DE102019102719A1 - Key module with tactile actuation characteristics - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a key module (100) with tactile actuation characteristics. The key module (100) comprises a touch-sensitive display (101) which is designed to display a plurality of keys on a display area, to detect a touch on the display area, and, in response to the detection of the touch on the display area, a touched button to determine the display area. The key module (100) further comprises a circuit board (103) on which at least one mechanical key element (105a) is arranged, the touch-sensitive display (101) and the circuit board (103) being movable relative to one another, and the at least one mechanical key element (105a) can be actuated mechanically when the touch-sensitive display (101) moves relative to the printed circuit board (103). The key module (100) further comprises an electrical circuit (107) which is designed to detect mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element (105a) and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element (105a), provide an actuation indicator, the actuation indicator representing an actuation of the touched button.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to the field of human-machine interfaces.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Nowadays, keyboards with a plurality of mechanical keys are used for a large number of applications for triggering key functions or for entering alphanumeric characters. The mechanical keys are usually pressed by a user and return automatically to their respective starting position after being released. Such keyboards with mechanical keys are, however, limited in their functionality and cannot be flexibly adapted to changing requirements.

To expand the functionality and to increase the flexibility, touch-sensitive displays, so-called touch screens, are increasingly being used, on which keyboards can be displayed. However, such touch-sensitive displays are usually mechanically rigid, and have no tactile actuation characteristics. As a result, when a key is pressed on a displayed keyboard, a user receives no tactile feedback, which can also affect the operational safety of such touch-sensitive displays. For certain applications in the industrial sector and for security-related applications, touch-sensitive displays are therefore rarely used to trigger key functions or to enter alphanumeric characters.

The publication US 2004/0046746 A1 discloses a touch screen, wherein a mechanical keyboard with movable keys is arranged on the touch screen.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a key module with a tactile actuation characteristic.

This object is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the description, the drawings and the dependent claims.

The present invention is based on the finding that the above object can be achieved by a combination of a touch-sensitive display and at least one mechanical probe element. The touch-sensitive display is designed to display a plurality of keys on a display surface and is arranged above a circuit board on which the at least one mechanical key element is arranged.

As soon as a user exerts a force on a displayed key on the display surface, this force is transmitted to the at least one mechanical probe element, which itself has a tactile actuation characteristic. As a result, the touch-sensitive display is moved, in particular tilted, relative to the printed circuit board. After releasing the button on the display surface, the touch-sensitive display automatically returns to its original position. In addition, further touch-sensitive displays with the same functionality can be arranged directly next to the touch-sensitive display. This means that the total number of buttons on the button module can be increased as required, depending on the application.

The key module thus combines the advantages of conventional keyboards with mechanical keys with the advantages of conventional touch-sensitive displays. In particular, a tactile actuation behavior is realized when an indicated key is actuated on a display surface. At the same time, the functionality of the displayed buttons can be flexibly expanded and, if necessary, freely programmed.

The key module can be used particularly advantageously as a human-machine interface for applications in the industrial sector, for example for controlling industrial plants or machines. Furthermore, the button module can be used, for example, in vehicle technology and can be integrated, for example, in a dashboard or in a steering wheel of a vehicle. In particular, a displayed button can be operated reliably, even if the user should wear a glove.

According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a key module. The key module includes a touch-sensitive display that is configured to display a plurality of keys on a display surface, to detect a touch on the display surface, and, in response to the detection of the touch on the display surface, to determine a touched key on the display surface. The key module further comprises a circuit board on which at least one mechanical key element is arranged, the touch-sensitive display and the circuit board being movable relative to one another, and the at least one mechanical probe element is mechanically actuated when the touch-sensitive display moves relative to the printed circuit board. The key module further comprises an electrical circuit which is designed to detect a mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element, to provide an actuation indicator, the actuation indicator actuating the touched key represents.

The actuation indicator can signal, for example, that a key function has been triggered or that an alphanumeric character has been entered. This can be achieved, for example, using an associated program routine.

According to one embodiment, the number of keys displayed on the display area and the number of mechanical key elements on the circuit board are the same, with each key displayed on the display surface being assigned exactly one mechanical key element on the circuit board. This has the advantage that the tactile actuation characteristic can be identical for all displayed keys.

For example, the touch-sensitive display can be designed to display four keys on the display surface, four mechanical key elements being arranged on the printed circuit board. When a force is exerted on a displayed key on the display surface, the touch-sensitive display is tilted relative to the printed circuit board via the diagonals of the touch-sensitive display.

Alternatively, the touch-sensitive display can be designed to display two buttons on the display surface, two mechanical touch elements being arranged on the printed circuit board. When a force is exerted on a displayed key on the display surface, the touch-sensitive display is thus tilted relative to the printed circuit board by means of a perpendicular to the touch-sensitive display.

According to one embodiment, the number of keys displayed on the display surface is greater than the number of mechanical touch elements on the printed circuit board, with each displayed key on the display surface being assigned at least one mechanical touch element on the printed circuit board. For example, only a single mechanical probe element can be provided on the circuit board. This has the advantage that the key module can be constructed in a particularly simple manner.

According to one embodiment, the number of keys displayed on the display surface is smaller than the number of mechanical key elements on the circuit board, at least one mechanical key on the display surface being assigned at least two mechanical key elements on the circuit board. This has the advantage that the number of keys can be reduced even after the mechanical production of the key module.

According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit is designed to provide the actuation indicator if only those mechanical pushbuttons that are assigned to the touched button are mechanically actuated. This has the advantage that the operational reliability of the key module can be increased.

In accordance with one embodiment, the electrical circuit is designed to provide a touch indicator in response to the determination of the touched button on the display area, the touch indicator representing a touch of the touched button. When the displayed key is touched, the touch indicator is thus provided, and when the at least one mechanical pushbutton element is actuated additionally, the actuation indicator is additionally provided. This has the advantage that the displayed key can be implemented as a two-stage key.

The touch indicator can signal, for example, a triggering of an alternative key function or an input of an alternative alphanumeric character. This can be achieved, for example, using an associated alternative program routine.

According to one embodiment, the at least one mechanical sensing element comprises at least one snap disk. For example, each mechanical probe element comprises a snap disk. This has the advantage that the at least one mechanical probe element can be implemented in a particularly simple manner.

According to one embodiment, the at least one mechanical key element comprises at least one short-stroke key. For example, each mechanical touch element comprises a short-stroke key. This has the advantage that at least a mechanical probe element can be implemented particularly easily.

According to one embodiment, the at least one mechanical touch element comprises at least one scissor button. For example, each mechanical probe element includes a scissor key. This has the advantage that the at least one mechanical probe element can be implemented in a particularly simple manner.

According to one embodiment, the key module comprises a pressure plate which is arranged between the touch-sensitive display and the at least one mechanical key element. This has the advantage that the movement of the touch-sensitive display can be transmitted particularly reliably to the at least one mechanical probe element.

According to one embodiment, the pressure plate has at least one mechanical bulge, the at least one mechanical bulge being in contact with the at least one mechanical sensing element. For example, the number of mechanical bulges and the number of mechanical probe elements can be the same, with one mechanical bulge being in contact with exactly one mechanical probe element. This has the advantage that the reliability of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical probe element can be increased.

According to one embodiment, the pressure plate is attached to the touch-sensitive display, in particular by means of an adhesive connection. This has the advantage that the touch-sensitive display can be mechanically reinforced. The adhesive connection can be realized, for example, by means of an adhesive or by means of an adhesive tape on both sides.

According to one embodiment, the pressure plate and the printed circuit board are connected to one another mechanically, in particular by means of a screw connection. This has the advantage that the attachment of the touch-sensitive display within the key module can be improved. The mechanical connection, in particular the screw connection, between the pressure plate and the printed circuit board is designed in such a way that the touch-sensitive display remains movable relative to the printed circuit board.

The screw connection can be made, for example, by providing an internal thread on the pressure plate and a through opening in the circuit board. The internal thread can be realized by means of a separate component which is attached to the pressure plate. The screw connection can be made, for example, by means of a screw which is screwed into the internal thread through the through opening of the printed circuit board.

According to one embodiment, the pressure plate has at least one recess on the edge. This has the advantage that the bending resistance of the pressure plate can be influenced in a targeted manner. Furthermore, the key module can be made more compact.

According to one embodiment, the touch-sensitive display comprises a resistive touch-sensitive layer, the resistive touch-sensitive layer being designed to detect the touch on the display surface. With the resistive touch-sensitive layer, a slight force is decisive for detecting the touch. This has the advantage that the reliability of determining the touched key on the display surface can be further increased.

According to one embodiment, the touch-sensitive display comprises a capacitive touch-sensitive layer, the capacitive touch-sensitive layer being designed to detect the touch on the display surface. With the capacitive touch-sensitive layer, the proximity of a finger of the user to the layer for detecting the touch is decisive. This has the advantage that a simultaneous detection of several touched keys is possible.

According to one embodiment, the touch-sensitive display comprises a touch controller, the touch controller being designed to detect the touch on the display surface. This has the advantage that the detection of the touch on the display surface and the determination of the touched key on the display surface can be implemented efficiently.

According to one embodiment, the touch-sensitive display comprises an active matrix liquid crystal display, the active matrix liquid crystal display being designed to display the plurality of buttons on the display surface. This has the advantage that the pixels on the display area can be controlled individually. Furthermore, the display of the plurality of buttons on the display area can be changed flexibly.

According to one embodiment, the touch-sensitive display comprises a segment display, the segment display being designed to display the plurality of buttons on the display surface. For example, a seven-segment display, a nine-segment display, an eleven-segment display, a fourteen-segment display or a sixteen-segment display can be used. This has the advantage that the implementation effort of the key module can be reduced.

According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit is designed in response to the Provision of the actuation indicator to change a display of the touched key on the display area. Alternatively or additionally, the electrical circuit can be designed to change the display of the touched key on the display surface in response to the provision of the touch indicator. This has the advantage that an additional visual feedback to the user can take place.

According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit is designed, in response to the provision of the actuation indicator, to change the display of a key that has not been touched on the display surface. As an alternative or in addition, the electrical circuit can be designed to change the display of a non-touched key on the display surface in response to the provision of the touch indicator. This has the advantage that further functionalities of the displayed keys can be provided for the user.

According to one embodiment, the touch-sensitive display is designed to display a status field on the display surface, the electrical circuit being designed to change a display of the status field on the display surface in response to the provision of the actuation indicator. Alternatively or additionally, the electrical circuit can be configured to change a display of the status field on the display surface in response to the provision of the touch indicator. The status field can, for example, display a value of a status variable in the form of a number or in the form of a status bar. This has the advantage that an additional visual feedback to the user can take place.

According to one embodiment, the key module comprises at least one further touch-sensitive display, which is designed to display a further plurality of keys on a further display surface, to detect a touch on the further display surface, and, in response to the detection of the touch on the further display surface, one to determine another touched key on the further display area. At least one further mechanical touch element is arranged on the printed circuit board, the further touch-sensitive display and the printed circuit board being movable relative to one another, and the at least one further mechanical touch element being mechanically operable when the further touch-sensitive display moves relative to the printed circuit board. The electrical circuit is designed to detect a mechanical actuation of the at least one further mechanical pushbutton element and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one further mechanical pushbutton element, to provide a further actuation indicator, the further actuation indicator representing an actuation of the further touched key . The touch-sensitive display and the at least one further touch-sensitive display are arranged on the same printed circuit board. Furthermore, the same electrical circuit is used to provide the actuation indicator and the further actuation indicator. For example, a total of six touch-sensitive displays, in particular 2x3 touch-sensitive displays, can be arranged directly one above the other or immediately next to one another. This has the advantage that the total number of keys of the key module can be increased particularly easily.

All touch-sensitive displays can each be constructed identically and each have identical functionalities. The electrical circuit can provide the same functionality for all touch-sensitive displays.

According to one embodiment, the key module further comprises a carrier frame with a plurality of frame openings, each touch-sensitive display being arranged in a frame opening. This achieves the advantage that the touch-sensitive display and the at least one further touch-sensitive display can be mechanically stabilized relative to one another.

According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit comprises a microcontroller, the microcontroller being designed to detect the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element, to provide the actuation indicator. The microcontroller can also be designed to detect the mechanical actuation of the at least one further mechanical pushbutton element and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one further mechanical pushbutton element, to provide the further actuation indicator. The microcontroller can execute program code. This has the advantage that the electrical circuit can be implemented efficiently.

According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit comprises an electronic memory module, in particular a RAM memory module (RAM: Random Access Memory) and / or a flash memory module, the microcontroller being designed to access the electronic memory module. This is the advantage achieved that the microcontroller can be operated efficiently.

According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit comprises a logic circuit, in particular a logic gate and / or a field programmable gate array (FPGA), the logic circuit being connected between the touch-sensitive display and the microcontroller. The logic circuit can also be connected between the at least one further touch-sensitive display and the microcontroller. This has the advantage that the functionality of the electrical circuit can be implemented efficiently. In particular, a simultaneous activation of several touch-sensitive displays can be efficiently implemented by the microcontroller.

According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit comprises a bus controller, in particular a CAN bus controller (CAN: Controller Area Network) and / or a USB bus controller (USB: Universal Serial Bus), the bus controller being designed to communicate via a communication bus. The bus controller can be connected to the microcontroller, for example.

According to one embodiment, the key module comprises a grid mask, which is arranged on the touch-sensitive display and / or the at least one further touch-sensitive display, the grid mask having a plurality of recesses, and each key shown being visible through a respective recess. This has the advantage that a tactile separation of the displayed keys can also be realized. In particular, the grid mask can prevent the user's finger from slipping when a key is touched or actuated.

According to one embodiment, the key module comprises a housing which comprises a housing frame and a housing cover, the touch-sensitive display and / or the at least one further touch-sensitive display being visible through the housing frame, and the printed circuit board being mechanically rigidly connected to the housing frame. The housing frame and the housing cover can be mechanically connected to one another. This has the advantage that the button module can be better protected against external influences such as vibrations, dust and moisture. Furthermore, the button module can be attached more easily.

According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for operating a key module, the key module comprising a touch-sensitive display, a printed circuit board, and an electrical circuit, wherein at least one mechanical touch element is arranged on the printed circuit board, the touch-sensitive display and the printed circuit board being relative to one another are movable, and wherein the at least one mechanical probe element is mechanically actuated when the touch-sensitive display moves relative to the printed circuit board. The method includes displaying a plurality of buttons on a display area by the touch-sensitive display, detecting a touch on the display area by the touch-sensitive display, determining a touched key on the display area by the touch-sensitive display in response to the detection of the touch on the display area , detecting a mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element by the electrical circuit, and providing an actuation indicator by the electrical circuit in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element, the actuation indicator representing an actuation of the touched key.

The method serves to operate the key module according to the first aspect of the invention. Further features of the method result directly from the features and / or the functionality of the key module according to the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a computer program with a program code for executing the method according to the second aspect of the invention when the program code is executed by a key module.

The key module can be set up in terms of program technology in order to execute the program code. In particular, the key module can comprise an electronic memory module in which the program code is stored. The method according to the second aspect of the invention can be carried out efficiently by the computer program.

The invention can be implemented in hardware and software.

Figure list

• 1 eine schematische Explosionsansicht eines Tastenmoduls;
• 2 eine schematische Schnittansicht eines Tastenmoduls;
• 3 eine schematische Explosionsansicht eines Tastenmoduls;
• 4 eine schematische Perspektivansicht eines Tastenmoduls;
• 5 ein schematisches Blockschaltbild eines elektrischen Schaltkreises; und
• 6 ein schematisches Diagramm eines Verfahrens zum Betreiben eines Tastenmoduls.

Further embodiments are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

• 1 a schematic exploded view of a key module;
• 2nd is a schematic sectional view of a key module;
• 3rd a schematic exploded view of a key module;
• 4th is a schematic perspective view of a key module;
• 5 a schematic block diagram of an electrical circuit; and
• 6 a schematic diagram of a method for operating a key module.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

1 shows a schematic exploded view of a key module 100 .

The button module 100 includes a touch sensitive display 101 , which is configured to display a plurality of buttons on a display area, to detect a touch on the display area, and, in response to the detection of the touch on the display area, to determine a touched button on the display area. The touch-sensitive display 101 is designed, for example, to display four buttons on the display surface. For example, the four buttons are the same size and rectangular.

The touch-sensitive display 101 For example, may comprise an active matrix liquid crystal display, the active matrix liquid crystal display being designed to display the plurality of buttons on the display surface. Such active matrix liquid crystal displays are also often referred to as TFT displays. Alternatively, the touch sensitive display 101 comprise a segment display, the segment display being designed to display the plurality of keys on the display surface. For example, a seven-segment display, a nine-segment display, an eleven-segment display, a fourteen-segment display or a sixteen-segment display can be used.

The touch-sensitive display 101 can further comprise a resistive touch-sensitive layer, wherein the resistive touch-sensitive layer is designed to detect the touch on the display surface. The resistive touch-sensitive layer can in particular determine a position on the display surface at which a slight force is exerted on the display surface. Alternatively, the touch sensitive display 101 comprise a capacitive touch-sensitive layer, the capacitive touch-sensitive layer being designed to detect the touch on the display surface. The capacitive touch-sensitive layer can in particular determine a position on the display surface at which a change in capacitance takes place on the display surface. Such a change in capacity is caused, for example, by the proximity of a user's finger.

The touch-sensitive display 101 can have a rectangular shape, for example. The screen size of the touch-sensitive display 101 is, for example, 2.4 inches. The screen resolution of the touch-sensitive display 101 is, for example, 240x320 pixels. The touch-sensitive display 101 can additionally include backlighting.

The button module 100 further includes a circuit board 103 , on which at least one mechanical probe element is arranged. In the figure, for example, there are four mechanical probe elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d on the circuit board 103 arranged. The circuit board 103 can be made of printed circuit board material, for example FR4. The circuit board 103 can also be equipped on both sides.

The four mechanical probes 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d each include, for example, a snap disk. Such snap disks are formed, for example, by a spring, the spring being designed such that it has both a stable state and a metastable state. The snap disc is continuously bent by force until it suddenly changes from the stable state to the metastable state. If the force diminishes again, the snap disk suddenly springs back into the stable state. Alternatively, the four mechanical touch elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d for example, each include a short-stroke key or a scissor key. In general, the mechanical probe elements each have a defined tactile mechanical actuation point. Furthermore, a restoring force is provided after mechanical actuation of the respective mechanical feeler element.

The touch-sensitive display 101 and the circuit board 103 are movable relative to each other, the four mechanical touch elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d when the touch-sensitive display moves 101 relative to the circuit board 103 are each mechanically actuated. When a force is exerted on a displayed key on the display surface, the touch-sensitive display is tilted 101 relative to the circuit board 103 , wherein at least one of the four mechanical probe elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d is operated mechanically.

The button module 100 can also be a printing plate 109 include which between the touch sensitive display 101 and at least one mechanical probe element 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d is arranged. Through the pressure plate 109 the movement of the touch sensitive display 101 on the at least one mechanical probe element 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d transmitted particularly reliably. The pressure plate 109 can have at least one edge-side recess, two edge-side recesses being shown in the figure, for example. The pressure plate 109 can be made of metal or plastic, for example. Furthermore, the pressure plate 109 made of printed circuit board material, for example FR4.

The pressure plate 109 can have at least one mechanical bulge, the at least one mechanical bulge with the at least one mechanical sensing element 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d is in contact. In the figure, for example, four possible positions for four mechanical bulges are on the printing plate 109 indicated, the four mechanical bulges the four mechanical probe elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d are facing. The respective mechanical bulge allows the force to mechanically actuate the respective mechanical probe element 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d be transferred effectively.

The pressure plate 109 can on the touch sensitive display 101 can be attached, for example, by means of an adhesive connection. The adhesive connection can be realized, for example, by means of an adhesive or by means of an adhesive tape on both sides. This can, for example, mechanically stiffen or stabilize the touch-sensitive display 101 can be achieved.

Furthermore, the printing plate 109 and the circuit board 103 mechanically, for example by means of a screw connection, the mechanical connection between the pressure plate 109 and the circuit board 103 can be performed such that the touch-sensitive display 101 still relative to the circuit board 103 remains movable. The screw connection can take place, for example, in that on the pressure plate 109 an internal thread and in the circuit board 103 a through opening can be provided. The internal thread can be realized by means of a separate component, which is attached to the pressure plate 109 is attached. The screw connection can take place, for example, by means of a screw which passes through the through opening of the printed circuit board 103 is screwed into the internal thread.

The button module 100 further includes an electrical circuit 107 , which is designed to mechanically actuate at least one mechanical probe element, in particular the four mechanical probe elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d capture. The electrical circuit 107 is partially or even completely on the circuit board 103 arranged. The detection of a mechanical actuation of at least one of the four mechanical touch elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d can be done, for example, in that these have contact surfaces or connecting pins on the printed circuit board 103 are electrically connected, and a short circuit between associated contact surfaces or connection pins through the electrical circuit 107 is recorded.

The electrical circuit 107 is also designed in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of at least one mechanical probe element 105a , 105b , 105c , or 105d to provide an actuation indicator, the actuation indicator representing actuation of the touched key. The actuation indicator can signal, for example, that a key function has been triggered or that an alphanumeric character has been entered. This can be achieved, for example, using an associated program routine. The electrical circuit 107 can furthermore be designed to provide a touch indicator in response to the determination of the touched key on the display surface, the touch indicator representing a touch of the touched key. The touch indicator can signal, for example, a triggering of an alternative key function or an input of an alternative alphanumeric character. This can be achieved, for example, using an associated alternative program routine. This ensures that the displayed key can be implemented as a two-stage key.

In the key module shown in the figure 100 For example, four buttons are shown on the display surface, and there are four mechanical buttons at the same time 105a , 105b , 105c , or 105d on the circuit board 103 arranged. In this case, the number of keys displayed on the display area and the number of mechanical key elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d on the circuit board 103 consequently the same. Tilting the touch sensitive display 101 relative to the circuit board 103 This takes place, for example, via the diagonals of the touch-sensitive display 101 .

Each key shown on the display is exactly one mechanical touch element 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d on the circuit board 103 assigned. When a first key is pressed, for example, only the mechanical key element 105a mechanically operated; when a second key is pressed, for example, only the mechanical key element 105b mechanically operated, when a third button is pressed, for example, only the mechanical probe element 105c mechanically operated, and when a fourth key is pressed, for example, only the mechanical probe element 105d mechanically operated.

The electrical circuit 107 can also be designed to provide the actuation indicator only if only those mechanical touch elements that are assigned to the touched button are mechanically operated. In the key module shown in the figure 100 can the actuation indicator by the electrical circuit 107 for example, can only be provided if at the same time touching the first key and mechanically actuating the mechanical key element 105a are detected if at the same time touching the second key and mechanically actuating the mechanical key element 105b are detected if a touch of the third key and a mechanical actuation of the mechanical probe element at the same time 105c are detected, or if at the same time touching the fourth key and mechanically actuating the mechanical key element 105d be recorded. This can reduce the operational reliability of the button module 100 can be further increased. The same applies to the provision of a respective touch indicator.

In general, however, the number of keys on the display surface and the number of mechanical key elements can also be chosen arbitrarily. In particular, the number of keys on the display surface and the number of mechanical key elements can be the same or different. For example, only a single mechanical probe element can be on the circuit board 103 be provided which is assigned to each displayed key on the display surface by means of a suitable mechanical guide. The only mechanical touch element could, for example, be assigned to all of the displayed buttons at the same time, and for example in the middle of the button module 100 be arranged.

The button module 100 can also be a grid mask 111 include which on the touch sensitive display 101 is arranged. The grid mask 111 has a plurality of recesses, each key shown being visible on the display surface through a respective recess. This also enables tactile separation of the displayed keys. In particular, this can prevent the user's finger from slipping when a button is touched or actuated. The grid mask 111 can for example be made of plastic, in particular of elastic plastic, such as silicone or rubber.

The button module 100 may further include a housing having a housing frame 113a and a housing cover 113b includes. The touch-sensitive display 101 is through the case frame 113a visible. The circuit board 103 is mechanically rigidly connected to the housing frame 113a. The housing frame 113a and the housing cover 113b can be mechanically connected to each other. The housing frame 113a can for example be made of plastic, especially hard plastic. The housing cover 113b can be made of metal, for example.

2nd shows a schematic sectional view of a key module 100 . The button module 100 has the same features and functionalities as that in 1 key module shown 100 . In particular, the key module comprises 100 a touch sensitive display 101 , a circuit board 103 , mechanical probe elements, for example two mechanical probe elements 105a and 105b are shown, an electrical circuit 107 , a printing plate 109 with mechanical bulges, two mechanical bulges being shown, for example, a grid mask 111 , and a housing with a housing frame 113a and a housing cover 113b . The schematic sectional view shows the button module 100 which in 1 is shown in the assembled state.

On the display surface of the touch-sensitive display 101 becomes a force, for example F exercised by the touch sensitive display 101 over the pressure plate 109 with the mechanical bulge on the mechanical probe element 105a is transmitted, which in turn on the circuit board 103 is arranged. The touch sensitive display 101 relative to the circuit board 103 moved, especially tilted over a diagonal. Due to the relative movement of the touch-sensitive display 101 relative to the circuit board 103 becomes the mechanical probe 105a , which for example comprises a snap disk, mechanically operated. The mechanical probe 105b , which also includes, for example, a snap disk, is not actuated mechanically. After releasing the displayed button on the display surface, the touch-sensitive display returns 101 automatically return to their starting position.

The power F for mechanical actuation of the respective mechanical touch elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d is, for example, 0.1 N, 0.2 N, 0.3 N, 0.4 N, 0.5 N, 0.6 N, 0.7 N, 0.8 N, 0.9 N, 1 N, 2 N, 3 N, 4 N, 5 N, 6 N, 7 N, 8 N, 9 N, 10 N, 20 N, 30 N, 40 N or 50 N. The actuation path for mechanical actuation of the respective mechanical probe elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d is, for example, 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm.

3rd shows a schematic exploded view of a key module 100 . The button module 100 has the same features on the same functionalities as that in 1 and 2nd key module shown 100 . In particular, the key module comprises 100 a touch sensitive display 101 , a circuit board 103 , four mechanical probes 105a , 105b , 105c and 105d , an electrical circuit 107 , a printing plate 109 with mechanical bulges, a grid mask 111 , and a housing with a housing frame 113a and a housing cover 113b .

The button module 100 additionally comprises at least one further touch-sensitive display, for example five further touch-sensitive displays in the figure 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e are shown. Any other touch-sensitive display 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e can in each case be designed to display a further plurality of keys on a respective further display area, to detect a touch on the respective further display area, and, in response to the detection of the touch on the respective further display area, a respective further touched key on the respective to determine another display area.

On the circuit board 103 is for every additional touch-sensitive display 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e in each case at least one further mechanical probe element is arranged, the respective further touch-sensitive display 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e and the circuit board 103 are each movable relative to each other. The respective at least one further mechanical feeler element is in the event of movement of the respective further touch-sensitive display 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e relative to the circuit board 103 mechanically operated.

The electrical circuit 107 is designed to detect a mechanical actuation of the respective at least one further mechanical feeler element and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the respective at least one further mechanical feeler element, to provide a respective further actuation indicator, the respective further actuation indicator actuating the respective further touched Button represents.

The button module 100 can also be a support frame 303 with a plurality of frame openings, each touch-sensitive display 101 , 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e is each arranged in a frame opening. This ensures that the touch-sensitive displays 101 , 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e can be mechanically stabilized relative to each other. The support frame 303 is for example on the circuit board 103 arranged. The support frame 303 can be made of plastic, for example.

The touch-sensitive displays 101 , 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e are here on the same circuit board 103 arranged. Furthermore, the same electrical circuit 107 used to provide the respective actuation indicator. All touch-sensitive displays 101 , 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e can each be constructed identically and each have identical functionalities. The electrical circuit 107 can be used for all touch sensitive displays 101 , 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e provide the same functionality in each case. The grid mask 111 is also on both the touch-sensitive display 101 as well as on the respective other touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e arranged. Furthermore, both the touch sensitive display 101 as well as the other touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e through the housing frame 113a visible.

In the key module shown in the figure 100 will result in a total of six touch-sensitive displays 101 , 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e arranged directly one above the other or immediately next to each other in a 2x3 configuration. This ensures that the total number of buttons on the button module 100 can be increased particularly easily. Because any touch sensitive display 101 , 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d and 301e displays four keys, for example, consequently a total of 24 keys is shown by the key module shown 100 provided.

4th shows a schematic perspective view of a key module 100 . The button module 100 has the same features on the same functionalities as that in 3rd key module shown 100 . In particular, the key module comprises 100 a grid mask 111 and a case with a case frame 113a and a housing cover (not shown). The schematic perspective view shows the button module 100 which in 3rd is shown in the assembled state.

The touch-sensitive displays of the button module 100 can be designed to display a plurality of keys on a respective display surface. For example, there are four buttons shown 401a , 401b , 401c and 401d shown in the figure, for example by the touch-sensitive display 101 are displayed. The key shown 401a the first key is, for example, the mechanical probe element 105a assigned; the displayed key 401b the second key is, for example, the mechanical probe element 105b assigned; the displayed key 401c the third key is, for example, the mechanical probe element 105c assigned; and the displayed key 401d the fourth key is, for example, the mechanical probe element 105d assigned.

5 shows a schematic block diagram of an electrical circuit 107 . The electrical circuit shown in the figure 107 is for all key modules shown or described 100 suitable. The electrical circuit 107 can be arranged partially or even completely on the circuit board.

The electrical circuit 107 is, for example, with a touch-sensitive display 101 which is a touch controller 509 can include, as well as with the associated mechanical touch elements 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d connected. The electrical circuit 107 can accordingly also with further touch-sensitive displays, for example the touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d , and 301e , each of which may comprise a further touch controller, and may be connected to associated further mechanical touch elements.

The electrical circuit 107 includes, for example, a microcontroller 501 and an electronic memory assembly 503 , which can comprise a RAM memory module (RAM: Random Access Memory) and / or a flash memory module. The microcontroller 501 is designed on the electronic memory module 503 access, in particular data from the electronic memory module 503 read out and / or data in the electronic memory module 503 to file.

The electrical circuit 107 additionally includes a logic circuit, for example 505 , which can comprise a logic gate and / or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The microcontroller 501 is about the logic circuit 505 with the touch-sensitive display 101 connected. The microcontroller 501 can about the logic circuit 505 additionally with the other touch-sensitive displays, for example the touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d , and 301e , be connected. The logic circuit 505 can be compared to the microcontroller 501 for example, emulate a single combined display that has a correspondingly higher screen resolution than each individual touch-sensitive display.

The microcontroller 501 is designed to mechanically actuate the at least one mechanical pushbutton element 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d to detect, and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical probe element 105a , 105b , 105c , and 105d to provide the operation indicator, the operation indicator representing an operation of the touched key. The microcontroller 501 can furthermore be designed to provide a touch indicator in response to the determination of the touched key on the display surface, the touch indicator representing a touch of the touched key. The microcontroller can perform the same functionality 501 regarding the further touch-sensitive displays, for example regarding the touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d , and 301e , provide.

The microcontroller 501 can execute program code in particular. In particular, the microcontroller 501 execute a program routine which is assigned to the actuation indicator. The actuation indicator can thus signal, for example, that a key function has been triggered or that an alphanumeric character has been entered. The microcontroller 501 may also execute an alternative program routine associated with the touch indicator. The touch indicator can thus signal, for example, that an alternative key function has been triggered or that an alternative alphanumeric character has been entered. The microcontroller can perform the same functionality 501 regarding the further touch-sensitive displays, for example regarding the touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d , and 301e , provide.

The microcontroller 501 can also be configured to display on the display surface of the touch-sensitive display 101 to control, in particular to change. For example, the microcontroller 501 the touch-sensitive display 101 Control in such a way that graphics or alphanumeric characters are displayed. The microcontroller 501 can use the touch sensitive display 101 but also control in such a way that it displays a moving image in the form of a video. In particular, the microcontroller 501 be configured, in response to the provision of the actuation indicator, to change the display of the touched key on the display surface. The microcontroller 501 can, however, also be designed, in response to the provision of the actuation indicator, to change the display of a key that has not been touched on the display surface. Furthermore, the microcontroller 501 be configured, in response to the provision of the actuation indicator, to change the display of a status field on the display surface. The status field can, for example, display a value of a status variable in the form of a number or in the form of a status bar. Such changes to the display on the display surface are also possible in response to the provision of the touch indicator. The microcontroller can perform the same functionality 501 regarding the further touch-sensitive displays, for example regarding the touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d , and 301e , provide.

In particular when using several touch-sensitive displays, for example the touch-sensitive displays 301a , 301b , 301c , 301d , and 301e , pixel emulation can also be performed by the electrical circuit 107 , especially by the microcontroller 501 and / or the logic circuit 505 , are carried out, for example, in order to insert empty pixels at the transition areas between the respective display areas or to cut out areas on the respective display areas which are provided by a grid mask 111 are covered.

The electrical circuit 107 can also be a bus controller 507 , in particular comprise a CAN bus controller (CAN: Controller Area Network) and / or a USB bus controller (USB: Universal Serial Bus), which is designed to communicate via a communication bus. This allows the button module 100 For example, send or receive control data.

6 shows a schematic diagram of a method 600 for operating a key module, the key module comprising a touch-sensitive display, a printed circuit board, and an electrical circuit, at least one mechanical touch element being arranged on the printed circuit board, the touch-sensitive display and the printed circuit board being movable relative to one another, and wherein the at least one mechanical Touch element is mechanically actuated when the touch-sensitive display moves relative to the printed circuit board.

The procedure 600 includes an ad 601 a plurality of buttons on a display surface by the touch sensitive display, a detection 603 a touch on the display surface by the touch-sensitive display, a determination 605 touching a key on the display surface by the touch sensitive display in response to the detection of the touch on the display surface 607 a mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical probe element by the electrical circuit, and a provision 609 an actuation indicator by the electrical circuit in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical key element, the actuation indicator representing an actuation of the touched key.

The procedure 600 can have further features that directly result from the features and / or the functionality of the key module 100 result. The procedure 600 can also be carried out efficiently by means of a computer program.

In summary, the key module provides a tactile actuation characteristic for a user, at least one touch-sensitive display being divided into a plurality of keys, each of which has tactile properties of purely mechanical keys.

For this purpose, mechanical touch elements are arranged on a printed circuit board as contact elements, each of which comprises, for example, a snap disk. At least one touch-sensitive display is arranged on the mechanical touch elements, which has, for example, an active matrix liquid crystal display or TFT display and a touch-sensitive layer. The at least one touch-sensitive display can also be arranged or stored on a printing plate. On the visible side of the key module there can be a grid mask, for example made of silicone, which divides the respective display areas into a plurality of keys, for example into two, four or six keys. Several touch-sensitive displays can be arranged or combined within the key module, for example to provide a total of 8, 12, 16 or 24 keys. An electronic circuit for control and / or evaluation is located on the circuit board, for example on the back. In conjunction with a housing frame, for example on the front, and a housing cover, for example on the rear, a closed button module with mounting options for the respective application can also be implemented.

Touching a displayed key is detected by the at least one touch-sensitive display. Furthermore, when exercising a force on the displayed key a mechanical actuation of at least one mechanical key element which is assigned to the displayed key is detected. For example, contact areas or connection pins on the circuit board are short-circuited. The relevant touch-sensitive display moves relative to the printed circuit board, for example in the form of a tilt across a diagonal. The movement relative to an adjacent touch-sensitive display can also be bridged by a suitable choice of the shape of the grid mask.

The tactile sensation for the user corresponds to the tactile sensation of a purely mechanical key. Furthermore, the grid mask creates a depression for a finger of the user, so that slipping onto another key can be effectively prevented. Furthermore, a two-stage key can be implemented, in which a touch of the displayed key is first detected and then an additional mechanical actuation of at least one mechanical key element is taken into account. The displayed content of the buttons on the display areas can be freely programmable, which means that any functions can be assigned to the buttons depending on the situation. Status fields for measured values or warning messages can also be displayed on the display.

All features described or shown in connection with individual embodiments can be provided in any combination in the subject matter of the invention in order to simultaneously realize their advantageous effects.

Reference list

100

Button module

101

Touch sensitive display

103

Circuit board

105a-d

Mechanical probe element

107

Electrical circuit

109

printing plate

111

Grid mask

113a

Housing frame

113b

Housing cover

301a-e

Touch sensitive display

303

Carrier frame

401a-d

button

501

Microcontroller

503

Electronic memory module

505

Logical circuit

507

Bus controller

509

Touch controller

600

Method for operating a key module

601

Display a plurality of buttons

603

Detect a touch

605

Determine a touched key

607

Detection of a mechanical actuation

609

Providing an actuation indicator

F

force

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is only included for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• US 2004/0046746 A1 [0004]

Claims (15)

Key module (100), with: a touch-sensitive display (101), which is designed to display a plurality of keys (401a-d) on a display surface, to detect a touch on the display surface, and, in response to the detection of the touch on the display surface, a touched key (401a ) to be determined on the display surface; a printed circuit board (103) on which at least one mechanical touch element (105a) is arranged, the touch-sensitive display (101) and the printed circuit board (103) being movable relative to one another, and wherein the at least one mechanical touch element (105a) when the touch-sensitive display (101) is mechanically operable relative to the circuit board (103); and an electrical circuit (107) which is designed to detect a mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element (105a) and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element (105a), to provide an actuation indicator, the actuation indicator represents an actuation of the touched key (401a). Key module (100) after Claim 1 , wherein the number of keys (401a-d) displayed on the display area and the number of mechanical touch elements (105a-d) on the printed circuit board (103) are the same, and each displayed key (401a-d) on the display area is exactly one mechanical probe element (105a-d) on the circuit board (103) is assigned. Key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one mechanical key element (105a) comprises at least one snap disk. Key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, with: a pressure plate (109) which is arranged between the touch-sensitive display (101) and the at least one mechanical touch element (105a). Key module (100) after Claim 4 , wherein the pressure plate (109) has at least one mechanical bulge, the at least one mechanical bulge being in contact with the at least one mechanical sensing element (105a). Key module (100) according to one of the Claims 4 or 5 , wherein the pressure plate (109) is attached to the touch-sensitive display (101), in particular by means of an adhesive connection. Key module (100) according to one of the Claims 4 to 6 , wherein the pressure plate (109) and the printed circuit board (103) are mechanically connected to one another, in particular by means of a screw connection. Key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the touch-sensitive display (101) comprises a resistive touch-sensitive layer, wherein the resistive touch-sensitive layer is designed to detect the touch on the display surface. The key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the touch-sensitive display (101) comprises an active matrix liquid crystal display, the active matrix liquid crystal display being designed to display the plurality of keys (401a-d) on the display surface. Key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical circuit (107) is designed, in response to the provision of the actuation indicator, to change a display of the touched key (401a) on the display area. Key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, with: at least one further touch-sensitive display (301a), which is designed to display a further plurality of keys on a further display surface, to detect a touch on the further display surface, and, in response to the detection of the touch on the further display surface, a further touched key to be determined on the further display area; wherein at least one further mechanical touch element is arranged on the printed circuit board (103), the further touch-sensitive display (301a) and the printed circuit board (103) being movable relative to one another, and wherein the at least one further mechanical touch element when the further touch-sensitive display () 301a) can be mechanically actuated relative to the printed circuit board (103); and wherein the electrical circuit (107) is designed to detect a mechanical actuation of the at least one further mechanical pushbutton element and, in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one further mechanical pushbutton element, to provide a further actuation indicator, the further actuation indicator actuating the represents another touched key. Key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: a grid mask (111) which on the touch-sensitive display (101) and / or the at least one further touch-sensitive display (301a) is arranged; wherein the grid mask (111) has a plurality of recesses, and wherein each key displayed is visible through a respective recess. Key module (100) according to one of the preceding claims, with: a housing which comprises a housing frame (113a) and a housing cover (113b); wherein the touch-sensitive display (101) and / or the at least one further touch-sensitive display (301a) are visible through the housing frame (113a), and wherein the circuit board (103) is mechanically rigidly connected to the housing frame (113a). Method (600) for operating a key module (100), the key module (100) comprising a touch-sensitive display (101), a printed circuit board (103), and an electrical circuit (107), at least one mechanical one on the printed circuit board (103) Pushbutton element (105a) is arranged, the touch-sensitive display (101) and the printed circuit board (103) being movable relative to one another, the at least one mechanical pushbutton element (105a) when the touch-sensitive display (101) moves relative to the printed circuit board (103) can be operated mechanically with: Displaying (601) a plurality of buttons (401a-d) on a display surface by the touch sensitive display (101); Detecting (603) a touch on the display surface by the touch sensitive display (101); Determining (605) a touched key (401a) on the display surface by the touch sensitive display (101) in response to the detection of the touch on the display surface; Detecting (607) a mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical touch element (105a) by the electrical circuit (107); and The electrical circuit (107) provides (609) an actuation indicator in response to the detection of the mechanical actuation of the at least one mechanical pushbutton element (105a), the actuation indicator representing an actuation of the touched key (401a). Computer program with a program code for executing the method (600) according to Claim 14 , if the program code is executed by a key module (100).

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