EP3020897A1 - Push button device with push actuation with improved kinematics for application in a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A sensing device (1) for actuating functionality in a motor vehicle, the sensing device (1) comprising: a mechanical and / or electrical function control device (10) having a first control state and a second control state; a feeler element (20) with a manually actuable feeler surface, wherein the feeler element (20) can be pressed from a disengaged state into a pressed state by means of a pressure force (100), the feeler element (20) being pressed in the pressed state with respect to a feeler device (1 ) directly surrounding surface (110) of the motor vehicle is engaged further than in the disengaged state, wherein the function control means (10) has the first control state when the probe element (20) is in the disengaged state and the function control device (10) has the second control state when the probe element (20) is in the depressed state, the feeler element (20) is connected to the function control device (10) via a first pivot arm (51) mounted rotatably about a rotation axis and via a second pivot arm (52) rotatably mounted about another rotation axis spaced from the one rotation axis wherein the first pivot arm (51) and the second pivot arm (52) are arranged to be pivoted in a same rotational direction as a result of movement of the probe element (20).

Description

The invention relates to a tactile device which is actuated by means of a pressure movement of a user. In a specific application, the device serves e.g. as a door opener for a vehicle door.

The DE 20 2009 009 861 U1 shows a prior art door opener for attachment to the outside of a vehicle door with an operating switch.

The DE 10 2006 024 292 A1 shows a prior art handle for electrically actuating a closure on a flap or door in a vehicle by means of an electrical switch.

The inventors found the prior art to be disadvantageous in that so far no solution has been presented for a tactile device, in particular for a door opener to be actuated by means of a pressure movement with the largest possible engagement surface, which allows a comfortable, tilt-free or low-actuation feeling.

The object of the present invention is to improve the disadvantages of the prior art. The object is solved by the independent claims. Advantageous developments are defined in the subclaims.

• eine mechanische und/oder elektrische Funktionssteuereinrichtung, die einen ersten Steuerzustand und einen zweiten Steuerzustand aufweist;
• ein Tastelement mit einer manuell betätigbaren (oder manuell zu betätigenden) Tastfläche (d.h. dass auf diese Fläche z.B. mit der Hand gedrückt werden soll), wobei das Tastelement mittels einer Druckkraft von einem ausgerückten Zustand in einen gedrückten Zustand, bevorzugt entlang einer Bewegungsrichtung des Tastelements, drückbar ist, wobei bevorzugt das Tastelement im gedrückten Zustand bezüglich einer die Tastvorrichtung direkt umgebenden Oberfläche des Kraftfahrzeugs weiter eingerückt ist als im ausgerückten Zustand, wobei die Funktionssteuereinrichtung den ersten Steuerzustand aufweist, wenn sich das Tastelement im ausgerückten Zustand befindet und die Funktionssteuereinrichtung den zweiten Steuerzustand aufweist, wenn sich das Tastelement im gedrückten Zustand befindet, das Tastelement über einen ersten, um eine Drehachse drehbar gelagerten Schwenkarm und über einen zweiten, um eine andere Drehachse, die von der einen Drehachse beabstandet ist, drehbar gelagerten Schwenkarm mit der Funktionssteuereinrichtung verbunden ist, wobei der erste Schwenkarm und der zweite Schwenkarm eingerichtet sind, in Folge einer Bewegung des Tastelements in einer gleichen Rotationsrichtung verschwenkt zu werden.

In particular, the object is achieved by a sensing device for actuating a functionality in a motor vehicle, wherein the sensing device comprises:

• a mechanical and / or electrical function control device having a first control state and a second control state;
• a feeler element with a manually operable (or manually actuated) touch surface (ie that is to be pressed onto this surface, eg by hand), wherein the feeler element is moved by means of a pressure force from a disengaged state to a depressed state, preferably along a movement direction of the feeler element, can be pressed, wherein preferably the probe element in the pressed state with respect to a touch device directly surrounding surface of the motor vehicle is further engaged than in the disengaged state, wherein the function control means has the first control state when the probe element is in the disengaged state and the function control means has the second control state when the probe member is in the depressed state, the probe member via a first pivot arm rotatably mounted about a rotation axis and a second pivot arm rotatably mounted about another rotation axis spaced from the one rotation axis is connected to the function control device, wherein the first pivot arm and the second pivot arm are adapted to be pivoted in response to a movement of the probe element in a same direction of rotation.

By means of the pivot arms, the probe element is advantageously guided relative to the function control device, since the freedom of movement of the probe element is reduced. By this, preferably a four-bar arrangement corresponding to a stabilization of the orientation of the probe element is achieved in an advantageous manner, so that the user can press at different points of the probe element, but the probe element, but alone, due to the guidance of the pivot arms, not or only Slightly tilted. Thus, a much more translational motion is given. In contrast to conventional guides of feeler elements via e.g. Linear rails a blockage is avoided due to a tilting in the linear guide and also the friction is lower. Compared to approximately translational movements of the probe element, which are realized via a long lever arm and only one swivel joint, the use of two swivel arms offers the advantage that one need not use a very long (and thus associated with high rigidity and space requirements) swivel arm. According to the invention, the pivot arms can be made of plastic, since they do not have to be very long and therefore, although plastic per se is rather a soft material, nevertheless have sufficient rigidity.

The touch device is preferably a device by means of which a user (eg driver or passenger) can operate a specific function of the vehicle by pressing the feeler element. In this case, the probe element after pressing does not necessarily have to return by itself to the disengaged position, but, for example, a push-push mechanism (functional principle as in a ballpoint pen) is also possible. The sensing device is preferably installed in the interior of the vehicle or accessible from the outside in the vehicle. The sensing device preferably has a holder which connects the pivot arms and the function control device. The feeler device preferably has a preferably shell-like support into which the feeler device is preassembled.

Among a functionality in a motor vehicle, e.g. be understood: the opening and / or closing of the vehicle (doors, tailgate, trunk lid), opening and / or closing a flap (eg glove box, tank lid, charging lid), folding / adjusting seats, functions by the control panel in the dashboard / cockpit / Interior paneling can be controlled (eg air conditioning, entertainment, turn signals / windscreen washer, electric windows).

A mechanical and / or electrical function control device is preferably understood to mean a device which records or detects a movement of the probe element, and consequently controls the functionality, e.g. turns on or off. The function control means may e.g. purely mechanical, e.g. a Bowden cable or a control linkage and / or gear, purely electric, e.g. a sensor assembly with a Hall sensor, or electromechanical, e.g. a microswitch. The function control device preferably controls an electrical and / or mechanical actuator. It is preferably stationary with respect to the vehicle or the holder of the probe device.

The first control state and the second control state of the function control device are preferably to be understood as meaning two different states, e.g. directly or indirectly affect the state of functionality (e.g., ON / OFF, CLOSED / OPEN).

As a directly surrounding surface of the vehicle in particular door interior panel, seat trim, dashboard, visible or within reach of the user lying vehicle sheet areas (inside or outside) come into consideration. The directly surrounding surface of the vehicle is e.g. the outer panel of the vehicle door.

The probe element serves to actuate the functionality by the user. The touch surface is preferably facing the user. The feeler element preferably has an attached aperture and the touch surface is the surface of the aperture. On the touch surface, the user should press to actuate the sensing device. The required compressive force is preferably in the range from 1 N to 1000 N, particularly preferably from 10 N to 100 N, very particularly preferably in the range from 20 N to 40 N. Preferred are By means of the aperture openings of the probe element for adjusting the disengaged position and / or for adjusting the indented position of the probe element relative to the holder or carrier covered. Preferably, the tactile surface is approximately flush with the surface of the vehicle (eg door surface). Preferably, the probe element is substantially or approximately linearly or translationally displaceable between the disengaged and depressed state. The feeler element is preferably movable relative to the holder and / or the function control device and / or vehicle door. The difference between the depressed and disengaged position is preferred, especially in the case of a door opener, less than 5 mm, more preferably less than 2 mm, most preferably 1.5 mm.

The pivot arms are preferably as rigid as possible moldings, e.g. Plastic injection molding parts. Preferably, the first pivot arm and the second pivot arm are the same length, i. the distance between the touch panel-side attachment point and the function controller-side attachment point is the same for both swing arms. Furthermore, the feeler-side connection points are preferably spaced at the same distance from one another as the function control device-side attachment points. In this way, the pivot arms with the feeler element and the function control device or the holder of the function control device form a parallelogram.

Under a same direction of rotation, e.g. understood when both pivot arms are pivoted clockwise. The movement of the pivot arms is thus as parallel as possible.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device is a door opener and / or the function control device is an electrical switch.

As a result, a very advantageous application is given. On the one hand as a button for opening the door, on the other hand for electrically actuating a functionality, e.g. opening the door.

The door opener is preferably an electric door opener for actuating an actuator of a vehicle door lock and / or an actuator of a vehicle door opening and / or closing mechanism for installation in the vehicle door. Of the Door opener is preferably a module which can be installed in a vehicle door. Preferably, the door opener has no handle, so that only a pressure movement by the user can be applied to the door opener. Under vehicle door lock is preferably understood the lock of the vehicle door, which has, for example, a snapper and a lock. Under a vehicle door opening and / or - closing mechanism is preferably understood a mechanism that automatically unlocks the vehicle door and / or zuschwenkt or on and / or zuschiebt.

The vehicle door is e.g. a driver or front passenger door or a tailgate.

The switch is preferably a switch for generating an electrical signal, wherein the first control state is a first switching state and the second control state is a second switching state. The switch is preferably a push button switch, preferably a microswitch. Under switch, a sensor arrangement, e.g. with a Hall sensor or piezo element, which distinguishes at least two different mechanical states and outputs a signal depending on this.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the swivel arms is mounted between the feeler element and the function control device via at least one swivel joint with a swivel joint axis.

As a result, a more accurate guidance of the probe element is achieved due to the strong restriction of the freedom of movement of the probe element by the hinge. The pivot axis (s) is (are) preferably the axis of rotation (s) of the pivot member (s).

A rotary joint preferably has exactly one degree of freedom (rotation about an axis) - neglecting any joint play. A rotary joint is preferably formed between two (as rigid as possible) components, wherein the one component has a round opening and the other component has an annular or cylindrical pin which engages in the round opening as far as possible without play.

The one or more pivot axes are arranged substantially perpendicular to the direction of the compressive force applied by the user for actuating the sensing device. This allows the one or more pivot axes receive a translational movement component of the probe element, so that the one or more axes of rotation act as leaders. Several pivot axes are preferably arranged parallel to each other and perpendicular to the direction of movement of the probe element.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device comprises a first pivot joint and a second pivot joint each having a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axes of the first and second pivot joints are spaced from each other and the sensing element and the function control means via the first pivot, the first pivot arm and the second rotary joint are connected to each other, wherein the first and the second rotary joint are connected in series via the first pivot arm,
and the sensing device comprises a third pivot and a fourth pivot, each having a pivot axis, wherein the probe element and the function control device are further connected to each other via the third pivot and the fourth pivot and the third pivot and the fourth pivot via the second pivot arm are connected in series ,

As a result, a low-friction and rigid coupling is achieved. Due to the mutual distance of the swivel joints, the swivel joints can interact and implement different movements.

By means of the series connection of two rotary joints in each case, a guide is provided for a translational movement (i.e., for example, the pressure surface is displaced as parallel as possible) of the probe element. It is a four-joint of hinges formed so that a movement of a joint pair (first and second joint) is also transmitted to the movement of the other joint pair (third and fourth joint) and vice versa.

The first and third pivot joints are preferably arranged stationary (relative to the vehicle and / or mounting and / or function control device) and the axes of rotation are spaced apart from one another. The second and fourth pivot are connected to spaced apart (preferably the same distance as in the first and third pivot) pivot axes at two different points (as close to two opposite ends) to the probe element or by the probe element (at least one joint half) formed ,

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device comprises a coupling arm which is spaced from the sensing element and which couples the first pivot arm to the second pivot arm.

As a result, the coupling of the four-bar linkage is improved, thus further increasing the stabilization of the orientation. The coupling arm transmits by means of compressive or tensile force, the movement of a swivel arm on the other arm. The parallelism of the movement of the pivot arms is thus enforced more effectively than only by the probe element itself.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device comprises a fifth pivot and a sixth pivot, each having an axis of rotation, wherein the first pivot arm is connected via the fifth pivot to the coupling arm and the second pivot arm is connected via the sixth pivot to the coupling arm.

As a result, a low-friction and rigid coupling of the two pivot arms is given by the coupling arm. The designation fifth and sixth pivot serves only to better distinguishability but does not mean that mandatory first, second, third and fourth pivot must be present, but the fifth and sixth pivot can also be the only swivel joints. The axes of rotation of the fifth and sixth pivot joints are preferably arranged parallel to the existing pivot axes of other pivot joints (first to fourth pivot joints) is arranged at a distance to the connecting line between the third and fourth pivot.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the tact surface has a long side and a short side, and the axis of the rotational direction of the first and second pivot arms is perpendicular to the short side.

As a result, in particular a tilting along the long side is substantially reduced or prevented. Often, it is desirable to have a stylus with a narrow or elongated pressure surface on which the user operates the stylus should press to provide, for example, for space engineering or design reasons. There is the problem that such a probe element can tilt more easily. However, the invention provides a remedy to this.

The long and short sides are preferably the tactile surface bounding sides of the probe element which the user, when looking at the probe, recognizes as the surface to be pressed. For an oval stylus shape or other unusual shapes, the long side is preferably the longest possible line through the geometric center of the touch surface and the short side the shortest possible line through the geometric center of the touch surface, the line length being dictated by the outermost edges of the touch surface. Preferably, the aspect ratio of long to short side is greater than or equal to 2: 1, more preferably greater than or equal to 3: 1, most preferably greater than or equal to 4: 1.

Preferably, in the presence of successive pairs of hinges (e.g., first + second pivot, third + fourth pivot, third pivot + journal), two distinct pairs of hinges are spaced as closely spaced as possible (e.g., more than half the side length) from each other adjacent two opposite short sides.

• eine erste Feder, welche das Tastelement mit einer ersten Kraft in Richtung des ausgerückten Zustands beaufschlagt.
• eine Rückhalteeinrichtung, welche die Position des ausgerückten Zustands des Tastelements definiert.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device comprises:

• a first spring which urges the probe element with a first force in the direction of the disengaged state.
• a retainer that defines the position of the disengaged state of the probe element.

In this way, the position of the disengaged state can be determined by means of the retaining device and adapted to different installation situations. For example, a flush termination of the probe device with the surrounding vehicle door surface is definable. For this advantageous embodiment, the sensing device does not necessarily have the same orientation pivoting pivot arms. For example, the probe element can also be connected directly to the function control device via the first spring and / or another, general joint. An advantageous synergetic effect between an existing kinematics according to the invention with at least two pivoting arms and that of the retaining device is However, that thereby the position of the disengaged state, and preferably also the orientation is very accurate and possible friction defined.

The first spring is preferably a compression spring, e.g. Leaf spring or a leaf spring package, which is arranged to transmit force between the probe element and the function control device, the first spring can, for example. be coupled to one or more of the existing pivot arms. By a leaf spring or a leaf spring package a space-saving realization of a compression spring is given, which contributes to the low installation depth of the sensing device (for example, for installation in the vehicle door).

The first spring preferably acts on a movable part of a function control device designed as a switch, e.g. the probe of a microswitch.

The retainer preferably forms a stop (e.g., a fixed or adjustable projection), more preferably a yielding stop, e.g. via a second spring, as explained below.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the first spring is a snap spring, e.g. a leaf spring with crackpot effect.

A snap spring has the advantage of audible cracking or palpation when the spring exceeds a certain compressed state, which can be used as an audible and / or tactile feedback to the user of the door handle. The snap spring is preferably dome-shaped or cone-shaped.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device has a second spring as part of the retaining device, which acts on the probe element with a second force in the direction of the depressed state.

As a result, the second spring forms a yielding in the release direction stop. There is thus no sudden stop of movement when disengaging the probe element, but a gentler braking until a spring balance between the first and second spring is reached. The second spring is preferably a tension spring. It is preferably power-transmitting coupled to the probe element on the one hand and on the other hand to a stationary (with respect to vehicle and / or holder) part of the probe device (each directly or indirectly), it can, for example, at one or more of the existing Be coupled pivot arms. The fact that the spring is a part of the retaining device, is also understood as the case that the second spring is the only part of the retaining means, the retaining means is thus formed by the second spring.

Preferably, the first spring has a spring constant which is very high (e.g., one, preferably two, more preferably three orders of magnitude higher) than the spring constant of the second spring. As a result, the way that is necessary for pressing the feeler element for actuating the function control device, approximately constant, so that even with a misaligned by the later mentioned adjusting device probe element, the sense of touch is approximately equal. The change of the probe element then corresponds to e.g. the way around the screw of the adjustment device is screwed or unscrewed.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the second spring is a wire bow spring extending transversely, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the direction of movement of the feeler element.

As a result, a particularly space-saving realization of a tension spring is achieved, which contributes to the low installation depth of the sensing device in the vehicle. The wire bow spring is preferably held by at least one stationary hook preferably in the central region of the wire bow spring. Preferably, the ends of the wire bow spring act on the two pivot arms or the feeler element.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the feeler device has an adjustment device by means of which the position of the disengaged state of the feeler element can be adjusted.

In this way, even after installation, a fine adjustment of the rest position of the probe element (position of the disengaged state) can be made, for example, an adjustment to the surrounding surface of the vehicle. The position of the disengaged state of the probe element or rest position is particularly preferably understood to be the position of the probe element in the direction of the applied pressure force, ie, for example, the distance between the probe element and the function control device or the amount by which the probe element engages with respect to the directly surrounding surface of the motor vehicle is or protrudes.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the amount of the first force and / or the amount of the second force can be adjusted by means of the adjusting device and thus the position of the disengaged state of the probe element can be adjusted.

As a result, even after installation, a fine adjustment of a suspension position spring-loaded on both sides can be carried out in a simple manner. Preferably, by means of a setting element, e.g. a (maggot) screw, the bias of one or both springs changeable. In this case, at least one of the coupling points of a spring is preferably changed in its relative position to the probe element and / or to the function control device.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment device comprises a screw, which is acted upon by one of the springs, wherein by means of the screw, a bias of this spring is adjustable.

As a result, a simple Justagemöglichkeit is given with few components that can be operated by a simple tool.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the feeler element has an opening for operating the adjustment device.

This provides easy accessibility for adjustment.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device has at least one adjustable stop, which defines a position of a maximum pressed state of the probe element.

As a result, an adjustable overload protection is given, so that the user can not damage the function control device by pressing the probe element too strong.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the stop is a screw which is at least partially disposed below or within the probe element, wherein the probe element has an opening for rotating the screw.

This provides a simple and space-saving possibility of adjustment, which requires no installation space at the side of the probe element and can also be concealed for the user, e.g. through a cover for the opening. The screw is preferably arranged below or within the probe element from the perspective of an operator.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sensing device on a sealing element which surrounds the probe element at least partially surrounding and rests on this and which has a bead which rests in the installed state of the probe on the underside of the directly surrounding surface of the vehicle.

As a result, a flexible seal of the installation space, in which the sensing device is installed, e.g. the vehicle door cavity, given, which can follow the movement of the probe element by rolling the bead on the underside and which thus achieves a sealing effect both in the depressed and in the disengaged state. The bead thus adapts to the movement, in particular a movement component of the component that is perpendicular to the surrounding surface, and allows a consistent sealing effect.

The sealing element may preferably be used in other applications that do not necessarily relate to a sensing device, but more generally, a seal between a gap between two forming components of a vehicle below a surface, wherein the components move relative to each other (eg, a gas cap and the surrounding vehicle surface). An advantageous synergetic effect between an existing kinematics according to the invention with at least two swivel arms pivoting in the same direction and the sealing element is that the sealing effect is more uniform, since the kinematics better define the orientation of the feeler element. An advantageous synergistic effect between an adjustment device and the sealing element is that with the adjustability of the rest position of the probe element and the size of the support surface of the bead on the underside of the surface is adjustable, thus thus the sealing effect is adjustable. In addition, the influence which the elastic sealing element has on the spring balance and thus brings the feeler element into an undesired rest position can be compensated.

A sealing effect with respect to contamination (dust protection), particularly preferably spray water, is preferably sufficient, spray water tightness being present in particular on the side of the sealing element lying on top in the installed state and preferably on the side surfaces. The sealing element preferably completely surrounds the feeler element.

Preferably, the bead is formed by a convex bulge of the sealing element in the direction of the surface to be applied, wherein the bead is particularly preferably hollow or concave on the other side, so that it is easily deformable and thus rolling on the underside can be particularly advantageous. Preferably, the bead lies with the convex side on the underside or is it set up in this way. Preferably, the end of the bead facing away from the probe element, i. an outer edge of the sealing element or the end which does not adjoin the region of the sealing element which bears against the sensing element, at least partially fixed relative to the underside of the surface of the vehicle, e.g. the sealing element is pushed at its outer edge partially or continuously at the bottom of the surrounding surface in one or more grooves. The grooves are e.g. Part of a housing that carries the device or they are located directly on the bottom. Preferably, the component is held by a shell-like support which is fixed relative to the underside of the surface of the vehicle, and the end of the bead, which faces away from the component, is at least partially fixed to the carrier. As a result, the sealing element continues to serve as a seal between the carrier and the vehicle space surrounding the carrier at the same time.

The sealing element preferably defines an inner opening with an inner edge, which bears against the feeler element. The feeler element preferably has an at least partially encircling shoulder, on which the inner edge rests and is thus positioned in two directions. Preferably, the bead of the sealing element extends further outward.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the bead has drainage pits.

As a result, water, which accumulates in the gap between the probe element and the directly surrounding surface, drain or evaporate while dirt continues to be effectively held. This also favors a self-cleaning effect, since dried dirt can be blown out more easily by the wind. The drainage troughs are preferably present in particular on the side of the sealing element that lies down in the installed state, so that water can drain off easily, but dirt is prevented.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the probe element has an attachable diaphragm and the sealing element abuts in a gap between the diaphragm and a surface of the probe element on the probe element and / or the diaphragm.

In this way, on the one hand openings in the probe element (eg for the adjustment) are covered by the diaphragm, a seal (water spray and / or dirt) between the probe element and aperture is effected by the sealing element, on the other hand holding the diaphragm, the sealing element at its inner edge in position ,

The aperture is e.g. a screen, preferably chrome screen, whereby an attractive appearance can be achieved without the feeler element, which is more expensive to produce due to its connection points on hinges and / or spring and / or other guide means, must undergo an expensive surface treatment. It preferably has a surface which covers the user-facing side of the probe element at least to the extent that the user of the probe device would see. Preferably, the diaphragm on lateral projections, which also partially cover the probe element laterally. The aperture is preferably by means of a snap closure or a touch-sliding closure (approximately a linear bayonet lock) with preferably L-shaped guide grooves placed on the probe element.

The gap can also be greater than the thickness of the sealing element at this point (for the desired sealing effect is sufficient anyway), but advantageously the gap is the same size or a little smaller than the thickness of the sealing element at this point, so that no Residual gap remains.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the sealing element has a region of high Shore hardness for contacting the probe element and / or the diaphragm and a region of low Shore hardness for forming the bead. In this way, the sealing element on the one hand in the region of the probe element and / or the aperture be designed to be more stable, so that there the assembly is easier and / or the placement of the panel is easier, eg because the sealing element does not fold undesirable. On the other hand, the area in which the feeler element rolls on the vehicle door inner surface (as the underside of the directly surrounding surface), may be made soft, so that the rolling takes place advantageously. Preferably, the sealing element is made as a two-component or multi-component injection molded part. The region of high Shore hardness preferably consists of a first component and the region of low Shore hardness of a second component.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the feeler element has on one side a groove into which an inner edge of the sealing element is inserted.

In this way, a fixation of the sealing element is given to the probe element, which is easy to install. Preferably, the lateral groove is provided on a sensing device, which is a door opener, on the side of the sensing element, which is in the installed state of the door opener near and parallel to the door side edge.

• Figur 1 eine erfindungsgemäße Tastvorrichtung
• Figur 2a-b eine Realisierung der Erfindung weiterhin mit Drehgelenken, Kopplungsarm und einem Tastelement mit langer und kurzer Seite,
• Fig. 3 eine Realisierung der Erfindung mit einer Rückhalteeinrichtung,
• Fig. 4a-b eine Realisierung der Erfindung mit einer Dichteinrichtung,
• Fig. 5a-d eine Realisierung der Erfindung aufbauend auf insbesondere Fig. 2c, 4, 4a, 4b mit einer Vielzahl vorteilhafter weiterer Merkmale.

The invention will now be further illustrated by way of example with reference to the drawings. Hereby show:

• FIG. 1 a sensing device according to the invention
• Figure 2a-b an implementation of the invention further with hinges, coupling arm and a probe element with long and short side,
• Fig. 3 an implementation of the invention with a retaining device,
• Fig. 4a-b an implementation of the invention with a sealing device,
• Fig. 5a-d an implementation of the invention based on in particular Fig. 2c, 4, 4a, 4b with a variety of other advantageous features.

FIG. 1 shows a sensing device according to the invention. The touch device 1 has a mechanical and / or electrical function control device 10, here drawn as a switch having a first control state and a second control state. The feeler device 1 has a feeler element 20 with a manually operable contact surface, wherein the feeler element 20 can be pressed by means of a pressure force 100 from a disengaged state to a depressed state. The feeler element 20 is in the depressed state with respect to a touch device 1 directly surrounding surface 110 of the motor vehicle further engaged than in the disengaged state. The function controller 10 has the first control state when the probe element 20 is in the disengaged state and the second control state when the probe element 20 is in the depressed state. The feeler element 20 is connected to the function control device 10 via a first pivot arm 51 rotatably mounted about a rotation axis and via a second pivot arm 52 rotatably mounted about a rotation axis spaced from the one rotation axis, the first pivot arm 51 and the first pivot arm 51 second pivot arm 52 are adapted to be pivoted in response to a movement of the probe element 20 in a same direction of rotation. Here also a holder 2 is shown as part of the probe device 1, which connects the pivot arms 51, 52 and the function control device 10, wherein a connection between function control device 1 and probe element 20 via the pivot arms 51, 52 may be present without holder 2.

This results in a restriction of the freedom of movement of the probe element by the pivot arms 51, 52, however, which allow the desired approximately translational movement, at least in a certain rotation angle range. A tilting of the touch surface is greatly reduced due to the Schwenkarmanordnung. Here, the pivot arms 51, 52 form a, a four-joint corresponding coupling between the probe element 20 and the function control device 10, so that the pivot arms 51, 52 pivot approximately synchronously. When a user pushes the stylus 20 far outward with a force 100, as shown, the other end of the stylus 20 is also pulled down over the pivot arm assembly because the freedom of movement of the stylus 20 on the other side is restricted by the pivot arm 52.

FIG. 2a -b show, building on Fig. 1 , An implementation of the invention further with hinges 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, coupling arm 53 and a probe element 20 with long side 21 and short side 22nd Fig. 2a is a supervision, Fig. 2b a side view of the probe device. 1

Both pivot arms 51, 52 are between the probe element 20 and the function control device 10 via two pivot joints 31, 32, 33, 34, each with a hinge axis stored. The sensing device 1 comprises a first pivot 31 and a second pivot 32 each having a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axes of the first and second pivot joints 31, 32 are spaced apart and the probe element 20 and the function control device 10 via the first pivot 31, the first pivot arm 51 and the second pivot 32 are connected together. The first and the second pivot 31, 32 are connected in series via the first pivot arm 51. The touch device 1 has a third pivot 33 and a fourth pivot 34, each with a pivot axis and the probe element 20 and the function control device 10 are further connected via the third pivot 33 and the fourth pivot 34 with each other. The third pivot 33 and the fourth pivot 34 are connected in series via the second pivot arm 52. By the hinges 31, 32, 33, 34 a low-friction and otherwise rigid rotatable mounting of the pivot arms 51, 52 is achieved.

The probe device 1 has a coupling arm 53, which is spaced from the probe element 20 and which couples the first pivot arm 51 with the second pivot arm 52. The sensing device 1 further comprises a fifth pivot 35 and a sixth pivot 36 each having an axis of rotation, wherein the first pivot arm 51 via the fifth pivot 35 is connected to the coupling arm 53 and the second pivot arm 52 via the sixth pivot 36 with the coupling arm 53rd connected is. As a result, the synchronization between the pivots 31, 33 is further improved, which is particularly effective in the angular range, which is interesting for the translatory movement of the probe element 20 (both pivot arms 51, 52 approximately parallel and on an axis). When a user pushes the probe 20 with a force 100 far outward as shown, the other end of the probe 20 is also pulled down over the hinge assembly. About the pivot 32 and the pivot arm 51 of the pivot arm 51 is pivoted about the pivot 31. In this case, the pivot 35 is pivoted with the pivot arm 51, so that the coupling arm 53 exerts a compressive force on the rotary joint 36 in the selected arrangement. This pressure force pivots the pivot arm 52 about the pivot 33 and causes a pull on the probe element 20 via the hinge 34th

The touch surface has a long side 21 and a short side 22. The axis of rotation of the first and second swing arms 51, 25 faces the short side 21 vertical. In this way, tilting, in particular along the long side 22 of the probe element 20, can be reduced.

Fig. 3 shows an implementation of the invention with a retainer 62. The sensing device 1 comprises a first spring 61, which acts on the probe element 20 with a first force in the direction of the disengaged state, and a retainer 62, which defines the position of the disengaged state of the probe element 20 , The probe device 1 also has an adjustment device 70, by means of which the position of the disengaged state of the probe element 20 with respect to the Y direction is adjustable. Dotted is the kinematics with the at least two pivot arms 51, 52. A combination of the adjustment device 70 with this kinematics is due to the precise definition of the rest position, both in terms of height (by the adjustment device) and orientation (by the kinematics) of the probe element particularly advantageous.

Fig. 4a b show a realization of the invention with a sealing means 90. The feeler device 1 comprises a sealing element 90, which surrounds the sensing element 20 and rests against the latter and which has a bulge 91 which at the bottom of the immediately surrounding in the assembled state of the sensing device 1 Surface 110 of the vehicle is applied. Fig. 4a shows the depressed state of the probe element 20 and Fig. 4b the disengaged state. In Fig. 4b you can see how the bead 90 conforms to the underside more than in the engaged state (indicated by a dashed line on the right side). This achieves a seal for both states. The sealing element 90 itself is as good as not visible to the user with a suitable, small gap, which gives a better visual impression.

Fig. 5a -d show an implementation of the invention based on, in particular, FIG. 2c, 4, 4a, 4b with a variety of other advantageous features. Fig. 5a and b show two longitudinal sections at different Z-positions. Fig. 5c shows a perspective view, with the probe element 20 is removed for the purpose of illustration, Fig. 5d a perspective cross-sectional view. The touch device 1 is a door opener and the function control device 10 is an electrical switch. The first spring is 61 a snap spring, which is designed as a leaf spring with crackpot effect. The sensing device 1 has a second spring 62.1 as part of the retaining device 62, which the probe element 20 is acted upon by a second force in the direction of the depressed state. By means of the adjustment device 70 is the amount of the first force and the amount of the second force (there is a spring balance before) adjustable and thus a rest position of the probe element 20 is adjustable. The adjusting device 70 has a screw 71, which is acted upon by the first spring 61, wherein by means of the screw 71, a bias of the first spring 61 is adjustable. By turning the screw 71 of the spring travel between the first and second spring 61, 62 is changed so that a new equilibrium of forces and thus a changed position of the probe element 20 results. The feeler element 20 has an opening 23 for operating the adjustment device 70. The second spring 62.1 is a wire bow spring which extends transversely and substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the feeler element 20. The sensing device 1 has at least two adjustable stops 80, 80 ', which define a position of a maximum pressed state of the probe element 20. The stops 80, 80 'are screws 81, 81' which are at least partially disposed below or within the probe element 20. The probe element 20 has an attachable diaphragm 25 and the sealing element 90 is in a gap between the diaphragm 25 and a surface of the probe element 20 on the probe element 20 and the diaphragm 25 at. The sealing element 90 has a high-Shore hardness region 92 for abutment with the probe element 20 and the diaphragm 25 and a low Shore hardness 93 area to form the bead 90. The bead 90 is shown in a relaxed position as if the surface 110 were absent. The probe element 20 has on one side a groove 26, in which an inner edge of the sealing element 90 is inserted. The probe device 1 has a holder 2, which connects the first hinge 31 and the function control device 10, and a shell-like carrier 3, in which the probe device 1 is preassembled. The probe element 20 is thus held over the holder 2 and the carrier 3, wherein the carrier 3 is fixed relative to the underside of the surface 110 of the vehicle. The end of the bead 91, which faces away from the feeler element 200, is fixed at least in regions to the carrier 3, whereby the sealing element 90 also seals the interior of the carrier 3 with respect to the vehicle space below the surface 110.

With this invention, a universal control element was presented, which is actuated by means of a touch movement, wherein due to the kinematics used with at least Two equally oriented rotating swivel arms and large touch surfaces can be realized because any tilting movements are intercepted or mitigated by this kinematics. The probe element is preferably long and thin and it should be moved parallel inwards below and further into a surface to switch, for example, a microswitch. The movement of the entire probe element should be parallel, whether it is pressed at one of the ends or in the middle. The relatively high (compared to the dimensions of the probe element) counterforce requires a high rigidity of the pressure mechanism and the probe element itself to allow a parallel and quasi-stiff appearance of the movement. In addition, the space is limited, so that the components may not be arbitrarily voluminous. Particularly preferably, a connection between the feeler element and the holder is provided by a coupled four-bar linkage. When the probe is pressed inward from the front, the probe is also pulled in from the back through the kinematics. The probe element thus performs a motion that appears quasi-rigid. The use of this coupling gear allows the use of plastic as a material, since the characteristic flexibility of plastic is compensated by the transmission. <B><u> REFERENCE LIST </ u></b> 1 Tasting device, eg electric door opener 100 thrust 2 bracket 110 the surface of the vehicle directly surrounding the sensing device 3 carrier 10 Function control device, eg switches 20 scanning element 21 long side of the probe element 22 short side of the probe element 23 Opening for screw 71 25 cover 26 groove 31 first rotary joint 32 second pivot 33 third pivot 34 fourth swivel joint 35 fifth pivot 36 sixth rotary joint 51 first swivel arm 52 second swivel arm 53 coupling arm 61 first spring 62 Restraint 62.1 second spring 70 adjusting device 71 screw 80 attack 81 screw 90 sealing element 91 bead 92 High Shore Hardness Range 93 Low Shore Hardness Range

Claims (15)

A sensing device (1) for actuating functionality in a motor vehicle, the sensing device (1) comprising: a mechanical and / or electrical function control device (10) having a first control state and a second control state; a feeler element (20) with a manually actuable feeler surface, wherein the feeler element (20) can be pressed from a disengaged state into a pressed state by means of a pressure force (100), wherein the function control means (10) has the first control state when the probe element (20) is in the disengaged state and the function control device (10) has the second control state when the probe element (20) is in the depressed state,
characterized in that
the feeler element (20) is connected to the function control device (10) via a first pivot arm (51) rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation and via a second pivot arm (52) rotatably mounted about another pivot axis spaced from the one pivot axis wherein the first pivot arm (51) and the second pivot arm (52) are arranged to be pivoted in a same rotational direction as a result of movement of the probe element (20). A touch device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the touch device (1) is a door opener and / or the function control device (10) is an electrical switch. Tasting device (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the pivot arms (51, 52) between the probe element (20) and the function control device (10) via at least one hinge (31, 32, 33, 34) with a hinge axis is stored. The touch device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the tactile device (1) comprises a first pivot (31) and a second pivot (32) each having a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axes of the first and second pivot joints (31, 32) are spaced from each other and the feeler element (20) and the function control device (10) via the first pivot (31), the first pivot arm (51) and the second pivot (32) are interconnected, wherein the first and the second pivot (31, 32) via the first pivot arm (51) are connected in series wherein the sensing device (1) comprises a third pivot (33) and a fourth pivot (34) each having a pivot axis and the probe element (20) and the function control device (10) via the third pivot (33) and the fourth pivot ( 34) are interconnected and the third pivot (33) and the fourth pivot (34) via the second pivot arm (52) are connected in series. A sensing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensing device (1) comprises a coupling arm (53) spaced from the sensing element (20) and coupling the first pivot arm (51) to the second pivot arm (52). A sensing device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the sensing device (1) comprises a fifth pivot (35) and a sixth pivot (36) each having a pivot axis, the first pivot arm (51) being connected to the docking arm via the fifth pivot (35) (53) is connected and the second pivot arm (52) via the sixth pivot (36) with the coupling arm (53) is connected. A sensing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tactile surface has a long side (21) and a short side (22), and wherein the axis of rotation of the first and second pivotal arms (51, 25) opposite the short side (21 ) is vertical. A sensing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensing device (1) comprises: - A first spring (61) which acts on the probe element (20) with a first force in the direction of the disengaged state. - A retaining device (62) which defines the position of the disengaged state of the probe element (20). A sensing device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the first spring (61) is a snap spring. A sensing device (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the sensing device (1) comprises a second spring (62.1) as part of the retainer (62) urging the sensing element (20) with a second force in the direction of the depressed state. Tasting device (1) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the sensing device (1) comprises an adjusting device (70), by means of which the position of the disengaged state of the probe element (20) is adjustable. Tasting device (1) according to claim 11 and one of claims 10 or 11, wherein by means of the adjusting device, the amount of the first force and / or the amount of the second force is adjustable and thus the position of the disengaged state of the probe element (20) is adjustable. A sensing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensing device (1) comprises at least one adjustable stop (80) defining a position of maximum depression of the sensing element (20). Tasting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensing device (1) has a sealing element (90) which surrounds the probe element (20) at least partially and bears against this and which has a bead (91) in the installed state of the Tasting device (1) rests against the underside of the directly surrounding surface (110) of the vehicle. A touch device (1) according to claim 14, wherein the feeler element (20) has an attachable diaphragm (25) and the sealing element (90) in a gap between the diaphragm (25) and a surface of the probe element (20) on the feeler element (20). and / or the diaphragm (25) is applied.

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