DE102015206673B4 - Method and system for detecting user input for a mobile unit by means of an input device of a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for detecting user inputs for a mobile unit (2) by means of an input device (6) of a vehicle (1), wherein the mobile unit (2) generates and transmits data to a graphical user interface to a control unit (4) of the vehicle, wherein the graphical user interface comprises switching elements (12) that are markable and / or selectable, the graphical user interface is displayed on a display surface (5a) of the vehicle (1), the input device (6) detects user inputs in which switching elements (12) are selected successively anda control unit (4) generates a signal in dependence on the selected switching elements (12) which is transmitted to the mobile unit (2), characterized in that the graphical user interface is adapted to both user inputs of an input device (6) of the vehicle (1 ), which includes a touch-sensitive surface (6b), as well as user inputs of an input device (6) of the vehicle (1), which comprises a mechanical operating element (6a) set down from the display surface (5a), wherein the graphical user interface is produced in such a way that the switching elements (12) along at least two mutually adjacent arcs (13) a respective next and a previous switching element (12) is defined for all the switching elements (12) and the respectively next or previous switching element (12) is marked in dependence on an operating action detected by the input device (6), the next or previous one Switching element (12) to the last or first switching element (12) on a sheet (13) at the opposite end of an adjacent sheet (13) is arranged.

Description

The invention relates to a method for detecting user inputs for a mobile unit by means of an input device of a vehicle. The mobile unit generates data on a graphical user interface and transmits it to a control unit of the vehicle. In this case, the graphical user interface comprises switching elements that can be marked and / or selected. The graphical user interface is displayed on a display surface of the vehicle. The input device detects user inputs in which switching elements are successively selected, and a control unit generates a signal in response to the selected switching elements, which signal is transmitted to the mobile unit. The invention further relates to a system for detecting user inputs in a vehicle. The system comprises a mobile unit, by which data can be generated to a graphical user interface and transferable to a control unit of the vehicle, wherein the graphical user interface comprises switching elements that are markable and / or selectable. It also comprises a display device of the vehicle with a display surface on which the graphical user interface can be displayed, and an input device of the vehicle, by means of which user inputs can be detected, in which switching elements are selected one after the other. In this case, a signal can be generated by the control unit in dependence on the selected switching elements and transmitted to the mobile unit.

In a vehicle, in particular in a motor vehicle, a plurality of electronic devices is provided, the operation of which must be made possible for the driver or another vehicle occupant. These devices include, for example, a navigation system, a variety of driver assistance systems and communication and multimedia applications, the z. As a telephone system and facilities for playing music and language, such. A radio or a CD player.

In order to operate the various facilities in the vehicle can be used in vehicles often multifunction control systems, which include one or more multi-function display (s) and controls that can be operated with the various devices contained in the vehicle. The operation is supported or guided by the information displayed on the multifunction display. Furthermore, it can be selected via the operating system, which information should be displayed on the multifunction display.

The proliferation of mobile user devices, such as cell phones, personal digital assistants, and portable computers, adds to the need to integrate these devices into the entirety of the vehicle's facilities. For example, in addition to the telephone function, modern mobile phones often have a navigation system, a calendar function, multimedia data playback functions and means for acquiring and storing audiovisual data. These functions can supplement the facilities of the vehicle. Nevertheless, the operation of such user devices in the vehicle, especially by the driver of the vehicle, requires specialized concepts, such as to avoid distraction and comply with legal regulations. Operating concepts such as mobile phones are not directly related to the use in a vehicle, for example, because the size of an available display differs significantly from the use outside the vehicle.

In particular, concepts for capturing text input, for example to determine the destination for a navigation system or to call up a particular music track, can not be transferred unchanged from mobile user devices to the situation in the vehicle. This is mainly because the user in the vehicle, in particular the driver, can not pay all his attention to the text input, for example by means of a keyboard on the screen of the mobile user device, and typically only limited means for the detection of user input are available , Common input devices are touch-sensitive screens, so-called touch screens, and rotary-push dials, which the user can manipulate by rotating and pressing a mechanical element.

When in the DE 10 2010 011 480 A1 described display device of a motor vehicle are functions by at least two different control devices on and selectable, in particular by a touch screen and a rotary-push-dial. The graphical representation on the display device is variable depending on the selected operating device, wherein the graphical representation of at least one function is substantially independent of the selection of the operating device.

From the DE10 2007 023 313 A1 For example, an electronic display device is known in which the characters of a character set are displayed arranged on a curved arc line.

The US 2013/0234949 A1 describes a keyboard diagonally displayed on a touch screen.

In addition to the preceding prior art, the documents describe US 2013/0106750 A1 and US 2013/0138728 A1 mobile display device for a motor vehicle. It is an object of the present invention to provide a method and a system for easily and quickly detecting inputs of a user for a mobile unit in a vehicle.

According to the invention this object is achieved by a method of the type mentioned above with the features of claim 1 and a system of the type mentioned above with the features of claim 12. Advantageous embodiments and further developments emerge from the dependent claims.

The inventive method is characterized in that the graphical user interface is generated so that the switching elements along at least two adjacent arcs are arranged.

For the purposes of the invention, a "switching element" is understood to be a control element of a graphical user interface. A switching element differs from elements and surfaces for purely information display, so-called display elements, in that they are markable and selectable. When a switching element is marked, it can be emphasized, for example by a graphic highlighting over non-marked switching elements. Furthermore, a marked switching element can be selected by means of an operating action. Upon selection of a switching element, a function assigned to it is executed. The function may change the information display. Furthermore, devices can be controlled via the switching elements whose operation is supported by the information display. The switching elements can thus replace conventional mechanical switches.

The arrangement of the switching elements within the graphical user interface is of central importance for the usability of the system. In particular, the arrangement must be designed so that the user can quickly and intuitively recognize which switching element is marked or selected by means of which operating action. For detecting user input, various types of input devices are used in modern vehicles. In particular, one or more of such input devices is typically available. For example, a screen with a touch-sensitive surface may be available, a so-called touch screen.

For example, a film may be arranged above the display surface, with which the position of a touch of an actuating object can be detected. The actuating object is, in particular, the fingertip of a user. The film can z. B. be formed as a resistive touch foil, capacitive touch foil or piezoelectric film. Further, the film may be formed so that a heat flow, the z. B. from the fingertip of a user, is measured. From the temporal development of the contact of the film, various inputs can be obtained. For example, in the simplest case, the touching of the film at a certain position can be detected and assigned to a graphical object displayed on the display surface, for example a switching element. Furthermore, the length of the touch can be detected at a certain position or within a certain range.

Touching the touch screen at a particular position by means of a control, such as the user's finger, is associated with a position within the graphical representation displayed on the screen. As a result, a switching element displayed at the corresponding position is marked or selected.

Alternatively or in addition to the touch-sensitive surface, the graphical representation may include a virtual pointer that may be positioned within the graphical representation by means of an input device, such as a computer mouse, a touchpad, or a bi-directional control that controls the virtual pointer within the graphic two-dimensional graphical user interface allowed. For text input, the image of a keyboard is typically shown graphically in such a system, wherein the switching elements are arranged within the graphical user interface in rows with each other. This results in a field of switching elements through which the user navigates two-dimensionally.

Another example of an input device, such as is present in modern vehicles, is the turn-push actuator. This includes a mechanical element that the user can rotate, such as to mark an element from a one-dimensionally ordered list. Furthermore, the control element can be pressed about, which serves for example for selecting the last-selected switching element. When using a rotary-push-adjuster for selecting switching elements, these are typically displayed in one-dimensional order, for example, arranged as a list or along a circle, whereby the representation is analogous to the rotating operator action.

To achieve the greatest possible flexibility, a function of a mobile must User device, such as a mobile phone to be used in the vehicle, can detect inputs by the respective input devices present in the vehicle. If, for example, a touchscreen is present in the vehicle, the mobile user device must generate the graphical user interface in such a way that the user can quickly and easily mark and / or select the switching elements on a touchscreen. On the other hand, if, for example, a turn-push actuator is provided for detecting user inputs, the representation of the switching elements must be generated in such a way that the user can make his inputs through the rotary push-button. If the vehicle comprises several different possibilities for inputting user inputs, the graphical user interface which is suitable for the respective active input device is typically displayed.

On the other hand, the arrangement according to the invention of the switching elements along at least second adjacent arcs advantageously makes it possible to use the same graphical user interface for different input devices. In particular, the inventive arrangement of the switching elements can be operated by a touch screen and / or a rotary-push-dial. In this case, the user can directly select the switching elements within the graphical user interface, wherein the arcuate arrangement in the rotation of the mechanical rotary-push actuator finds its equivalent. It is therefore not necessary to develop several graphical user interfaces in order to be able to use different input devices for capturing user inputs. This reduces the time and cost of developing external applications, such as mobile user devices, that are embedded in the vehicle.

The user is further facilitated the operation, since it is displayed regardless of the input device used the same graphical user interface, without constant adjustments are necessary. In particular, input devices for selection within a one-dimensional list and other input devices for navigation in two dimensions can be used for the same graphical user interface.

According to the invention, the switching elements are arranged along mutually adjacent arcs. The shape of an "arc" means according to the invention that the arrangement of the switching elements a rotational movement of an operating element follows. This can be done, for example, by circular or elliptical arcs, wherein the exact shape of the curve does not have to correspond geometrically exactly a circle or an ellipse. For example, the curve may be flattened or may include corners, and may be approximately upset or stretched. The curves along which the switching elements are arranged, in particular, are not closed, that is, they are, for example, segments of closed curves. In particular, the switching elements are arranged along concave or convex curves.

The sheets are adjacent to each other, that is, in particular, that they do not intersect. The arranged along the arcs switching elements are therefore each associated with exactly one arc. The arcs may be concentric circular or elliptical arcs or modifications thereof. Furthermore, the arcs may be parallel to each other.

In the method according to the invention, the graphical user interface is designed to detect both user inputs of an input device of the vehicle, which comprises a touch-sensitive surface, and user inputs of an input device of the vehicle, which comprises a mechanical operating element which is offset from the display surface.

In particular, these are a touch screen and a rotary push-button. The graphical user interface is inventively generated by the mobile unit, regardless of the input devices that are available in the vehicle. This allows the flexible use of the mobile unit in different vehicles, which include different input devices. The mobile unit can be integrated with its functions in the overall system of the vehicle, regardless of which input devices are present for the detection of user input. For example, a vehicle may have only a touch screen, but not a turn-push dial. Conversely, only a rotary push-button or a similar input device may be present. Furthermore, both can be available. This advantageously increases the variety of possible uses and the integration possibilities of the mobile unit.

In one embodiment, the switching elements letters and / or numbers are assigned and the switching elements are arranged in the manner of a keyboard. It is therefore in particular a graphical user interface for the capture of text input. According to the invention, in contrast to representations of keyboards, as they are familiar to the user from mobile phones, the keyboard is generated so that the switching elements ("buttons") are arranged along mutually adjacent arcs.

The input of text is needed, for example, to capture the destination of a navigation, to search for a particular song, a call another function or make or change an entry in an address book or calendar. The input of text is particularly challenging, because the input of each letter a variety of choices must be presented. Depending on the input language, typical keyboards may have more than 30 provide various characters, in addition, a switch of the keyboard between upper and lower case letters and numbers may be provided. By arranging the switching elements according to the invention along arcs, the user can, on the one hand, orient within the familiar representation of a keyboard, while at the same time the rotational movement of, for example, a rotary-push-dial is reflected and the operation is simple and fast, for example by means of a rotary-push-adjuster is possible.

In a further development, the sheets are parallel to each other. For the purposes of the invention, bends are parallel to each other, if they are parallel curves. Furthermore, in this case, all the sheet forms described above are detected, wherein the sheets extend in such a way that they do not intersect, at least in the area of the display surface.

In particular, in the arrangement of the switching elements in a plurality of rows, which are arranged along a plurality of sheets, in this way, the graphical user interface can be displayed so that the user can quickly and easily distinguish between the different rows. This advantageously allows quick and easy operation.

In one embodiment, the arcs are ellipse segments. The switching elements are thus arranged on arcs that follow oval curves. The sheets can therefore be generated in an advantageous manner and allow the user a quick orientation within the graphical user interface.

A special case of the ellipse geometry is the circle in which the two focal points of the ellipse coincide. In this case, the geometry of the presentation is particularly simple and clear to the user.

In a further development, the arcs are circle segments whose geometric centers are located outside the display area. The illustrated arches are thus circular arcs with a center angle below 180 °. The arrangement of the switching elements on such sheets has a deviation from the arrangement along straight lines, while the bend is at the same time less than that the full circular shape is shown. This corresponds advantageously to an arrangement of the switching elements such that both the operation is made possible by means of a touch screen, as well as about by means of a rotary-push-knob.

In one embodiment, the arcs are concentric circle segments whose common center is below the visible area and on the vertical center axis of the display area, the ratio of the radii to the visible width of the display area being in a range of 0.2 to 0.17.

This ensures that the curvature of the sheets, along which the switching elements are arranged, is recognizable to the user. Too large a degree of curvature relative to the width of the display area results in the arrangement of the switching elements being perceived no longer along curved arcs than along a straight line, thus rendering operation by means of, for example, a rotary pushbutton unplayable and therefore relieved becomes. Conversely, if the curvature is too strong relative to the width of the display area, the representation is too far away from the image of a straight, non-curved keyboard and makes it difficult to operate, for example, by means of a touchscreen.

This applies analogously to all arch shapes that can be approximated by concentric circles or ellipses. The adjacent concentric arcs can be formed approximately equidistant. The center may also be located at another position outside the visible area of the display area, for example above or at the side. In addition, the ratio of the radii to the visible width of the display area may be outside the above range according to the conditions of the display.

In a further development, the input device comprises a spatially resolved touch detection device, by which the position of a touch of the user with a control element on the display surface is determined and this position is assigned to a switching element of the graphical user interface, wherein the switching element is marked and / or selected.

In particular, the operating element is the user's finger, in particular the fingertip. In particular, the input device comprises a touchscreen, a touchpad or another comparable touch-detection device. By detecting the touch at a position on a two-dimensional surface, a switching element within the graphical user interface can be directly marked and / or selected. This advantageously allows the user to easily and quickly operate the graphical user interface, such as a Keyboard on the display surface, through the selection of illustrated switching elements.

In a development, the input device comprises a gesture detection unit, by which gestures of the user can be detected, can be marked and / or selected by the switching elements.

To carry out a gesture, an actuation object is used according to the invention, in particular the hand of the user. In the following explanations, the user's hand is the operation object, but the information should be generalized to other operation objects such as a pen.

For the purposes of the invention, a "gesture" is understood to mean a specific position of a user's hand or a specific movement that is carried out with the user's hand. The gestures can be designed in a manner known per se. In particular, they include pointing gestures, swiping gestures, and gestures used in everyday use, e.g. Hand turns, gripping gestures and combinations of several such possibly immediately in short successive executed gestures. The gestures are executed in the detection room without the user having to establish a spatial reference to the display area. In particular, it is not necessary to approach a specific graphic object in the display area. By controlling the user interface by means of gestures, the user is provided with a particularly simple and intuitive input option for controlling the display content in the display area or the associated facilities.

According to one embodiment, a direction in the space is determined from the detected gesture, depending on the determined direction, a point in the display area is calculated and the selection of the graphical object is visualized if the graphical object lies in a predetermined surrounding area around the calculated point. Thereby, the graphic object can be selected by pointing. The visualization of the targeted graphical object has the advantage that the user immediately receives a feedback to his operating action. The point in the display area can be visualized even if no object has been identified in the surrounding area around the point. This avoids the user having to search between the objects in the blank until he has hit the desired graphic object. This can further speed up the selection process.

In particular, the gestures are detected contactlessly in the room. In the event that the gesture is divided into several phases, at least one phase is detected without contact in the room. Non-contact gestures have the particular advantage that the user does not have to take control means into his or her operating inputs. This is particularly advantageous when using the method according to the invention in a vehicle.

The detection of the gestures preferably takes place without contact by a camera system, which records temporally resolved video data from the detection space and assigns the detected user movements to specific gestures by means of a connected analysis unit. Alternatively or additionally, the gesture detection device comprises resistive and / or capacitive surfaces, via which a first phase of a gesture can be detected. According to the invention, a respective next and a previous switching element is defined for all switching elements, and depending on a control action detected by means of the input device, the respective next or previous switching element is marked.

For example, the illustrated switching elements may be arranged in a one-dimensional list in which each switching element is associated with a next and a previous switching element. In particular, the switching element may be assigned to itself as next or previous, such as when only a single switching element is shown. In particular, in the representation of a keyboard of each key, the key adjacent to the right, for example, can be defined as the next switching element and the key to the left as the previous switching element, or vice versa. Further, a switching element disposed on another arc may be defined as a previous or next switching element. This advantageously permits, in particular, the operation by means of a rotary-push-dial or other input device, in which elements of a one-dimensionally ordered list, which is displayed two-dimensionally on the display surface, can be marked and selected by means of an operating action with a one-dimensional degree of freedom. The illustrated switching elements are arranged in this way and accessible to the user quickly and easily.

In one development, an upper and a lower switching element is defined for each switching elements. Depending on an operating action detected by means of the input device, the respective upper or lower switching element is marked.

Analogous to the above-described assignment of a next and previous switching element also in this case allows the arrangement of the switching elements in a one-dimensional ordered list the user navigation within the Representation by means of a rotary push-button or other input device. Again, a switching element may be assigned to itself as upper and / or lower, such as when only one row is shown.

In particular, the combination of ordering criteria in two directions, in the described case after previous and next or upper and lower arrangement relative to the respective switching element allows rapid navigation within the two-dimensionally arranged representation of the switching elements. For example, the user can mark the next switching element by rotation by means of a rotary-push-setting device, whereby the upper or lower switching element is marked, for example, by tilting the rotary push-button.

According to the invention, the next or previous switching element is arranged to the last or first switching element on a sheet at the opposite end of an adjacent sheet. In this way, arranged on adjacent arcs switching elements can be arranged in an advantageous manner in a one-dimensional list. When passing through the switching elements as with a rotary-push-button, wherein each rotation of the rotary-push-adjuster the next switching element is marked shoots, for example, to the right on a sheet arranged on the outside switching element left outside arranged switching element on the down adjacent arch. As a result, the switching elements are advantageously arranged on a plurality of sheets in a one-dimensionally ordered list.

In one embodiment, the input device comprises at least one operating element, the operating action comprising a rotation of the operating element and / or a pivoting of the operating element and / or a translation of the operating element in a horizontal plane and / or a translation along a vertical axis of the operating element.

The individual operator actions are executable along one degree of freedom. The individual operator actions therefore allow navigation within a one-dimensionally ordered list. For example, the control element may be a rotary-push-dial, in which by a rotation of the control element by a certain angle each next or previous switching element is marked. Another operating action in this case is the pressing, in particular the deflection of the control element in the direction of the axis of rotation, whereby the last-selected switching element is selected. The rotary push-button may also be tiltable, in particular in two different directions within the horizontal plane. Furthermore, the input device can additionally comprise push buttons, by means of which, for example, the selection of the last-selected switching element is carried out. Furthermore, the various operating actions can be assigned to the respective previous or next or the upper or lower switching element. The user is thereby advantageously made possible a quick and easy navigation within the graphical user interface to the desired switching element.

In a further embodiment, the respectively next or previous or upper or lower switching element is marked by a rotation and / or a pivoting of the operating element about a defined solid angle.

The inventive arrangement of the switching elements along adjacent arches reflects the possible operation by means of a rotation of a control element again. Similarly, a pivoting movement of the operating element is represented by the arrangement along bends. The user can therefore advantageously quickly and easily recognize how the desired switching element is markable and selectable. In particular, the rotation of the control element by a defined angle corresponding to the marking of the respective next or previous switching element, for example, when the arranged on the arc right and left of the current switching element switching elements are defined as next or previous. Further, for example, pivoting about a defined angle, for example in a direction corresponding to a direction on the graphical user interface, each mark the upper or lower switching element.

In a further development, the respective next or previous or upper or lower switching element is marked by a translation of the operating element by a defined amount and in a defined direction in the horizontal plane.

The translation of the control element can be done, for example, by moving within the horizontal plane forward and backward or right and left. The movement within the horizontal plane can be transferred approximately to the navigation within the two-dimensional graphic user interface. For example, by means of a translation to the right or left, the respective next or previous switching element can be marked on the sheet. Analogously, for example, by a shift forward or backward, the respective upper or lower switching element can be marked. The user can thereby advantageously along the sheets or corresponding to the adjacent sheets go through and mark ordered switching elements.

In one embodiment, the currently selected switching element is selected by a translation of the operating element by a defined amount and in a defined direction along the vertical axis. In particular, the control element, such as a rotary push-button allows the pressing of the control element perpendicular to the horizontal plane. This actuation of the control element leads to the selection of the just-marked switching element.

The user can thus advantageously select the last-selected switching element, wherein both the marking and the selection can be carried out by a single control element.

The system of the type mentioned above is characterized in that the graphical user interface can be generated by the mobile unit so that the switching elements are arranged along at least two adjacent arcs.

The system according to the invention is in particular designed to implement the method according to the invention described above. The system thus has the same advantages as the method according to the invention.

• 1 zeigt ein Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Systems,
• 2 A und 2B zeigen Ausführungsbeispiele von gemäß dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren erzeugten graphischen Bedienoberflächen,
• 3A bis 3D zeigen das Markieren von Schaltelementen mittels Rotation eines Bedienelements,
• 4A bis 4D zeigen das Markieren von Schaltelementen mittels Translation eines Bedienelements und
• 5A und 5B zeigen die Auswahl von Schaltelementen mittels Drücken eines Bedienelements.

The invention will now be explained by means of embodiments with reference to the drawings.

• 1 shows an embodiment of the system according to the invention,
• 2 A and 2 B show exemplary embodiments of graphical user interfaces generated according to the method according to the invention,
• 3A to 3D show the marking of switching elements by means of rotation of a control element,
• 4A to 4D show the marking of switching elements by means of translation of a control element and
• 5A and 5B show the selection of switching elements by pressing a control element.

In reference to 1 an embodiment of the system according to the invention will be explained.

A mobile unit 2 is detachable with a vehicle 1 connected. This is done through an interface 3 , through the data between the mobile unit 2 and the vehicle 1 can be exchanged. With the interface 3 is a control unit 4 coupled, in turn, with a display device 5 and an input device 6 is coupled. The display device 5 includes a display area 5a , the input device 6 includes in the case illustrated several controls 6a and 6b , specifically a rotary trigger 6a and a touch-sensitive surface 6b , The touch-sensitive surface 6b is on the display area 5a arranged, it is a so-called touch screen 6b ,

For example, a foil may overlay the display surface 5a be arranged, with which the position of a touch of an actuating object can be detected. The actuating object is, in particular, the fingertip of a user. The film may be formed, for example, as a resistive touch foil, capacitive touch foil or piezoelectric foil. Furthermore, the film may be designed so that a heat flow, for example, emanating from the fingertip of a user, is measured. From the temporal development of the contact of the film, various inputs can be obtained. For example, in the simplest case, touching the film at a certain position can be detected and one on the display surface 5a be assigned displayed graphic object. Furthermore, the length of the touch can be detected at a certain position or within a certain range.

The turn-push actuator 6a In the example shown, a knob rotatably mounted about its longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the button can be actuated by pressure in the direction of its longitudinal axis. Furthermore, an angle is defined which corresponds to one step during the rotation of the knob. By appropriate rotation of the button, the user can cover the specified angle several times and perform a corresponding number of steps. The turn-push actuator 6a may include a mechanical feedback, wherein the user must overcome, for example, to rotate the specific angle at each step a certain mechanical resistance.

The mobile unit 2 can perform functions and data with the vehicle 1 change. It generates a graphical representation of a graphical user interface for recording user input, in particular text input, and transmits this to the control unit 4 , This transmits the data further to the display by means of the display device 5 on the display surface 5a , The user can via the touch screen 6b Make inputs and the corresponding data will be from the input device 6 to the control unit 4 and from there via the interface 3 to the mobile unit 2 transfer.

Related to the 1 and 2 the sequence of the method according to the invention will be explained with reference to an embodiment. The process is characterized by the in 1 illustrated embodiment of the system according to the invention executed.

The mobile unit 2 performs a function, in the example shown a route guidance. It is through to the interface 3 with the vehicle 1 coupled. To execute the route guidance must be the mobile unit 2 Enter user input, in particular the destination and the house number. The inventive method now makes it possible for these user inputs by means of the input device 6 of the vehicle 1 capture. The mobile unit generates this 2 Data for displaying a graphical user interface. It transmits this data through the interface 3 to the control unit 4 , This transmits the data to the display for display 5 where the graphical user interface on the display area 5a is issued. The user can in the illustrated embodiment, either the rotary-push-button 6a or the touch screen 6b for inputs. For this purpose, the graphical user interface comprises switching elements 12 , in the case shown a keyboard 12 , The switching elements 12 are markable and selectable, ie they can be graphically highlighted, with only one switching element at a time 12 should be marked, and be selected by means of a suitable operating action. Furthermore, the representation of the user interface includes a prompt 10 , and a field for outputting the entered string 11 , This is used in particular by the user checking out the string 11 can capture the entirety of the user input already recorded.

The input of letters is done by means of in 2A illustrated graphical user interface. Digits are made by means of in 2 B recorded graphical user interface. In both cases, the switching elements 12 along adjacent circular arcs 13 arranged. The circular arcs 13 are in the illustrated case concentric circles whose center is below the outside of the display area 5a located. The circular arcs 13 are in the 2A and 2 B However, they need not be shown in further embodiments. The representation of the switching elements 12 in the keyboard 12 corresponds to a graphical representation of a physical keyboard, wherein the typically executed in the physical keyboard rows according to the invention along adjacent arches 13 , in the illustrated case concentric circular arcs 13 run.

The switching elements 12 are on the bows 13 arranged equidistantly. Furthermore, they are arranged so that they touch or have a small relative to their size distance from each other. In particular, the switching elements 12 represented as circles and ellipses, their foci on the arches 13 lie. The two focal points of a switching element shown as an ellipse 12 in particular, each lie on the same sheet 13 , Alternatively, the major axis of an ellipse may be radial to a circular arc 13 lie. Furthermore, the switching elements 12 be formed as other geometric shapes, such as squares or rectangles.

The switching elements 12 are labeled so that the user can recognize which function when selecting a switching element 12 is carried out. These include entering single characters, such as letters or numbers, deleting characters, confirming input, or switching between entering letters and numbers. At the in 2 B Furthermore, a telephone operating function can be controlled by means of corresponding symbols. The illustrated characters are shown upright, with their longitudinal axis parallel to the height of the display surface 5a runs, or are the respective bow 13 shown tilted, with its longitudinal axis radially to the center of the respective arc 13 runs. In particular, the label is on circular switching elements 12 upright and on elliptical switching elements 12 shown radially. In particular, the switching elements of the same shape are on a sheet 13 in each case the same size, for example, all circular switching elements 13 represented with the same font size.

The user can now by touching a position on the touch screen, which is one of the switching elements 12 is assigned, a character or other switching element 12 choose. In this case, the last selected switching element 12 marked graphically and the corresponding character is added to the entered string 11 displayed. The graphic highlighting of the last selected switching element 12 can be done in particular by the fact that the switching element 12 opposite to the other switching elements 12 is shown changed, in the case illustrated by a greater brightness and a bright border. Alternatively or additionally, the color can be changed and the size of the switching element 12 may be changed from the unlabeled or selected switching elements 12 , The representation may also be dynamic, for example by a periodically changing color, brightness and / or size, such as a blink.

The entry is made by means of the rotary-push-dial 6a , then the last selected switching element 12 highlighted graphically and by rotation of the button becomes another switching element 12 marked. By pressing the button, the last selected switching element 12 selected, wherein the graphical representation can be changed from the marker, and the selected character appears as the last character of the input string 11 , Details on marking and selecting switching elements 12 by means of a rotary-push actuator are described below.

In a further embodiment, the input device comprises 6 of the vehicle 1 only one of the two input devices, in particular either a rotary-push-button 6a or a touchscreen 6b , Nevertheless, the mobile unit generates 2 the same graphics data to the graphical user interface as in the 2A and 2 B shown. It is therefore not necessary for the mobile unit 2 to capture the user input information about the configuration of the vehicle 1 with respect to the available input device 6 receives. Furthermore, the mobile unit needs 2 only be designed to generate the graphical user interface according to the inventive method. This means less effort compared to the provision of multiple graphical user interfaces for different vehicle configurations in which only one or more options for entering user input are available.

In a further embodiment, the switching elements 12 not along confocal circular arcs 13 arranged but along elliptical arches 13 , The bows 13 can also follow different curves, but always the rotational movement in the operation of a rotary-push actuator 6a clarify. Furthermore, the imaginary arcs intersect 13 on which the switching elements 12 are not arranged so that each switching element 12 always clearly a bow 13 assigned.

In a further embodiment, the ratio of the height to the width of the display area ( 5a ) Approximately 2: 3, in particular, the height and width are divided into 1000 and 1500 units of length. In the following, it is assumed that the length units in the vertical and horizontal directions have the same length, the display area 5a So divided into 1000 x 1500 square virtual pixels. The displayed switching elements 12 are along four confocal circular arcs 13 arranged, their common center below the display area 5a lies on the vertical center axis. The distance between the center point and the lower edge corresponds to the display area 5a 175 Length units in the vertical direction. The radii of the circles are 820, 680, 540 and 400 length units, the arcs 13 thus run equidistant from each other. The ratio of the radii to the width of the display area 5a is accordingly around 0.55, 0.45, 0.36 and 0.27.

For example, the display area ( 5a ) have the dimensions 13.33 cm x 8 cm and about 800 x 480 pixels (so-called pixels) have.

Based on 3A to 3B the marking of switching elements is represented by rotation of a control element.

3A schematically shows the structure of a rotary-push actuator 6a , It includes a clockwise and counterclockwise rotatable button that can be pressed down, with one step at a time for each rotation angle. Furthermore, the operating element comprises 6a two push-buttons, which are arranged on the right and left above close to the rotatable knob.

3B marks the marking to the right of the currently selected switching element 12 located switching element 12 For this purpose, the rotatable knob is rotated by a certain angle in a clockwise direction, wherein a step is defined by the sweep of the specific angle. The marked switching element 12 is through one over the other switching elements 12 higher brightness and a bright outline highlighted. At first this is the letter " Q "Corresponding switching element 12 marked. Rotating the knob clockwise will change the letter to " W "Corresponding switching element 12 marked.

3C represents the transition between two rows of switching elements arranged along adjacent arcs 12 First of all, the switching element located on a right-outside arc 12 that the letter " P "Corresponds, marked. Turning the knob clockwise will change the switching element 12 which is located in the lower left row on the left and the letter " A " assigned.

In the in 3D Case shown is located below the row, the right outer switching element 12 "OK" is marked first, no further row. Turning the knob clockwise will turn the leftmost switch element 12 the first row, in the case shown the letter " Q ", Marked.

Similarly, by reversing directions by rotating the knob counterclockwise, switching elements can be marked 12 be carried out in the opposite direction according to the pattern described above. When the knob is turned counterclockwise, it will, if present, be to the left of the currently selected switching element 12 located switching element 12 marked. Arriving at the very edge of a row, the marker jumps to the opposite end of the row below or above.

Related to the 4A to 4D the marking of switching elements is represented by means of translation of a control element.

4A schematically represents a rotary push-button 6a in which the button whose rotation in the 3A to 3D has been shown, along two mutually perpendicular directions in the horizontal plane is displaced or tilted. In particular, the operating element 6a slidable or tiltable to the right and left or up and down.

4B shows moving or tilting the control to the right. This is the right of the currently selected switching element 12 " Q "Located switching element 12 " W "Selected. Similarly, by shifting or tilting to the left, the left neighbor of the currently selected switching element 12 marked.

Has the currently selected switching element 12 no right neighbor, so will, as in 4C represented by pushing or tilting the operating element 6a marked to the right the first element of the series, from the end of which was assumed. In contrast to that in the 3A to 3D shown rotating the operating element 6a Thus, the mark does not jump into another row or to a switching element arranged on another arc 12 , In the illustrated case, this is followed by the switching element positioned on the extreme right 12 " P "The left outside in the same row positioned switching element 12 " Q ". Analogously, this applies to a shift of the operating element 6a to the left.

4D illustrates the shifting of the marker into a row above or below the current marker. Starting from the switching element 12 " G "Becomes the underlying switching element 12 " V "Marked by the control element is pushed down or tilted. Conversely, by moving or tilting the control element 6a move the marker upwards into the row above the current marker.

In further embodiments, the direction in which the mark by the displacement or tilting of the operating element 6a is shifted, vice versa. That is, moving to the right or tilting to the left will mark the left neighbor, and moving to the left or tilting will result in the right neighbor being highlighted.

Based on 5A and 5B the selection of switching elements is represented by pressing a control element.

5A schematically shows a rotary push-button 6a , which can be actuated by pressing, ie by vertical translation along the longitudinal axis of the operating element. By pressing the rotary pushbutton 6a becomes the currently selected switching element 12 selected.

5B clarifies this with an example. The graphic highlighting shows that this is the letter " Q "Associated switching element 12 is marked. By pressing the control element 6a becomes the marked switching element 12 selected. The letter " Q "Appears in the field of the entered string 11 , Furthermore, the graphical highlighting of the switching element 12 " Q "To be changed, about to signal that the marked switching element 12 has already been selected and to prevent accidentally duplicate selection.

Is the selected switching element 12 not associated with a letter, but with another function, such as switching between different keyboard views or deleting the last input character, so the corresponding function when selecting the switching element 12 executed.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

vehicle

2

Mobile unit

3

interface

4

control unit

5

display device

5a

display area

6

input device

6a

Rotary push-button control

6b

Touch-sensitive surface; touchscreen

10

command prompt

11

Entered string

12

Switching elements; keyboard

13

(Circular) arc

Claims (12)

Method for detecting user inputs for a mobile unit (2) by means of an input device (6) of a vehicle (1), in which the mobile unit (2) generates data on a graphical user interface and transmits it to a control unit (4) of the vehicle, the graphical user interface comprising switching elements (12) that can be marked and / or selected, the graphical user interface on a display surface (5a) of the vehicle (1) is displayed, the input device (6) detects user inputs in which switching elements (12) are successively selected, and a control unit (4) in response to the selected switching elements (12) generates a signal to the mobile unit (2), characterized in that the graphical user interface is adapted to both user inputs of an input device (6) of the vehicle (1), which comprises a touch-sensitive surface (6b), and user inputs of an input device (6) of the vehicle (1 ) comprising a mechanical operating element (6a) offset from the display surface (5a), wherein i the graphical user interface is generated so that the switching elements (12) along at least two mutually adjacent sheets (13) are arranged, wherein for each switching elements (12) each have a next and a previous switching element (12) is defined and in response to a the next or previous switching element (12) is marked to the last or first switching element (12) on a sheet (13) at the opposite end of an adjacent sheet (13) is arranged. Method according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the switching elements letters and / or numbers are assigned and the switching elements (12) are arranged in the manner of a keyboard (12). Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheets (13) are parallel to each other. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheets (13) are elliptical segments. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arcs (13) are concentric circle segments whose common center lies below the visible area and on the vertical central axis of the display area (5a), the ratio of the radii to the width of the visible area Display area (5a) is in a range of 0.2 to 0.7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input device (6) comprises a spatially resolved touch detection device (6b), by which the position of a touch of the user with a control element on the display surface (5a) is determined and this position a switching element (12 ) is assigned to the graphical user interface, wherein the switching element (12) is marked and selected. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for each switching elements (12) each have an upper and a lower switching element (12) is defined and that in dependence on a by means of the input device (6) detected operating action each upper or lower switching element ( 12) is marked. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input device (6) comprises at least one operating element (6a), wherein the operating action is a rotation of the operating element (6a) and / or a pivoting of the operating element (6a) and / or a translation of Operating element (6a) in a horizontal plane and / or a translation along a vertical axis of the operating element (6a). Method according to Claim 8 , characterized in that the respective next or previous or upper or lower switching element (12) is marked by a rotation and / or pivoting of the operating element (6a) to a defined solid angle. Method according to Claim 8 or 9 , characterized in that by a translation of the operating element (6a) by a defined amount and in a defined direction in the horizontal plane, the respective next or previous or upper or lower switching element (12) is marked. Method according to one of Claims 8 to 10 , characterized in that by a translation of the operating element (6a) by a defined amount and in a defined direction along the vertical axis, the currently marked switching element (12) is selected. System for detecting user inputs in a vehicle (1), comprising a mobile unit (2), by which data can be generated to a graphical user interface and transmitted to a control unit (4) of the vehicle (1), wherein the graphical user interface switching elements (12 ), which are markable and / or selectable, a display device (5) of the vehicle (1) with a display surface (5a) on which the graphical user interface is displayed, and an input device (6) of the vehicle (1), can be detected by the user inputs, in which switching elements (12) are selected successively, wherein by the control unit (4) in response to the selected switching elements (12) generates a signal and to the mobile Unit (2) is transferable, characterized in that the graphical user interface is formed, both user inputs of an input device (6) of the vehicle (1), which comprises a touch-sensitive surface (6b), and user inputs of an input device (6) of the vehicle ( 1), which comprises a mechanical operating element (6a) set down from the display surface (5a), wherein the graphical user interface can be generated by the mobile unit (2) such that the switching elements (12) along at least two mutually adjacent sheets (13 ) are arranged, wherein for each switching elements (12) each have a next and a previous switching element (12) is defined t and in dependence on an operating action detected by means of the input device (6), the respective next or previous switching element (12) can be marked, wherein the next or previous switching element (12) to the last or first switching element (12) on a sheet (13) is disposed at the opposite end of an adjacent sheet (13).

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