Apparatus for controlling and sensing moisture on a movable closure member, more particularly an electrically powered automotive window pane

An apparatus for controlling and sensing a closure member movable between an open position and a closed position, more particularly an electrically powered window pane in a motor vehicle, comprising:

• a sensor having a sensor electrode generating an electric field in an opening range of the closure member and
• a controller connected to the sensor and detecting any change in capacitance of the sensor electrode in providing a control signal,
• the controller detecting a change in capacitance of the sensor electrode on the basis of the presence of film of moisture on the closure member;
• wherein the sensor is operable in a first sensitivity mode and in a second sensitivity mode;
• wherein the controller detecting in the first sensitivity mode a change in capacitance of the sensor electrode due to the presence of an obstruction in the opening range of the closure member;
• and
• wherein the controller detecting in the second sensitivity mode a change in capacitance of the sensor electrode due to the presence of a film of moisture on the closure member.