DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a switch assembly for a vehicle. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a system and method for operating the switch assembly useful for the vehicles and performing failure analysis of the switch assembly.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The information in this section merely provides background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art(s) for the present disclosure.
[0003] In modern automotive design, there is a growing demand for a sleek vehicle cockpit with intuitive surfaces for user interaction. This trend emphasizes clean, seamless panels that maintain functionality while providing a distinct tactile experience akin to switches or buttons such as a start-stop button. Conventional automotive includes capacitive switches with passive haptic. For instance, when a user touches the start-stop button with a gentle force, then the start-stop button may sense the input and generate a driver output. The generated driver output is fed to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that is responsible for starting and stopping an engine of the vehicle. However, conventional automotive switches lack in providing both solenoid failure detection and capacitive touch haptic feedback.
[0004] Further, there is a need for comprehensive failure analysis to address potential faults in capacitive touch panels. Capacitive faults such as excess weight or material layers on the capacitive touch panels can disrupt the functionality, necessitating thorough examination and troubleshooting protocols. Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned problems, it is advantageous to provide an improved system and method that can overcome the above-mentioned problems and/or limitations associated with conventional automotive electronic systems.
[0005] The drawbacks/difficulties/disadvantages/limitations of the conventional techniques explained in the background section are just for exemplary purposes and the disclosure would never limit its scope only to such limitations. A person skilled in the art would understand that this disclosure and the below-mentioned description may also solve other problems or overcome the other drawbacks/disadvantages of the conventional arts which are not explicitly captured above.
SUMMARY
[0006] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for operating a switch assembly and performing failure analysis of the switch assembly is disclosed. The system includes a touch interface module configured with a touch panel surface, the touch interface module configured to generate a first signal based on changes in one or more parameters observed in response to a user gesture on the touch panel surface. Further, the system includes an optical sensing module configured to generate a second signal in response to a deflection sensed due to the user gesture in the touch interface module. Furthermore, the system includes a haptic actuator module configured to generate haptic feedback based on the generated first signal and the second signal. In addition, the system includes a controller communicatively coupled to the touch interface module, the optical sensing module, and the haptic feedback module. The controller is configured to detect the user gesture on the touch panel surface from the first signal and the second signal. Further, the controller is configured to perform the failure analysis based on the previous and current status of each of the first and second signals to evaluate the validity of the user gesture. Furthermore, the controller is configured to produce actuating signals for the haptic actuator module to generate the haptic feedback. In addition, the controller is configured to derive a third signal and a fourth signal corresponding to the first signal and the second signal from the touch interface module and the optical sensing module, respectively. In addition, the system includes an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in communication with the controller. The ECU is configured to generate control signals corresponding to at least one predetermined action including starting a vehicle and stopping the vehicle.
[0008] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for operating a switch assembly and performing failure analysis of the switch assembly is disclosed. The method includes detecting, by a controller in communication with a touch interface module and an optical sensing module, a user gesture on the touch panel surface. Further, the method includes determining, by the controller, an interaction of the user based on the detected change in a first signal received from the touch interface module and a second signal received from the optical sensing module. Furthermore, the method includes performing, by the controller, the failure analysis based on the state of at least one of the first signal and the second signal to evaluate the validity of the interaction of the user. In addition, the method includes generating, by the controller, actuating signals for actuating a haptic actuator module to produce haptic feedback corresponding to a tactile and vibration sensation on the touch panel surface in response to the user gesture. In addition, the method includes receiving, by the controller, feedback signals from the haptic actuator module and determining an operational state of a solenoid therein. Further, the method includes generating, by the controller, a third signal and a fourth signal derived from the first signal and the second signal. Furthermore, the method includes receiving, by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), the third signal and the fourth signal and generating control signals corresponding to performing a plurality of predetermined actions including starting and stopping the vehicle.
[0009] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawing. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The foregoing and other features of embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements.
Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of the system for operating the switch assembly and performing failure analysis, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of the system for operating the switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of a switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 4A illustrates the working principle of an optical sensor, a capacitive sensor sheet, and a solenoid for user interaction detection and feedback, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 4B illustrates internal components of the optical sensor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 5A illustrates a sectional view of the switch assembly (Section XX), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the switch assembly (Section ZZ), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 6A illustrates an arrangement of the solenoid associated with the switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 6B illustrates an example graph depicting a haptic curve generated by the solenoid showing acceleration over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 7 illustrates a block diagram of a touch panel interface, and an electrostatic detection circuit of the system involved in detecting the input or the interactions through changes in capacitance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 8A-8C illustrate an embodiment of the system for operating the switch assembly to detect validity of user interaction based on the first and the second signals and derive output signals by the controller a third signal (first Start Stop Button (SSB1)) or a fourth signal (second Start Stop Button (SSB2) signal) in response to varying states of input signals, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 9A-9C illustrate an embodiment of the system for operating the switch assembly to detect failure in haptic feedback module based on the feedback signals of the solenoid, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for operating the switch assembly and performing failure analysis of the switch assembly using the controller, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0011] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the various embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the present disclosure as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates.
[0012] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the present disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[0013] Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, it may still be referred to as “one or more features” or “one or more elements” or “at least one feature” or “at least one element.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “one or more” or “at least one” feature or element does not preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language including, but not limited to, “there needs to be one or more…” or “one or more elements is required.”
[0014] Reference is made herein to some “embodiments.” It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and/or elements of the present disclosure. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of explaining one or more of the potential ways in which the specific features and/or elements of the proposed disclosure fulfill the requirements of uniqueness, utility, and non-obviousness.
[0015] Use of the phrases and/or terms including, but not limited to, “a first embodiment,” “a further embodiment,” “an alternate embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “further embodiment”, “furthermore embodiment”, “additional embodiment” or other variants thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, one or more particular features and/or elements described in connection with one or more embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may be found in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although one or more features and/or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, in the context of more than one embodiment, or in the context of all embodiments, the features and/or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and/or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.
[0016] Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should not necessarily be taken as limiting factors to the proposed disclosure.
[0017] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.
[0018] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0019] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system 100 for operating a switch assembly and performing failure analysis in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 may include a controller 102 incorporated with a failure analysis module 108. The controller 102 may include memory 104, a processing logic, and an interface 106,
[0020] The controller 102 can be a single processing unit or several units, all of which could include multiple computing units. The controller 102 may be implemented as one or more microcontrollers, microprocessors, microcomputers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any device that manipulates signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the controller 102 is configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions and data stored in the memory 104.
[0021] The memory 104 may include any non-transitory computer-readable medium known in the art including, for example, volatile memory, such as static random-access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes. Further, the memory 104 may include an operating system 110 for performing one or more tasks of the system 100, as performed by a generic operating system in the communications domain. Further, the system 100 may be configured to operate the switch assembly and perform the failure analysis of the switch assembly using the failure analysis module 108.
[0022] As shown in Figure 1, a touch interface module 112, an optical sensing module 114, and a haptic actuator module 116 may be operatively coupled to the controller 102. In an embodiment, the touch interface module 112, the optical sensing module 114, and the haptic actuator module 116 may be hardware units. The touch interface module 112, the optical sensing module 114, and the haptic actuator module 116 amongst other things, includes routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., which perform particular tasks or implement data types. The touch interface module 112, the optical sensing module 114, and the haptic actuator module 116 may also be implemented as, signal processor(s), state machine(s), logic circuitries, and/or any other device or component that manipulates signals based on operational instructions.
[0023] In some embodiments, the controller 102 in communication with the touch interface module 112, the optical sensing module 114, and the haptic actuator module 116 may include a set of instructions that may be executed to cause the system 100 to perform any one or more of the methods disclosed herein. The touch interface module 112, the optical sensing module 114, and the haptic actuator module 116 may be configured to perform the steps of the present disclosure using the data stored in the memory 104 to operate the switch assembly and perform the failure analysis of the switch assembly, as discussed throughout this disclosure.
[0024] In an embodiment, the touch interface module 112 may be configured to generate the first signal based on changes in parameters observed in response to the user gesture on the touch panel surface. The parameters may include the capacitance and the like. The optical sensing module 114 may be configured to generate the second signal in response to the deflection sensed due to the user gesture in the touch interface module 112. The haptic actuator module 116 may be configured to generate the haptic feedback based on the generated first signal and the second signal.
[0025] Further, the controller 102 may be configured to communicate with the touch interface module 112, the optical sensing module 114, and the haptic actuator module 116. Furthermore, the controller 102 may be configured to detect user gestures on the touch panel surface. The controller 102 may be configured to determine an interaction of the user based on the changes detected in the first signal received from the touch interface module 112 and the second signal received from the optical sensing module 114. In addition, the controller 102 may be configured to perform the failure analysis based on the amplitude state of the first signal or the second signal to evaluate the validity of the interaction of the user. The first signal may transition from a high amplitude state to a low amplitude state upon detecting the user gesture on the touch panel surface. Further, the second signal may transition from the high amplitude state to the low amplitude state in response to the user gesture on the touch panel surface, with a force lasting for a predetermined period.
[0026] Further, the controller 102 may be configured to generate actuating signals for actuating the haptic actuator module 116 to produce the haptic feedback corresponding to a tactile and vibration sensation on the touch panel surface in response to the user gesture. Furthermore, the controller 102 may be configured to receive feedback signals from the haptic actuator module 116 and determine an operational state of the solenoid. The feedback signals from the haptic actuator module 116 may include a first feedback signal and a second feedback signal from the solenoid in the haptic actuator module 116. The first feedback signal and the second feedback signal may provide information about the operational state of the solenoid, based on which the controller 102 performs at least one of monitoring, verifying, and adjusting actions of the solenoid and therefore the operational state of the solenoid. In addition, the controller 102 may be configured to generate a third signal and a fourth signal derived from the first signal and the second signal. The third signal and the fourth signal may correspond to the capacitive sensing signal and the optical sensing signal. Further, the ECU may be configured to receive the third signal and the fourth signal and generate control signals corresponding to performing a plurality of predetermined actions including starting and stopping the vehicle.
[0027] In an embodiment, the controller 102 may be configured to receive the first feedback signal and the second feedback signal from the haptic actuator module 116. The controller 102 may be configured to provide information about the operational state of the solenoid based on the received first feedback signal and the second feedback signal. Further, the controller 102 may be configured to monitor, verify, and regulate the performance of the solenoid based on the information about the operational state of the solenoid.
[0028] In an embodiment, the controller 102 may be configured to activate the solenoid upon detecting a change in the state of each of the first signal and the second signal and deactivate the solenoid upon no change detecting in any one of the first signal and the second signal. Further, the controller 102 may be configured to generate a first Pulse Width Modulation (PWM 1) signal and a second Pulse Width Modulation (PWM 2) signal for the haptic actuator module 116 to control the solenoid.
[0029] In an embodiment, the failure analysis module 108 may be configured to perform the failure analysis of the switch assembly. The failure analysis module 108 may be configured to determine the interaction of the user with the touch panel surface, based on the first signal and the second signal. Further, the failure analysis module 108 may be configured to perform the failure analysis based on the changes detected in the state of the first signal or the second signal to indicate the interaction of the user as unintentional. The controller 102 may be configured to produce actuating signals for the haptic actuator module 116 based on the failure analysis to generate the haptic feedback for a valid user gesture. The haptic feedback may correspond to the tactile and the vibration sensation to the user on the touch panel surface.
[0030] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the actuating signals may include the PWM 1 signal and the PWM 2 to control the solenoid and modulate the duration and intensity of the solenoid’s activation to generate the vibrations.
[0031] Furthermore, the failure analysis module 108 may be configured to receive the feedback signals from the haptic actuator module 116 and determine the operational state thereof. In addition, the failure analysis module 108 may be configured to derive the third signal and the fourth signal, each derived with respect to the first signal and the second signal. Further, the failure analysis module 108 may be configured to transmit the third signal and the fourth signal to the ECU.
[0032] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the system 100 may include a display unit 118 configured to display real-time status updates. Further, the display unit 118 may be configured to display alerts in case of unintended actions, such as pressure on the touch panel surface, unintended touches, or liquid spills on the touch panel surface. Example messages may include but are not limited to, “Kindly clean the touch panel surface” (when liquid or other materials are detected), “Kindly free the touch panel” (when heavy pressure or obstruction is sensed), and the like.
[0033] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of a system 200 for operating the switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 200 may include the controller 102, solenoid drivers 204a and 204b, a noise filter 206, an optical sensor 208, drivers 212a and 212b, a solenoid 222, and motor feedbacks 216a and 216b. Positive battery voltage (+B sense) may be used to monitor and ensure that the power supply is functioning correctly. Power supply values (12V and 5V) may represent common voltage levels used in the controller 102.
[0034] In an embodiment, the system 200 may be in communication with the switch assembly. In another embodiment, the system 200 may be a part of the switch assembly. The solenoid drivers 204a and 204b may be configured to control the power supply to the solenoid 222. The solenoid drivers 204a and 204b may act as an interface between the controller 102 and the solenoid 222, allowing precise control of solenoid operation by delivering appropriate electrical signals. The noise filter 206 may be configured to remove electrical noise and ensure that the solenoid drivers 204a and 204b, sensors, and other components operate without distortion or errors caused by noise.
[0035] The system 200 may include a capacitive sensor sheet 218 and the optical sensor 208. The capacitive sensor sheet 218 is configured to sense a change in capacitance and user gesture over a touch panel surface (shown in Figure 5A), whenever a user touches the touch panel interface with an intention of operation. An optical sensor displacement 210 may include measuring the amount of displacement or deflection in the touch panel surface or when the touch panel surface is pressed by the user.
[0036] In an embodiment, the controller 102 may be connected to the ECU through the drivers 212a and 212b. The drivers 212a and 212b may act as intermediaries that manage and regulate a third signal and a fourth signal sent from the controller 102 to the ECU. The third signal may correspond to a first Start Stop Button (SSB1) signal 220a and the fourth signal may correspond to a second Start Stop Button (SSB1) signal 220b. The SSB1 signal 220a may be produced based on the status of the first signal preferably a capacitive sensing signal and the second signal preferably an optical sensing signal. Similarly, the SSB2 signal 220b may be produced based on the status of the capacitive sensing signal and the optical sensing signal. Also, the SSB1 And SSB2 signals 220a and 220b may be taken as feedback to ensure the precision of the output signal produced by the controller 102.
[0037] The drivers 212a and 212b may ensure that the correct signals are transmitted from the controller 102 to activate or deactivate the solenoid 222 upon detecting the change in the state of a first signal and a second signal and keep the solenoid 222 deactivated upon no change detected in any one of the first signal and the second signal. The first signal may correspond to a capacitive sensing signal and the second signal may correspond to an optical sensing signal. The drivers 212a and 212b may be configured to enable precise control over haptic feedback and system operation. The solenoid 222 may be configured to generate mechanical motion, typically used for the haptic feedback. The solenoid 222 may be configured to produce vibration or movement in the touch panel surface when the user interacts with the touch panel surface. The solenoid 222 may be configured to provide the haptic feedback to the user, giving the user a physical sensation, such as vibration or tactile response, when the user presses the touch panel surface. The motor feedbacks 216a and 216b may send feedback signal information to the controller 102. The feedback signal information may include an operation of the solenoid 222. The operation of the solenoid 222 may include position, speed, torque, and the like. In an embodiment, the motor feedbacks 216a and 216b may provide real-time data to the controller 102 to make necessary adjustments.
[0038] The controller 102 may be configured to execute a logic and give an output signal to the ECU of the vehicle. The system 200 may include the touch panel surface with the haptic feedback and indirect force sensing, resulting in a distinct tactile response and the vibration on the touch panel surface. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 200 may be used to start and stop the vehicle by considering input or interactions and the system 200 may interface with the ECU. The input or interactions may typically involve touching, tapping, or pressing a surface of a touch panel and result in specific responses from the system 200. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 200 may be used to turn on, off, and change the VESS of the vehicle. The system 200 may be bottom-mounted on an In-Meld Labelling (IML) Panel. The top surface of the IML panel may act as a touch interface. The optical sensor 208 may be adapted to avoid an unintended operation. The system 200 may include different types of touch interfaces for generating the first signal, the second signal, and communicating with the ECU through current modulation schemes. The different types of touch interfaces may include but are not limited to, a short-press touch interface, a long-press touch interface, and the like.
[0039] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of a switch assembly 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The switch assembly 300 may be a Start-Stop Button (SSB). The switch assembly 300 may include a body 302, a pet cable 304, a circular ring 306, a diffuser 308, an illumination Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 310a, a holder assembly 312, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) rubber 314, bolts 316a and 316b, a movable plate 318, a nut 320, a main PCB 310b, the solenoid 222, a rubber cover 324, screw(s) 326, a back cover 328, a spring washer 330, a rubber bush 332, and brackets 334. Each of the components has been explained in the following description.
[0040] The body 302 may be an external structure or casing that encloses internal components of the switch assembly 300. The body 302 may serve as the housing, offering protection and providing the overall form factor. The pet cable 304 may be a capacitive sensor cable that is connected to the main PCB 310b which senses the human capacitive touch and provides a signal to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (shown in Figure 8A). The circular-ring 306 may be a ring-type rubber pad. The circular ring 306 may provide a watertight and airtight seal to prevent dust and moisture from entering the switch assembly 300. The diffuser 308 may be a light panel or a cover that spreads out light for illumination. The diffuser 308 may be connected to the illumination PCB 310a. The illumination PCB 310a may include a light source configured to operate in different modes. The illumination PCB 310a may be connected to the ECU to indicate various indications to a user. The holder assembly 312 may be a structural component to secure the PCB rubber 314, the illumination PCB 310a, and the diffuser 308. The PCB rubber 314 may provide cushioning and insulation for the illumination PCB 310a. The bolts 316a and 316b may provide mechanical stability by firmly attaching different components, such as the body 302, the holder assembly 312, and the back cover 328, ensuring that the assembly remains intact during operation.
[0041] The solenoid 222 may be used as an active haptic actuator. The solenoid 222 may be mounted with the brackets 334 on the back cover 328 with the nut 320 and the bolt 316a arrangement. The brackets 334 may include, but are not limited to, metal frames, plastic frames, and the like. The brackets 334 may hold and support the solenoid 222 within the switch assembly 300. The movable plate 318 may be placed on top of the solenoid 222 with a separated gap of 0.8 mm between the solenoid 222 and the movable plate 318. The movable plate 318 may be fixed with the holder assembly 312 with the nut 320 and the bolt 316a. The movable plate 318 may be attracted to the solenoid 222. The solenoid 222 may be powered for 5 milliseconds twice, to generate a magnetic field. The solenoid 222 may attract the movable plate 318 resisted by the bush underneath, allowing the holder assembly 312 to vibrate with the pull of the solenoid 222. The rubber cover 324 may be a protective rubber layer that covers the solenoid 222 and the brackets 334. The screw(s) 326 may be small metal fasteners used to hold the back cover 328, the main PCB 310b, and the holder assembly 312. The screw(s) 326 may provide mechanical integrity by keeping components like the back cover 328, the main PCB 310b, and the holder assembly 312 firmly connected with each other. The spring washer 330 may be a type of fastener that is designed to provide tension and preload in a joint assembly. The spring washer 330 may be used for an anti-twisting solenoid. The rubber bush 332 may be a cylindrical rubber component and act as a shock absorber, reducing vibrations and mechanical stresses within the switch assembly 300.
[0042] Figure 4A illustrates working principle 400b of the optical sensor 208, the capacitive sensor sheet 218, and the solenoid 222 for user interaction detection and feedback, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4B illustrates internal components 400b of the optical sensor 208, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The capacitive sensor sheet 218 may be configured to sense the change in capacitance whenever the user touches the touch panel surface and sends a corresponding signal to the controller 102. The capacitive sensor sheet 218 and the optical sensor 208 may be adapted to sense the input or the interactions. After receiving the input or the interactions, the controller 102 may give the output signal, and in turn, may give the vibration on the touch panel surface as a Haptics.
[0043] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, an illumination function is incorporated to show the status of modes by an illumination PCB 310a in communication with the controller 102.
[0044] The system 200 may use the optical sensor 208 to sense deflections in the touch panel surface. Specifically, the optical sensor 208 may be configured to detect the changes in deflection of a reflection surface 402 within the holder assembly 312. The optical sensor 208 may be configured to utilize light-based technology to monitor and measure the variations on the touch panel surface. When there is deflection in the touch panel surface, the optical sensor 208 may be configured to capture changes by detecting alterations in light patterns or reflections within the vicinity. The data may then be processed to determine the extent and nature of the deflection, providing valuable feedback. The system 200 may enable precise and reliable detection of the input or the interactions with the touch panel surface, thereby enhancing the vehicle’s control interface functionality and responsiveness.
[0045] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the solenoid 222 may be responsible for delivering tactile feedback through functional vibration. Based on the first signal and the second signal received from the capacitive sensor sheet 218 and the optical sensor 208, the controller 102 may generate Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals that activate the solenoid 222. When triggered, the solenoid 222 may produce vibrations on the touch panel surface, providing the user with active haptic feedback. The active haptic feedback may enhance the user experience by giving a physical response to interaction with the touch panel surface. After processing the first signal and the second signal, the controller 102 may send the output signal to the ECU. The output signal may inform the ECU of the user’s interaction with the switch assembly 300. The ECU may then perform a predetermined action, such as starting or stopping the vehicle or adjusting the VESS.
[0046] The optical sensor 208 may include several pins that enable functionality and communication. The pins may include Voltage Drain Drain (VDD) or simply a voltage supply, a Serial Clock Line (SCL), a ground (GND), an Infrared Light Emitting Diode (IRLED), a Serial Data Line (SDL), an interrupt (INT), a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR), an IRLED cathode, and the like. The VDD may provide a power supply to the optical sensor 208. The SCL may be configured to facilitate the clock signal for synchronization in an Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) communication protocol between the sensor and the controller 102. The GND may serve as the ground reference for the sensor, ensuring stable electrical operation. The IRLED node may connect to the anode of the IRLED, responsible for emitting infrared light for sensing purposes. The SDL may manage the transmission of data between the optical sensor 208 and the controller 102 through the I2C interface. The INT may generate an interrupt signal to notify the controller 102 when specific conditions are detected by the sensor. The LDR may adjust the sensor’s sensitivity to light by varying resistance in response to changes in ambient light. The IRLED cathode may provide infrared light emission.
[0047] Figure 5A illustrates a sectional view of the switch assembly 500a (Section XX), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the switch assembly 500b (Section ZZ), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sectional view of the switch assembly 500a may include the touch panel surface 502, the holder assembly 312, the optical sensor 208, the solenoid 222, the back cover 328, the movable plate 318, the body 302, and the rubber bush 332. The cross-sectional view 500b may include the holder assembly 312, and a bezel unit 504. Whenever the user presses the touch panel surface 502, the touch panel surface 502 may get deflected 406, and in turn, the holder assembly 312 may move downward, including the reflection surface 402 on a plastic part. This change in movement of the holder assembly 312 may be sensed by the optical sensor 208. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the force applied on the bezel unit 504 is approximately 3N±2. In an operation, the controller 102 may receive the capacitive signal through the capacitive sensor sheet 218. The optical sensor 208 may sense the change in deflection in the reflection surface 402 of the holder assembly 312. The distance between the optical sensor 208 and the reflection surface 402 may become closer. The optical sensor 208 may feed the change in the deflection to the controller 102 which determines the touch panel surface 502 deflection. The optical sensor 208 may be sensitive and capable of sensing up to 10-micron movement inside the switch assembly 300. The cross-sectional view of the switch assembly 500b may include the rubber bush(s) 332 to displace and return to normal position after each cycle of operation. The holder assembly 312 may include white plastic. Further, the white plastic includes the reflection surface 402 at the bottom. At the reflection surface 402, the optical sensor 208 may emit the light and collect the reflected light. A change in the reflected light may be converted into a change in displacement. Thus, controlling the operating force on the touch panel surface 502. The vibration may be transferred from the movable plate 318 to the bezel unit 504 through the holder assembly 312. The holder assembly 312 may be displaced and hit the bezel unit 504. The vibration feedback voltage may be applied and the solenoid 222 may become an electromagnet.
[0048] Figure 6A illustrates an arrangement 600a of the solenoid 222 associated with the switch assembly 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The solenoid 222 may be used as the active haptic actuator. The solenoid 222 may be mounted with the brackets 334 on the back cover 328 with the nut 320 and the bolt 316a arrangement. The movable plate 318 may be placed on top of the solenoid 222 with a separated gap of 0.8 mm between the solenoid 222 and the movable plate 318. The movable plate 318 may be fixed with the holder assembly 312 with the nut 320 and the bolt 316a. The solenoid 222 may be powered for 5 milliseconds twice, to generate a magnetic field. The solenoid 222 may attract the movable plate 318 resisted by the bush underneath, allowing the holder assembly 312 to vibrate with the pull of the solenoid 222. The holder assembly 312 transfers these vibrations to the touch interface panel 402 with a hitting or punching effect. The solenoid 222 may be integrated to fulfill the requirement of the touch interface panel 402 with active haptics.
[0049] Figure 6B illustrates an example graph 600b depicting a haptic curve 602 generated by the solenoid 222 showing acceleration over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the haptic curve 602, the X-axis represents time, while the Y-axis represents acceleration. The haptic curve 602 may demonstrate how the acceleration of the solenoid changes during the activation phase, initially rising sharply to create a tactile feedback response and then stabilizing or declining as the solenoid 222 reaches the steady state, providing a controlled haptic sensation.
[0050] Figure 7 illustrates a block diagram 700 of the touch panel interface 502 and an electrostatic detection circuit of the system 200 involved in detecting the input or the interactions through changes in capacitance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The touch panel interface 502 may include an electrode 702 and a touch capacitor 704.
[0051] The electrode 702 may be a conductive element within the touch panel interface 502 that registers the change in capacitance when the user touches the touch panel interface 502. The electrode 702 may be responsible for detecting the electrostatic charge variation created by the user’s finger. The touch capacitor 704 may be a component that stores the capacitance value generated by the touch interaction. The capacitance varies based on the distance between the user’s finger and the electrode 702. A finger S 708 may represent the user’s finger interacting with the touch panel interface 502.
[0052] The electrostatic detection circuit 706 may convert the varying capacitance from the touch capacitor 704 into a corresponding voltage signal. The detection circuit 706 may process the change in capacitance and send the resulting voltage signal to the system 200 for further analysis and input interpretation. In an embodiment, the electrostatic detection circuit 706 may convert the touch capacitance generated between the finger and the electrode 702 into the corresponding voltage signal.
[0053] The electrostatic detection circuit 706 may be used to sense the user’s touch when the user touches the touch panel interface 502. The user touch changes in the electrostatic field and draws a small charge at the point of contact. This resulted in a change in an analog signal sense. The controller 102 may sense the change of analog signal to detect the user’s touch.
[0054] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, to analyze a capacitive touch failure, the system 200 may carry out failure analysis using touch and force parameters. The touch and force may be converted to the high and low digital signal that feeds to the controller 102. The controller 102 may be configured to generate two haptics such as the high state to the low state SSB1 output signal and the high state to low state SSB2 output signal. The SSB1 signal may be produced based on the status of the capacitive and optical signals. Further, the SSB1 and SSB2 signals may be taken as feedback to ensure precision of the output signal produced by the controller 102. The SSB1 signal and SSB 2 signal may be correspond to the third signal and the fourth signal. In an embodiment, the status of SSB1 signal and the SSB2 signal may change in accordance with an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) output corresponding to the sensor signal amplitude. The ADC may be placed between the sensors (for example, the capacitive sensor and the optical sensor) and the controller 102. The controller 102 may be configured to send the output signal to the ECU. In a normal operation mode of the switch assembly 300, the SSB1 signal and SSB2 signal may remain in a high state. When a user touches or presses the touch panel interface 502, the controller 102 may sense the SSB1 signal and SSB2 signal as low states. Here, after pressing the touch panel interface 502, the capacitive sensing signal may get to the low state which causes the optical sensing signal to get to the low state due to the deflection. In specific cases of SSB failure cases, the capacitive sensing signal may be a permanently high or low state, and the optical sensing signal may be a permanently high or low state.
The below expression represents a relational expression of capacitance,
C=e0×er×S/D
Here, S may correspond to fingertip contact area,
D may correspond to distance between fingertip electrodes,
er may correspond to a dielectric constant, and
e0 may correspond to a Dielectric constant of vacuum (8.85×10-12F/m)
The below expression represents a relational expression of electric charge,
Q= C×V
Q may correspond to an electric charge (current) supplied by the electrostatic IC
C may correspond to a capacitance value
V may correspond to a detection voltage
[0055] A few failure cases of SSB are explained below from Figure 8A to Figure 9C for exemplary purposes.
[0056] Figure 8A illustrates an embodiment 800a of the system 200 for operating the switch assembly 300 to detect failure based on output signals of the controller (for example, SSB1 signal or the SSB2 signal), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 200 may include the controller 102, user interaction (touch/press actions) on the touch panel interface 502, and the ECU 804. The controller 102 may be configured to sense the output signals (for example, the capacitive sensing signal or the optical sensing signal) and generate haptics to the ECU 804. In a normal mode, the capacitive sensing signal of the capacitive sensor sheet 218 and the optical sensing signal of the optical sensor 208 may be in the high state. In an embodiment, when the user touches the touch panel surface 502, the capacitive sensing signal 806a transitions from the high state to the low state. For the optical sensing signal 806b, upon pressing the touch panel surface 502with a force lasting for 10 to 100 milliseconds, then the optical sensing signal 806b shifts from the high stage to the low state. Furthermore, the ECU 804 may be configured to receive output signals from the controller 102 to make decisions or trigger actions. The output signals may include the SSB1 signal and the SSB2 signal.
[0057] Figure 8B illustrates another embodiment 800b of the system 200 for operating the switch assembly 300 to detect failure based on the output signal of the controller (for example, SSB1 signal or the SSB2 signal), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the figure, the capacitive sensing signal 806a may be permanently in the HIGH state and the optical sensing signal 806b may be permanently in the high state. When the user touches the touch panel surface 502, then the capacitive sensing signal 806a may become low. When the user presses the touch panel surface 502 even after 5 to 10 seconds (for example), the optical sensing signal 806b still at high state. The controller 102 identifies that the optical sensor 208 does not work fine or any unintended touch was applied to the switch surface. The capacitive sensing signal 806a may be in the high state and the optical sensing signal 806b may be in the low state due to unintended touch or some liquid or any other material spilled over the touch panel surface 502. In such scenarios, the system 100 may display a suggestion indicating, “Kindly clean the touch panel surface 502.” This message alerts the user to clean the surface to restore proper sensor functionality and prevent false detections, ensuring accurate user interaction with the touch panel interface 502.
[0058] Figure 8C illustrates another embodiment 800c of the system 200 for operating the switch assembly 300 to detect failure based on the output signal of the controller (for example, SSB1 signal or the SSB2 signal), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the capacitive sensing signal 806a may be permanently high state and the optical sensing signal 806b may be permanently the high state, when the user presses the touch panel surface 502, the optical sensing signal 806b may change from the high state to the low state and the capacitive sensing signal 806a may still at high state. Then the controller 102 considers this as unintended gesture by the user by applying pressure on the touch panel surface 502, or some heavy weight on touch panel interface 502. In such scenarios, the system 100 may display a suggestion indicating, “Kindly free the touch panel 502.” This message prompts the user to remove any objects or relieve pressure from the touch panel interface 502, ensuring that the system 200 may accurately detect the input or the interactions and prevent mis-operation. The below Table 1 represents the analysis of embodiments 800a, 800b, and 800c:

Table 1
The abbreviations below correspond to the Table 1 above:
SSB – Start Stop Button
High State H -> 1
Low State L -> 0
[0059] Figure 9A illustrates an embodiment 900a of the system 200 for operating the switch assembly 300 to detect failure based on the feedback signals of the solenoid 222, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 200 includes the controller 102, the touch panel surface 502, the solenoid 222, and the ECU 804, the controller 102 is configured to produce PWM 1 and PWM 2 signals to the solenoid 222, and receive a first feedback signal and a second feedback signals from the solenoid 222.
[0060] In an embodiment 900a, when the user initiates contact with the touch panel surface 502, the capacitive sensing signal 806a may transition from the high state to the low state. Subsequently, applying force to the touch panel surface 502 for a duration ranging between 10 – 100 milliseconds, then the optical sensing signal 806b may shift from the high stage to the low stage. The operational status of the system 200 is indicated when the signals 806a and 806b i.e., SSB1 signal or the SSB2 signal are in the high state, with a continuous low pulse available for the solenoid 222 until the user presses the touch panel surface 502.
[0061] Furthermore, in an embodiment 900a, the PWM 2 may operate within a frequency range from 10 Hz to 1kHz, while PWM 1 remains continuous for a duration of 20 milliseconds. The solenoid 222 may be activated when the first feedback signal and the second feedback signal remain unchanged. Activation of the solenoid 222 occurs when there is no change detected in the first feedback signal and the second feedback signal.
[0062] Figure 9B illustrates another embodiment 900b of the system 200 for operating the switch assembly 300 to detect failure based on the feedback signals of the solenoid 222, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 200 includes the controller 102, the touch panel surface 502, the solenoid 222, and the ECU 804, the controller 102 is configured to produce PWM 1 and PWM 2 signals to the solenoid 222, and receive a first feedback signal and a second feedback signals from the solenoid 222. When the user initiates contact with the touch panel surface 502, the capacitive sensing signal 806a may transition from the high state to the low state. When the touch panel surface 502 experience a force over the surface, for a duration ranging between 10 – 100 milliseconds, then the optical sensing signal 806b may shift from the high state to the low stage. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the operational status of the system 200 is indicated when the capacitive sensing signal 806a is in the high to low state and the optical sensing signal 806b is still at the high state. The SSB1 220a or the SSB2 220b signals stays at low pulse till the user presses the touch panel surface 502. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the PWM 1 may be off and the PWM 2 may be off. The first feedback signal and the second feedback signal remain unchanged, then the solenoid 222 may be off.
[0063] Figure 9C illustrates another embodiment 900c of the system 200 for operating the switch assembly 300 to detect failure based on the feedback signals of the solenoid 222, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. When the user interacts with touch panel interface 502, then the capacitive sensing signal 806a may remain to be at the high state. When the user presses the touch panel interface 502 with the force lasting between 10 – 100 milliseconds, then the optical sensing signal 806b may change from the high state to the low stage. Furthermore, in these conditions, the operational status of the system 200 is indicated when the capacitive sensing signal 806a is in the high state and the optical sensing signal 806b transition from high to low state, the controller produces a continuous low pulse for the solenoid. Furthermore, with the low status of the PWM 1 and the PWM 2, the first feedback signal and the second feedback signal from the solenoid remain unchanged and may be off.
[0064] Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart 1000 depicting a method for operating the switch assembly 300 and performing the failure analysis of the switch assembly 300 using the controller 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0065] At step 1002, the method 1000 may include detecting, by the controller 102 in communication with the touch interface module 112 and the optical sensing module 114, the user gesture on the touch panel surface 402. Further, at step 1004, the method 1000 may include determining, by the controller 102, the interaction of the user based on the detected change in the first signal received from the touch interface module 112 and the second signal received from the optical sensing module 114. At step 1006, the method 1000 may include performing, by the controller 102, the failure analysis based on the state of the first signal and the second signal to evaluate the validity of the user interaction. At step 1008, the method 1000 may include generating, by the controller 102, the haptic feedback through the haptic actuator module in accordance with the failure analysis. The haptic feedback through the haptic actuator module includes the tactile and the vibration sensation on the touch panel surface 502 in response to the user gesture. At step 1010, the method 1000 may include receiving, by the controller 102, the feedback signals from the haptic actuator module 116 and determining the operational state of a solenoid 222 therein. At step 1012, the method 1000 may include generating, by the controller 102, the third signal 806a and the fourth signal 806b derived from the first signal and the second signal. At step 1014, the method 1000 may include receiving, by the ECU 804, the third signal 806a, and the fourth signal 806b and generating the control signals corresponding to performing the plurality of predetermined actions including starting and stopping the vehicle.
[0066] In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the third signal 806a and the fourth signal 806b are produced in accordance with the failure analysis results. In the embodiment the controller 102 produces third and fourth signal when the status of the first and second signal transition from a high amplitude state to low amplitude state and does not produce the signals when any one of the first and second signal remains in the same amplitude state.
[0067] The method 1000 may include the first signal that corresponds to the capacitive sensing signal that changes the state from the high state to the low state upon the user touches the touch panel surface 502. The method 1000 may include the second signal that corresponds to the optical sensing signal that changes the state from the high state to the low state upon the user touches the touch panel surface 502 with a force lasting for the predetermined period. The actuating signals for the haptic actuator module 116 may include the first PWM 1 or the PWM 2 that controls the solenoid 222 in the haptic actuator module 116, thereby modulating the duration and intensity of the solenoid’s activation to generate the haptic feedback. The method 1000 may include providing information about the operational state of the solenoid 222, based on which the controller 102 performs at least one of monitoring, verifying, and adjusting actions of the solenoid 222 and therefore the operational state of the solenoid 222.
[0068] The disclosure further provides a system that may provide safe and sophisticated operation of the capacitive-based switch to avoid unintended operation. The system provides a clean cockpit and seamless interior touch panel interface (No cut-outs and gaps between switch and panel). Also, the system provides tactile and sharp active haptics (Vibration) for better user feel and comfort, customizable switch active Haptics, adaptable long press feedback, customizable button size, and total hidden till lit effect. The system provides a haptic feel, solenoid feedback, and solenoid failure feedback. The system is suitable for automobile applications eliminating the unintended operation of the switch (through the integration of capacitive foil and optical sensor). Further, the system provides active haptics through the use of the solenoid for tactile and sharp vibration feel. Furthermore, the system provides capacitive touch and signal diagnostic. The capacitive touch of the SSB senses a change in the capacitance and the small deflection in the panel, whenever the user touches the capacitive touch SSB with an intention of operation. The controller analyses the input from the capacitive touch SSB and generates the output signal for the (ECU) of the vehicle. The capacitive touch SSB includes the touch surface with the active haptic feedback and the indirect force sensing mechanism resulting in a unique feeling of touch and vibration on the touch panel surface. The system is adapted to communicate with the ECU for initiating and halting the vehicle in response to user commands received as the user touches the capacitive touch SSB. The optical sensor to avoid unintended operation. The capacitive touch SSB operates on different types of touch operations such as the short press, and the long press for performing functions. The capacitive touch SSB communicates with the ECU through the modulation schemes to perform the functions.
[0069] In this application, unless specifically stated otherwise, the use of the singular includes the plural, and the use of “or” means “and/or.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “including” or “having” is not limiting. Any range described herein will be understood to include the endpoints and all values between the endpoints. Features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined, rearranged, omitted, etc., within the scope of the invention to produce additional embodiments. Furthermore, certain features may sometimes be used to advantage without a corresponding use of other features.
[0070] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist.
,CLAIMS:1. A system (200) for operating a switch assembly (300) and performing failure analysis of the switch assembly (300), the system (200) comprising:
a touch interface module (112) configured with a touch panel surface (502), the touch interface module (112) configured to generate a first signal based on changes in one or more parameters observed in response to a user gesture on the touch panel surface (502);
an optical sensing module (114) configured to generate a second signal in response to a deflection sensed due to the user gesture in the touch interface module (112);
a haptic actuator module (116) configured to generate haptic feedback based on the generated first signal and the second signal;
a controller (102) communicatively coupled to the touch interface module (112), the optical sensing module (114), and the haptic feedback module, the controller (102) configured to,
detect the user gesture on the touch panel surface (502) from the first signal and the second signal,
perform the failure analysis based on previous and current status of each of the first signal and second signal to evaluate validity of the user gesture;
produce actuating signals for the haptic actuator module (116) to generate the haptic feedback for a valid user gesture,
derive a third signal (806a) and a fourth signal (806b) corresponding to the first signal and the second signal from the touch interface module (112) and the optical sensing module (114) respectively; and
an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (804) in communication with the controller (102), the ECU (804) configured to generate control signals corresponding to at least one predetermined action including starting a vehicle and stopping the vehicle.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the haptic actuator module (116) includes a solenoid (222) configured to generate the haptic feedback, corresponding to the tactile and vibration sensation on the panel surface (502) in response to the user gesture.

3. The system as claimed in claims 1and 2, wherein the controller (102) is configured to receive a first feedback signal and a second feedback signal from the haptic actuator module (116) providing information about an operational state of the solenoid (222) therein and perform at least one of monitoring, verifying, and regulating performance of the solenoid (222) based on the information about the operational state of the solenoid (222).

4. The system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the controller (102) is configured to activate the solenoid (222) upon detecting a change in the state of the first signal and the second signal and deactivate the solenoid (222) upon no change detecting in any one of the first signal and the second signal.

5. The system as claimed in claims 1 and 2, wherein the controller (102) is configured to generate a first pulse width modulation signal (PWM 1) and a second pulse width modulation signal (PWM 2) for the haptic actuator module (116) to control the solenoid (222) therein to generate tactile and vibration sensation on the touch panel surface (502) in response to a valid user gesture.

6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first signal transitions from a high state to a low state upon detecting the user gesture on the touch panel surface (502).

7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second signal transitions from the high state to the low state in response to the user gesture on the touch panel surface (502), with a force lasting for a predetermined period.

8. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (102) is configured with a failure analysis module (108) to perform the failure analysis of the switch assembly (300), wherein the failure analysis module (108) is configured to:
determine an interaction of the user with the touch panel surface (502), based on the first signal and the second signal;
perform the failure analysis based on the changes detected in the state of at least one of the first signal and the second signal to indicate the interaction of the user as unintentional;
generate actuating signals for the haptic actuator module (116) to produce the haptic feedback, corresponding to a tactile and vibration sensation on the touch panel surface (502) to the user;
receive feedback signals from the haptic actuator module (116) and determine the operational state thereof;
derive a third signal (806a) and a fourth signal (806b) from the first signal and the second signal; and
transmit the third signal and the fourth signal (806a and 806b) to the ECU (804).

9. A method for operating a switch assembly (300) and performing failure analysis of the switch assembly (300), comprising:
detecting, by a controller (102) in communication with a touch interface module (112) and an optical sensing module (114), a user gesture on the touch panel surface (502);
determining, by the controller (102), an interaction of the user based on the detected change in a first signal received from the touch interface module (112) and a second signal received from the optical sensing module (114);
performing, by the controller (102), failure analysis based on the state of at least one of the first signal and the second signal to evaluate validity of the user interaction;
generating, by the controller (102), actuating signals for actuating the haptic actuator module (116) to produce haptic feedback corresponding to a tactile and vibration sensation on the touch panel surface (502) in response to a valid user gesture;
receiving, by the controller (102), feedback signals from the haptic actuator module (116) and determining an operational state of a solenoid (222) therein;
generating, by the controller (102), a third signal (806a) and a fourth signal (806b) derived from the first signal and the second signal;
receiving, by an Electronic Control Unit ECU (804), the third signal (806a) and the fourth signal (806b) and generating control signals corresponding to perform a plurality of predetermined actions including starting and stopping the vehicle.

10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first signal corresponds to a capacitive sensing signal that changes the state from a high state to a low state upon the user touches the touch panel surface (502).

11. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the second signal corresponds to an optical sensing signal that changes the state from a high state to a low state upon the user touches the touch panel surface (502) with a force lasting for a predetermined period.

12. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the actuating signals for the haptic actuator module (116) include:
a first pulse width modulation signal (PWM 1) and a second pulse width modulation signal (PWM 2) that controls the solenoid (222) in the haptic actuator module (116), thereby modulating the duration and intensity of the solenoid’s activation to generate the haptic feedback.

13. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the feedback signals from the haptic actuator module (116) include:
a first feedback signal and a second feedback signal from the solenoid (222) in the haptic actuator module (116), providing information about the operational state of the solenoid (222), based on which the controller (202) performs at least one of monitoring, verifying, and adjusting actions of the solenoid (222) and therefore the operational state of the solenoid (222).