EP0686277A1 - Manual control appliance with a control lever - Google Patents

Manual control appliance with a control lever

Info

Publication number
EP0686277A1
EP0686277A1 EP94908260A EP94908260A EP0686277A1 EP 0686277 A1 EP0686277 A1 EP 0686277A1 EP 94908260 A EP94908260 A EP 94908260A EP 94908260 A EP94908260 A EP 94908260A EP 0686277 A1 EP0686277 A1 EP 0686277A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
control device
hand control
molded part
lever
locking
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP94908260A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0686277B1 (en
Inventor
Fabian Elsaesser
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
NBB Nachrichtentechnik GmbH and Co KG
Original Assignee
NBB Nachrichtentechnik GmbH and Co KG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by NBB Nachrichtentechnik GmbH and Co KG filed Critical NBB Nachrichtentechnik GmbH and Co KG
Publication of EP0686277A1 publication Critical patent/EP0686277A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0686277B1 publication Critical patent/EP0686277B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G5/00—Means for preventing, limiting or returning the movements of parts of a control mechanism, e.g. locking controlling member
    • G05G5/06—Means for preventing, limiting or returning the movements of parts of a control mechanism, e.g. locking controlling member for holding members in one or a limited number of definite positions only
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04703—Mounting of controlling member
    • G05G2009/04722—Mounting of controlling member elastic, e.g. flexible shaft
    • G05G2009/04725—Mounting of controlling member elastic, e.g. flexible shaft with coil spring
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04703—Mounting of controlling member
    • G05G2009/04722—Mounting of controlling member elastic, e.g. flexible shaft
    • G05G2009/04729—Mounting of controlling member elastic, e.g. flexible shaft melastomeric
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04766—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks providing feel, e.g. indexing means, means to create counterforce
    • G05G2009/0477—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks providing feel, e.g. indexing means, means to create counterforce holding the member in a number of definite positions
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20012—Multiple controlled elements
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20012—Multiple controlled elements
    • Y10T74/20018—Transmission control
    • Y10T74/2014—Manually operated selector [e.g., remotely controlled device, lever, push button, rotary dial, etc.]
    • Y10T74/20159—Control lever movable through plural planes
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20576—Elements
    • Y10T74/20636—Detents
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20576—Elements
    • Y10T74/20636—Detents
    • Y10T74/20642—Hand crank
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20576—Elements
    • Y10T74/20732—Handles
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20576—Elements
    • Y10T74/20732—Handles
    • Y10T74/20834—Hand wheels
    • Y10T74/20864—Handles

Definitions

  • Hand control device with a joystick.
  • the invention relates to a hand control device according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such hand control devices are a control member known from many fields of application; It is probably best known for the operation of computers (here referred to as “joystick”), but it is also also used for steering and steering, in particular remote control of real bodies, such as Cranes, hoists, etc.
  • the hand control device has a control stick as the only actuating member which is movable in two independent directions and whose movement acts in each main direction (x or y) on a transmission element.
  • Two transmission elements are consequently components of converter devices which convert the deflection of the control stick into an electrical signal; the hand control device can be used both as an on / off switch and as a proportional actuator, in which the electrical output signals in both main directions are proportional to the respective deflection of the control stick in the associated main direction.
  • control stick In order to achieve such a pivoting of the control stick, it must be pivotally mounted and held in a housing; On the one hand, sufficient deflection (deflection angle) must be ensured, on the other hand, the most precise possible definition of a zero position, i.e. a point in space in which the transducer devices emit no electrical signal.
  • a large number of latching devices are known in various design variants, in which there is generally an interaction with the control stick in such a way that the control stick encounters different resistance during its deflection movement, which the user then receives from the corresponding positioning information communicates.
  • Joysticks or control transmitters of the type mentioned are known, for example, from EP 0 459 183 AI and EP 0 501 906 AI.
  • the basic idea of the invention is therefore that only a single molded part is provided and that the latching positions and the desired stepped deflection characteristic are achieved simply by the fact that the spherical section-shaped surface of the molded part is covered with locking grooves in a net-like manner.
  • the outer cross section is expediently adapted to the inner cross section of the housing of the hand control device, so that, according to an advantageous embodiment, such a one-piece locking device molded part can simultaneously form the bottom of the housing of the hand control device, in other words, for the locking device as such no separate components are required at all, but with this configuration the locking effect is achieved by a specific design of the bottom part of the housing of the hand control device.
  • the molded part also has a peripheral edge on its lower edge, this also fixes the molded part in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the housing, since such a peripheral edge then acts as a stop shoulder on which the wall of the housing is seated.
  • a peripheral edge then acts as a stop shoulder on which the wall of the housing is seated.
  • the number of locking grooves in the two main directions (x and y) corresponds to the predetermined switching stages, the shape of the cross section of the locking grooves in cooperation with the design of the lower end of the joystick the "switching characteristic" in Determined in terms of a more or less hard or soft step characteristic when deflecting the control stick.
  • FIG. 1 an overall perspective view of a molded part forming part of the latching device
  • FIG. 2 a schematic functional representation of the molded part (section A-A of FIG. 1) in cooperation with the control stick,
  • FIG. 3 a top view of the molded part of FIG. 1 with dimensioning examples
  • FIG. 4 a cross section through the molded part in the vertical plane A-A or B-B of FIG. 3,
  • Figure 5 Sectional view of the detail X of Figure 4, and
  • FIG. 6 a schematic section through a hand control device with the built-in molded part.
  • the molded part 10 consists essentially of a plate-shaped part, the cross section of which is adapted to the inner cross section of the housing 30 of the hand control device in such a way that it forms the bottom of the housing 30, the walls of which then rest on a peripheral edge 11.
  • the upper surface of this molded part 10, that is to say toward the interior of the housing 30, is designed in the form of a spherical segment, the radius of the associated sphere essentially corresponding to the radius of the spherical surface on which the end of the control stick 20 moves during the deflection movement (radius R in FIG. 2 ).
  • Such a molded part 10 can for example consist of plastic (for example injection molded), but it can also be made of ceramic materials or metal.
  • This spherical segment-shaped surface is covered with a network or grid of locking grooves RX, RY, which run in the two main directions x and y of the control stick 20.
  • these locking grooves RX, RY result in square partial surfaces q, which are identified in FIG.
  • This central, square area is enclosed by a peripheral edge area, in which the locking grooves RX, RY subdivide the surface into rectangular partial areas r, the longitudinal axis of which points towards the center of the molded part 10.
  • the spherical segment shape of the surface merges into essentially triangular end surfaces D, which run parallel to the base surface G of the molded part and which, for example, form the "rest" of the originally planar surface of the molded part 10 before the spherical segment-shaped surface is formed che.
  • This molded part 10 which forms the bottom of the housing 30, thus represents part of the latching device.
  • the other part of the latching device is located in the joystick 20 and consists of a plunger 21 mounted and spring-loaded in the joystick 20, the lower end 23 of which interacts with the latching grooves RX, RY, with the tappet in the area of each latching groove as a result of the spring 23 the groove, depending on its shape and the shape of the lower end 22, plunges more or less deeply and thus causes a more or less pronounced "locking feeling" when operating the hand control device.
  • the locking grooves are essentially V-shaped in terms of their cross section (FIG. 5), the transition regions being rounded off in order to avoid an overly hard locking characteristic.
  • the molded part 10 can be pushed into the housing 30 from below without difficulty and can be fixed there, for example, with two diagonally opposite bolt connections B1, B2 (FIGS. 3 and 6).

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Mechanical Control Devices (AREA)
  • Position Input By Displaying (AREA)
  • Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)

Abstract

PCT No. PCT/DE94/00196 Sec. 371 Date Dec. 14, 1995 Sec. 102(e) Date Dec. 14, 1995 PCT Filed Feb. 17, 1994 PCT Pub. No. WO94/20894 PCT Pub. Date Sep. 15, 1994A manual control appliance with includes a control lever mounted in a bearing for pivotal movement about a fixed point, converter devices coupled to the lever for converting deflections of the lever with respect to two orthogonal axes into electrical output signals proportional to the deflection of the lever with respect to each of the axes, and a preshaped part having a surface in the form of a spherical section and provided with a plurality of detent grooves which cooperate with a slider at a lower end of the lever. The slider cooperates with the detent grooves in such a manner as to transmit to a user a tactily perceivable sensation each time said lower tip moves across a detent groove in order to provide tactile information about stepped portions of said control lever without affecting operation of said converter means and without limiting pivotal movement of said control lever.

Description

Handsteuergerät mit einem Steuerknüppel.Hand control device with a joystick.
Technisches Gebiet der Erfindung.Technical field of the invention.
Die Erfindung betrifft ein Handsteuergerät gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to a hand control device according to the preamble of claim 1.
Derartige Handsteuergeräte sind ein aus vielen Anwendungsgebieten bekanntes Steuerglied; am bekanntesten dürfte es durch die Bedienung von Computern sein (hier als "Joystick" bezeichnet), es wird aber auch ebenfalls zum Steuern und Lenken, insbesondere Fernsteuern von realen Körpern eingesetzt, wie z.B. Kränen, Hebezeugen, usw.Such hand control devices are a control member known from many fields of application; It is probably best known for the operation of computers (here referred to as "joystick"), but it is also also used for steering and steering, in particular remote control of real bodies, such as Cranes, hoists, etc.
Das Handsteuergerät weist einen Steuerknüppel als einziges Betäti¬ gungsorgan auf, das in zwei unabhängige Richtungen beweglich ist und dessen Bewegung in jeder einzelnen Hauptrichtung (x oder y) auf ein Übertragungsglied wirkt. Zwei Übertragungsglieder sind folglich Bestandteile von Wandlereinrichtungen, die die Auslenkung des Steuerknüppels in ein elektrisches Signal umsetzen; hierbei kann das Handsteuergerät sowohl als Ein/Aus-Schalter als auch als proportio¬ nales Stellglied verwendet werden, bei dem die elektrischen Ausgangs¬ signale in beiden Hauptrichtungen proportional zur jeweiligen Aus¬ lenkung des Steuerknüppels in der zugehörigen Hauptrichtung ist.The hand control device has a control stick as the only actuating member which is movable in two independent directions and whose movement acts in each main direction (x or y) on a transmission element. Two transmission elements are consequently components of converter devices which convert the deflection of the control stick into an electrical signal; the hand control device can be used both as an on / off switch and as a proportional actuator, in which the electrical output signals in both main directions are proportional to the respective deflection of the control stick in the associated main direction.
Um eine solche Verschwenkung des Steuerknüppels zu erreichen, muß dieser in einem Gehäuse verschwenkbar gelagert und gehalten sein; es muß einerseits eine ausreichende Auslenkung (Auslenkewinkel) gewähr¬ leistet sein, andererseits aber eine möglichst präzise Definition einer Nullstellung, d.h. eines Raumpunktes, in dem die Wandlerein¬ richtungen kein elektrisches Signal abgeben.In order to achieve such a pivoting of the control stick, it must be pivotally mounted and held in a housing; On the one hand, sufficient deflection (deflection angle) must be ensured, on the other hand, the most precise possible definition of a zero position, i.e. a point in space in which the transducer devices emit no electrical signal.
Bei dem Einsatz des Handsteuergerätes ist es oft wünschenswert, bei der Auslenkung des Steuerknüppels einen Rasteffekt zu erzielen, ähnlich wie beispielsweise bei einem als Regler vorgesehenen Potentiometer, bei dem eine gewisse Anzahl von vorgegebenen Raststellungen dem Benutzer eine zusätzliche Information über die jeweilige Stellposition des Stellgliedes vermittelt. Insbesondere bei Handsteuergeräten, wie sie zur Fernsteuerung beispielsweise von Kränen oder ähnlichem eingesetzt werden, ist eine solche zusätzliche Information, die über die Empfindung der Hand vermittelt wird, von besonderer Bedeutung, da der Blick der Bedienerperson auch schon aus Sicherheitsgründen in der Regel auf das fernzubedienende Gerät gerichtet sein muß und somit beispielsweise optische Anzeigen am Handsteuergerät die Aufmerksamkeit des Bedieners nur ablenken würden.When using the manual control device, it is often desirable to achieve a locking effect when deflecting the control stick, similar to, for example, a potentiometer provided as a controller, in which a certain number of predefined values are used Rest positions the user receives additional information about the respective position of the actuator. In particular in the case of hand control devices, such as those used for remote control of cranes or the like, such additional information, which is conveyed by the sensation of the hand, is of particular importance, since the operator's gaze usually also on the remote control for safety reasons Device must be directed and thus, for example, visual displays on the hand control device would only distract the operator's attention.
Stand der TechnikState of the art
Es sind eine Vielzahl von Rasteinrichtungen in verschiedenen kon¬ struktiven Varianten bekannt, bei denen in der Regel eine Wechsel¬ wirkung mit dem Steuerknüppel besteht, derart, daß der Steuerknüppel bei seiner Auslenkbewegung auf unterschiedlichen Widerstand stößt, was sich dem Benutzer dann durch eine entsprechende Stellinformation mitteilt.A large number of latching devices are known in various design variants, in which there is generally an interaction with the control stick in such a way that the control stick encounters different resistance during its deflection movement, which the user then receives from the corresponding positioning information communicates.
Meistens sind für die Rasteinrichtungen separate Bauteile vorgesehen, die mehr oder weniger aufwendig konstruiert sind und separat in das Gehäuse des Handsteuergerätes eingepaßt werden müssen, wobei auch eine erhebliche Justierarbeit anfällt; insgesamt stellen derartige Rasteinrichtungen dann ebenfalls einen Kostenfaktor bei Hand¬ steuergeräten dar, der möglichst gering sein sollte.Usually, separate components are provided for the latching devices, which are more or less expensive to construct and have to be fitted separately into the housing of the hand control unit, which also requires considerable adjustment work; Overall, such locking devices then also represent a cost factor for handheld control devices, which should be as low as possible.
Steuerknüppel oder Steuergeber der genannten Art sind beispielsweise aus der EP 0 459 183 AI und der EP 0 501 906 AI bekannt.Joysticks or control transmitters of the type mentioned are known, for example, from EP 0 459 183 AI and EP 0 501 906 AI.
Gegenstand der ErfindungSubject of the invention
Es ist eine Aufgabe der Erfindung, eine Rasteinrichtung so auszu¬ bilden, daß sie mit einfachsten Mitteln herstellbar, einfach in das Handsteuergerät einbaubar und zuverlässig in ihrer Funktion ist. Erfindungsgemäß wird diese Aufgabe gemäß dem kennzeichnenden Teil des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst.It is an object of the invention to form a latching device in such a way that it can be produced with the simplest of means, can be easily installed in the hand control device and is reliable in its function. According to the invention, this object is achieved in accordance with the characterizing part of patent claim 1.
Der Grundgedanke der Erfindung besteht also darin, daß lediglich ein einziges Formteil vorgesehen ist und daß die Rastpositionen und die gewünschte stufige Auslenkcharakteristik einfach dadurch erreicht wird, daß die kugelabschnittförmige Oberfläche des Formteils netz¬ artig mit Rastnuten überzogen ist.The basic idea of the invention is therefore that only a single molded part is provided and that the latching positions and the desired stepped deflection characteristic are achieved simply by the fact that the spherical section-shaped surface of the molded part is covered with locking grooves in a net-like manner.
Zweckmäßigerweise ist der Außenquerschnitt dabei angepaßt an den Innenquerschnitt des Gehäuses des Handsteuergerätes, so daß gemäß einer vorteilhaften Ausbildung ein solches einstückiges Rastein- richtungs-Formteil auch gleichzeitig den Boden des Gehäuses des Handsteuergerätes bilden kann, mit anderen Worten, für die Rast¬ einrichtung als solche sind überhaupt keine separaten Bauteile erforderlich, sondern bei dieser Ausgestaltung wird die Rastwirkung durch eine spezifische Gestaltung des Bodenteils des Gehäuses des Handsteuergerätes erreicht.The outer cross section is expediently adapted to the inner cross section of the housing of the hand control device, so that, according to an advantageous embodiment, such a one-piece locking device molded part can simultaneously form the bottom of the housing of the hand control device, in other words, for the locking device as such no separate components are required at all, but with this configuration the locking effect is achieved by a specific design of the bottom part of the housing of the hand control device.
Wenn das Formteil dazu noch einen umlaufenden Rand an seiner Unterkante aufweist, wird dadurch auch eine Lagefixierung des Formteils in der Richtung der Längsachse des Gehäuses erreicht, da ein solcher umlaufender Rand dann als Anschlagschulter wirkt, auf dem die Wandung des Gehäuses aufsitzt. Bei einem an den Innenquerschnitt des Gehäuses angepaßten Außenquerschnitt des Formteils einerseits und der erwähnten Randschulter andererseits ist somit eine genaue Positionierung des Formteils im Handsteuergerät erreicht, zusätzliche Justiervorgänge sind nicht erforderlich, die mit den Rastnuten versehene Oberfläche des Formteils befindet sich dann zwangsläufig in genau der Position, die für die Zusammenwirkung mit dem Steuerknüppel einmal vorgegeben und definiert ist.If the molded part also has a peripheral edge on its lower edge, this also fixes the molded part in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the housing, since such a peripheral edge then acts as a stop shoulder on which the wall of the housing is seated. With an external cross-section of the molded part on the one hand and the mentioned shoulder shoulder on the other hand, an exact positioning of the molded part in the hand control device is achieved, additional adjustment processes are not necessary, the surface of the molded part provided with the locking grooves is then inevitably in the exact position , which is predetermined and defined for the interaction with the joystick.
Die Anzahl der Rastnuten in den beiden Hauptrichtungen (x und y) entspricht dann den vorgegebenen Schaltstufen, wobei die Formgebung des Querschnittes der Rastnuten in Zusammenwirken mit der Gestaltung des unteren Endes des Steuerknüppels die "Schaltcharakteristik" im Sinne einer mehr oder weniger harten oder weichen Stufencharak¬ teristik bei der Auslenkung des Steuerknüppels bestimmt.The number of locking grooves in the two main directions (x and y) then corresponds to the predetermined switching stages, the shape of the cross section of the locking grooves in cooperation with the design of the lower end of the joystick the "switching characteristic" in Determined in terms of a more or less hard or soft step characteristic when deflecting the control stick.
Weitere Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind weiteren Unteransprüchen zu entnehmen.Further refinements of the invention can be found in further subclaims.
Kurze Beschreibung der Zeichnungen:Brief description of the drawings:
Ein bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Rasteinrichtung wird nun anhand von Zeichnungen näher erläutert, es zeigen:A preferred embodiment of the locking device according to the invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to drawings, in which:
Figur 1: Eine perspektivische Gesamtansicht eines einen Teil der Rasteinrichtung bildenden Formteils,FIG. 1: an overall perspective view of a molded part forming part of the latching device,
Figur 2: eine schematische Funktionsdarstellung des Form¬ teils (Schnitt A-A der Figur 1) im Zusammenwirken mit dem Steuerknüppel,FIG. 2: a schematic functional representation of the molded part (section A-A of FIG. 1) in cooperation with the control stick,
Figur 3: eine Aufsicht auf das Formteil der Figur 1 mit Bemaßungsbeispielen,FIG. 3: a top view of the molded part of FIG. 1 with dimensioning examples,
Figur 4: einen Querschnitt durch das Formteil in der Vertikal- ebene A-A bzw. B-B der Figur 3,FIG. 4: a cross section through the molded part in the vertical plane A-A or B-B of FIG. 3,
Figur 5: Schnittdarstellung des Details X der Figur 4, undFigure 5: Sectional view of the detail X of Figure 4, and
Figur 6: einen schematischen Schnitt durch ein Handsteuer¬ gerät mit dem eingebauten Formteil.FIG. 6: a schematic section through a hand control device with the built-in molded part.
Beschreibungdescription
Das Formteil 10 besteht im wesentlichen aus einem plattenförmigen Teil, dessen Querschnitt an den Innenquerschnitt des Gehäuses 30 des Handsteuergerätes so angepaßt ist, daß es den Boden des Gehäuses 30 bildet, dessen Wandungen dann auf einem umlaufenden Rand 11 aufsitzen. Die obere, d.h. zum Innenraum des Gehäuses 30 zugewandte Fläche dieses Formteils 10 ist kugelabschnittförmig ausgebildet, wobei der Radius der zugehörigen Kugel im wesentlichen dem Radius der KugelOberfläche entspricht, auf dem sich das Ende des Steuerknüppels 20 bei der Auslenkbewegung bewegt (Radius R in Figur 2). Ein solches Formteil 10 kann beispielsweise aus Kunststoff bestehen (beispielsweise spritzgegossen), es kann jedoch auch aus Keramikwerk¬ stoffen oder Metall sein.The molded part 10 consists essentially of a plate-shaped part, the cross section of which is adapted to the inner cross section of the housing 30 of the hand control device in such a way that it forms the bottom of the housing 30, the walls of which then rest on a peripheral edge 11. The upper surface of this molded part 10, that is to say toward the interior of the housing 30, is designed in the form of a spherical segment, the radius of the associated sphere essentially corresponding to the radius of the spherical surface on which the end of the control stick 20 moves during the deflection movement (radius R in FIG. 2 ). Such a molded part 10 can for example consist of plastic (for example injection molded), but it can also be made of ceramic materials or metal.
Diese kugelabschnittförmige Oberfläche ist mit einem Netz oder Gitter von Rastnuten RX,RY überzogen, die in den beiden Hauptrichtungen x und y des Steuerknüppels 20 verlaufen. Im Mittelteil dieser Ober¬ fläche entstehen durch diese Rastnuten RX,RY quadratische Teilflächen q, die in Figur 1 mit einem Punkt auf ihrer Oberseite gekennzeichnet sind. Dieser mittlere, quadratische Bereich wird von einem umlaufenden Randbereich umschlossen, in dem die Rastnuten RX,RY die Oberfläche in rechteckige Teilflächen r unterteilt, deren Längsachse zur Mitte des Formteils 10 hin zeigen.This spherical segment-shaped surface is covered with a network or grid of locking grooves RX, RY, which run in the two main directions x and y of the control stick 20. In the middle part of this surface, these locking grooves RX, RY result in square partial surfaces q, which are identified in FIG. This central, square area is enclosed by a peripheral edge area, in which the locking grooves RX, RY subdivide the surface into rectangular partial areas r, the longitudinal axis of which points towards the center of the molded part 10.
In den Ecken des Randbereichs geht die kugelabschnittförmige Gestalt der Oberfläche in im wesentlichen dreieckige Endflächen D über, die parallel zur Grundfläche G des Formteils verlaufen, und die beispielsweise den "Rest" der ursprünglich planen Oberfläche des Formteils 10 bilden, vor der Ausformung der kugelabschnittförmigen Oberfl che.In the corners of the edge region, the spherical segment shape of the surface merges into essentially triangular end surfaces D, which run parallel to the base surface G of the molded part and which, for example, form the "rest" of the originally planar surface of the molded part 10 before the spherical segment-shaped surface is formed che.
Dieses, den Boden des Gehäuses 30 bildende Formteil 10 stellt somit den einen Teil der Rasteinrichtung dar.This molded part 10, which forms the bottom of the housing 30, thus represents part of the latching device.
Der andere Teil der Rasteinrichtung befindet sich im Steuerknüppel 20 und besteht aus einem im Steuerknüppel 20 gelagerten und federbe¬ aufschlagten Stößel 21, dessen unteres Ende 23 mit den Rastnuten RX,RY zusammenwirkt, wobei dann im Bereich jeder Rastnut infolge der Feder 23 der Stößel in die Nut je nach deren Formgebung und der Formgebung des unteren Endes 22 mehr oder weniger tief eintaucht und somit ein mehr oder weniger ausgeprägtes "Rastgefühl" bei der Bedienung des Handsteuergerätes hervorruft.The other part of the latching device is located in the joystick 20 and consists of a plunger 21 mounted and spring-loaded in the joystick 20, the lower end 23 of which interacts with the latching grooves RX, RY, with the tappet in the area of each latching groove as a result of the spring 23 the groove, depending on its shape and the shape of the lower end 22, plunges more or less deeply and thus causes a more or less pronounced "locking feeling" when operating the hand control device.
Beim dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel sind die Rastnuten hinsicht¬ lich ihres Querschnitts im wesentlichen V-förmig (Figur 5), wobei die Übergangsbereiche abgerundet sind, um eine all zu harte Rastcharak¬ teristik zu vermeiden. Das Formteil 10 kann ohne Schwierigkeiten in das Gehäuse 30 von unten eingeschoben werden und dort beispielsweise mit zwei diagonal gegen¬ überliegender Bolzenverbindungen B1,B2 fixiert werden (Figur 3 und 6). In the exemplary embodiment shown, the locking grooves are essentially V-shaped in terms of their cross section (FIG. 5), the transition regions being rounded off in order to avoid an overly hard locking characteristic. The molded part 10 can be pushed into the housing 30 from below without difficulty and can be fixed there, for example, with two diagonally opposite bolt connections B1, B2 (FIGS. 3 and 6).

Claims

P a t e n t a n s p r ü c h e Patent claims
1. Handsteuergerät mit einem Steuerknüppel, mit einem Gehäuse, in dem der Steuerknüppel um zwei orthogonale Achsen um einen Fixpunkt verschwenkbar in einem Lager gehalten ist, mit Wandlereinrich¬ tungen, die die Auslenkung des Steuerknüppels aus seiner Null- position in ein elektrisches Signal umsetzen, und mit einer Rasteinrichtung zur Erzeugung einer stufigen Auslenkcharakteristik des Steuerknüppels, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Rasteinrichtung ein Formteil (10) beinhaltet, dessen mit dem Steuerknüppel (20) zusammenwirkende Oberfläche eine zumindest im wesentlichen kugelabschnittförmige Gestalt hat, und zumindest über ihren wesentlichen Teil mit entsprechend den beiden Haupt-Auslenkrichtungen (x,y) gitterartig angeordneten Rastnuten (RX,RY) überzogen ist.1. Manual control device with a control stick, with a housing in which the control stick is held in a bearing so as to be pivotable about two orthogonal axes about a fixed point, with converter devices which convert the deflection of the control stick from its zero position into an electrical signal, and with a locking device for producing a stepped deflection characteristic of the control stick, characterized in that the locking device includes a molded part (10), the surface of which cooperates with the control stick (20) has an at least substantially spherical section shape, and at least over its essential part accordingly the two main deflection directions (x, y) grid-like locking grooves (RX, RY) is covered.
2. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das einstückige Formteil (10) den Boden des Gehäuses (30) bildet.2. Hand control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the one-piece molding (10) forms the bottom of the housing (30).
3. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Formteil (10) einen umlaufenden Rand (11) besitzt, auf dem die Wandung des Gehäuses (30) aufsitzt.3. Hand control device according to claim 2, characterized in that the molded part (10) has a peripheral edge (11) on which the wall of the housing (30) is seated.
4. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Formteil (10) aus Kunststoff, Sinter-Keramik oder Sinter-Metall besteht.4. Hand control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the molded part (10) consists of plastic, sintered ceramic or sintered metal.
5. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß als weiterer Bestandteil der Rasteinrichtung im unteren Ende des Steuerknüppels (20) ein federbeaufschlagter Stößel (21) gelagert ist, dessen untere Spitze (22) in seinen Rastlagen in die Rast¬ nuten (RX,RY) eingreift.5. Hand control device according to claim 1, characterized in that as a further component of the locking device in the lower end of the control stick (20) a spring-loaded plunger (21) is mounted, the lower tip (22) in its locking positions in the Rast¬ grooves (RX, RY) intervenes.
6. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Formgebung der unteren Spitze (22) des Stößels (21) und der Rastnuten (RX,RY) sowie die Federcharakteristik der Feder (23) des Stößels aufeinander derart abgestimmt und/oder einstellbar sind, daß die erzeugten Schaltstufen bei der Handhabung wahrnehmbar sind, ohne die Funktion zu beeinträchtigen.6. Hand control device according to claim 5, characterized in that the shape of the lower tip (22) of the plunger (21) and the locking grooves (RX, RY) and the spring characteristic of the spring (23) of the Tappets are matched and / or adjustable to one another in such a way that the switching stages generated can be perceived during handling without impairing their function.
7. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 1 oder 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Rastnuten (RX,RY) im wesentlichen V-förmigen oder halb¬ kreisförmigen Querschnitt aufweisen.7. Hand control device according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that the locking grooves (RX, RY) have a substantially V-shaped or semi-circular cross-section.
8. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Spitze (22) des Stößels (21) im wesentlichen kugelabschnittartig ausgebildet ist.8. Hand control device according to claim 6, characterized in that the tip (22) of the plunger (21) is formed substantially like a spherical segment.
9. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß in einem mittleren, quadratischen Bereich der Oberfläche das Gitter der Rastnuten (RX,RY) die Oberfläche in quadratische Teilflächen (q) unterteilt, und daß außerhalb dieses mittleren Bereichs ein umlaufender Randbereich definiert ist, in dem die Rastnuten (RX,RY) die Oberfläche in rechteckige Teilflächen (r) unterteilt, deren Längsachse zur Mitte des Formteils (10) zeigt.9. Hand control device according to claim 1, characterized in that in a central, square area of the surface, the grid of the locking grooves (RX, RY) divides the surface into square partial areas (q), and that a peripheral edge area is defined outside this central area, in which the locking grooves (RX, RY) subdivide the surface into rectangular partial areas (r), the longitudinal axis of which points to the center of the molded part (10).
10. Handsteuergerät nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß in den Ecken des umlaufenden Randbereichs die kugelabschnittförmige Gestalt der Oberfläche in im wesentlichen dreieckige Eckflächen (D) übergeht, die parallel zur Grundfläche (G) des Formteils (10) verlaufen. 10. Hand control device according to claim 9, characterized in that in the corners of the peripheral edge region, the spherical segment shape of the surface merges into essentially triangular corner surfaces (D) which run parallel to the base surface (G) of the molded part (10).
EP94908260A 1993-03-03 1994-02-17 Manual control appliance with a control lever Expired - Lifetime EP0686277B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4306577A DE4306577C2 (en) 1993-03-03 1993-03-03 Hand control device with a joystick
DE4306577 1993-03-03
PCT/DE1994/000196 WO1994020894A1 (en) 1993-03-03 1994-02-17 Manual control appliance with a control lever

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0686277A1 true EP0686277A1 (en) 1995-12-13
EP0686277B1 EP0686277B1 (en) 1997-04-02

Family

ID=6481803

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP94908260A Expired - Lifetime EP0686277B1 (en) 1993-03-03 1994-02-17 Manual control appliance with a control lever

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US5680797A (en)
EP (1) EP0686277B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE151182T1 (en)
AU (1) AU685430B2 (en)
DE (2) DE4306577C2 (en)
WO (1) WO1994020894A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19854576A1 (en) 1998-11-26 2000-03-16 Aeg Hausgeraete Gmbh Joystick hand control of household electrical appliances allows movement in any direction with two degrees of freedom to change individual functions and their degree
FR2786896B1 (en) * 1998-12-08 2001-02-23 Valeo Electronique CONTROL DEVICE COMPRISING LOCKING MEANS
WO2000039654A2 (en) * 1998-12-24 2000-07-06 Mannesmann Rexroth Ag Manually operated electric control device
NL1014912C2 (en) * 2000-04-11 2001-10-12 Skf Eng & Res Centre Bv Hand control means.
WO2005043269A1 (en) * 2003-11-03 2005-05-12 T.E.R. Tecno Elettrica Ravasi S.R.L. Hand-operated control device
DE102011111871A1 (en) * 2011-08-24 2013-02-28 Valeo Schalter Und Sensoren Gmbh Actuating device for a vehicle, which is designed to actuate a functional unit of the vehicle, as well as vehicle with such an actuator
JP6167779B2 (en) * 2013-09-10 2017-07-26 マツダ株式会社 Vehicle shift device
DE102015008517A1 (en) * 2014-07-10 2016-01-14 Marquardt Gmbh Actuator, in particular for a motor vehicle
CN106449256B (en) * 2016-09-30 2018-07-27 王晨 master controller
DE102019115329B4 (en) * 2019-06-06 2021-03-25 Grammer Aktiengesellschaft Manually operated control device
US11781644B2 (en) * 2021-07-23 2023-10-10 Ghsp, Inc. Selector assembly having an internal ball joint and detent mechanism

Family Cites Families (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE654375C (en) * 1935-03-03 1937-12-17 Starkstrom Appbau G M B H Built-in switch for machines with several motors
DE1217481B (en) * 1962-10-27 1966-05-26 Starkstrom Appbau G M B H Ball switch
US3602245A (en) * 1970-02-26 1971-08-31 Abex Corp Universal detent positioner
GB1350073A (en) * 1970-07-11 1974-04-18 British Leyland Truck & Bus Gear selector
US4121065A (en) * 1977-10-31 1978-10-17 Cutler-Hammer, Inc. Toggle switch lever lock
US4573365A (en) * 1984-02-23 1986-03-04 Vickers, Incorporated Power transmission
JPS62191293A (en) * 1986-02-14 1987-08-21 マエダ工業株式会社 Speed-change operation lever device for bicycle
US5038632A (en) * 1989-12-19 1991-08-13 Dana Corporation Transmission shift lever biasing assembly
DE4017696A1 (en) * 1990-06-01 1991-12-05 Bosch Gmbh Robert TAXOR
DK37791A (en) * 1991-03-01 1992-09-02 Hardi Int As CONTACT NOW JOYSTIC
JPH04133538U (en) * 1991-05-30 1992-12-11 株式会社椿本チエイン Work tilt angle setting mechanism of work rotation device for laser processing machine
US5205538A (en) * 1991-12-09 1993-04-27 Caterpillar Inc. Detent mechanism for a fluid control valve

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO9420894A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE59402309D1 (en) 1997-05-07
US5680797A (en) 1997-10-28
WO1994020894A1 (en) 1994-09-15
AU685430B2 (en) 1998-01-22
EP0686277B1 (en) 1997-04-02
DE4306577C2 (en) 1998-02-12
ATE151182T1 (en) 1997-04-15
AU6153994A (en) 1994-09-26
DE4306577C1 (en) 1994-05-19

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0686277B1 (en) Manual control appliance with a control lever
DE19514653A1 (en) Switch actuation arrangement
EP0683906B1 (en) Manual controller with control lever
EP1436821A1 (en) Multiple way switch assembly and switch module
EP0134612B1 (en) Switch assembly
EP1353257B1 (en) Joystick comprising actuators
WO2001077550A2 (en) Multiway valve for sanitary fixtures
DE10016180C2 (en) Multifunction operating control device
WO2005103856A1 (en) Rotary and/or pressure actuator comprising a joystick
WO2008116874A1 (en) Electrical shifting device for a motor vehicle
DE29500869U1 (en) Control unit for seat adjustment
EP1467390B1 (en) Key-pad for the control panel of a household appliance
DE19836793C2 (en) Control element for the selective establishment of electrical contacts
DE3442173A1 (en) ELECTRIC SWITCH, SQUARE DESIGN
DE3312494C2 (en) Control switch for a vehicle seat adjustment device
DE102006012649B4 (en) Pushbutton with improved key-button guidance
EP1912106B1 (en) Multifunctional operating element
DE102014116015A1 (en) Installation switching device with a reset button
DE102004032335B4 (en) Electric switch and switch arrangement
DE10022612C2 (en) switching element
WO2021223857A1 (en) Input device
DE10051500C2 (en) Switching element with a snap disk and a snap disk switch
DE8803669U1 (en) Control device for electric wheelchairs or similar.
DE10315203A1 (en) Remote control operating vehicle locking system, includes operating areas with group of switches and associated rocker switch component mounted on casing
EP3808509A1 (en) Switching device for an electric tool

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19950705

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT CH DE FR GB LI

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19960620

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT CH DE FR GB LI

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 151182

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19970415

Kind code of ref document: T

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 59402309

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19970507

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: LUCHS & PARTNER PATENTANWAELTE

ET Fr: translation filed
GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 19970703

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20030221

Year of fee payment: 10

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20040229

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20040229

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: CJ

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: CD

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20120221

Year of fee payment: 19

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20120215

Year of fee payment: 19

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20120327

Year of fee payment: 19

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Payment date: 20120126

Year of fee payment: 19

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MM01

Ref document number: 151182

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20130228

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20130217

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130228

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20131031

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 59402309

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20130903

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130903

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130217

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130228