DE102020209072A1 - Vehicle door with multi-function control element - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle door (10) with an operating element (14) on the inside of the door, the operating element (14) comprising at least one first operable component (16) and depending on the operation of this component (16), a first vehicle function can be operated, and wherein the operating element (14) is movably arranged on the vehicle door (10) and a second vehicle function can be operated depending on the movement.The invention also relates to a vehicle (100) with such a vehicle door (10).

Description

The invention relates to a vehicle door with an operating element for operating a number of vehicle functions and a vehicle with such a vehicle door. The vehicle can be a motor vehicle and in particular a passenger car or truck. The vehicle door may be an entry door for people using the vehicle. In particular, it can be a front door and preferably a driver's door.

It is known to arrange controls for various vehicle functions on the inside of vehicle doors. This applies, for example, to controls for a door lock, typically in the form of manually operated levers. Also known are window controls for raising and lowering windows, i.e., closing and opening them. Operating elements for a seat adjustment can also be provided.

It is customary to provide separate control elements for each vehicle function. Accordingly, there is a large number of control elements present on the door. This can be confusing from a user's point of view. Furthermore, this increases the number of parts, which increases the space requirement, the assembly effort and the costs in general.

There is therefore a need to improve arrangements of operating elements on vehicle doors, in particular in a way that saves money and increases user-friendliness.

This object is solved by the subject matter of the appended independent claims. Advantageous developments are specified in the dependent claims.

In general, the invention envisages providing an operating element with a number of integrated operating options for different vehicle functions. In other words, a multi-function control element is to be provided on a vehicle door. This can provide various operating options for a vehicle occupant in a locally combined manner, as a result of which the number of parts and, in general, the space requirement is reduced.

In general, the operating element is characterized in that it comprises at least one operable component, preferably a displaceable or generally movable component. On the other hand, the operating element as such is preferably movable itself and in particular is slidably mounted on the vehicle door.

In this way, the operator has various options for operating the operating element and thereby making inputs. Depending on whether he actuates the operable component or moves the operating element as such, different vehicle functions can be controlled and/or actuated. This reduces the required space, for example in comparison to the case where a large number of separate control elements are distributed on the vehicle door, each of which only allows the operation of a single vehicle function.

A vehicle function can generally be understood here as meaning any function that can be influenced in a targeted manner by an operator by actuating the operating element. In particular, the operator can activate the vehicle function by correspondingly actuating the control element or generally change an operating state of the vehicle (or the vehicle function) in the manner specified by him by actuating the control element.

The vehicle function can be a function that is provided by an actuator. Correspondingly, depending on the operation of the operating element, an actuator providing the vehicle function can be controlled. However, it can also be a mechanical vehicle function, for example a door lock. The operating element can accordingly be coupled mechanically to a mechanical arrangement that provides the vehicle function. Actuation of the operating element by an occupant and, in particular, forces and/or movements applied in this connection can be transferrable to the mechanical arrangement.

In detail, a vehicle door with an operating element on the inside of the door is proposed, the operating element comprising at least one first operable component and depending on the operation of this component (by a vehicle occupant) at least one first vehicle function can be operated (or, in other words, can be actuated, activated and /or changeable), and wherein the operating element is arranged to be displaceable on the vehicle door and/or is mounted in the vehicle door and at least one second vehicle function can be operated in accordance with the displacement.

The first operable component can be shifted as part of the operation, for example rotated, tilted, shifted or generally moved. It can be movably mounted in the operating element and/or held in the operating element. If the control panel ment is moved as such, the first operable component is therefore preferably also moved together with the control element. All of the above explanations also apply to any other operable components of the control element.

The shifting can be generally parallel to and/or along the inside of the door. To enable displacement, the operating element can be held in a guide rail. In particular, this can be designed in such a way that an occupant can move the operating element along a path of movement specified by this rail. The operating element is preferably manually displaceable in general along a predefined movement path or a predefined displacement path. This preferably extends over a length of several centimeters, for example at least 10 cm and preferably at least 20 cm. The control element can be moved independently of any actuation of operable components of the control element. Likewise, these components can be actuated without having to move them.

According to one development, the first function is a window operating function, for example a window opening function and/or window closing function. For example, when operating the operable component in a first way (in particular when moving in a first direction) a window can be opened and when operating in a different way (in particular when moving in a different and preferably opposite direction) a window can be closed.

Additionally or alternatively, the second vehicle function can be a door actuation function, for example a door opening function and/or door closing function. A door lock can be locked and/or unlocked, for example, based on a displacement of the control element. For this purpose, a mechanical arrangement coupled to the operating element and in particular a corresponding locking mechanism can be actuated as part of the displacement. In other words, the displacement can be converted by mechanical power transmission into an opening or closing actuation of the door lock, which corresponds to a corresponding door opening function or door closing function. Alternatively, it can also be provided that the displacement is detected by sensors and based on this, a servomotor is controlled, which closes or opens a door lock accordingly. The door operating function can also be referred to as the door locking function.

As mentioned, the operating element can be mounted in a displaceable manner in such a way that it can be moved along a predetermined path of movement. This is preferably an essentially rectilinear movement path, ie a movement path that has a radius of curvature of, for example, more than 30 cm. In general, the trajectory can run essentially horizontally. In particular, a horizontal vectorial component of the course of the movement path can exceed a vertical vectorial component, for example by at least twice or three times. A movement path configured in this way enables easy displacement from the perspective of the vehicle occupant, in particular when the occupant assumes a sitting position.

According to a preferred embodiment, the operating element includes a display device. This can, for example, be a digital display and in particular a display (for example an LCD display). The display device can be controlled according to an operation of the first operable component and/or the operating element. In particular, an operating state of the display device can be changeable if the first operable component and/or the operating element are actuated or shifted. In the case of the first operable component, content associated with the first vehicle function can be displayed in the display device as a change in the operating state. For example, a window symbol can then be displayed if the first vehicle function is a window actuation function.

On the other hand, when the operating element is moved, a door symbol or a lock symbol can be displayed in the display device or, in general, information associated with the corresponding second vehicle function. The displayed content can vary in accordance with a displacement extent of the control element and/or a position occupied by it, for example depending on which end position along the movement path the control element is currently occupying.

A preferred embodiment provides that, in addition to the display device, the control element also includes a second operable component, wherein an operating state of the display device can be changed depending on the actuation of the second operable component. In general, the operating state of the display device can be understood to mean brightness, for example, but preferably also a definition of the displayed content. In particular, by actuating the second operable component, it can be determined which information is currently displayed on the display devices are displayed. It is possible to switch between different services and/or vehicle functions and, in particular, information associated with them. For example, the second control element can be used to specify which widget from a large number of possible widgets is currently to be displayed by the display device. In general, the second operable component can be used to switch between individual display contents of the display device and thus change its operating state. In addition, however, the display device can also change its operating state independently of actuations of the second component. This applies in particular to the above automatic changes when the first component is actuated or the control element is moved.

In general, the provision of a display device improves operability, since the occupant can then, for example, directly receive feedback as to which vehicle function he is currently operating. If the second operable component is provided in order to actuate the display device in a targeted manner, the possibility is also provided of further increasing the usefulness of the operating element from the perspective of the occupant. In particular, information (e.g. an outside temperature) can then also be displayed there for which other display devices would otherwise have to be used. In other words, functions that would otherwise have to be displayed elsewhere using other display devices can be integrated into the control element via the display device. This increases the range of functions of the control element and creates a potential for space and cost savings elsewhere in the vehicle.

As mentioned, the second operable component can change the operating state of the display device in such a way that it is switched between different display contents of the display device.

In general, the first and/or the second operable component (if present) can be ring-shaped and/or twistable. In other words, operating the components may require twisting them. This rotation can be detected by sensors, for which purpose common measurement and/or sensor principles from the prior art can be used. For example, the amount of twist may determine the extent to which an associated vehicle function is actuated. If a plurality of operable components is provided, in particular the first and second operable components described herein, these can be rotated about a common axis of rotation. In particular, they can be positioned concentrically to a common axis of rotation. They can be positioned one behind the other along this axis of rotation. In this way, a compact design of the operating element is achieved, in which the operable components can be operated intuitively from the user's point of view.

Depending on the desired actuation, the user can grip one of the operable components and turn it around the common axis of rotation. In order to facilitate this, the operable components can have different diameters and/or different surface structures or surface shapes. For example, one of the operable components (preferably the first) can have a substantially constant diameter and another operable component (preferably the second) can have a variable diameter, in particular a decreasing diameter. The diameter is measured in a plane running perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The operable component with a varying diameter can thus have an inclined surface that is easy for a user to grasp and, above all, can be intuitively distinguished from the other operable component with the same diameter.

A development provides that an operating state of the display device can be changed depending on whether the vehicle door is open or closed. In this case, the operating state can be based on any of the above-described operating states of a display device and can be characterized in particular by the content displayed in each case. Whether the vehicle door is open or closed can be detected by a sensor, for example, and transmitted to the control element.

In general, it can be provided that the operating state when the vehicle door is closed primarily serves to inform a vehicle occupant about currently operated vehicle functions or to display content (e.g. general information) selected by the second operable component. On the other hand, when the vehicle door is open, an operating state can be activated which primarily serves to use the display device as a signal. For example, a signal effect can be achieved via the content displayed (e.g. flashing or generally temporarily changing content) and/or via increased brightness and/or changed color design. This can be used in particular as a warning signal for other road users to avoid collisions with the open vehicle door.

Consequently, one embodiment provides that a light signal operating state of the display device can be activated when the vehicle door is open. This can have any of the features mentioned above, in particular an increased brightness compared to the closed state, a different color design and/or a flashing reproduction of a display content.

In general, it should be pointed out that the display device, if present, can also provide an operating option for a vehicle function via a touch function. For example, a door lock can be selectively activated and, in particular, determined when the door is already in a closed position. For example, a door lock can only be unlocked again if the touch function is pressed again. The display device can also provide or form an operable component. However, the second operable component is preferably designed to change operating states of the display device independently of any touch functions of the display device. This is preferably a movable and, in particular, rotatable component, as explained above. Consequently, the second operable component can be a haptically actuable component that is formed and/or can be actuated independently of the display device.

Finally, the invention also relates to a vehicle with a vehicle door according to any aspect described herein.

• 1 zeigt die Türinnenseite einer Fahrzeugtür mit einem daran angeordneten Bedienelement gemäß einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei eine Anzeigeeinrichtung des Bedienelements einen ersten Betriebszustand aufweist.
• 2 zeigt das Bedienelement aus 1 in einer Seitenansicht.
• 3 zeigt das Bedienelement aus 1 nach einer Verschiebung.
• 4a, 4b zeigen schematische Teilansichten eines Fahrzeugs, das die Fahrzeugtür aus 1 aufweist, wobei das Bedienelement in 4a die Position aus 1 einnimmt und in 4b die Position aus 3.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to the accompanying schematic figures.

• 1 shows the inside of a vehicle door with an operating element arranged thereon according to a first exemplary embodiment, with a display device of the operating element having a first operating state.
• 2 shows the control element 1 in a side view.
• 3 shows the control element 1 after a shift.
• 4a , 4b show schematic partial views of a vehicle showing the vehicle door 1 has, wherein the operating element in 4a the position 1 occupies and in 4b the position 3 .

In 1 A vehicle door 10 is shown looking at the inside of the door. A window section 12 can be seen. The vehicle door 10 is in principle designed according to the prior art. How from the 4a , 4b becomes clear, it is, for example, the driver's door or a front door of a vehicle 100.

However, in contrast to the prior art, the vehicle door 10 has the operating element 14 disclosed herein. This is designed, for example, as a round disk-shaped element. It is movably mounted in the vehicle door 10 . A guideway or a guide slot 16 is formed for this purpose in a door trim panel that is not shown in detail. This defines a movement path of the operating element 14. More precisely, the operating element 14 can be displaced along the guide slot 16 when an occupant exerts a corresponding force on it. The displacement takes place along the inside of the door by a distance of at least 10 cm.

In 1 a state is shown in which the operating element 14 has reached a first end position. In 3 a state is shown in which the operating element 14 has reached a second end position. These end positions are positioned along the guide slot 16 at ends spaced apart from each other. In general, it is also clear that the path of movement 16 is essentially straight, but in principle could also be curved and/or angled or can run generally obliquely. However, it defines a substantially horizontal path of movement for the operating element 14 from FIG 1 from left to right.

2 shows a side view of the operating element 14. It can be seen that this has two operable components, namely a first operable component 16 and a second operable component 18. Both are positioned concentrically around an axis of rotation R. Furthermore, both operable components 16, 18 are ring-shaped. These are haptically tangible components 16, 18 that a driver can rotate about the axis of rotation R. This rotation is detected by the operating element 14 and, more precisely, by a control device which is not shown separately. The extent of the rotation can determine the extent of an actuation of a vehicle function associated with the operable components 16, 18 and/or define an influencing of these vehicle functions. It can also be seen that the first operable component 16 has a constant diameter, whereas the diameter of the component 18 is variable. In the side view, the second operable component 18 has a corresponding conical or truncated pyramid shape. This enables the operable component 18 to reach over in order to reach the first operable component 16, so that operating errors are made more difficult (ie the components 16, 18 can be reliably operated manually independently of one another).

In 1 and in 2 is also shown in each case that the operating element 14 comprises a display device 20, preferably an LCD display. This faces the vehicle occupant, ie is arranged on a front side of the operating element 14 . Accordingly, it becomes clear from 2 also that the first operable component 16 is positioned closer to the inside of the door than the second operable component 18. The display device 20 is preferably arranged stationary within the operating element 20, is therefore not rotated together with the operable components 16, 18.

Possibilities for operating vehicle functions with the operating element 14 are as follows: A window actuator can be operated with the first operable component 16, i.e. a window can be opened and closed. When the first operable component 16 is rotated in a first direction, the window within the door 10 can be closed. A rotation in the opposite direction opens the window. Provision is preferably made for an operating state of the display device 20 to change when the first operable component 16 is actuated. This can be done via the control device of the operating element 14 (not shown separately), which detects the actuation of the first operable component 16 and then appropriately controls the display device 20 . In general, this control device can also communicate with other control devices of the vehicle 100 and can generally be connected to a communication bus of the vehicle. This makes it possible, for example, to control the window actuator as a result of operating the operable component 16.

The operating state of the display device 20 is preferably changed when the first operable component 16 is actuated in such a way that a window symbol is then displayed there.

If the operating element 14 is shifted as such and, more precisely, from the position in 1 to the one in 3 moves, however, a door lock is unlocked. The door can then be pushed open or pushed open manually. This is preferably done via a mechanical coupling of the operating element 14 to the door lock. Alternatively, the displacement of the operating element 14 can be detected by sensors and a servomotor of the door lock can be controlled based on this. In this case, too, the operating state of the display device 20 preferably changes. For example, a door or lock symbol can then be displayed here. The door lock can be locked if the operating element is moved in the opposite direction. The operating state of the display device 20 can then be adjusted automatically again.

Optionally, the display device 20 can also include a touch function. If the vehicle occupant makes a touch input by correspondingly touching the display device 20, a vehicle function associated therewith can preferably be selectively activated or deactivated. In the present case, this is a central locking function. However, permanent locking (i.e. locking the door lock) could also take place, so that it cannot be unlocked easily when the operating element 14 is moved, as long as this permanent locking is not canceled via a touch input.

Instead of a permanent locking, one can also speak of locking or locking the door lock, so that it cannot be opened easily and in particular by manually initiated displacements of the operating element 14 .

A further operating option is provided by the second operable component 18 . This is preferably adjustable in steps. Depending on the rotational position taken (each rotational position corresponding to a corresponding level), the display device 20 can display a different content. This corresponds in each case to a change in the operating state of the display device 20. In other words, the operable component 18 and, more precisely, a gradual rotation thereof can be used to switch between the display contents of the display device 20. For example, the display device 20 can display general information that is independent of the vehicle functions that can be actuated with the operating element 14 , for example weather information and/or date or time information. By rotating the operable component 18 either the weather information or the date and/or time information can be displayed accordingly. In addition, however, automatic switching of the content displayed by the display device 20 can still be provided if the operating element 14 as such is moved or the first operable component 16 is operated.

In the 4a , 4b a vehicle 100 is shown schematically in plan view (without roof) with the door 10 off 1 includes. A position of the operating element 14 is also shown. A steering wheel 22 and a driver's seat 24 are also shown for orientation shown. Other seats and features of the vehicle interior are not shown.

In 4a the door 10 is closed. The operating element 14 is in a first forward position, as in FIG 1 shown.

In the state of 4b the driver has the operating element 14 in the position of 3 postponed. The door latch is thus open and the driver can push open the door 10 in a conventional manner, as shown. It is preferably detected by sensors that the door is actually opened. Conventional door opening sensors can be used for this. Once this has been determined, the display device 20 is automatically switched to the light signal operating state described in the general part of the description in order to signal to other road users that the vehicle door 10 is opening or to identify it as an interference contour.

Reference List

10

vehicle door

12

window cutout

14

control element

16

guide slot

16

first operable component

18

second operable component

20

display device

22

steering wheel

24

driver's seat

100

vehicle

R

axis of rotation

Claims (10)

Vehicle door (10) with operating element (14) on a door inside, wherein the control element (14) comprises at least one first operable component (16) and depending on the operation of this component (16) at least one first vehicle function can be operated, and wherein the operating element (14) is arranged on the vehicle door (10) in a displaceable manner and at least one second vehicle function can be operated in accordance with the displacement. Vehicle door (10) after claim 1 , characterized in that the first vehicle function is a window operating function. Vehicle door (10) after claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the second vehicle function is a door actuation function. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element (14) is displaceably mounted in such a way that it can be moved along a substantially rectilinear path of movement. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element (14) comprises a display device (20) and a second operable component (18), an operating state of the display device depending on an operation of the second operable component (18). (20) is changeable. Vehicle door (10) after claim 5 , characterized in that the operating state can be changed in such a way that it is possible to switch between different display contents of the display device (20). Vehicle door (10) after claim 5 or 6 , characterized in that at least one of the first and second operable components (16, 18) is designed to be rotatable and in particular ring-shaped. Vehicle door (10) according to one of Claims 5 until 7 , characterized in that an operating state of the display device (20) can be changed depending on whether the vehicle door (10) is open or closed. Vehicle door (10) according to one of claim 8 , characterized in that when the vehicle door (10) is open, a light signal operating state of the display device (20) can be activated. Vehicle (100) with a vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

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