor122-2and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 2-2nd conductive spring125-2such that the sensing signal of the 2-2nd touch sensor122-2may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface of the second switch cover131, the sensing of the 2-1st touch sensor122-1is performed by contacting the 2-1st electrode126-1, and the sensing signal of the 2-1st touch sensor122-1is output to the main controller180through the 2-1st conductive spring125-1.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 2-1st touch sensor122-1as an ascending movement direction of the seat.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the ascending movement direction of the seat to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.7A, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the ascending movement direction of the seat may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the ascending movement operation of the seat may be performed when the user's hand currently presses one side surface of the second switch cover121in the state of touching the one side surface thereof.

At this time, when the user actually presses the one side surface of the second switch cover121in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the second switch cover121, the 2-1st plunger124-1presses the tact switch182while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch182and applies a driving signal to the motor for the ascending movement operation of the seat.

When the user releases a force of pressing the one side surface of the second switch cover121, the 2-1st plunger124-1and the second switch cover121move upward to the original locations by an elastic reaction force of the tact switch182.

On the other hand, when the user's hand touches the other side surface of the second switch cover121, the sensing of the 2-2nd touch sensor122-2is performed by contacting the 2-2nd electrode126-2, and the sensing signal of the 2-2nd touch sensor122-2is output to the main controller180through the 2-2nd conductive spring125-2.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 2-2nd touch sensor122-2as the descending movement direction of the seat.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the descending movement direction of the seat to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.7B, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the descending movement direction of the seat may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the descending movement operation of the seat may be performed when currently pressing the other side surface of the second switch cover121in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the second switch cover121.

At this time, when the user actually presses the other side surface of the second switch cover121in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the second switch cover121, the 2-2nd plunger124-2presses the tact switch182while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch182and applies a driving signal to the motor for the descending movement.

FIGS.8and9are diagrams illustrating a third switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure, and a reference numeral130indicates a third seesaw type switch.

The seesaw type third switch130is configured for operating the front portion up and down adjustment (two directions) of the seat cushion, and includes a third switch cover131forming the appearance.

Both side ends of the third switch cover131are formed with a 3-1st electrode exposure hole131-1and a 3-2nd electrode exposure hole131-2, respectively.

Particularly, the bottom surface portion of the third switch cover131has a 3-1st touch sensor132-1and a 3-2nd touch sensor132-2spaced apart from each other and attached.

At this time, a 3-1st electrode136-1inserted into the 3-1st electrode exposure hole131-1and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 3-1st touch sensor132-1, and a 3-2nd electrode136-2inserted into the 3-2nd electrode exposure hole131-2and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 3-2nd touch sensor132-2.

Subsequently, when the user's hand touches one side surface or the other side surface of the third switch cover131, the touch sensing may be performed by contacting the 3-1st electrode136-1or the 3-2nd electrode136-2.

Further, the bottom surface portion of the third switch cover131is mounted with a third moving block133capable of seesaw motion.

Further, a 3-1st plunger134-1and a 3-2nd plunger134-2are connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the third moving block133to be movable upward and downward, respectively.

At this time, since the main controller180is provided in a printed circuit board (PCB) type, predetermined locations of the main controller180are mounted with a pair of tact switches183pressed by the 3-1st plunger134-1and the 3-2nd plunger134-2.

Further, the 3-1st touch sensor132-1and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 3-1st conductive spring135-1such that the sensing signal of the 3-1st touch sensor132-1may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Likewise, the 3-2nd touch sensor132-2and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 3-2nd conductive spring135-2such that the sensing signal of the 3-2nd touch sensor132-2may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface of the third switch cover131, the sensing of the 3-1st touch sensor132-1is performed by contacting the 3-1st electrode136-1, and the sensing signal of the 3-1st touch sensor132-1is output to the main controller180through the 3-1st conductive spring135-1.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 3-1st touch sensor132-1as the front portion up direction of the seat cushion.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the front portion up direction of the seat cushion to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.10A, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the front portion up direction of the seat cushion may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the front portion up operation of the seat cushion may be performed when currently pressing one side surface of the third switch cover131in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the third switch cover131.

At this time, when the user actually presses the one side surface of the third switch cover131in the state of touching the hand on one side surface of the third switch cover131, the 3-1st plunger134-1presses the tact switch183while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch183and applies a driving signal to the motor for the front portion up operation of the seat cushion.

Of course, when the user releases a force of pressing the one side surface of the third switch cover131, the 3-1st plunger134-1and the third switch cover131move upward to the original locations by an elastic reaction force of the tact switch183.

On the other hand, when the user touches the other side surface of the third switch cover131, the sensing of the 3-2nd touch sensor132-2is performed by contacting the 3-2nd electrode136-2, and the sensing signal of the 3-2nd touch sensor132-2is output to the main controller180through the 3-2nd conductive spring135-2.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 3-2nd touch sensor132-2as the front portion down direction of the seat cushion.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the front portion down direction of the seat cushion to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.10B, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the front portion down direction of the seat cushion may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the front portion down operation of the seat cushion may be performed when currently pressing the other side surface of the third switch cover131in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the third switch cover131.

At this time, when the user actually presses the other side surface of the third switch cover131in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the third switch cover131, the 3-2nd plunger134-2presses the tact switch183while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch183and applies a driving signal to the motor for the front portion down operation of the seat cushion.

FIGS.11and12are diagrams illustrating a fourth switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure, and a reference numeral140indicates a seesaw type fourth switch.

The seesaw type fourth switch140is configured for operating the extension operation for the front portion of the seat cushion, and includes a fourth switch cover141forming the appearance.

Both side ends of the fourth switch cover141are formed with a 4-1st electrode exposure hole141-1and a 4-2nd electrode exposure hole141-2, respectively.

Particularly, the bottom surface portion of the fourth switch cover141has a 4-1st touch sensor142-1and a 4-2nd touch sensor142-2spaced apart from each other and attached.

At this time, a 4-1st electrode146-1inserted into the 4-1st electrode exposure hole141-1and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 4-1st touch sensor142-1, and a 4-2nd electrode146-2inserted into the 4-2nd electrode exposure hole141-2and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 4-2nd touch sensor142-2.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface or the other side surface of the fourth switch cover141, the touching sensing may be performed by contacting the 4-1st electrode146-1or the 4-2nd electrode146-2.

Further, the bottom surface portion of the fourth switch cover141is mounted with a fourth moving block143capable of seesaw motion.

Further, a 4-1st plunger144-1and a 4-2nd plunger144-2are connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the fourth moving block143to be movable upward and downward, respectively.

At this time, since the main controller180is provided in a printed circuit board (PCB) type, predetermined locations of the main controller180are mounted with a pair of tact switches184pressed by the 4-1st plunger144-1and the 4-2nd plunger144-2.

Further, the 4-1st touch sensor142-1and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 4-1st conductive spring145-1such that the sensing signal of the 4-1st touch sensor142-1may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Likewise, the 4-2nd touch sensor142-2and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 4-2nd conductive spring145-2such that the sensing signal of the 4-2nd touch sensor142-2may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface of the fourth switch cover141, the sensing of the 4-1st touch sensor142-1is performed by contacting the 4-1st electrode146-1, and the sensing signal of the 4-1st touch sensor142-1is output to the main controller180through the 4-1st conductive spring145-1.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 4-1st touch sensor142-1as the extension forward direction for the front portion of the seat cushion.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the extension forward direction for the front end of the seat cushion to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.13A, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the extension forward operation direction for the front end of the seat cushion may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the extension forward operation in which the length of the front portion of the seat cushion extends may be performed when currently pressing one side surface of the fourth switch cover141in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the fourth switch cover141.

At this time, when the user actually presses the one side surface of the fourth switch cover141in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the fourth switch cover141, the 4-1st plunger144-1presses the tact switch184while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch184and applies a driving signal to the motor for the extension forward operation of the front end of the seat cushion.

Of course, when the user releases a force of pressing the one side surface of the fourth switch cover141, the 4-1st plunger144-1and the fourth switch cover141move upward to the original locations by an elastic reaction force of the tact switch184.

On the other hand, when the user's hand touches the other side surface of the fourth switch cover141, the sensing of the 4-2nd touch sensor142-2is performed by contacting the 4-2nd electrode146-2, and the sensing signal of the 4-2nd touch sensor142-2is output to the main controller180through the 4-2nd conductive spring145-2.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 4-2nd touch sensor142-2as the extension backward direction for the front portion of the seat cushion.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the extension backward direction for the front end of the seat cushion to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.13B, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the extension backward operation direction for the front end of the seat cushion may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the extension backward operation in which the length of the front portion of the seat cushion is decreased may be performed when currently pressing the other side surface of the fourth switch cover141in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the fourth switch cover141.

At this time, when the user actually presses the other side surface of the fourth switch cover141in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the fourth switch cover141, the 4-2nd plunger144-2presses the tact switch184while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch184and applies a driving signal to the motor for the extension backward operation of the front end of the seat cushion.

FIGS.14and15are diagrams illustrating a fifth switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure, and a reference numeral150indicates a seesaw type fifth switch.

The seesaw type fifth switch150is configured for the reclining operation of the seat cushion, and includes a fifth switch cover151forming the appearance.

Both side ends of the fifth switch cover151are formed with a 5-1st electrode exposure hole151-1and a 5-2nd electrode exposure hole151-2, respectively.

Particularly, the bottom surface portion of the fifth switch cover151has a 5-1st touch sensor152-1and a 5-2nd touch sensor152-2spaced apart from each other and attached.

At this time, a 5-1st electrode156-1inserted into the 5-1st electrode exposure hole151-1and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 5-1st touch sensor152-1, and a 5-2nd electrode156-2inserted into the 5-2nd electrode exposure hole151-2and exposed to the outside is formed to protrude from the 5-2nd touch sensor152-2.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface or the other side surface of the fifth switch cover151, the touch sensing may be performed by contacting the 5-1st electrode156-1or the 5-2nd electrode156-2.

Further, the bottom surface portion of the fifth switch cover151is mounted with a fifth moving block153capable of seesaw motion.

Further, a 5-1st plunger154-1and a 5-2nd plunger154-2are connected to the bottom portions of both sides of the fifth moving block153to be movable upward and downward.

At this time, since the main controller180is provided in a printed circuit board (PCB) type, predetermined locations of the main controller180are mounted with a pair of tact switches185pressed by the 5-1st plunger154-1and the 5-2nd plunger154-2.

Further, the 5-1st touch sensor152-1and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 5-1st conductive spring155-1such that the sensing signal of the 5-1st touch sensor152-1may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Likewise, the 5-2nd touch sensor152-2and the main controller180are electrically conductively connected by a 5-2nd conductive spring155-2such that the sensing signal of the 5-2nd touch sensor152-2may be transmitted to the main controller180.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches one side surface of the fifth switch cover151, the sensing of the 5-1st touch sensor152-1is performed by contacting the 5-1st electrode156-1, and the sensing signal of the 5-1st touch sensor152-1is output to the main controller180through the 5-1st conductive spring155-1.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 5-1st touch sensor152-1as the forward reclining direction of the seatback.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the forward reclining direction of the seatback to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.16A, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the forward reclining operation direction of the seatback may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the forward reclining operation of the seatback may be performed when currently pressing the one side surface of the fifth switch cover151in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the fifth switch cover151.

At this time, when the user actually presses the one side surface of the fifth switch cover151in the state of touching the hand on the one side surface of the fourth switch cover151, the 5-1st plunger155-1presses the tact switch185while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch185and applies a driving signal to the motor for the forward reclining operation of the seatback.

On the other hand, when the user touches the other side surface of the fifth switch cover151, the sensing of the 5-2nd touch sensor152-2is performed by contacting the 5-2nd electrode156-2, and the sensing signal of the 5-2nd touch sensor152-2is output to the main controller180through the 5-2nd conductive spring155-2.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 5-2nd touch sensor152-2as the backward reclining direction of the seatback.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a display command signal according to the signal determined as the backward reclining direction of the seatback to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.16B, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the backward reclining operation direction of the seatback may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the backward reclining operation of the seatback may be performed when currently pressing the other side surface of the fifth switch cover151in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the fifth switch cover151.

At this time, when the user actually presses the other side surface of the fifth switch cover151in the state of touching the hand on the other side surface of the fifth switch cover151, the 5-2nd plunger155-2presses the tact switch185while moving downward, and subsequently, the main controller180recognizes a pressed signal of the tact switch185and applies a driving signal to the motor for the backward reclining operation of the seatback.

FIGS.17and18are diagrams illustrating a sixth switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure, and a reference numeral160indicates a push button type sixth switch.

The push button type sixth switch160is configured for operating the support direction adjustment operation of the lumbar support installed within the seatback, and includes a sixth switch cover161forming the appearance.

As illustrated inFIGS.17and18, the sixth switch cover161is provided in a structure of being partitioned into a lumbar support forward protrusion operating region161-1, a lumbar support backward contraction operating region161-2, a lumbar support ascending operating region161-3, and a lumbar support descending operating region161-4.

Particularly, a 6-1st touch sensor163-1connected to the main controller180such that a signal may be output therefrom is embedded within the lumbar support forward protrusion operating region161-1of the sixth switch cover161, and a 6-2nd touch sensor163-2connected to the main controller180such that a signal may be output therefrom is embedded within the lumbar support backward contraction operating region161-2of the sixth switch cover161.

Further, a 6-3rd touch sensor163-3connected to the main controller180such that a signal may be output therefrom is embedded within the lumbar support ascending operating region161-3of the sixth switch cover161, and a 6-4th touch sensor163-4connected to the main controller180such that a signal may be output therefrom is embedded within the lumbar support descending operating region161-4of the sixth switch cover161.

At this time, an integrated signal output path of the 6-1st touch sensor163-1, the 6-2nd touch sensor163-2, the 6-3rd touch sensor163-3, and the 6-4th touch sensor163-4is connected to the main controller180by a flexible cable164such that a signal may be transmitted.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches the lumbar support forward protrusion operating region161-1of the sixth switch cover161, the sensing of the 6-1st touch sensor163-1configured in the lumbar support forward protrusion operating region161-1is performed, and the sensing signal of the 6-1st touch sensor163-1is output to the main controller180through the flexible cable164.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 6-1st touch sensor163-1as the lumbar support forward protrusion direction.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a control signal instructing the display according to the signal determined as the lumbar support forward protrusion direction to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.19A, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the lumbar support forward protrusion operation direction may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the lumbar support is operated by protruding forward when currently pressing the sixth switch cover161in the state of touching the hand on the lumbar support forward protrusion operating region161-1of the sixth switch cover161.

Alternatively, when the user's hand touches the lumbar support backward contraction operating region161-2of the sixth switch cover161, the sensing of the 6-2nd touch sensor163-2therein is performed, and the sensing signal of the 6-2nd touch sensor163-2is output to the main controller180through the flexible cable164.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 6-2nd touch sensor163-2as the lumbar support backward contraction direction.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a control signal instructing the display according to the signal determined as the lumbar support backward contraction direction to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.19B, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the lumbar support backward contraction operation direction may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the lumbar support is operated by being contracted backward when currently pressing the sixth switch cover161in the state of touching the hand on the lumbar support backward contraction operating region161-2of the sixth switch cover161.

Alternatively, when the user's hand touches the lumbar support ascending operating region161-3of the sixth switch cover161, the sensing of the 6-3rd touch sensor163-3configured in the lumbar support ascending operating region161-3is performed, and the sensing signal of the 6-3rd touch sensor163-3is output to the main controller180through the flexible cable164.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 6-3rd touch sensor163-3as the lumbar support ascending direction.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a control signal instructing the display according to the signal determined as the lumbar support ascending direction to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.19C, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the lumbar support ascending operation direction may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the lumbar support is operated by moving upward when currently pressing the sixth switch cover161in the state of touching the hand on the lumbar support ascending operating region161-3of the sixth switch cover161.

Alternatively, when the user touches the lumbar support descending operating region161-4of the sixth switch cover161, the sensing of the 6-4th touch sensor163-4configured in the lumbar support descending operating region161-4is performed, and the sensing signal of the 6-4th touch sensor163-4is output to the main controller180through the flexible cable164.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 6-4th touch sensor163-4as the lumbar support descending direction.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a control signal instructing the display according to the signal determined as the lumbar support descending direction to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.19D, the seat image and one arrow image guiding the lumbar support descending operation direction may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the lumbar support is operated by moving downward when currently pressing the sixth switch cover161in the state of touching the hand on the lumbar support descending operating region161-4of the sixth switch cover161.

FIGS.20and21are diagrams illustrating a seventh switch of the switch module according to the present disclosure, and a reference numeral170indicates a rotary knob type seventh switch.

The rotary knob type seventh switch170is configured for operating the bolster angle adjustment operation of the seatback, and as illustrated inFIGS.20and21, includes a seventh switch cover171which may be arranged on the outer circumferential location of the fourth switch cover141such that the angular rotation is possible.

Particularly, as illustrated inFIG.20, a 7-1st touch sensor173-1is embedded in a garnish plate172adjacent to one side surface of the seventh switch cover171, and a 7-2nd touch sensor173-2is embedded in the garnish plate172adjacent to the other side surface of the seventh switch cover171.

At this time, the 7-1st touch sensor173-1and the 7-2nd touch sensor173-2are connected to the main controller180by a conductive spring174, a conductive pin, or the like such that a signal may be output.

Therefore, when the user's hand touches the garnish plate172on one side of the seventh switch cover171, the sensing of the 7-1st touch sensor173-1configured in the garnish plate172is performed, and the sensing signal of the 7-1st touch sensor173-1is output to the main controller180through the conductive spring174.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 7-1st touch sensor173-1as the bolster inward movement direction.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a control signal instructing the display according to the signal determined as the bolster inward movement direction to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.22A, the seat image and an arrow image guiding the bolster inward movement operation direction may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the bolster may be adjusted to move inward when currently rotating the display200toward one side of the seventh switch cover171.

On the other hand, when the user's hand touches the garnish plate172on the other side of the seventh switch cover171, the sensing of the 7-2nd touch sensor173-2configured in the garnish plate172is performed, and the sensing signal of the 7-2nd touch sensor173-2is output to the main controller180through the conductive spring174.

Subsequently, the main controller180determines the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch according to the sensing signal of the 7-2nd touch sensor173-2as the bolster outward movement direction.

Subsequently, the main controller180transmits a control signal instructing the display according to the signal determined as the bolster outward movement direction to the display200, such that as illustrated inFIG.22B, the seat image and an arrow image guiding the bolster outward movement operation direction may be displayed on the display200.

Therefore, when watching the display200, the user may easily recognize that the bolster may be adjusted to move outward when currently rotating the bolster toward the other side of the seventh switch cover171.

Meanwhile, if the user's hand touches two or more touch sensors and two or more touch sensors simultaneously perform the sensing operation, two or more arrows guiding the operation direction of the power seat and the operation direction of the switch may be displayed on the display200.

As described above, the user may accurately recognize the current switch selection state and switch operation direction, and the operation direction of the power seat according to the switch operating while watching the seat and arrow images displayed on the display200, thereby improving the switch handing convenience of the user.