UltraSense Systems, a specialist in automotive semiconductor human machine interface (HMI) controllers and touch system designs, has announced that its TouchPoint Q Controller is now shipping globally in a range of SUV and sedan production vehicles for Genesis and FAW Group.
In a collaboration with Korean supplier Mobase Electronics, the UltraSense TouchPoint Q Controller augments Mobase’s capacitive technology by detecting specific force patterns for the infotainment systems in the 2024 Korean models and 2025 global models of the Genesis GV80, GV70 and G80 SUVs and sedans.
This collaboration aims to improve the driver experience by integrating a premium solid surface and touch interface.
UltraSense says its controller was chosen for its unique piezoelectric properties, which are designed to provide several advantages over other force-sensing technologies such as parallel plate capacitive, optical and piezoresistive systems.
These advantages include low sensitivity to temperature changes; immunity to mechanical stress and aging; true solid surface force detection without visible surface displacement; high force sensitivity using a coalesced piezo MEMS strain sensor with ASIC MCU; capability to sense force for multiple buttons simultaneously; and broader manufacturing tolerances without the need for multiple stages of calibration.
In partnership with BCS Automotive Interface Solutions (BCS-AIS) in China, the UltraSense TouchPoint Q Controller has also been incorporated into capacitive touch steering wheels for several vehicle models from FAW Group, one of China’s largest state-owned car manufacturers. Models currently in production with these steering wheels include Hongqi’s EV platforms EH7, EH7 convertible and the EHS7 SUV.
“For steering wheels, we were looking for a solution that could detect force for many buttons at the same time. UltraSense TouchPoint Q Controller provided us a cost-effective way to use just one controller for all buttons in the steering wheel switch box,” said Tim Zhou, R&D director at BCS-AIS.
“We are delighted with the rapid adoption of our portfolio of UltraSense TouchPoint HMI Controllers by our esteemed tier-supplier partners,” said Mo Maghsoudnia, founder and CEO of UltraSense Systems.
“Our goal is to continually make life easier for our customers by providing comprehensive easy-to-integrate HMI controllers and holistic HMI system design modules that seamlessly integrate solid surface touch interfaces into modern vehicle interiors and exteriors.”
UltraSense Systems will be demonstrating many of its TouchPoint HMI Controllers and HMI touch system designs at InCabin USA 2024 on May 21 to 23, at Huntington Place in Detroit, Michigan.
