DE102020117088A1 - Control device - Google Patents

Abstract

Control device and method for operating a control device. The operating device has an operating unit, which has a rotating part with a touch surface for rotating the operating unit and a rotatably accommodated rotor unit and a sensor unit. The sensor unit is suitable for determining a rotational movement of the operating unit. The operating unit includes a coupling device which includes a coupling unit or a flexible spring unit. The rotary part and the rotor unit can be selectively coupled in a torsion-proof manner or decoupled from one another by the coupling unit. The elastic spring unit connects the rotating part and the rotor unit elastically, so that an elastic pivoting of the rotating part to the rotor unit is possible.

Description

The present invention relates, in particular, to a haptic operating device with at least one operating unit. The operating unit comprises at least one rotating part with at least one contact surface for rotating the operating unit and at least one rotatably accommodated rotor unit and at least one sensor unit. The sensor unit is suitable at least for determining a rotary movement of the operating unit. The operating device advantageously also comprises a controllable braking device. An input by a user can in particular take place as a result of the rotary movement.

Such haptic control devices are found, for example, as mouse wheels in computer mice, control buttons on steering wheels of z. B. Cars, smart devices, haptic phone cases, hi-fi systems, remote controls or even vehicle controls multiple uses.

Input devices known in the prior art have the disadvantage that inputs by a user can only be implemented disadvantageously or only with a disproportionately large amount of effort on the part of the user due to their structural shape. This can be the case, for example, with the mouse wheels of computer mice, which are exposed to relatively high levels of friction. So it is possible that high bearing friction and also the influence of basic friction of a braking device have a disadvantageous effect if a user wants to quickly leaf through a long list or also scroll through a long list. So it can be that the storage or the friction in a connected controllable braking device can practically lead to a rotation of the mouse wheel being relatively stiff. The mouse wheel must be actively rotated by a user. With long lists, for example, a user has to repeatedly drag his finger over the mouse wheel so that the mouse pointer moves to the end of the list. This can be annoying with long lists.

In the case of haptic operating devices with a mouse wheel that can be braked, for example, by a controllable braking device, the mouse wheel can be blocked for a certain angle of rotation or angle of rotation range by the adjustable decelerating braking force of the controllable braking device, or it can be set so strongly that the user practically feels a stop there when turning. As a result, the angle of rotation can advantageously be limited and an angle of rotation range for z. B. Setting processes can be defined. However, it is disadvantageous that a user needs a relatively large amount of force in order to turn the operating unit away from a stop again. The set braking force acts in both directions of rotation when the brake is applied. Therefore, the user has to apply a great deal of force, also to e.g. B. to turn the mouse wheel away from the (virtual) stop. In any case, the set braking force must first be overcome until a sensor of the control system detects that the rotating part has been turned back and the control relays that the rotating part is no longer at the stop bracket. Then the braking force is suddenly reduced and further turning is quite easy. In practice, this means that the control element “sticks” in the angle of rotation or the position of rotation and, in principle, cannot or should no longer be rotated. This is especially the case with control elements with magnetorheological braking devices when the brake is activated. This “sticking” to an attachment point irritates the user, since it should be possible to turn away from an attachment point without any particular resistance.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an improved operating device which overcomes at least some of the disadvantages presented in the prior art.

The object is achieved by operating devices according to claim 1 and / or 3. Preferred developments of the invention are the subject matter of the subclaims. Further advantages and features of the present invention emerge from the general description and the description of the exemplary embodiments.

An operating device according to the invention has at least one operating unit. The operating unit comprises at least one rotating part with at least one contact surface for rotating the operating unit and at least one rotatably received and in particular rotatably mounted rotor unit. The rotor unit and the rotating part are in particular in an operative connection with one another. There is at least one sensor unit which is particularly suitable for detecting a rotary movement of the operating unit. The operating unit comprises at least one coupling device with at least one coupling unit. By means of the coupling unit, the rotating part and the rotor unit can optionally be coupled to one another (at least essentially) in a rotationally secure manner or can be uncoupled from one another. The rotary movement of the rotary part can be detected by the sensor device, in particular for recording an input.

Non-rotating in the sense of this application also includes that the rotating part and the rotor unit can be connected with some slip. In addition or instead of this, the rotating part and the rotor unit can be slightly elastically rotatable, and in particular pivotable, with respect to one another.

In at least one advantageous development, the operating device comprises at least one controllable braking device for targeted braking of the operating unit.

The invention has many advantages. An essential advantage is that a particularly smooth mobility of the rotating part is made possible independently of the bearing friction of the rotor unit or an existing braking device. A freewheel, d. H. a free rotary movement of the rotating part with respect to the rotor unit is possible in the uncoupled state of the coupling unit. By introducing an angular momentum into the rotating part, a user can, in particular, generate a freewheeling or also lagging of the rotating part. In this way, long lists or documents can be searched quickly to find the place you are looking for. Passages that are not relevant for a user can be quickly skipped, for example by the freewheel. A user only has to set the operating unit in a rotary movement with a sufficiently large angular momentum when the coupling unit is decoupled. In the coupled state, forces can still be transmitted to a controllable braking device. Haptic feedback for the user is still advantageously possible. The negative influence of a relatively high bearing friction and in particular a relatively high basic torque of the rotor unit and / or the braking device is minimized or practically completely eliminated. The storage of the rotor unit can be designed for a long service life and / or good power transmission.

It is also an important advantage that the sensor unit directly detects the rotary movement of the rotating part. In this way, the user input can be reliably recognized in a coupled and a decoupled state. Possible errors in the transmission of the rotary movement through the coupling unit are excluded. The user can continue to rotate the operating unit directly on the touch surface to carry out an input. The coupling unit can advantageously be switched so that it couples or also decouples depending on the user's wishes. Due to the coupling device, it is therefore possible to run freely or overrun even when there is high friction in the bearing of the rotor unit or when a controllable braking device is used.

Advantageously, the coupling unit is so small and lightweight that the one operating unit with a coupling device cannot be differentiated from an operating unit without a coupling device, and no significantly larger installation space has to be used.

Another operating device according to the invention has an operating unit and at least one controllable braking device. The controllable braking device is used for targeted braking of the operating unit. The operating unit has at least one rotating part with at least one contact surface for rotating the operating unit. There is at least one rotor unit. The rotating part and the rotor unit are in particular in an operative connection. The operating unit comprises at least one sensor unit. The sensor unit is particularly suitable at least for detecting a rotary movement of the operating unit. The operating unit comprises at least one coupling device. The coupling device has at least one, preferably at least partially elastic, spring unit. The spring unit connects the rotor unit and the rotating part to each other at least partially elastically pivotable. The pivoting of the rotating part in relation to the rotor unit can be detected by the sensor unit.

This operating device according to the invention also has many advantages. The spring unit, which is in particular at least partially elastic, enables a rotation of the rotating part to be detected, even if the rotor unit is decelerated, held or even completely blocked by a particularly magnetorheological braking device. The rotating part can advantageously be pivoted at least to a small extent by the user even when the rotor unit is blocked. This prevents the control unit from “sticking”, especially when it is blocked. This pivoting or rotation of the rotating part can be detected by the sensor unit. As a result, an input from a user can be recorded despite the blocked braking device.

The spring unit can also be of advantage when the effort required to rotate the operating part is very great for a user. A preset deceleration of the braking device can be difficult to overcome, especially for old, weak, physically disabled people.

A user must e.g. B. when turning back the rotating part at a stop defined by the control device and the braking device no longer overcome the (full) resistance of the braking device in order to turn the rotating part back a little. The input of the user is recorded by the spring unit, so that the braking device when z. B. turning back can be controlled accordingly. An existing deceleration of the braking device can only be reduced in a targeted manner in one direction of rotation. In one direction of rotation, there is only a slight or no noticeable resistance for the user, while in the other direction of rotation the braking resistance is fully maintained.

In addition, it is also possible to record a user request when the braking device is blocked at the same time. This can be the case, for example, if no meaningful input is possible through the blocked rotating part or the rotating part has to remain precisely positioned and blocked for a subsequent input. The spring element advantageously makes it possible to already detect a rotation request with a corresponding direction, although rotation of the rotating part is currently blocked per se.

Another advantage is that the spring unit enables a higher spatial resolution of the action of the braking device within the range of motion of the operating unit. In this way, a user input can already be used to control the braking device before the rotor unit itself has rotated. In this way, a changed control of the braking device can be implemented immediately and before the connected rotor unit is rotated. This advantageously enables the braking device and the operating unit to be controlled with greater dynamics.

The coupling unit preferably comprises at least one magnetic coupling. The coupling unit particularly advantageously comprises an electromagnetic coupling. Transmission by magnetic forces is particularly advantageous, since it is not or only slightly susceptible to contamination. At the same time, particularly high forces can be transmitted between the rotor unit and the rotating part. In the case of an electromagnetic clutch in particular, the electrical signal can switch a force-transmitting connection almost directly without a time delay. The clutch itself has low internal friction and low losses.

Wear is also low as a result.

The coupling unit particularly preferably has at least one mechanical coupling. The clutch unit advantageously has at least one movable switching unit. The movable switching element can advantageously be designed at least partially as a cylinder, cone, bolt, disk, cone, transmission arm, transmission base, cuboid and / or pin and or comprise at least one such shaped element. This list is not exhaustive and is only intended to provide clues for possible configurations. The movable switching unit can in particular be at least partially axially and / or also radially movable. It is also possible that the switching unit is designed to be at least partially tiltable about a pivot point.

The mechanical clutch advantageously has at least one friction lining. The friction lining is designed in particular as a lamella and / or friction surface. A frictional connection is advantageously generated by friction through the friction surface. A frictional coupling is particularly compact and robust. The clutch can easily be replaced. Friction linings are inexpensive to manufacture. Friction linings can also be used with high speed differences without any problems.

Slipping is preferably also made possible by a friction lining. This can be of advantage, for example, in the event of unforeseeable malfunctions or very high forces. The clutch slips through, so to speak as overload protection and protection for the user. Injury to a user due to excessive force can be specifically and controllably excluded.

The mechanical coupling preferably has at least two interlocking shaped elements. In addition, the mechanical coupling can also have several and / or a plurality of interlocking shaped elements. The shaped elements advantageously comprise at least partially toothed elements, tongue and groove elements and / or also bolt elements, which can preferably engage in a bore. In addition, mechanically form-fitting flange, claw or tooth elements are also possible. A mechanically positive coupling can also be designed at least partially as a centrifugal clutch or at least partially comprise a centrifugal clutch and / or be based on the principle of inertia.

In addition, it would be conceivable that a form-fitting coupling has a freewheel, which enables a power transmission only in a certain direction and / or under certain conditions. Positive-locking couplings are advantageously mechanically robust and also allow a coupling that is conformal to the angle.

In at least one advantageous development, the coupling unit has at least one control unit for controlling the movable switching unit. The switching unit can be externally controlled or also self-controlled. Externally controlled coupling units are controlled externally. Self-controlled coupling units have an internal control. The control unit advantageously worked in particular electrically, electromagnetically, electromechanically (piezo element) or also purely mechanically. In particular, electric motors and servomotors and sensor units with connected computer units are used as actuators. For control, in particular a speed or an angle of rotation, a speed or an acceleration of a movement of the operating unit, in particular of the rotating part, can be a Acting force, in particular an electrical power, an electrical current and / or a voltage and / or also other signals and parameters are used. In addition, temperature-controlled systems are also conceivable.

Self-controlled clutch units can also use a centrifugal clutch with a spring preload or also a change in the mechanical and / or fluid mechanical properties of a fluid, such as the viscosity.

The mechanical coupling unit advantageously comprises at least one preloading unit. In this way, the coupling unit can advantageously be preloaded into the coupled or the decoupled position. The other position is then preferably implemented by the movable switching unit and a control unit. The preload unit enables a defined initial state of the coupling unit. In addition, force peaks and torque peaks can be advantageously buffered. The preloading unit advantageously comprises at least one resilient element. The coupling unit is preloaded, in particular in the coupled state, by the resilient element. In particular, at least one tension / compression rod, an annular spring, a leaf spring, a spiral spring, a plate spring, a torsion bar spring and / or a cylindrical helical compression spring are advantageously used as metallic resilient elements. In addition, other spring elements can also be used. The list presented here is not exhaustive. A rubber buffer, fiber-reinforced plastic spring or even gas springs can also be used as the resilient element. In addition, other effects for preloading, such as resilient gas cushions, a pressurized and, in particular, flexible fluid bellows, etc., can also be used.

In at least one advantageous embodiment, the coupling unit is at least partially received on the rotor unit. In an advantageous development, the coupling unit is at least partially received on the rotating part. A space-saving and compact arrangement is advantageously made possible in this way. The coupling unit is located directly where the forces have to be transmitted.

Preferably, the rotating part is rotatably received on the rotor unit. In particular, the rotating part is by at least one roller bearing and z. B. Ball bearings rotatably connected to the rotor unit. This enables an efficient construction with a short power line. Plain bearings can also be used. The bearings can be integrated into the coupling unit, so that the coupling unit is arranged between the rotating part and the rotor unit. A coupling can thereby be made possible in a particularly simple and efficient manner and with a small structure.

The spring unit preferably comprises at least one elastomer spring element. The elastomer spring element advantageously comprises at least one rubber buffer or also a (for example fiber-reinforced) plastic spring. In particular, the spring element is at least partially ring-shaped and at least partially encloses the rotor unit. The elastomer spring element can easily be loaded with torsion. Small rotations and / or pivoting movements can be implemented advantageously. A progressive spring characteristic of a rubber buffer can be very advantageous. The elastic restoring force increases with increasing pivoting. In the event of a large overload, the rubber can burst away as a predetermined breaking point, so that a safety function is provided.

In at least one advantageous embodiment, the spring unit comprises at least one fixing unit for limiting the spring travel. In addition, the fixing unit can be used to switch off the elastic suspension completely and to bypass it. This can be advantageous in the case of a very high rotational accuracy. The fixing unit makes it possible to adapt the pivoting to the user.

In at least one advantageous development, the spring unit comprises at least one metal spring element. The metal spring element can at least partially comprise a tension / compression rod, an annular spring, a leaf spring, a spiral spring, a helical spring, a plate spring, a torsion bar and / or a cylindrical helical compression spring. Metallic spring elements are durable and robust. Metal springs advantageously allow greater spring travel and / or pivoting than elastomer spring elements. The spring characteristic can be composed of several different elements.

The spring characteristic of the spring unit is advantageously adjustable at least in certain areas. For this purpose, the individual spring elements can be exchangeable. In addition, it can be advantageous to set the preload of the spring element directly on the operating unit. In addition, it is conceivable to fix individual turns of metal springs in a targeted manner or to block them and release them again if necessary. In this way, the spring characteristic can advantageously be adapted to a user, the sensor device and / or a connected electrical system.

In at least one advantageous development, the spring unit comprises at least one pretensioning unit. Through the pretensioning unit, the Spring unit are advantageously biased at least in sections. As a result, the response behavior of the spring unit can be advantageously adapted. It is particularly advantageous to adjust the preload during operation. Coordination in connection with a particularly magnetorheological braking device is thus advantageously possible.

Preferably, a maximum pivot angle between the rotating part and the rotor unit is less than 60 ° or 45 ° or even 30 ° or even in particular only 10 ° or even less z. B. less than 5 ° or 2 ° or even 1 °. Such (large and small) pivoting and / or pivoting angles can particularly advantageously be implemented by means of metal springs. A large swivel angle can also advantageously be used for an additional input by the operating unit. For example, additional functions in computer games can be made usable by a targeted rotation of several 5 ° or 10 ° (+/- 30 °).

A pivoting can also advantageously be used for input, preferably in computer programs and in particular in computer games. It is possible that a pivoting against the spring element can correspond to the cocking of an arrow bow or a catapult or the cocking of a trigger of a rifle. It is preferably possible here to adjust the spring element in such a way that the force of the spring element is preferably similar to the tension force of the bow, the bow being relaxed by letting go of the rotating part. A restoring force of the spring element is preferably so great that, in particular when the pivoted rotating part is relieved or released, it automatically swivels back into an in particular at least partially non-pivoted starting position due to the restoring force of the spring element.

In addition, it is also possible to use a large pivot, preferably for scrolling, preferably for fast scrolling, in particular in office applications, cutting programs for music and videos, zooming in CAD programs or other programs. The list is not exhaustive and is only intended to serve as a guide for the reader, in particular for a possible use of the spring element.

The rotor unit is preferably blocked by the braking device and the rotating part can be rotated against the rotor unit. Such an input can preferably be interpreted by a control software or a software program of a connected computer device as at least one rotational movement at a constant rotational speed. When the spring element is relaxed, this is interpreted as a "movement stop".

A maximum pivot angle between the rotating part and the rotor unit of between 0.1 ° and 1 ° and in particular of approx. 0.05 ° (+/- 25%) is advantageously possible. Such a small or very small pivoting is advantageously possible, in particular, by means of a rubber spring element. Spring units with a small pivoting angle can advantageously be used in conjunction with the sensor unit to overcome large decelerations of the braking device or to block the rotation. In this way, the deceleration and / or blocking of the braking device can be specifically canceled when a (very) small pivoting is already detected. Advantageously, a user practically does not even notice that the elastically resilient unit is present, but has to become active himself and actuate the rotating part and pivot it slightly.

In at least one advantageous development, the rotating part at least partially comprises the rotor unit. The rotating part is advantageously designed to be ring-shaped, at least in sections. This advantageously ensures good power transmission. In addition, the annular rotating part can advantageously be arranged on the rotor unit. An annular rotating part is also easy to handle for a user.

In at least one advantageous development, the rotating part comprises at least one core element. On the outside, the rotating part advantageously has a rubber coating and / or a rubber coating for better adhesion, in particular of a finger and / or the hand of a user. The core element preferably has a high density. In particular, the density of the core element is between 2 kg / dm ^ 3 and 15 kg / dm ^ 3 and can in particular be up to 30 kg / dm ^ 3 or even more. Thus, the core element can advantageously consist at least partially of steel, iron and / or lead. The core element advantageously runs around in an annular rotating part, in particular in an annular manner. The high density of the core element makes the turned part particularly sluggish. This improves the suitability for free or overrun.

The sensor unit preferably detects at least one change in the angle of rotation. The sensor unit advantageously detects at least one angle of rotation position of the rotating part. To this end, the sensor unit advantageously comprises at least one inductive, optical and / or mechanical displacement sensor, a sensor with variable resistance or a potentiometer, an ultrasonic sensor and / or a capacitive sensor and / or a magnetic sensor, in particular a Hall sensor, advantageously in combination with a polarized magnetic ring. In particular, at least one incremental encoder and / or at least one light barrier are used as sensors. In addition, is a digital electrical contact is also conceivable, which alone detects a rotation. The electrical contact is used to advantage, especially in connection with the spring unit, if only “sticking”, ie a blocking of the rotary movement by the braking device, is to be removed. In all of the configurations it is advantageous that every possible configuration of the sensor unit enables a resolution of the angle of rotation of less than 0.05 °. As a result, small swiveling and swiveling angles can also be recorded. A more precise control of the braking device and an input is made possible.

At least one second sensor unit is particularly preferably present. The second sensor unit is advantageously suitable for detecting a rotary movement of the rotor unit. The second sensor unit is also advantageously based on the same measuring principles as the first sensor unit. In this way, the rotation of the rotor unit relative to the rotating part can preferably be determined in general when the operating unit is in operation. An initial acceleration can advantageously be derived from the rotation, which is particularly suitable for interpreting the user's input request quickly and reliably. A high initial acceleration can be used, for example, to set a high scrolling speed.

In particular, at least one magnetic ring can advantageously be used in combination with at least two Hall sensors, in particular as rotation angle sensors. In this case, the magnetic ring is preferably arranged and in particular fastened on the rotating part in a rotationally fixed manner. In particular, a Hall sensor is placed in a stationary manner next to the magnetic ring, which is suitable and designed to detect, in particular, at least one change in a magnetic field of the magnetic ring. The second Hall sensor is advantageously arranged in particular non-rotatably on the rotor unit or is advantageously arranged at least partially therein. In particular, when the coupling unit is in a coupled state, the rotor unit advantageously rotates with the rotating part and the one magnetic ring. In this case, in particular in an idealized manner, no pivoting of the rotating part relative to the rotor unit is detected. In the real application, however, in particular small pivoting movements by the coupling unit may also be possible in the coupled state.

In particular, in a decoupled state, a rotation of the magnetic ring can advantageously be detected by the second Hall sensor.

In particular, it is possible to compare measurement signals from two sensor units, which are based on the same and / or similar measurement principle, with one another in order to detect a pivoting of the rotating part with respect to the rotor unit. In particular when using Hall sensors, the measurement signals can advantageously be subtracted directly from one another. In particular, the processing and the detection of a relative movement from the rotating part to the rotor unit can advantageously be detected.

The coupling device advantageously comprises at least one coupling unit and at least one elastic spring unit. As a result, both functions are combined in one control unit.

The operating device preferably comprises at least one support body. The operating unit is advantageously at least partially accommodated on the support body. The support body enables the force support and / or at least partially installation in a housing or another component.

The rotor unit is preferably at least partially rotatably received on the support body. Particularly preferably, the rotor unit is at least partially mounted on the support body. For this purpose, at least one storage unit is advantageously formed on the support body and / or on the rotor unit.

The rotor unit advantageously at least partially encloses a stator unit. The stator unit is in particular at least one component of the braking device. The rotor unit advantageously at least partially encloses the stator unit. The stator unit is advantageously at least partially fixed and / or at least partially fixedly received and / or supported on the support body.

The rotor unit is preferably at least partially rotatably and / or pivotably received on the stator unit.

In at least one advantageous development, the rotor unit and / or the stator unit are at least partially rotatably received on the support body. The rotor unit and / or the stator unit can preferably also be held non-rotatably, that is to say statically, on the support body.

The braking device is preferably designed at least partially as a magnetorheological braking device.

In at least one advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one magnetorheological medium is present at least in regions between the rotor unit and the stator unit of the magnetorheological braking device. The stator unit and / or the rotor unit advantageously comprises at least one electrically conductive coil. The coil can do that magnetorheological medium can be influenced in its properties and in particular the viscosity. A mobility of the rotating part can advantageously be influenced by the braking device. Particularly preferably, at least one haptic feedback or bidirectional communication can thereby be generated. The user receives haptic feedback through his input, which he made by rotating the rotating part. At the same time, according to the invention, a free run and / or overrun can advantageously be used in order to use the operating unit even more advantageously. “Sticking” of the braking device can advantageously be prevented by the elastic spring unit. In addition, inputs from users can be recorded directly and with a high degree of sensitivity.

A method according to the invention comprises an operating device with at least one operating unit and a braking device that can be controlled in a targeted manner. The operating unit comprises at least one rotating part with at least one contact surface for rotating the operating unit and at least one rotor unit and at least one sensor unit. The sensor unit is at least suitable for determining the rotary movement of the operating unit. A rotary movement of the contact surface of the rotary part is decoupled or coupled from a rotary movement of the rotor unit by at least one coupling unit. The sensor unit detects the rotary movement of the rotating part.

Another method according to the invention comprises an operating device with at least one operating unit. The operating unit comprises at least one rotating part with at least one contact surface for rotating the operating unit and at least one rotor unit and at least one sensor unit. The sensor unit is at least suitable for determining the rotary movement of the operating unit. A rotary movement of the contact surface of the rotary part is transmitted to the rotor unit by at least one elastic spring unit of at least one coupling device by elastic pivoting and / or rotation. The rotation is detected by the sensor unit or can be detected by the sensor unit.

In one of the methods, a rotational movement of the rotor unit is advantageously delayed, held or also released by at least one braking device and in particular a magnetorheological braking device.

Further advantages and features of the present invention emerge from the description of the exemplary embodiments, which are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.

• 1a-1f rein schematische dreidimensionale Ansichten von erfindungsgemäßen Bedieneinrichtungen;
• 2a-2b stark schematisierte Darstellungen einer erfindungsgemäßen Bedieneinrichtung in einer geschnittenen Seitenansicht;
• 3a-3c stark schematisierte Darstellungen verschiedener Ausführungsformen des Bereichs der Kopplungseinrichtung einer erfindungsgemäßen Bedieneinrichtung in einer Schnittansicht;
• 4 eine stark schematisierte Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Bedieneinrichtung in perspektivischer Ansicht.

In the figures show:

• 1a-1f purely schematic three-dimensional views of operating devices according to the invention;
• 2a-2b highly schematic representations of an operating device according to the invention in a sectional side view;
• 3a-3c highly schematic representations of various embodiments of the area of the coupling device of an operating device according to the invention in a sectional view;
• 4th a highly schematic representation of an operating device according to the invention in a perspective view.

In the 1a until 1f are input devices according to the invention 100 shown which with magnetorheological braking devices 11th are equipped and operated according to the method according to the invention. The input devices 100 point here as an input wheel 103 trained input elements 102 on.

1a shows a as a control button 106 trained input device 100 . 1b shows one as a thumb roller 107 trained input device 100 . 1c and 1d show one as a computer mouse 101 trained input device 100 . Here is the input wheel 103 here as a mouse wheel 104 educated. 1e shows one as a joystick 105 trained input device 100 . 1f shows an input device designed as a gamepad 100 with rotatable control knob. In 1e are also a linear movement 108 and a pivoting movement and / or a rotating movement 109 marked.

In 2a shows an embodiment of a haptic operating device according to the invention 100 in a highly schematic form in a sectional view. This embodiment is based on a possible application as an input wheel, but not restricted to this application 103 in a computer mouse 101 discussed.

The haptic operating device 100 comprises a support body 20th and a control unit 2 . On the supporting structure 20th is the control unit 2 recorded. The control unit 2 includes a stator unit 21 , which on the support body 20th is firmly recorded. The stator unit 21 also includes a coil unit, which is not shown here in detail. Also is the rotor unit 5 through the storage unit 10 also on the support body 20th rotatably received and in particular stored. The rotary motion 7th takes place around the shown axis of symmetry of the rotor unit 5 .

The rotor unit 5 comprises and encloses the stator unit 21 Completely. Between the Rotor unit 5 and the stator unit 21 is a magnetorheological medium 22nd present, which can be specifically controlled by the coil unit. The application of a voltage and a coil current increases the viscosity of the magnetorheological medium 22nd changes. The rotary motion 7th can thus be braked in a targeted manner. In this way, a user can in particular receive haptic feedback via an input.

Here is a docking device 8th present. A turned part 3 is rotatable on the coupling device 8th and the rotor unit 5 stored. About the contact surface 4th can make a rotary motion 7th can be introduced into the system by a user.

The coupling device 8th can optionally be used as a coupling unit 9 or as an elastic spring unit 12th be trained.

A twisting motion 7th of the turned part 3 is here by a first sensor unit 6th recorded. A transducer of the sensor unit 6th is on the support body 20th arranged, while a signal transmitter, such as a perforated disk, on the rotating part 3 itself is arranged. There is also a second sensor unit 6th for detecting the rotary movement 7th the rotor unit is present.

The coupling device can be used here 8th for example as a coupling unit 9 be executed. The coupling unit 9 can move between the rotating part 3 and the rotor unit 5 couple in a twist-proof manner. Here, a small elastic deformation or slippage is also depending on the embodiment of the coupling unit 9 possible. In the coupled state, forces can be between the rotor unit 5 and the turned part 3 be transmitted. A user can turn over one by one 7th input that has been made, for example in a computer unit, receive a response. For this purpose, the mobility of the rotating part 3 by the magnetorheological braking device 11th to be influenced.

Due to the high friction of the magnetorheological medium 22nd and the storage unit 10 the rotor unit 5 becomes a rotary motion 7th the control unit 2 here strongly dampened and delayed. A registered angular momentum can therefore only be insufficiently converted into a rotary movement 7th the control unit 2 implemented. A free run or lag is not possible.

In the uncoupled state of the coupling unit 9 can turn the rotating part 3 free opposite the rotor unit 5 rotate. This greatly reduces the friction. A freewheel or overrun of the rotating part 3 is possible. This improves the operability of the operating device 100 and the control unit 2 enables.

In order to additionally support the after-run, the rotating part includes 3 a key element here 19th with a high density. The core element 19th can for example be made of iron. Due to the high density, the turned part has 3 a high level of indolence. This supports the after-run.

In addition, the coupling device 8th also here as an elastic spring unit 12th be executed. The spring unit 12th can be used here as an elastomer spring element 15th or as a metal spring element 16 be executed. In both cases, the spring unit swivels 18th between the rotating part 3 and the rotor unit 5 enables. As a result, an input from a user can also be recorded when the rotor unit 5 by the magnetorheological braking device 11th is blocked. In particular, the operating unit will “stick” 2 prevented when the braking device 11th a rotary motion 7th the control unit 2 blocked or very much delayed and a movement is to be initiated in the opposite direction in which z. B. should not be braked.

In 2 B is an alternative embodiment of the coupling unit 9 shown. Here includes the coupling unit 9 two parts. One is part of the coupling unit 9 between the rotor unit 5 and the turned part 3 arranged so that the freewheel of the rotating part 3 is made possible. The coupling is here through the second part of the coupling unit 9 achieved, which as a movable switching unit 13th is trained. That second part is here next to the turned part 3 arranged and axially movable. The coupling can take place here, for example, by interlocking tooth elements or also a friction lining. The coupling unit 9 is through a preload unit 14th biased into the coupled position. The preload unit 14th is designed here as a spiral spring which is supported on the support body. By means of a switching unit, not shown, the coupling unit and the movable switching unit 13th be switched between the coupled and the decoupled state.

In 3a FIG. 13 is a purely schematic sectional view along the section line AA from FIG 2a and 2 B shown. Here is the one as a coupling unit 9 executed coupling device 8th encloses the rotor unit 5 . Next is the coupling unit here 9 the turned part 3 arranged. A twisting motion 7th which through the contact surface 4th is initiated, is not transmitted to the rotor unit in the decoupled state 5 transfer. This enables freewheeling.

In 3b FIG. 3 is likewise a purely schematic sectional view along the section line AA from FIG 2a and 2 B shown. Here is the docking device 8th as a spring unit 12th and in detail as an elastomer spring element 15th executed. The elastomer spring element 15th here is a rubber buffer. The rubber buffer surrounds the rotor unit 5 ring-shaped and connects the rotor unit 5 with the turned part 3 . When the rotating part moves 3 this can be compared to the rotor unit 5 about the swivel angle 18th pivot and / or twist. It can thus be ensured that the user can also make an input when the rotor unit 5 by the braking device 11th blocked. A rotation here can be, for example, approx. 0.05 °, which is caused by the sensor unit 6th is detectable.

In 3c is an alternative embodiment of the spring unit 12th out 3b shown. Between the turned part 3 and the rotor unit 5 are several metal spring elements here 16 arranged in the form of leaf springs. By metal spring elements 16 can pivot more 18th or a larger pivot angle 18th between the rotor unit 5 and the turned part 3 be generated. Up to 30 ° in particular are possible here. In addition, there is also a fixation and pre-tensioning unit here 17th present. Through the fixation unit 17th can the spring unit 12th be bridged here and established. This creates a relatively rigid connection between the rotating part 3 and the rotor unit 5 possible. Through the pretensioning unit 17th can be the spring characteristic of the metal spring element 16 be adjusted. So it is possible to set the length of a spring travel or a certain part of the spring so that the spring characteristic changes. The spring characteristic can be adjusted in particular during operation. It is also possible to use individual elastomer spring elements 15th or metal spring elements 16 to exchange. Also a combined use of elastomer spring elements 15th and metal spring elements 16 is possible.

In 4th is a purely schematic perspective illustration of an operating device according to the invention 100 shown. Here is between the rotating part 3 and the rotor unit 5 a coupling device 8th arranged. The coupling device 8th can be used as a coupling unit 9 or as a spring unit 12th be executed. The rotor unit 5 includes the stator unit 21 . The rotor unit 5 and the stator unit 21 together form a magnetorheological braking device 11th , which increases the mobility of the entire control unit 2 influenced. A user can use the control unit 2 over the contact surface 4th rotate.

List of reference symbols

2

Control unit

3

Turned part

4th

Contact surface

5

Rotor unit

6th

Sensor unit

7th

Rotary motion

8th

Coupling device

9

Coupling unit

10

Storage unit

11th

Braking device

12th

elastic spring unit

13th

movable switching unit

14th

Preload unit

15th

Elastomer spring element

16

Metal spring element

17th

Fixing unit, pretensioning unit

18th

Swivel angle,

19th

Swiveling core element

20th

Support body, console

21

Stator unit

22nd

magnetorheological medium

100

Control device, haptic control device

101

computer mouse

102

Input element

103

Input wheel

104

Mouse wheel

105

joystick

106

Control button

107

Thumb roller

108

Linear motion

109

Swivel movement

Claims (32)

Operating device (100) with at least one operating unit (2), comprising at least one rotating part (3) with at least one contact surface (4) for rotating the operating unit (2) and at least one rotatably mounted rotor unit (5) and at least one sensor unit (6), characterized in that the operating unit (2) has at least one coupling device (8) with at least one coupling unit (9), with which the rotating part (3) and the rotor unit (5) can optionally be coupled in a rotationally secure manner or decoupled from one another, and wherein the rotational movement (7) of the rotating part (3) can be detected by the sensor unit (6). Control device according to Claim 1 , comprising at least one controllable braking device (11) for targeted braking of the operating unit (2). Operating device (100) with at least one operating unit (2) and at least one controllable braking device (11) for targeted braking of the operating unit (2), the operating unit (2) having at least one rotating part (3) with at least one contact surface (4) for rotating the Control unit (2) and at least one rotor unit (5) and at least one sensor unit (6), and wherein the sensor unit (6) is at least suitable for detecting a rotary movement (7) of the control unit (2), characterized in that the control unit ( 2) has at least one coupling device (8) with at least one elastic spring unit (12) which connects the rotor unit (5) and the rotating part (3) to one another in an elastically pivotable manner and wherein at least the pivoting (18) of the rotating part (2) is effected by the sensor unit (6) is detectable. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling unit (9) comprises at least one magnetic and / or electromagnetic coupling. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling unit (9) comprises at least one mechanical coupling with at least one movable switching unit (13). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical coupling has at least one friction lining and / or at least two interlocking shaped elements. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling unit (9) has at least one control unit for controlling the movable switching unit (13). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical coupling unit (9) comprises at least one preloading unit (14). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling unit (9) is at least partially received on the rotor unit (5) and / or the rotating part (3). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotating part (3) is rotatably received on the rotor unit (5). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring unit (12) comprises at least one elastomer spring element (15) and / or at least one metal spring element (16). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring unit (12) comprises at least one fixing unit (17). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a spring characteristic of the spring unit (12) can be set at least in regions. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring unit (12) comprises at least one pretensioning unit (17). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a maximum pivoting angle (18) between the rotating part (3) and the rotor unit (5) is less than 60 ° or 45 ° or 30 °. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a maximum pivoting angle (18) between the rotating part (3) and the rotor unit (5) is between 0.01 ° and 1 ° and in particular between 0.02 ° and 0.1 ° is possible. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotating part (3) at least partially encompasses the rotor unit (5) and / or is at least partially annular. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotating part (3) comprises at least one core element (19). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the core element has a density between 2 kg / dm ^ 3 and 15 kg / dm ^ 3 and in particular up to 30 kg / dm ^ 3. Control device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor unit (6) at least one change Rotation angle detected and / or wherein the sensor unit detects the rotation angle position of the rotating part (3). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, at least one second sensor unit (6) for detecting a rotary movement (7) of the rotor unit (5) being present. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling device (8) comprises at least one coupling unit (9) and an elastic spring unit (12). Control device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one support body (20) on which the control unit (2) is at least partially received. Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotor unit (5) is at least partially rotatably received on the support body (20). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotor unit (5) at least partially encloses at least one stator unit (21) of the braking device (11). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotor unit (5) is at least partially rotatably received on the stator unit (21). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the stator unit (21) and / or the rotor unit (5) is at least partially received on the support body (20). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the braking device (11) is a magnetorheological braking device (11). Operating device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one magnetorheological medium (22) is present between the rotor unit (5) and the stator unit (21) of the magnetorheological braking device (11) and / or wherein the stator unit (21) and / or the rotor unit (5) comprises at least one electrically conductive coil. Method for operating an operating device (100) with at least one operating unit (2), which has at least one rotating part (3) with at least one contact surface (4) for rotating the operating unit (2) and at least one rotatably mounted rotor unit (5) and at least one sensor unit (6), wherein the sensor unit (6) is suitable at least for determining a rotary movement (7) of the operating unit (2), characterized in that a rotary movement (7) of the contact surface (4) of the rotary part (3) by at least one coupling unit (9) a coupling device (8) is decoupled or coupled from a rotary movement (7) of the rotor device (5) and wherein the sensor unit (6) can detect the rotary movement (7) of the rotary part (3). Method for operating an operating device (100) with at least one rotatable operating unit (2) and at least one controllable braking device (11) for targeted braking of the operating unit (2), the operating unit (2) having at least one rotating part (3) with at least one contact surface ( 4) for rotating the operating unit (2) and at least one rotor unit (5) and at least one sensor unit (6), and wherein the sensor unit (6) is at least suitable for determining a rotary movement (7) of the operating unit (2), characterized in that that a rotary movement (7) of the contact surface (4) of the rotary part (3) by at least one elastic spring unit (12) of a coupling device (8) results in an elastic pivoting (18) of the rotary part (3) to the rotor unit (5), which can be detected by the sensor unit (6). Method according to at least one of the two preceding claims, wherein a rotary movement of the rotor unit (5) can be delayed, held or also released by at least one specifically controllable braking device (11) and in particular a magnetorheological braking device (11).

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