DE102007031377A1 - Operating system for the acquisition of user-related inputs - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating system (2) for detecting user-related inputs, comprising an operating element (4; 51), a user identification device (5) linked to the operating element (4; 51) for identifying during an actuating action of the operating element (4; 51) an actuation of the operating element (4; 51) is effected by an actuating element of a user or by a further actuating element of another user, wherein in addition to the input detected via the operating element (4; 51), a user identifier identifying the user or the further user is provided, wherein an excellent user selection action is detectable over which the provided user identifier can be influenced.

Description

The The invention relates to an operating system for detecting user-related Inputs comprising an operating element, one with the operating element linked user identification device for identifying in an actuating action of the operating element, whether a Actuation of the operating element by an actuating element a user or by another actuator another user takes place, in addition to the over the control detected input one the user or the other User identifying user ID is provided.

in the Automotive is known for different systems Provide user-specific settings in the vehicle, for example for settings of an air conditioner, a seat heating etc. For this purpose, in the vehicles in the prior art in usually provided different operating devices to the different user inputs to capture user-related. For example, on an air conditioner that is a vehicle-side related Temperature selection allows two trained as a turntable Controls provided, each with a temperature for a assigned vehicle side is adjustable. Such a designed Operating system is simple and intuitive, requires however, two controls to capture the user-related inputs. Since a space in a motor vehicle is limited, it is desirable the number of required controls as possible to keep low.

From the DE 41 10 229 A1 An operating device for a heating and / or air conditioning system for a passenger car is known, in which the temperature and the air distribution on the driver side and on the passenger side can be set individually. In this operating device, a switch is provided, with which the setting values for the actuators on the driver side can be transmitted to the actuators for the passenger side. As a result, the driver can adjust the temperature and air distribution on the front passenger side with the adjusting elements assigned to the driver's side. However, this device does not allow a passenger to make user-related inputs to the driver, as long as his attention is absorbed by the traffic.

From the WO 2004/078536 a sensor unit is described, which allows a distinction of an actuating action of a driver from that of a passenger. The sensor units described therein use capacitively coupled high-frequency signals via the respective vehicle seat, which are transmitted via the body of the respective user, the driver or the passenger, and in turn capacitively, ie contactless, coupled into sensors. If the high-frequency signals which are coupled in via the driver's seat and the passenger's seat are different, an actuating action of the driver and the passenger can be distinguished. By coupling such a user recognition unit or user identification device, it is thus possible to capture user-specific, inputs via a control element. However, it is disadvantageous that only one user control element can make its user-related inputs.

Of the Invention is therefore the technical object of an operating system to create, with a more comfortable user-related input in particular for controlling vehicle systems in a motor vehicle via a shared by several users control is possible.

The technical problem is achieved by an operating system with the features of claim 1 solved. Advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the Dependent claims.

at a control system mentioned above is provided that a excellent user selection action is detectable over which the provided user identification can be influenced. This offers the advantage that the user identifier can be influenced in such a way that by a user in each case their own user-related inputs or the user-related input of another user via the a control element can be entered. On the one hand can be the advantageous automatic detection for identification used by the user, in most cases lead to a correct detection of a user-related input as this is usually done by the appropriate user become. On the other hand, it is also possible that out Overcome known from the prior art disadvantages and by the user a user-related input for the another user or vice versa by the other user a user-related Input for the user. This applies independently of whether the user makes inputs for the other user or the other way around. An act of action that is a user choice is necessary only in cases where one the user a user-specific input for another Wants to make users.

In a preferred embodiment it is provided that the operating element is designed to detect at least two different actuating actions, wherein one of the at least two different actuating actions for detecting the user-related input is provided and another of the at least two different actuating actions for detecting the user selection action is provided. Such a multifunction control element allows a saving of additional operating elements. Furthermore, a separate donation to a separately formed control for performing the user selection action is not necessary. This accelerates an input of a user-related input that is made by the user for the additional user or by the additional user for the user.

at a preferred embodiment of the invention is provided that via the user selection action the user ID in the way that can be influenced that when capturing a user selection action cyclically switched to another of several user recognition modes is a user master mode in which the user ID the User identifies an automatic mode in which the user ID identifies the user identified by the user recognition device, and a further user master mode, in which the user identifier identifies the other user. In this embodiment is it possible to use automatic user recognition, ie. H. User identification, switch on and off. Furthermore, it is possible to use the operating element a user input for the user or for the to assign additional users selectively. It is possible in each case in another input mode in a simple way by a User selection action to switch, the change due to a cyclic linking of the different user recognition modes easy for a user to understand.

The Possibility of both a user master mode and a user Select another user master mode, offers the advantage of being reliable even in the event of a disturbed user identification a user-related input for the user and for the other user is possible at any time.

When It has turned out to be particularly advantageous as a control element to use a rotary-push-adjuster, wherein a pressing operation the spin-push controller for detecting the user selection action is provided. A user-related input is consequently through made the turning of the rotary-push-dial. For the user or the other user it is simply possible either first a user-related input in the current one Make user identification mode and then through a pressing operation of the rotary push-piece actuator to switch to user recognition mode, then to optionally another user-related input for make the other user. It is the same with a rotary push-button simply possible, first an act of action which is a user selection action, d. H. pushing the rotary push-button and then a user-related Enter in the then selected user recognition mode make.

In As a rule, it is sufficient if the user (or the other User) by a user selection action that the made input not for him, d. H. the user (resp. the other user), but for the other user, d. H. the other user (or the Users). Therefore, a preferred embodiment provides before that via the user selection action the user ID can be influenced in such a way that when detecting a user selection action is alternately switched between user detection modes, the an automatic mode in which the user ID the means of User recognition device determined users or other users identified accordingly, and include a foreign user mode, in which the user identifier identifies the user when using the user identification device, the other users as an actuator of the operating element is determined, and identifies the further user, if by means of the user identification device the user as Actuator of the control element is determined. Without a user selection action Thus, an actuation of the control element as a user-related Input for the current user determined. If, however, a user selection action is made, the User input subsequently as user-related input of the each other's users. This means that if, for example the user first makes a user selection action and then make an input via the operating element, in such a case, the detected user-related input to the other User is assigned via the user ID. Thereby, that alternately between the automatic mode and the foreign user mode can be switched back and forth, settings for the user or the other user in a simple way be made alternately. This makes it possible to get along with only two detection modes and comfortable all user-related inputs easily and reliably to be able to.

In order to inform the user in each case which current user identification is output or in which user recognition mode the operating system is located, in a preferred embodiment it is provided that the operating element comprises visualization means by means of which a current one ler user recognition mode and / or a current user ID can be displayed.

at A preferred embodiment of the invention is provided that the control element two separately controllable, distinguishable bulbs includes, with an exclusive activation of a light source, a user identifier "user" and / or a User recognition mode "User Master Mode", via an exclusive Activation of the other light source the user identification "further User "and / or a User Recognition Mode" Additional User Master Mode " and via a simultaneous activation of the bulbs a user detection mode "automatic mode" are signaled.

When particularly advantageous embodiment, a rotary-push-actuator as an operating element, such has proven, in the the rotary-push-adjuster a transparent brim includes, behind which the two bulbs on opposite Sides with respect to the axis of rotation of the rotary-push actuator are arranged. Preferably, such a rotary-push-adjuster arranged so that the one illuminant on the user facing Side of the motor vehicle is arranged and the other light source on the side of the motor vehicle assigned to the further user is arranged. Is in such an embodiment, for example only one of the two bulbs activated, this gives the respective user ID for the user or the other User or the user master mode for the user or the Another user master mode for the other user. If, on the other hand, both illuminants are activated, this indicates that that the automatic mode is active as user recognition mode. The automatic mode can also be linked to the state in which both Lamp inactive, d. H. are turned off. For easy detection of the state, the bulbs can be colored, preferably different colors, be designed.

at another preferred embodiment of the invention It is envisaged that the rotary-push-adjuster an orientationsfesten Central area comprises, in which the visualization means arranged are. As an alternative to the visualization means designed as a light source can be backlit icons or even a freely programmable Display area may be provided in the central area to a current user ID or a user recognition mode signal.

alternative and / or additionally is in one embodiment The invention provides a display device, the current User ID and / or the current user recognition mode displays.

When Particularly advantageous is a user identification device proved that a non-contact 3D position-determining unit is. The use of such a user identification device allows, for example, reliable in time made separately from each other operations of the control to distinguish. Is such a distinction of individual acts of operation, possibly also in other ways, possible, so is at a preferred embodiment that provides the beginning of a new operation in each case in the automatic mode is changed as user recognition mode. This is in this Embodiment ensures that, as a rule, in each of which the user has his own user-related inputs and the other user his corresponding user-related inputs to carry out independently, no selection operation is required.

A Three-dimensional position detection unit can have multiple sensors of the type described above to include a triangulation a position of an actuator of the user or of the other user. However, in the prior art Also, other 3D position detection units known to others Working method. These can be ultrasound-based, for example, working on optical measuring sensors etc. The on optical Sensor based systems can be a user identification for example, based on a direction of approach of the respective Make the actuating element. These include such systems also several optical sensors, with the help of a triangulation for determining the position of the actuating element executable is.

Such sensor units using an optical method may be configured, for example, according to the following principle. A transmission LED emits a rectangular amplitude modulated light signal in the optical or infrared wavelength range. The light signal reflected on an object, for example the body part, is detected by a photodiode. From a compensation LED, a 180 ° out of phase, also rectangular amplitude modulated reference light signal is sent to the photodiode via a fixed and interference-free light path. The compensation LED is regulated by a control circuit by means of a control signal so that cancel the received reflected light signal of the transmission LED and the received reference light signal of the compensation LED on the photodiode and a DC signal is detected. A change in the control signal becomes a measure of the distance of the object. A sensor unit designed according to this principle is largely independent of temperature and brightness variations. If a plurality of such sensor units are arranged at a distance from one another, the position of the body part in space can be determined three-dimensionally by means of triangulation.

through It is also a three-dimensional position detection unit possible to use simple gestures as user selection action. A preferred embodiment therefore provides that as User selection action by means of the user identification device different gestures are detectable.

following The invention is based on preferred embodiments explained in more detail with reference to a drawing. Hereby show:

1 a schematic representation of a motor vehicle with an operating system for detecting user-related inputs;

2a . 2 B Views of a graphical display indicating a user recognition mode;

3a - 3c other views of a graphical display indicating a user recognition mode;

4 a sectional view through a designed as a rotary push control element;

5a - 5c Top views of a control after 4 to illustrate the display of a current user recognition mode;

6a a schematic plan view of a wide control element for detecting user-related inputs; and

6b a schematic sectional view of the wide operating element according to 6a ,

In 1 is schematically a motor vehicle 1 shown. The motor vehicle comprises an operating system 2 for capturing user-related input. Inputs detected herewith can be used to operate a vehicle system, which is embodied, for example, as an air conditioning system, which, for example, provides user-specific functions, for example indoor temperature control. A driver and a passenger, for example, in the vehicle system designed as an air conditioning system 3 indicate a desired interior temperature for each of their own vehicle halves.

The operating system 2 includes a control 4 via which user inputs are recorded by one user, for example the driver, and another user, for example a passenger.

With the control 4 is a user identification device 5 coupled. The user identification device 5 is capable of actuating the operating element 4 by an actuating element, for example a body part, in particular a finger, of a user (driver) to be distinguished from an actuation by an actuating element of the further user (front passenger). The user identification device 5 can be designed very differently. In the illustrated embodiment, it is a 3D position determination unit, which can locate the position of an actuating element, in particular a body part, a user or another operating element of another user in space without contact. This means that the user identification device 5 is able to determine the position of the actuating element and the further actuating element. A user identification can for example be based on the direction of approach to the operating element, provided that the operating system 2 , in particular the operating element 4 , is arranged centrally in the motor vehicle between the user and the other user. The user identification device 5 For this example, optical sensors 6 use, the functionality of which is explained above. Other embodiments may use other 3D position determination units that utilize, for example, radio frequency signals transmitted via the user. The user identification device 5 thus provides information about who is currently operating the control.

In the illustrated embodiment, the operating element comprises 4 designed as a multi-functional control element, which comprises a rotary actuator functionality, by means of a turntable 7 is indicated, over which a parameter is detectable as a user input, and a selection detection functionality, the two input devices 9 . 10 indicated, which are designed schematically as a button.

Further, a logic circuit 8th on the one hand, the signal of the user identification device 5 evaluates and on the other the signals of the control element 4 evaluates provided. The logic circuit may be implemented in a hard-wired circuit or by means of a programmable and / or program-controlled microprocessor. Furthermore, the logic circuit may be integrated into the operating element, as by means of a dashed line 13 is indicated.

The operating system 2 delivers as output values via the turntable 7 recorded user heritage input as well as a user ID, which indicates for which user this user-related input from the operated vehicle system 3 should be used. This user identification is based on the logic circuit 8th generated. In a user recognition mode automatic mode, the user identification device is used as the user identifier 5 determined identification of the user or the other user indicated. By pressing the left of the turntable, that is, for example, so arranged on the side facing the driver, is operated, it is changed to a user-master mode. As a user identification, the identification of the user is now specified. Will, however, on the opposite side of the turntable 7 arranged input device 10 of the operating element 4 operated, the logic circuit generates a user identifier that identifies the other user, such as the passenger. By re-pressing the input device 9 . 10 , which was last pressed, can be switched back to the automatic mode as user recognition mode. Other embodiments may include other configurations of the logic circuit 8th and using the input devices 9 . 10 provide. In order to make the user aware of the current user recognition mode, it is provided in a preferred embodiment that the vehicle system 3 , which evaluates the user identification, on a display surface 11 a display device 12 Represents information indicating the respective user recognition mode.

In 2a and 2 B are two such possible displays shown. Shown are three display objects 21 - 23 , which is a user master mode 21 (Driver) an automatic mode 22 (automatic) and another user master mode 23 (Co-driver). One of the display objects is highlighted, indicating the current user recognition mode. In 2a the user master mode is activated, whereas in 2 B a situation is shown in which the automatic mode is activated.

In 3a to 3c Other embodiments of the user recognition mode display are on a display surface 11 shown. In the 3a to 3c is on the display area 11 in each case only one presentation object 21 - 23 shown. This indicates the current user recognition mode. In 3 this is the user master mode in which user-related inputs are assigned to the driver, in 3b this is the automatic mode in which a user input is assigned to the one identified by the user identification device, and in 3c the further user master mode is active in which user inputs are assigned to the further user.

Preferably the individual user recognition modes are cyclically linked, so that by a simple user selection action of a user recognition mode to the next user recognition mode can be changed.

In a preferred embodiment, the operating element 4 to 1 replaced by an operating element, which is designed as a rotary-push actuator. An exemplary turn-push actuator 31 is schematic in 4 shown. The turn-push actuator 31 includes a knob 32 , which is an at least partially transparent brim 33 includes. Transparent means in this context that a light is perceived by the brim. One with the knob 32 connected actuator 34 which is formed for example as a loop, which has a resistor 35 as a function of a rotational position of the rotary knob, a variable output value, for example a variable resistance value, is generated for detecting a user input. One also with the knob 32 connected contact element 36 is from a mating contact 37 spaced apart in a rest position. In this position, the knob is 32 by means of a spring 38 held. With a pressing operation of the knob 32 that is perpendicular to a plane in which the brim 33 turns, takes place, becomes the spring 38 compresses and passes the contact element 36 in contact with the mating contact 37 , This operation is recorded as a user selection action. In a logic circuit 8th that the operating element 31 with the user identification device 5 to 1 is switched cyclically between the different user detection modes. The logic circuit detects adjacent to the signal generated by the user selection action of the rotary-push-dial 31 Signals of the user identification device as by means of an arrow 39 is indicated and outputs the user identification, as by means of another arrow 43 is indicated. The logic circuit 8th can be integrated in a control unit. The for the control of the bulbs 40 . 41 required signal lines are in favor of clarity of the 4 not shown in this.

at an embodiment is provided that at each new Touching the control element as a user ID the one is identified, which operates the control element. Leads this user selection action, the user ID becomes the same changed to identify the other user. at In such an embodiment, the user must have one each Make user selection action only if it is a user-related Want to make input for the other user and thereafter again a user-related input for itself want to make yourself.

To illustrate a current user recognition mode for the user and the other user, the embodiment of the operating element comprises 4 Lamp 40 . 41 on opposite sides with respect to a rotation axis 42 designed as a rotary-push-actuator control element 31 are arranged. They are positioned below the brim 33 are arranged. Preferably, the brim is 33 designed to diffuse light diffusely. As a result, an effect of a uniform planar illumination of a portion of the brim 33 , For example, a half, by means of one of the bulbs 40 . 41 reachable. Furthermore, a dazzling effect of the bulbs 40 . 41 reduced or avoided. By a clever control of the bulbs 40 . 41 , for example via the circuit logic 8th , it is easily possible to display the user a current user recognition mode.

5a to 5c each show plan views of an operating element 4 , In 5a the illuminant facing the user (driver) is activated and indicates that a user master mode is activated. In 5b is a situation illustrated in which both bulbs 40 . 41 are activated. This indicates that an automatic mode is activated. In 5c is finally the further user (passenger) associated with bulbs 41 activated. This indicates that the Additional User Master mode is enabled. If none of the lighting means is activated, then, for example, a failure of the user identification device can be displayed.

For The skilled person it turns out that a variety. others more similar Signaling by means of two or more bulbs to simple Way is possible.

Yet another embodiment of a control is in 6a shown schematically in a plan view. The operating element 51 is also designed as a rotary-push-dial. In 6b is a schematic sectional view shown. A hollow cylindrical rotary element with an outwardly projecting brim 53 is an orientation-proof central area 54 rotatably mounted. According to the rotational position of the rotary element 52 a user input can be recorded. Further, the rotary member can be pressed perpendicular to the plane of rotation, whereby a user selection action is detected. The central area 54 includes a display device 55 , which may include, for example, a freely programmable display device. Other embodiments may include different bulbs, etc., in the central area 54 For example, backlight differently designed icons, each of which should display a current user detection mode. In the illustrated embodiment are in the freely programmable designed display device 55 exemplarily three presentation elements 56 - 58 one of which is visually highlighted. The representation can, for example, the after 2a and 2 B resemble. In other embodiments, it may be provided that on a display surface of the display device 55 Views are shown as they are in 3a to 3c are shown.

is the user identification device a 3D position determination unit, So simple gestures can be the user or the more Run users with their actuator be recorded as a user selection action. As simple gestures can dynamic gestures, for example a movement along a predetermined Space curve relative to the operating element or the user identification device, be recognized. The gestures can be differentiated using different space curves or different directions, in which the actuators along the space curves to be moved. Likewise, static gestures can be detected and be used, which is a planar extension of the actuating element, for example, a hand of the user or other user, as a distinguishing feature exhibit. If the user selection is detected via the user identification device, so can a simpler control instead of a multifunction control used to capture the actual user input, for example a simple turntable.

at a preferred embodiment of the operating system provided that seat occupancy information is evaluated. If, for example, a passenger seat is not occupied, then automatically the User identification device turned off, so that each actuation the operating element is first assigned to the driver, unless it does a user selection action.

For It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments shown above only represent examples. The individual features described can arbitrarily with each other for carrying out the invention be combined. Furthermore, it turns out that as a control element also used as a touchscreen display device can be.

1

motor vehicle

2

operating system

3

vehicle system

4

operating element

5

User identification device

6

sensors

7

turntable

8th

logic circuit

9 10

input devices

11

display area

12

display device

13

dashed line

21-23

display objects

31

Rotary push-button control

32

knob

33

brim

34

actuator

35

resistance

36

contact element

37

countercontact

38

feather

39

arrow

40 41

Lamp

42

axis of rotation

43

Another arrow

51

operating element

52

rotating member

53

brim

54

Central area

55

display device

56-58

display objects

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• - DE 4110229 A1 [0003]
• WO 2004/078536 [0004]

Claims (12)

Operating system ( 2 ) for capturing user-related input, comprising a control element ( 4 ; 51 ) one with the control element ( 4 ; 51 ) linked user identification device ( 5 ) for identifying at an operation of the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ), whether an actuation of the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) by an operating element of a user or by a further actuating element of another user takes place, wherein in addition to the over the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) is provided a user identification identifying the user or the further user identifier, characterized in that an excellent user selection action can be detected, via which the provided user identification can be influenced. Operating system ( 2 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) is configured to detect at least two different actuating actions, wherein one of the at least two different actuating actions for detecting the user-related input is provided and another of the at least two different actuating actions for detecting the user selection action is provided. Operating system ( 2 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that via the user selection action the user identifier can be influenced in such a way that when capturing a user selection action is cyclically switched to another of several user detection modes, the user master mode in which the user identifier identifies the user , an automatic mode, in which the user identification by means of the user identification device ( 5 ) and comprise a further user master mode in which the user identifier identifies the further user. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) as a rotary-push-dial ( 31 ), wherein a pressing operation of the rotary-push-dial ( 31 ) is provided for detecting the user selection action. Operating system ( 2 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that via the user selection action, the user identifier is influenced in such a way that is alternated when detecting a user selection action between user identification modes, the automatic mode in which the user identifier determined by the user identification device user or identified further user, and a foreign user mode include, in which the user identification identifies the user, if by means of the user identification device, the further user as the operator of the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) and identifies the further user if, by means of the user identification device, the user as the operator of the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) is determined. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) Comprises visualization means by means of which a current user recognition mode and / or a current user identification can be displayed. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element ( 4 ; 51 ) two separately controllable distinguishable bulbs ( 40 . 41 ), wherein an exclusive activation of the one illuminant ( 40 ) a user identifier "user" and / or a user recognition mode "user master mode", via an exclusive activation of the other lamp ( 41 ) a user identifier "further users" and / or a user recognition mode "further user master mode" and a simultaneous activation of the lamps ( 40 . 41 ) a user detection mode "automatic mode" are signaled. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the rotary-push-dial ( 31 ) a transparent brim ( 33 ) behind which the two bulbs ( 40 . 41 ) on opposite sides with respect to the axis of rotation ( 42 ) of the rotary pushbutton actuator ( 31 ) are arranged. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the rotary-push-dial ( 31 ) an orientation-fixed central area ( 54 ) in which the visualization means are arranged. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a display device ( 12 . 55 ) is provided to display the current user ID and / or the current user ID mode. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the user identification device is a contactlessly measuring 3D position determination unit. Operating system ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that as a groove selection operation by means of the user identification device ( 5 ) different gestures are detectable.