DE102011078563B3 - Push button, push button arrangement and home appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

An exemplary embodiment of a push button (100) for a household appliance has a support surface (140) on which a thumb of the user can be placed during use of the household appliance and over which the push button (100) can be moved. The support surface (140) has a first section (170) at an edge thereof, which is arranged adjacent to a central section (160) in the primary direction of movement (110). The support surface (140) also has at its edge a second section (180) which is arranged in the secondary direction of movement (120) adjacent to the central section (160), the first (170) and the second section (180) are inclined relative to the central section (160) of the support surface (140) in such a way that the first (170) and the second section (180) surround the central section (160) at least partially in a trough-shaped manner. In this way, slip protection can be achieved with an ergonomic and / or comfortable posture of the thumb.

Description

Embodiments relate to a push button, a push button assembly and a household appliance.

In many household appliances, which are guided and held with a single hand, an operation of a function during operation with this hand from time to time is necessary. So z. B. individual functions and features of the corresponding household appliance can be activated or deactivated by pressing a button. Many of these home appliances use the thumb of the hand to hold or activate such functionality, which holds and guides the corresponding home appliance.

Corresponding household appliances are moved during use in at least one direction, but often enough in one plane. In this case, depending on the degree of experience of the user, such a movement certainly takes place at a higher speed, so that there is an increased risk that the user's thumb will slip off during the movement from the button to the operation of the additional functionality.

An example of such a household appliance is an iron or an ironing station. In these, just with a trained user and / or in a professional environment, the iron with momentum moves. In this case, if the user's thumb slips off the push button, the work flow may be interrupted, which is often perceived as very disturbing.

In this case, devices used in the professional field are also referred to below as "household appliances". The term "household appliance" is therefore not to be understood as a restriction to the place or the environment of its use, but rather refers only to the nature of the activities to be performed therewith, which are typically at least also attributable to the household.

Especially in the field of irons and ironing stations, this situation is aggravated by the fact that the household appliances in question are used under potentially humid conditions. In addition to the residual moisture of the items to be ironed so moisture can also be reflected on the hands and fingers of the user by the use of selectively applied water (eg., By water jet or spray) and by the use of water vapor. In addition, due to the heat of the iron as well as due to the physical exertion of the user, perspiration may occur in the area of the hands and fingers.

As a result, there is an increased risk in iron and ironing station that the user slips off a corresponding, a functionality of the iron triggering push button.

But even with other household appliances as irons or ironing stations corresponding difficulties may occur. These may possibly be caused or at least contributed to by vibrations and / or movements of the household appliance in question.

Many household appliances today buttons and buttons are used with slip-hazard edges. This is problematic for the reasons mentioned, since with wet fingers a lateral slipping or slipping in the longitudinal direction of the respective buttons or buttons is possible. Solutions known today include buttons and buttons which are provided with a stopper in the longitudinal direction (X-axis). So saddle-shaped push buttons are known, which rise away over a wide range of the user's hand away. Similarly, spatially separated buttons are known. However, both solutions are often perceived by the user as unpleasant, since they often take the thumb in an unnatural position, require a large movement of the thumb when switching between different buttons or due to small buttons even with prolonged use of the household appliance to a continuous load of a small area of the thumb.

Likewise, solutions are known in which by means of raised grooves slipping of the thumb should be prevented, but which is also perceived as unpleasant with prolonged operation. Likewise, for corresponding buttons materials are used to prevent slipping of the thumb. These include, for example, buttons made of rubber and other materials, which allow a corresponding friction even when wet. But even such buttons can be perceived as unpleasant, as they counteract even smaller, natural movements of the thumb and so can be perceived as unpleasant especially for a prolonged use.

In the DE 20 2008 002 672 U1 is designed for sliding switch of electric hand tools that their flat side for supporting a finger or a thumb can be limited by raised edges to facilitate a shift in the direction of actuation.

In the DE 41 43 575 C2 For example, it is described that a hard plastic shift lever pusher part for confirming electric appliances is adapted to the shape of the finger of the operator and has, for example, a recessed grip.

Based on this, there is therefore a need to provide a push button that prevents slippage of the thumb in at least two directions and at the same time allows ergonomic and perceived as pleasant operation of the push button.

This demand carries a push button according to claim 1, a push button assembly according to claim 10 or a household appliance according to claim 14 bill.

A push button for a home appliance, such as an iron or an ironing station, according to one embodiment, wherein the home appliance is moved during use by a user in a plane defined by a primary direction of movement and a secondary direction of movement substantially perpendicular to the primary direction of movement and wherein the push button is adapted to be movable or printable substantially perpendicular to the plane by the user, has a support surface upon which a thumb of the user can be placed during use of the household appliance and over which the push button is movable wherein the bearing surface has at a periphery thereof a first portion located in the primary moving direction adjacent to a central portion. The support surface further has at its edge a second portion which is arranged in the secondary movement direction adjacent to the central portion, wherein the first and the second portion relative to the central portion of the support surface are inclined such that the first and the second portion of the central portion surrounded at least partially trough-shaped.

Such an embodiment is based on the finding that, in the case of a household appliance, which may also be moved at a higher speed, ie with momentum, in one plane, slippage of the thumb from the support surface of the push button can be prevented by the central section of at least a first and a second portion of the support surface is at least partially trough-shaped surrounded, so that the formation of this relative to the first and second portion recessed portion slipping of the thumb is prevented not only along the primary direction of movement but also along the secondary direction of movement. In the case of an iron or an ironing station, the primary direction of movement may be the ironing direction or the longitudinal direction of the corresponding iron or the ironing station. The two directions of movement and thus the plane correspond to the plane defined by the soleplate.

The push button offers the possibility of triggering a function, such as the generation of steam or a jet of water or a water mist by pressing the push button, so exerting a force perpendicular to the plane and thus vertically to the soleplate. The push button can be moved by a substantially linear movement or by a partial pivoting movement about a hinge corresponding to the user. A push button according to an embodiment allows so on the one hand to trigger a function by moving the push button perpendicular to the plane and on the other hand due to its geometric configuration with the first and second portion comprehensive edge to prevent slippage of the thumb from the support surface along the primary and the secondary direction of movement , The edge encompassing the first and second sections is also referred to as a chamfer or a round.

In a push button according to an embodiment, the first and the second portion may be connected to each other directly or through a transition region of the support surface, wherein the transition region relative to the central portion is inclined so that this together with the first and the second portion of the central portion at least partially surrounds trough-shaped. In this way, it may be possible to comfortably prevent slippage of the thumb from the support surface even during movements that do not take place along the primary or secondary direction of movement, but rather along a direction in the plane running between these directions. Thus, for example, the transition region may have a rounded shape adapted to the contour of the human thumb, which in the case of contact with the thumb bears against it with a larger contact surface than would be the case, for example, with a more angular shape.

Of course, in embodiments, the first and the second portion optionally together with the transition region form an at least on one side of the central portion completely surrounding edge. In embodiments, it is also possible that, for example, the second portion at a hand-facing end smoothly drains into the central portion.

In a push button according to an embodiment, the second section extend at least over 50% of a length of the central portion at the edge of the push button along the first direction of movement. Alternatively or additionally, the first portion may extend at least over 50% of a length of the central portion at the edge of the pushbutton along the second direction of movement. This makes it possible to direct the force which the first and / or the second section exerted on the thumb to a larger contact area. This can be beneficial to the ease of use of the push button. In other embodiments, the second portion and / or the first portion may also extend over a length of at least 60% or at least over 75% of the length of the central portion.

In a push button according to an embodiment, the first portion and / or the second portion may have a width that is at least 0.8 mm. This makes it possible, on the one hand, to provide a non-irritating first and / or second section, but on the other hand, in the event of the thumb slipping, exerting sufficient force on the thumb to hold it on the support surface. Thus, the aforesaid widths may allow to limit an angle that the first and / or second section has with respect to the central portion of the support surface. In other embodiments, it may therefore be appropriate to provide the first and / or the second section with a width of at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm or at least 3 mm.

In a push button according to an embodiment, the first portion and / or the second portion may be inclined relative to the plane defined by the primary and secondary directions of movement by an angle of at least 5 ° or at least 8 °.

If, moreover, the central portion of the support surface is inclined relative to the plane defined by the primary and secondary movement directions, the first and / or second portions may be inclined relative to the central portion of the support surface by at least one angle, which may be the sum of Tilt angle of the central portion to the plane and the aforementioned angle with respect to the first and / or the second portion results. In the case of a non-inclined central portion so results in an angle of the first and / or the second portion relative to the central portion of also at least 5 °. As a result, it may be possible, in particular in connection with the aforementioned widths of the first and / or the second section, on the one hand to create an effective barrier for the thumb, which prevents it from slipping off the support surface, but on the other hand provides comfort in the event of contact with the support first and / or the second section. In other embodiments, if appropriate, the angle present with respect to the plane may also amount to at least 10 ° or at least 15 °. Compared with an optionally inclined central section, an angle results accordingly, which in turn results from the sum of the angle of the central section and the angle of the first and / or the second section.

In this case, the need to implement correspondingly broad first and / or second sections tends to be reduced as the angles increase, since sufficient heights can be implemented with increasing angles even at relatively small widths, which can effectively prevent the thumb from slipping off the push button. On the other hand, as the angle increases, the barrier formed by the first and second portions tends to be uncomfortable.

In a push button according to an embodiment, the first and / or the second portion may protrude beyond a shaft of the push button. In addition to an optical trimming of the push button, this possibly also makes it possible to reduce the space requirement for the push button, which results from the first and / or second sections, which may need to be additionally implemented. It may also be possible, if appropriate, to optimize the mechanical properties irrespective of the implementation of the first and / or the second section by adapting the shaft of the pushbutton to the rest of the geometry of the household appliance and its technology in terms of their dimensions and properties. In other words, it may thereby be possible to realize the mechanical properties of the push button regardless of any additional space required for the implementation of a push button according to an embodiment.

A push button according to an embodiment may be configured and shaped such that in a relaxed, ergonomic and / or natural posture, the thumb of a user's hand tangentially rests on the central portion when the user holds the household appliance by hand on a handle of the household appliance , This makes it possible to allow a relaxed and comfortable operation of the push button even with prolonged use or operation of the household appliance. This may be particularly useful in the case of household appliances, which are held and managed with one hand.

A push button according to an embodiment makes it possible at all to separate the functionality of the protection against slipping of the thumb from the support surface of an ergonomic arrangement and orientation of the central portion of the support surface of the push button. This can therefore be optimized specifically for an ergonomic posture, design and / or arrangement, while the protection is realized by the other sections of the support surface.

In principle, the central portion may have any angle with respect to the plane spanned by the primary and secondary directions of movement. Depending on the orientation of a handle of the household appliance, it may be useful in a push button according to an embodiment, interpret the central portion opposite to the spanned by the primary and secondary directions of movement at an angle between 0 ° and 28 °. In other embodiments, the angle may also be between 6 ° and 22 ° or between 8 ° and 22 °. Likewise, the central portion may have a partial portion which comprises at least 50% of the area of the central portion and is approximately planar. The subsection may in this case enclose an angle with the plane spanned by the primary and the secondary direction of movement, which lies between 0 ° and 28 °, for example between 10 ° and 18 °.

In a push button according to an embodiment, the central portion may be substantially smooth except for bumps or depressions for labeling or optical marking of the push button. This makes it possible to carry out the central section except for the aforementioned structures substantially free of elevation or recess. Of course, elevations or depressions for labeling or optical marking of the push button can still be provided in the region of the central portion. However, these have elevations or depressions, which are typically not suitable to prevent slipping of the thumb from the support surface of the push button. Thus, these typically have depths or heights as well as line widths or line widths that are so small that no appreciable frictional or positive connection between the push button and the thumb arises under normal operating conditions.

A push button according to an embodiment may in principle be made of all materials suitable for corresponding push buttons or of a plurality of materials. It can for example be made of one or more plastics. Likewise, it may be made of rubber or a rubber-like material or provided with a corresponding support.

In a push button according to an embodiment, the support surface may have a third portion which is arranged along the primary direction of movement at an edge opposite the first portion of the support surface and surrounds the central portion at least partially trough-shaped together with the first and the second portion. This makes it possible to secure the support surface against slipping of the thumb in the direction of the hand In a push button according to an embodiment, the support surface may further comprise a further second portion which is disposed on an edge of the support surface opposite the second portion and together with the first and the second portion at least partially surrounds the central portion trough-shaped.

Such an exemplary embodiment is based, in particular, on the knowledge that in the case of a domestic appliance in which a single push-button is used, the provision of a further second section can also ensure that the thumb slides sideways in the opposite direction of the secondary direction of movement. In this case, the further second section can be embodied, for example, symmetrically with respect to the second section. Likewise, however, the further second section may differ from the second section with regard to individual, several or all design features. Also, the more detailed embodiments of the second section may also be implemented for the further second section, regardless of their implementation in the context of the second section.

A push button assembly according to an embodiment includes a first pushbutton previously described according to an embodiment and a second pushbutton previously described according to an embodiment, wherein the first and second pushbuttons are formed substantially mirror-symmetrical such that the respective second portions or the respective first portions of the first and the second push button are disposed on opposite edge portions of the push button assembly, and the central portions of the first and second push buttons are adjacent to each other; and wherein the first and second push buttons are disposed immediately adjacent to each other.

In other words, at most one gap is arranged between the first and the second pushbutton, so that the central portions of the contact surfaces of the two pushbuttons can be arranged in a common plane. More accurate they may even form a common surface, which may be provided only by the aforementioned gap or a recess in one or both central portions of the two bearing surfaces.

In this way, despite the smaller area that is available in comparison to a single push button, even for a push-button arrangement with two press studs may be possible to effectively prevent slippage of the thumb. In addition, the fact that the two central portions of the two bearing surfaces lie in a common plane or form a common surface, the ergonomics of such a push-button assembly and the convenience of their operation can be improved. While neither button is pressed, so the thumb are the two central sections, so the common, interrupted area of the two push buttons available on the thumb can be conveniently stored. In addition, slipping of the thumb in the primary and the secondary direction of movement is effectively prevented by the first and second sections of the two bearing surfaces.

In a push button assembly according to an embodiment, the first and the second push button in their respective bearing surfaces each have a recess which are arranged on one edge of the respective push button, facing the other push button, along a common extension direction and extending through the respective push button extend completely therethrough, so that the central portions of the bearing surfaces of the two push buttons are spaced from each other. In this way, if necessary, an accidental pressing or pressing the adjacent push button can be prevented, but at least made more difficult.

In a push-button assembly according to an embodiment, the recesses of the two snaps can perpendicular to the extension direction have a profile that forms an angle directly to the support surface with this, which is between 60 ° and 90 °, and in a the respective push button limiting side surface opens at an angle which is at most 60 °. In this way, the operating safety of the two pushbuttons can be further increased, since even with a non-ideally positioned thumb, the likelihood of pressing the unintended pushbutton is reduced. Thus, the thumb on the profile due to the angle described directly on the support surface on the actually not to press pushbutton slide without exerting a significant force on the push button. By limiting the angle of the profile in the region in which opens the recess in the side surface of the push button, so a depth of the recess can be reduced, while on the other hand constrained due to the angle of at most 60 ° turn a force to the actually unintentionally operated push button can be. This can be avoided, for example, by designing a correspondingly sized spring element inadvertent actuation of the other push button. In other embodiments, it may be advisable to limit the angle of the profile directly to the bearing surface to values between 75 ° and 90 ° or 80 ° and 90 °, in order to support a sliding of the thumb without a significant force.

In a push-button assembly according to an embodiment, the central portions of the bearing surfaces of the two push buttons may be at least 2 mm apart and at most 10 mm apart. As a result, a tolerance to an inaccurately positioned or slipped thumb can be improved. The farther the two central portions of the two push buttons are spaced apart, the greater the tolerance. On the other hand, in the case of too large a distance, the ergonomics, in particular the comfort of the support of the thumb on the support surface could suffer because the user notices the existing gap or recess in the area of the support surfaces. In other embodiments, it may therefore be advisable to space the central portions 2 mm to 6 mm or 3 mm to 5 mm apart.

Especially in the case of an implementation of a recess with a profile described above so determined on the one hand, the angle directly to the support surface, the distance between the two central portions of the bearing surfaces of the two push buttons from each other and the depth of the recess the angle in the region of the side surface. Although it is true that the smaller the angle between the side surface and the profile is directly in the region of the side surface, the lower the force on the other push button, but this may eventually lead to the recess takes unfavorable depths. For this reason, it may be advisable to choose a compromise between the distance of the two central sections on the one hand and the angle in the area of the limiting side surface.

A household appliance, such as an iron or ironing station, according to one embodiment comprises at least one push button according to one embodiment and / or at least one push button assembly according to an embodiment, wherein in the case of an iron or an ironing station by the primary direction of movement and the secondary direction of movement spanned plane is defined by a sole plate of the iron or the ironing station.

Further advantageous embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawing, to which the invention is not limited.

1 shows a perspective view of a push button according to an embodiment;

2 shows a view of the in 1 shown push button;

3 shows a cross-sectional view through the in the 1 and 2 shown push button;

4 shows a perspective view of a push button assembly according to an embodiment;

5 shows another perspective view of in 4 shown push button assembly; and

6 shows a front view of the in the 4 and 5 shown push button assembly.

In the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, like reference characters designate like or similar components. In addition, in the following for identical or similar objects summary reference numerals are used.

1 shows a push button 100 for a household appliance, such as an iron or ironing station. The domestic appliance is hereby designed to be moved during use by a user in a plane that moves through a primary direction of movement 110 and a substantially perpendicular to the primary direction of movement 110 extending secondary direction of movement 120 given is. In the case of an iron or an ironing station, it may be so, for example, in the primary direction of movement 110 act to the ironing direction, which coincides with a longitudinal direction of the iron or the ironing station. The push button 100 is hereby formed along a vertical direction 130 be movable or be pressed by the user, wherein the vertical direction 130 essentially perpendicular to the through the two directions of movement 110 . 120 level formed.

The push button 100 has a support surface 140 on, a shaft 150 of the push button 100 along the vertical direction 130 (or in the opposite direction) limited. The bearing surface 140 is here designed such that while using the household appliance, a thumb of the user is placed on this.

The bearing surface 140 includes a central section 160 and a first section 170 that is starting from the central section 160 in the direction of the primary direction of movement 110 extends. Likewise, the bearing surface comprises 140 a second section 180 that is starting from the central section 160 in the secondary direction of movement 120 extends.

The first paragraph 170 and the second section 180 are here, in particular in connection with 3 will be explained in more detail, so in relation to the central section 160 inclined that the first and the second section 170 . 180 to the central section 160 border and this at least partially trough-shaped surrounded. The first paragraph 170 and the second section 180 thus form a border or a chamfer, which is the central section 160 as a recess at least partially enclose.

In the in the 1 to 3 shown embodiment of a push button 100 extends the first section 170 essentially completely along the central section 160 in the secondary direction of movement 120 , Also the second section 180 extends substantially along the full length of the central portion 160 in the primary direction of movement 110 , The two sections 170 . 180 are over a transitional area 190 connected together so that this together with the first and the second section 170 . 180 the central section 160 at least on the sides of the central section 160 on which the two sections 170 . 180 are arranged, completely encloses.

In other embodiments, however, it is also possible, the first and / or the second portion with respect to their extension along the central portion 160 deviating. For example, the second section 180 in the central section 160 at one of the first section 170 lead away from the opposite side. Also, it is conceivable the two sections 170 . 180 not to connect with each other.

The implementation of a transition area 190 who in 1 On the other hand, the ergonomics of the push button can be shown 100 further increase that it is formed such that in case of contact with the thumb of the User has an area larger contact with the thumb. This can be achieved, for example, by the transition region 190 in terms of its curvature is based on a shape of the thumb. This causes a touch of the thumb with the transition area 190 often perceived as less annoying than if it is missing or square in shape.

The in 1 shown push button 100 points in the area of the bearing surface 140 a recess 200 on, on one edge of the push button 110 is arranged, the second section 180 opposite. The recess 200 extends along an extension direction 210 completely through the push button 100 , The extension direction 210 agrees here with the primary direction of movement 110 match.

Such as related to 2 but also related to 6 will be explained in more detail, the central portion extends 160 due to the recess 200 not up to a side surface 220 of the shaft 150 or the push button 100 , The central section 160 rather has a distance from the side surface 220 on, in particular in interaction with a second push button in the context of a push-button assembly according to one embodiment contributes to the reliability and operational safety of the individual push buttons.

The push button 100 is made using a plastic extrusion technology that saves material inside the shaft 150 a cavity 230 is formed. Of course, however, other manufacturing methods, other materials or even a solid material shaft can be used in other embodiments.

To improve the ergonomics and convenience of operation of the push button 100 According to one embodiment, the central portion 160 essentially smooth running. To mark or label the push button 100 has the in 1 However, shown push button in the region of the central portion 160 an optical mark 240 on, which reproduces the function of the push button in the form of a pictogram in conjunction with the relevant household appliance. In the 1 shown optical marking 240 represent a pictogram for a spray function of an iron. This can for example by means of a printing process or even during the production process of the push button 100 be generated. Depending on which technique is used, so can the optical marking 240 have a survey or a depression.

In the context of the present description, therefore, a smooth surface is also understood as meaning one or more elevations and / or depressions for inscribing or optically marking the pushbutton 100 includes. In particular, corresponding elevations or depressions are not suitable, a slipping of the thumb during operation of the push button 100 to prevent. So have appropriate optical marks 240 typically depressions or elevations as well as line widths or line widths which do not permit a significant frictional or positive connection between the pushbutton and the thumb which operates it. This is all the more so when, due to the operating conditions of the household appliance in question, the thumb is slightly damp.

2 shows a view of the push button 100 out 1 , 2 illustrates here that the first section 170 and the second section 180 immediately to the central section 160 adjoin. Both are through the transition area 190 connected with each other. At the in 2 embodiment shown, the first section 170 a width w1 that is 3.4 mm. Also the second section 180 points at the in 2 shown embodiment, a width w2, which is also 3.4 mm. Accordingly, the transition region also has a corresponding width, taking into account the curvature.

In other embodiments of a push button 100 However, the width w1 and width w2 can also be chosen differently. Likewise, you can optionally vary along their direction of extension. For example, the second section 180 starting from the first section 170 facing side narrower to the opposite side and into the central section 160 lead.

The dimensioning of the widths w1 and w2 is not least a question of the geometric arrangement and orientation of the central section 160 as well as the two sections 170 . 180 relevant. Before, however, in connection with 3 this interplay of widths of the sections concerned 170 . 180 and their orientation to the central section 160 It should be pointed out briefly at this point that 2 the aforementioned distance 51 between the central section 160 and the side surface 220 illustrated by the implementation of the recess 200 arises.

3 shows a cross section through the already in the 1 and 2 shown push button 100 , The central section 160 is opposite the through the primary direction of movement 110 (not shown in 3 ) and the secondary direction of movement 120 (not shown in 3 ) defined level 250 inclined by an angle α1. The angle .alpha.1 is chosen here in a relaxed, ergonomic and / or natural attitude on the central portion during operation of the thumb of a user's hand with which the user holds and guides the household appliance at a grip thereof 160 tangential. The angle α1, as in 3 is here 14 °, but may assume other values in other embodiments. The angle α1 can thus assume, for example, values between 0 ° and 28 °, in other embodiments also values between 6 ° and 22 ° or between 8 ° and 20 °. In many embodiments of a push button 100 indicates the central section 160 a portion on which at least 50% of the area of the central portion 160 includes and is almost level. The angle α1 of the central section 160 in this subregion is typically at a value between 0 ° and 28 °, for example between 10 ° and 18 °.

In order to prevent slippage of the thumb from the support surface even under difficult operating conditions, as described above 140 of the push button 100 to stop is the first section 170 opposite the central section 160 so inclined that the first section 170 Part of a border or chamfer is the central section 160 surrounds at least partially trough-shaped. So closes at the in 3 the embodiment shown, the first section 170 with the plane 250 an angle α1, which is 20 °. In other embodiments, this angle is typically at least 5 °, at least 8 °, at least 10 ° or at least 15 °. Thus, based on the central portion, an angle typically resulting from the sum of the angle α1 of the central portion 160 and the angle α2 of the first and second sections, respectively 170 . 180 results. In the present embodiment, the angle between the central portion 160 and the first section 170 consequently 34 °. When considering the dimensioning of both the angle α2 and the associated width w1, different boundary conditions must be taken into account. These include, but are not limited to, the effectiveness of slipping, the ergonomics or convenience with which the user's thumbs on the push button 100 the available space, economic considerations and other parameters. For example, to allow the most effective slip protection, should the first section 170 opposite the central section 160 should be as high as possible to provide a significant barrier to the thumb in the appropriate direction. The angle under which the first section 170 opposite the central section 160 On the other hand, however, should not be too steep, otherwise a contact of the thumb with the first section 170 is perceived as unpleasant. There is therefore a tendency, at least considering these aspects, the first section 170 with the widest possible width w1 and the smallest possible angle to the central section 160 to implement.

On the other hand, the angle between the central section 160 and the first section 170 However, do not turn out too low, otherwise there could be a risk that the user the first section 170 no longer perceives as a structure to prevent slipping, but rather as an extension of the central portion 160 , Also, the angle α2 of the first section should be opposite the plane 250 should not be negative to slipping alone due to a gliding thumb in the case of a more inclined central portion 160 to prevent. Likewise, the angle between the first section should be 170 in the central section 160 not too small, to the width w1 of the first section 170 do not get too big to get the needed height over the central section 160 to create.

Taking into account this field of tension, therefore, the first section 170 opposite the plane 250 an angle of at least 5 °, in other embodiments of at least 8 °, at least 10 ° or at least 15 °, while the width w1 of the first section 170 should be at least 0.8 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm or at least 3 mm. Depending on the inclination or angle α1 of the central section 160 This results in angles between the central section 160 and the first section 170 , which are given by the sum of the two angles α1 and α2 involved.

In the in the 1 to 3 embodiment shown, the first section 170 a width of 3.4 mm, and an angle α2 to the plane 250 of 20 °, taking into account the angle α1 of the central section 160 to the plane 250 of 14 ° at an angle of 34 ° with respect to the central portion 160 equivalent.

Although previously essentially the interpretation of the first section 170 to the central section 160 the same considerations apply with regard to the second section 180 ,

3 also shows the recess 200 in cross section. This extends from a front edge 260 up to a rear edge 270 of the push button 100 , in particular, the recess has 200 one along the in 3 Not shown vertical direction 130 extending vertical section 280 on.

The recess 200 In this case, it has a depth d which, with regard to its value, not least at a desired distance s2 between two pushbuttons 100 a push button arrangement according to an embodiment oriented. This is related to the profile of the recess 200 and 6 explained in more detail.

4 shows a push button assembly 300 according to an embodiment with a first push button 100-1 and a second push button 100-2 , The two push buttons 100-1 . 100-2 are in this case essentially mirror-symmetrical, so that the respective second sections 180-1 and 180-2 the two push buttons on opposite edge regions of the push button assembly 300 lie. The central sections 160-1 and 160-2 lie next to each other on a common plane.

To accomplish this, the first and second push buttons are 100-1 . 100-2 arranged immediately adjacent to each other. Both are just through a gap 310 separated from each other. As a result, the two central sections form 160-1 . 160-2 the two push buttons 100 a common surface on which the user's thumb can be conveniently placed while holding neither of the two snaps 100 depresses.

4 shows together with 5 like the two push buttons 100-1 . 100-2 a common recess 320 train, which is both in the area of the central sections 160-1 . 160-2 as well as in the area of the respective rear edges 270-1 . 270-2 extend.

As mentioned before, the two push buttons are 100-1 . 100-2 formed and arranged substantially mirror-symmetrical. The mirror symmetry is at the in the 4 and 5 shown embodiment of a push button assembly 300 only by the different optical markings 240-1 and 240-2 breached. Of course, however, the respective push buttons 100-1 and 100-2 a push-button arrangement 300 also differ in terms of other features.

6 shows a front view on the front edges 260-1 and 260-2 the two push buttons 100-1 and 100-2 , 6 shows in particular two structural details of the two snaps 100 , which will be explained in more detail below.

So shows 6 once that the respective second sections 180-1 and 180-2 each over the shaft 150-1 respectively. 150-2 of the respective push button 100-1 respectively. 100-2 protrude. Apart from a slimmer overall impression of the push button arrangement 300 This can in particular the two shafts 150 regardless of by the extent of the two second sections 180 necessary geometry to the other technical constraints of the relevant household appliance. So it may be possible, for example, due to a limited space available, the shafts 150 the two push buttons 100 narrower, without the central sections 160 to downsize and still trained second sections 180 for protection against lateral slippage (along the secondary direction of movement 120 ).

Likewise, it may be advisable, according to superior second sections 180 provided to allow, for example, a better management of the push buttons inside the household appliance. Optionally, for example, a tilting of the push buttons 100 be prevented.

In addition, shows 6 the profile of the two recesses 200-1 and 200-2 more accurate. The recesses 200 of the two push buttons have in the area directly on the support surfaces 160 an angle with these, which is typically between 60 ° and 90 °. With increasing depth in the recess 200 this angle can change if necessary. In the area where the recesses 220 in which the push buttons 100 limiting side surfaces 220 lead to the recesses 200 typically with the side surfaces 220 an angle which is at most 60 °. Accordingly, the profile of the recess 200 with a surface normal of the side surface 220 an angle corresponding to the difference of 90 ° and the aforementioned angle. The two central sections 160 the two push buttons 100 in this case have a distance s2 from each other, which is at least 2 mm and at most 10 mm.

This makes it possible to safely operate one of the two push buttons 100 Also to ensure in the case of a not ideally positioned thumb or a slightly slipped thumb. If the thumb slips slightly, so it is not ideal on the central section 160 the bearing surface 140 (not shown in 6 ) but, if necessary, slightly protrudes over the corresponding other pushbutton, so this slips when pressing the one push button 100 on the profile of the recess 200 the other push button 100 along. To a possible unproblematic pressing the intended push button 100 on the one hand and on the other hand a problem-free as possible Slip the thumb on the other push button 100 allow to have the profiles of the recesses 200 in the area of the central sections 160 in each case a steepest possible angle, which lies in the aforementioned areas.

The steeper the angle set there, the deeper would also reach the recess, if not the angle would be changed in the course of the profile. Therefore, the depth d of the recess 200 To limit it, it may be advisable to change the angle of the recess relative to the side surface 220 has, steadily and evenly diminish to a value below which the recess in the side surface 220 opens. However, still to a sliding of the thumb on the unintentional push button 100 To allow and at the same time to reduce a transmission of force due to friction or geometric conditions, it may be useful to the angle at which the recess 200 in the side area 220 shall be limited to a maximum of 60 °. As a result, on the one hand slipping of the thumb on the profile of the recess of the unintentionally loaded push button 100 be ensured, but without too great forces on this exercise and without too deep recesses 200 to have to provide. In other embodiments, so the two aforementioned angles in the region of the central sections 160 For example, be at least 75 ° or at least 80 ° to optionally slip on the recess 200 of the push button 100 to facilitate.

At the snaps 100 as they are in the 1 to 6 are shown, the profile has in the region of the central portion 160 an angle of about 90 °, opens into the corresponding side surface 220 at an angle of about 45 °. A distance s2 of about 4 mm between the two central sections 160 the two push buttons 100 so can with a depth d of the recesses 200 be realized by about 3 mm.

Of course, push buttons can 100 according to one embodiment also be used as a single push buttons in a household appliance, such as an ironing station or an iron. In such a case, it may be useful to have a push button 100 to be implemented in terms of the geometric design of the in the 4 to 6 shown push button assembly 300 with the difference that corresponds to the two push buttons shown there 100 as a push button without a corresponding gap 310 and implemented without corresponding recesses. In such a case, the correspond in the 4 to 6 shown second sections another second section, so that at the second section 180 opposite side of the push button 100 a corresponding slip protection is provided.

Optionally, both with the snaps 100 a push-button arrangement 300 as with a single push button 100 at one of the first section 170 opposite side or one the first section 170 a third portion are provided opposite edge, which together with the first, the second and optionally the other second portion of the central portion 160 surrounds at least partially trough-shaped and also prevents slipping of the thumb in this direction.

The new solution according to one embodiment thus represents one or more buttons or one or more push buttons, with a typically 3 mm wide circulation in the two directions of movement 110 . 120 (also referred to as X-direction and Y-direction) are provided. This prevents slipping forward (along the primary direction of movement 110 ), as well as laterally along the secondary direction of movement 120 , Likewise, the bearing surface 140 with a slope of 14 ° in which in the 1 to 6 shown embodiment, which in turn supports the autonomous ergonomic positioning of the thumb on the push button. In addition, the inside edges of the large buttons have 100 a recess 200 , which prevents and prevents simultaneous pressing of the neighboring button or the adjacent button.

In this way, a Abrutschstopp ironing buttons, such as the steam button and / or the spray button along the two aforementioned directions of movement 110 . 120 be implemented.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, the claims and the drawings may be of importance both individually and in any combination for the realization of the invention in its various forms.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100

push-button

110

primary direction of movement

120

secondary direction of movement

130

vertical direction

140

bearing surface

150

shaft

160

central section

170

first section

180

second part

190

Transition area

200

recess

210

extension direction

220

side surface

230

cavity

240

optical marking

250

level

360

front edge

370

rear edge

280

vertical section

300

Push button assembly

310

gap

320

common recess

w1

width

w2

width

s1

distance

s2

distance

d

depth

α1

angle

α2

angle

Claims (14)

Push button ( 100 ) for a household appliance, wherein the household appliance during use by a user in a plane ( 250 ) is moved by a primary direction of movement ( 110 ) and a substantially perpendicular to the primary direction of movement ( 110 ) secondary movement direction ( 120 ) and the push button ( 100 ) is adapted to be movable substantially perpendicular to the plane of the user, comprising: a support surface ( 140 ) on which a thumb of the user can be placed during use of the household appliance, and via which the push button ( 100 ) is movable, wherein the support surface ( 140 ) at an edge thereof a first section ( 170 ), which in the primary direction of movement ( 110 ) adjacent to a central section ( 160 ) is arranged; the bearing surface ( 140 ) at its edge a second section ( 180 ), which in the secondary direction of movement ( 120 ) adjacent to the central section ( 160 ) is arranged; and where the first ( 170 ) and the second section ( 180 ) opposite the central section ( 160 ) of the bearing surface ( 140 ) are so inclined that the first ( 170 ) and the second section ( 180 ) the central section ( 160 ) surrounded at least partially trough-shaped. Push button ( 100 ) according to claim 1, wherein the first ( 170 ) and the second section ( 180 ) directly or through a transitional area ( 190 ) of the bearing surface ( 140 ), the transition region ( 190 ) opposite the central section ( 160 ) is inclined so that this together with the first ( 170 ) and the second section ( 180 ) the central section ( 160 ) at least partially trough-shaped surrounds. Push button ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first section ( 170 ) and / or the second section ( 180 ) have a width (w1, w2) which is at least 0.8 mm. Push button ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first section ( 170 ) and / or the second section ( 180 ) compared to the primary ( 110 ) and secondary direction of movement ( 120 ) level ( 250 ) by an angle (α1) of at least 5 ° and / or with respect to the central portion (α1). 160 ) of the bearing surface ( 140 ) is inclined by at least 5 °. Push button ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first ( 170 ) and / or the second section ( 180 ) over a shaft ( 150 ) of the pushbutton ( 100 ) survives. Push button ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, which is designed and shaped such that in a relaxed, ergonomic and / or natural attitude the thumb of a hand of the user on the central portion ( 160 ) tangentially rests when the user holds the household appliance by hand on a handle of the household appliance. Push button ( 100 ) according to claim 6, wherein the central portion ( 160 ) compared to the primary ( 110 ) and the secondary direction of movement ( 120 ) plane ( 250 ) has an angle (α2) between 0 ° and 28 °. Push button ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the central section ( 160 ) is substantially smooth except for bumps or depressions for labeling or optical marking of the push button. Push button ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the bearing surface ( 140 ) further comprises a further second section which is connected to a second section ( 180 ) opposite edge of the support surface ( 140 ) and together with the first ( 170 ) and the second section ( 180 ) the central section ( 160 ) at least partially trough-shaped surrounds. Push-button arrangement ( 300 ) with a first push button ( 100-1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and a second push button ( 100-2 ) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first ( 100-1 ) and the second push button ( 100-2 ) are formed substantially mirror-symmetrically in such a way that the respective second sections ( 180 ) or the respective first sections ( 170 ) of the first ( 100-1 ) and the second pushbutton ( 100-2 ) on opposite edge regions of the push-button arrangement ( 300 ) arranged are, and the central sections ( 160 ) of the first ( 100-1 ) and the second pushbutton ( 100-2 ) lie next to each other; and where the first ( 100-1 ) and the second push button ( 100-2 ) are arranged immediately adjacent to each other. Push-button arrangement ( 300 ) according to claim 10, wherein the first ( 100-1 ) and the second push button ( 100-2 ) in their respective bearing surfaces ( 140 ) each have a recess ( 200 ), which at one edge of the respective push button ( 100 ), the other push button ( 100 ), along a common extension direction ( 210 ) and through the respective push button ( 100 ) extend completely so that the central sections ( 160 ) of the bearing surfaces ( 140 ) of the two push buttons ( 100 ) are spaced from each other. Push-button arrangement ( 100 ) according to claim 11, wherein the recesses ( 200 ) of the two push buttons ( 200 ) perpendicular to the direction of extent ( 210 ) have a profile which directly on the support surface ( 140 ) encloses an angle with this, which is between 60 ° and 90 °, and in a the respective push button ( 100 ) limiting side surface ( 220 ) opens at an angle which is at most 60 °. Push-button arrangement ( 100 ) according to one of claims 11 or 12, in which the central sections ( 160 ) of the bearing surfaces of the two push buttons ( 100 ) at least 2 mm and at most 10 mm apart. Household appliance, namely iron or ironing station, with at least one push button ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9 and / or at least one push-button arrangement ( 300 ) according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the direction of movement ( 110 ) and the secondary direction of movement ( 120 ) plane ( 250 ) is defined by a soleplate of the iron or the ironing station.

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