EP0883839B1 - Illuminated serrated wheel - Google Patents

Illuminated serrated wheel Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0883839B1
EP0883839B1 EP97912154A EP97912154A EP0883839B1 EP 0883839 B1 EP0883839 B1 EP 0883839B1 EP 97912154 A EP97912154 A EP 97912154A EP 97912154 A EP97912154 A EP 97912154A EP 0883839 B1 EP0883839 B1 EP 0883839B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
control wheel
wheel
layer
wheel according
optical fibre
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.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP97912154A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0883839A1 (en
Inventor
Adam Weber
Andreas Ballmann
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.)
Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbH
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Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbH
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Publication of EP0883839A1 publication Critical patent/EP0883839A1/en
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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G1/00—Controlling members, e.g. knobs or handles; Assemblies or arrangements thereof; Indicating position of controlling members
    • G05G1/08—Controlling members for hand actuation by rotary movement, e.g. hand wheels
    • G05G1/10—Details, e.g. of discs, knobs, wheels or handles
    • G05G1/105—Details, e.g. of discs, knobs, wheels or handles comprising arrangements for illumination
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H19/00—Switches operated by an operating part which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis thereof and which is acted upon directly by a solid body external to the switch, e.g. by a hand
    • H01H19/02—Details
    • H01H19/025—Light-emitting indicators
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2219/00—Legends
    • H01H2219/054—Optical elements
    • H01H2219/062—Light conductor

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an actuating wheel for actuating a Device, especially for turning a potentiometer in motor vehicles.
  • Such a wheel is for example from DE-OS 38 08 770 of the applicant.
  • Such control wheels must be operable even when the passenger compartment is darkened is.
  • the scale setting of the potentiometer executed illuminated from the inside. Through this lighting not only can the position of the operating wheel be but also recognize the respective attitude, so that appropriate changes are made if necessary can be.
  • the invention is therefore based on an operating wheel resulting from the characterizing part of claim 1 Genus.
  • the invention solves the above. Task with yourself resulting from the characterizing part of claim 1 Combination of features.
  • the invention consists in the light losses of the light guide within the knurled wheel to be kept as low as possible by the outer surfaces of the Light guide largely with a reflective (white) Plastic layer are surrounded. The area is left blank, those for feeding the light into the light guide serves and if necessary also other areas, if this seems appropriate for the operation of the control wheel.
  • the light guide To the loss surfaces of the light guide, where light is unwanted could emerge, should be kept as low as possible the light guide have the simplest possible shape. As far as in the present case the axially in the light guide incoming luminous flux on a radially circumferential surface should be returned again, is recommended in further training the invention, the combination of features according to claim 2. Then the luminous flux is in the cross-sectional area of the first section of the light guide and fed through the second section the light is deflected radially outwards until it then finally radial within the third section runs outwards.
  • the individual sections are included preferably all around, so that a large number of stray light-emitting surfaces, as is the case, for example the case would be if the second section from in main struts running radially.
  • a particularly simple and good light-guiding form for the the second section results from the combination of features according to claim 3.
  • the second section has an opposite of the irradiation axis inclined 45 degrees all round Area.
  • the inner surface is designed in such a way that the parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating wheel in radiation fed to the light guide on the inner lateral surface of the truncated cone is reflected.
  • the angular position So the wall is chosen so that it is for the inside of the light guide impinging radiation like a Mirror works. This is as explained below becomes important insofar as no (white) Topcoat needs to be applied as related is listed with claim 4.
  • the combination of features according to claim 5 In order to prevent interference radiation from outside into the light guide irradiation is recommended in advanced training the invention, the combination of features according to claim 5. On the other hand it is important that the darker layer is as possible is not in direct contact with the light guide since it Do not reflect radiation emerging from the light guide would, but absorbs it and warms up or heated. On the other hand, the dark second layer has on the Advantage that through the use of the control wheel occurring contamination is not visible on its surface becomes.
  • an actuating surface can be configured.
  • This operating area will preferably be a knurled ring that is adjacent to and with the illuminated scale is mechanically connected. By turning the shape of a Knurled surface having a cylindrical jacket also becomes the Scale rotated so that you can glow at the set Value the setting of the electrical device to be set for example, potentiometers.
  • the knurled surface is preferably attached to the further layer cast on and is made of their material.
  • the second plastic layer also incorporated a gear, which for Can drive a translation. That way the rotary movement of the control wheel to the desired respective rotary movement for actuating an electrical unit to adjust. The usability of the control wheel is thus increased.
  • the strength of the second plastic can continue to do so be exploited, from this one at the same time
  • the inner surface or the outer surface can be used for storage serve the bearing ring.
  • claim 10 proposes the outer surface display area of the scale with the light guide to cover a black lacquer and by appropriate Removing or holding three paints the desired symbols and make signs visible as glowing markings, what can happen, for example, by laser radiation.
  • Around The circumferential surface area will increase the recognizability of the light guide with a thin layer of white first plastic and then a black one Paint applied. The white illuminated from the inside the first layer therefore shines in the form of markings outside, where the paint layer from the first white Plastic layer was removed.
  • this solution is the mirror effect to improve on the reflective interface which the deflection of the radiation fed in the axial direction serves in a radially extending radiation. To this As large a proportion of the fed in as possible Radiation to the circumferential surface of the actuating wheel transported. The improved mirroring effect of the interface thus contributes significantly to avoiding loss of performance the radiation in their deflection area.
  • actuating wheel 1 is shown in section.
  • the The core of the actuating wheel 1 is a light guide 2, the is made up of three sections.
  • the first paragraph 3 has the shape of a circular cylinder with the diameter D1.
  • the first section then merges into a second section 4, which is essentially the shape of a hollow truncated cone has.
  • the outer surface of the light guide 2 largely through a cover layer is surrounded by white plastic, which on the Boundary layer of the light guide reflects directed radiation, so that no light from the light guide undesirable this can leak.
  • the light guide 2 can be made of Makrolon be made crystal clear, while for the top layer 7 Makrolon white can be used.
  • the cover layer 7 in turn is surrounded by another layer 8, which consists of dark or black colored Pocan.
  • This another layer 8 is an entry of extraneous light in the Prevent light guide 2 at an undesired location.
  • the further one Layer 8 also has a circumferential approach 10, which has the shape of a grip ring and with a knurling 11 is provided.
  • the outer circumferential surface of this ring with the knurling 11 serves as an actuating surface for the actuating wheel, which in a manner not shown about an axis of rotation 12 is rotatable.
  • electrical device set When pressing the Actuating wheel 1 is assigned in a suitable manner electrical device set. In the present embodiment this is done by means of a translation, with a gear incorporated into the further layer 8 13 works together.
  • the toothing shown in FIG. 2 14 can be a full circle or just extend to part of an arc.
  • one or more webs 15 are provided, the protrude through the cover layer 7 or the light guide 2.
  • An important feature of the invention is that the production the inner lateral surface 17 of the second section 4 extends in the axial direction over the diameter D1, so that the entire one irradiated into the diameter D1 Radiation from the inner lateral surface 17 of the second section 4 is reflected, this interface like a Mirror works. It is therefore not advisable to use this lateral surface cover with the top layer 7.
  • the inner surface 17 a conical recess in the second section 4 thus acts as a reflective interface through which in section 3 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 12 radiated light radiation in the radial direction to the annular section 5 radiated in the radial direction becomes.
  • the conical recess in the second section 4, whose interface 17 acts as a mirror for the radiation, can be considerably reflected in its reflective effect improve that an interface between air and Material of the light guide is formed.
  • the high mirroring ability the interface 17 is particularly in that of the longitudinal axis 12 near area important, since here the center of the in the first section 3 is fed radiation.
  • Fig. 1 From Fig. 1 it can be seen that the outer lateral surface 20th the top layer 7 is not covered by another layer is.
  • This outer surface forms the base of one Scale. So that it is also as dark as the grip ring 10 appears with its knurling 11, the outer surface 20 overall with a black lacquer layer, not shown covered.
  • This layer of varnish then becomes desired scale symbols or letters or numbers Laser radiation worked out. The symbols around appear the lighter the deeper they are from the paint layer and the underlying cover layer are worked out. However, you usually become part of the top layer Leave 7 so that the desired symbols largely appear bright and glare-free.
  • the top layer works in this So the senses as usual in optics, the luminosity evenly spreading lens.
  • D1 Keep the entry area in the light guide as large as possible.
  • D1 is in the size range half the diameter of the outer lateral surface 20, in the present case it is somewhat smaller. Farther you will place the webs 15 in areas where there is no scale symbol should appear because in these areas, as from the drawing shows that the light guide is disabled.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)
  • Rotary Switch, Piano Key Switch, And Lever Switch (AREA)
  • Optical Elements Other Than Lenses (AREA)
  • Mechanical Control Devices (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Betätigungsrad zur Betätigung eines Gerätes, insbesondere zur Drehverstellung eines Potentiometers in Kraftfahrzeugen.The invention relates to an actuating wheel for actuating a Device, especially for turning a potentiometer in motor vehicles.

Ein derartiges Rad ist beispielsweise aus der DE-OS 38 08 770 der Anmelderin bekannt. Derartige Betätigungsräder müssen auch dann bedienbar sein, wenn der Fahrgastraum abgedunkelt ist. Hierzu wird die Skaleneinstellung des Potentiometers von innen beleuchtet ausgeführt. Durch diese Beleuchtung läßt sich in der Dunkelheit nicht nur die Lage des Betätigungsrades, sondern auch die jeweilige Einstellung erkennen, so daß im Bedarfsfall entsprechende Änderungen vorgenommen werden können.Such a wheel is for example from DE-OS 38 08 770 of the applicant. Such control wheels must be operable even when the passenger compartment is darkened is. For this, the scale setting of the potentiometer executed illuminated from the inside. Through this lighting not only can the position of the operating wheel be but also recognize the respective attitude, so that appropriate changes are made if necessary can be.

Da die Anzahl der betätigbaren Einstellelemente am Armaturenbrett eine steigende Tendenz aufweisen, ist es erwünscht, die für die Skalenbeleuchtung benötigte Energie möglichst gering zu halten, ohne gleichzeitig auf eine ausreichende Erkennbarkeit zu verzichten. Es besteht daher ein Bedarf, die Verluste an Lichtstrom auf dem Weg von der lichterzeugenden Quelle bis zu der Skalenanzeige möglichst gering zu halten.Because the number of actuatable controls on the dashboard have an increasing tendency, it is desirable the energy required for the scale lighting as possible to keep low without at the same time being sufficient Renounce recognizability. There is therefore a need the loss of luminous flux on the way from the light-generating Source as small as possible to the scale display to keep.

Die Erfindung geht daher aus von einem Betätigungsrad der sich aus dem kennzeichnenden Teil des Anspruchs 1 ergebenden Gattung. Die Erfindung löst die o.g. Aufgabe mit der sich aus dem kennzeichnenden Teil des Anspruchs 1 ergebenden Merkmalskombination. Die Erfindung besteht im Prinzip darin, die Lichtverluste des Lichtleiters innerhalb des Rändelrades möglichst gering zu halten, indem die Außenflächen des Lichtleiters weitgehend mit einer reflektierenden (weißen) Kunststoffschicht umgeben werden. Dabei wird die Fläche ausgespart, die zur Einspeisung des Lichtes in den Lichtleiter dient und gegebenenfalls auch anderer Flächen, falls dies für die Wirkungsweise des Betätigungsrades zweckmäßig erscheint.The invention is therefore based on an operating wheel resulting from the characterizing part of claim 1 Genus. The invention solves the above. Task with yourself resulting from the characterizing part of claim 1 Combination of features. In principle, the invention consists in the light losses of the light guide within the knurled wheel to be kept as low as possible by the outer surfaces of the Light guide largely with a reflective (white) Plastic layer are surrounded. The area is left blank, those for feeding the light into the light guide serves and if necessary also other areas, if this seems appropriate for the operation of the control wheel.

Um die Verlustflächen des Lichtleiters, an denen Licht ungewollt austreten könnte, möglichst gering zu halten, sollte der Lichtleiter eine möglichst unkomplizierte Form haben. Soweit wie im vorliegenden Fall der axial in den Lichtleiter eintretende Lichtstrom an einer radial umlaufenden Fläche wieder abgegeben werden soll, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung der Erfindung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 2. Danach wird der Lichtstrom in die Querschnittsfläche des ersten Abschnitts des Lichtleiters eingespeist und durch den zweiten Abschnitt das Licht radial nach außen umgelenkt, bis es dann schließlich innerhalb des dritten Abschnittes radial nach außen verläuft. Die einzelnen Abschnitte sind dabei vorzugsweise räumlich umlaufend, so daß eine große Anzahl von streulichtabstrahlenden Flächen entfällt, wie dies beispielsweise der Fall wäre, wenn der zweite Abschnitt aus im wesentlichen radial verlaufenden Streben bestände.To the loss surfaces of the light guide, where light is unwanted could emerge, should be kept as low as possible the light guide have the simplest possible shape. As far as in the present case the axially in the light guide incoming luminous flux on a radially circumferential surface should be returned again, is recommended in further training the invention, the combination of features according to claim 2. Then the luminous flux is in the cross-sectional area of the first section of the light guide and fed through the second section the light is deflected radially outwards until it then finally radial within the third section runs outwards. The individual sections are included preferably all around, so that a large number of stray light-emitting surfaces, as is the case, for example the case would be if the second section from in main struts running radially.

Durch die außen umlaufende Fläche ist es auch möglich, an der mantelförmigen Kontur des Rändelrades ein von innen beleuchtetes umlaufendes Band zu erhalten, auf welchem an beliebigen Stellen geeignete Markierungen vorgesehen werden können.Due to the outer circumferential surface, it is also possible to the shell-shaped contour of the knurled wheel is illuminated from the inside to get circulating belt on which at any Make appropriate markings can.

Eine besonders einfache und gut lichtleitende Form für den zweiten Abschnitt ergibt sich durch die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 3. Danach hat der zweite Abschnitt eine gegenüber der Einstrahlungsachse umlaufend um 45 Grad geneigte Fläche. Dabei ist die innere Mantelfläche derart ausgestaltet, daß die parallel zur Drehachse des Betätigungsrades in den Lichtleiter eingespeiste Strahlung an der inneren Mantelfläche des Kegelstumpfes reflektiert wird. Die Winkelstellung der Wand ist also so gewählt, daß sie für die innerhalb des Lichtleiters auftreffende Strahlung wie ein Spiegel wirkt. Dies ist wie weiter unten noch erläutert wird, insofern wichtig, als an dieser Stelle keine (weiße) Deckschicht aufgebracht zu werden braucht, wie dies im Zusammenhang mit Anspruch 4 aufgeführt ist.A particularly simple and good light-guiding form for the the second section results from the combination of features according to claim 3. Then the second section has an opposite of the irradiation axis inclined 45 degrees all round Area. The inner surface is designed in such a way that the parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating wheel in radiation fed to the light guide on the inner lateral surface of the truncated cone is reflected. The angular position So the wall is chosen so that it is for the inside of the light guide impinging radiation like a Mirror works. This is as explained below becomes important insofar as no (white) Topcoat needs to be applied as related is listed with claim 4.

Um nun zu verhindern, daß von außen in den Lichtleiter Störstrahlung eingestrahlt wird, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung der Erfindung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 5. Andererseits ist es wichtig, daß die dunkle weitere Schicht möglichst nicht direkt mit dem Lichtleiter Kontakt hat, da sie aus dem Lichtleiter austretende Strahlung nicht reflektieren würde, sondern diese aufnimmt und sich dabei aufwärmt bzw. erhitzt. Andererseits hat die dunkle zweite Schicht auf den Vorteil, daß die durch den Gebrauch des Betätigungsrades auftretende Verschmutzung auf dessen Oberfläche nicht sichtbar wird. Ein besonderer Vorteil der weiteren Schicht besteht gemäß Anspruch 5 auch darin, daß diese Schicht zusätzlich noch gemäß der Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 6 zu einer Betätigungsfläche ausgestaltet sein kann. Diese Betätigungsfläche wird vorzugsweise ein Rändelring sein, der benachbart zu der beleuchteten Skala liegt und mit dieser mechanisch verbunden ist. Durch Drehen der die Form eines Zylindermantels aufweisenden Rändelfläche wird also auch die Skala gedreht, so daß man an dem eingestellten leuchtenden Wert die Einstellung des einzustellenden elektrischen Gerätes beispielsweise Potentiometers, erkennt.In order to prevent interference radiation from outside into the light guide irradiation is recommended in advanced training the invention, the combination of features according to claim 5. On the other hand it is important that the darker layer is as possible is not in direct contact with the light guide since it Do not reflect radiation emerging from the light guide would, but absorbs it and warms up or heated. On the other hand, the dark second layer has on the Advantage that through the use of the control wheel occurring contamination is not visible on its surface becomes. There is a particular advantage of the additional layer according to claim 5 also in that this layer additionally still according to the combination of features according to claim 6 an actuating surface can be configured. This operating area will preferably be a knurled ring that is adjacent to and with the illuminated scale is mechanically connected. By turning the shape of a Knurled surface having a cylindrical jacket also becomes the Scale rotated so that you can glow at the set Value the setting of the electrical device to be set for example, potentiometers.

Vorzugsweise wird die Rändelfläche an die weitere Schicht angegossen und ist aus deren Material gebildet. Durch die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 6 ist sichergestellt, daß durch die Abnutzung der Betätigungsfläche diese nicht stellenweise ihre Farbe ändert. Eine derartige Gefahr könnte beispielsweise bestehen, wenn die Betätigungsfläche aus dem ersten hellen Kunststoff gefertigt würde und die Betätigungsfläche dann mit einer dunklen Farbe nur überspritzt würde.The knurled surface is preferably attached to the further layer cast on and is made of their material. Through the Combination of features according to claim 6 ensures that due to the wear of the actuating surface, this is not in places their color changes. Such a danger could arise for example, if the actuating surface from the first bright plastic would be made and the operating area then just splashed over with a dark color would.

Als Kunststoff für den Griffring und die weitere Schicht kann ein schwarz eingefärbter zäher Kunststoff verwendet werden. Die Wahl eines widerstandsfähigen Materials ist auch hinsichtlich der Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 7 wichtig. Diesen Merkmalen gemäß wird in die zweite Kunststoffschicht auch noch ein Zahnrad eingearbeitet, welches zum Antrieb einer Übersetzung dienen kann. Auf diese Weise läßt sich die Drehbewegung des Betätigungsrades an die gewünschte jeweilige Drehbewegung zum Betätigen einer elektrischen Einheit anpassen. Die Einsatzfähigkeit des Betätigungsrades wird somit erhöht.As a plastic for the grip ring and the additional layer can use a black colored tough plastic become. The choice of a resistant material is also important with regard to the combination of features according to claim 7. According to these features, the second plastic layer also incorporated a gear, which for Can drive a translation. That way the rotary movement of the control wheel to the desired respective rotary movement for actuating an electrical unit to adjust. The usability of the control wheel is thus increased.

Um die zweite Schicht mit der ersten Schicht bzw. dem Lichtleiter dauerhaft miteinander zu verbinden, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung der Erfindung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 8.Around the second layer with the first layer or the light guide To permanently connect with each other is recommended in Development of the invention according to the combination of features Claim 8.

Die Festigkeit des zweiten Kunststoffs kann weiterhin dazu ausgenutzt werden, aus diesem gleichzeitig auch noch ein Lagerelement zur Lagerung des Betätigungsrades anzuformen. Ein entsprechender Vorschlag wird gemäß Anspruch 9 gemacht. Zur Lagerung kann dabei die Innenfläche oder die Außenfläche des Lagerrings dienen.The strength of the second plastic can continue to do so be exploited, from this one at the same time To form the bearing element for mounting the actuating wheel. A corresponding proposal is made according to claim 9. The inner surface or the outer surface can be used for storage serve the bearing ring.

Versuche haben gezeigt, daß in der Dunkelheit die Einstellskala auf dem Betätigungsrad besonders gut zu lesen ist, wenn diese nur aus leuchtenden Symbolen bzw. Zahlen besteht. Dementsprechend schlägt Anspruch 10 vor, die die Mantelfläche des Lichtleiters umgebende Anzeigefläche der Skala mit einem schwarzen Lack abzudecken und durch entsprechendes Entfernen oder Dreihalten von Lacken die gewünschten Symbole und Zeichen als leuchtende Markierungen sichtbar zu machen, was beispielsweise durch Laserbestrahlung geschehen kann. Um die Erkennbarkeit zu erhöhen, wird dabei die umlaufende Mantelfläche des Lichtleiters mit einer dünnen Schicht des weißen ersten Kunststoffs umgeben und dann erst eine schwarze Lackierung aufgebracht. Die von innen angestrahlte weiße erste Schicht strahlt also in Form von Markierungen nach außen, bei denen die Lackschicht von der ersten weißen Kunststoffschicht entfernt wurde.Experiments have shown that in the dark the setting scale is particularly easy to read on the control wheel, if it only consists of glowing symbols or numbers. Accordingly, claim 10 proposes the outer surface display area of the scale with the light guide to cover a black lacquer and by appropriate Removing or holding three paints the desired symbols and make signs visible as glowing markings, what can happen, for example, by laser radiation. Around The circumferential surface area will increase the recognizability of the light guide with a thin layer of white first plastic and then a black one Paint applied. The white illuminated from the inside the first layer therefore shines in the form of markings outside, where the paint layer from the first white Plastic layer was removed.

Eine wichtige Lösung der eingangs gestellten Aufgabe ergibt sich durch die sich aus Anspruch 11 ergebende Merkmalskombination. Im Prinzip besteht diese Lösung darin, die Spiegelwirkung an der spiegelnden Grenzfläche zu verbessern, welche der Umlenkung der in axialer Richtung eingespeisten Strahlung in eine radial verlaufende Strahlung dient. Auf diese Weise wird ein möglichst großer Anteil der eingespeisten Strahlung zur umlaufenden Umfangsfläche des Betätigungsrades transportiert. Die verbesserte Spiegeiwirkung der Grenzfläche trägt also erheblich zur Vermeidung von Leistungsverlusten der Strahlung in deren Umlenkbereich bei.An important solution to the problem presented at the beginning results resulting from the combination of features resulting from claim 11. In principle, this solution is the mirror effect to improve on the reflective interface which the deflection of the radiation fed in the axial direction serves in a radially extending radiation. To this As large a proportion of the fed in as possible Radiation to the circumferential surface of the actuating wheel transported. The improved mirroring effect of the interface thus contributes significantly to avoiding loss of performance the radiation in their deflection area.

Die Verluste von Strahlungsenergie lassen sich insbesondere durch die Kombination der Merkmale nach Anspruch 1 und 11 herabsetzen, wie dies in Anspruch 12 aufgezeigt ist. Dabei wird einerseits der Lichtleiter an den zur Spiegelung dienenden Grenzflächen weitgehend freigehalten. Dies sollte insbesondere in dem Bereich der Grenzfläche geschehen, in dem die in der Nähe der Längsachse des Lichtleiters eingespeiste Strahlung in radialer Richtung umgelenkt wird.The losses of radiation energy can be reduced in particular by the combination of the features according to claims 1 and 11 reduce as shown in claim 12. there on the one hand, the light guide on the mirroring Interfaces largely kept clear. This should be happen in particular in the area of the interface which is fed in near the longitudinal axis of the light guide Radiation is deflected in the radial direction.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand der Zeichnung erläutert. Darin zeigt:

Fig. 1
einen Schnitt durch ein erfindungsgemäßes Betätigungsrad und
Fig. 2
eine Seitenansicht des Betätigungsrades nach Fig. 1.
An embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the drawing. It shows:
Fig. 1
a section through an actuating wheel according to the invention and
Fig. 2
2 shows a side view of the actuating wheel according to FIG. 1.

In Fig. 1 ist das Betätigungsrad 1 im Schnitt gezeigt. Den Kern des Betätigungsrades 1 bildet ein Lichtleiter 2, der sich aus drei Abschnitten zusammensetzt. Der erste Abschnitt 3 hat die Form eines Kreiszylinders mit dem Durchmesser D1. Der erste Abschnitt geht dann über in einen zweiten Abschnitt 4, der im wesentlichen die Form eines hohlen Kegelstumpfs besitzt. An den Kegelstumpf schließt sich dann der dritte Abschnitt 5 an, der im wesentlichen die Form eines Kreisrings hat. Für die Erfindung wichtig ist, daß die Außenfläche des Lichtleiters 2 weitgehend durch eine Deckschicht aus weißem Kunststoff umgeben ist, die die auf die Grenzschicht des Lichtleiters gerichtete Strahlung reflektiert, so daß kein Licht aus dem Lichtleiter unerwünscht aus diesem austreten kann. Der Lichtleiter 2 kann aus Makrolon glasklar gefertigt sein, während für die Deckschicht 7 Makrolon weiß Verwendung finden kann. Die Deckschicht 7 wiederum wird durch eine weitere Schicht 8 umgeben, die aus dunkel oder schwarz eingefärbtem Pocan bestehen kann. Diese weitere Schicht 8 wird ein Eintreten von Fremdlicht in den Lichtleiter 2 an unerwünschter Stelle verhindern. Die weitere Schicht 8 besitzt weiterhin einen umlaufenden Ansatz 10, der die Form eines Griffrings hat und mit einer Rändelung 11 versehen ist. Die äußere umlaufende Fläche dieses Rings mit der Rändelung 11 dient als Betätigungsfläche für das Betätigungsrad, welches in nicht dargestellter Weise um eine Drehachse 12 drehbar ist. Der zur Herstellung des Griffrings 10 bzw. der weiteren Schicht 8 verwendete Kunststoff kann beispielsweise aus Pocan schwarz bestehen. Bei Betätigung des Betätigungsrades 1 wird in geeigneter Weise ein zugeordnetes elektrisches Gerät eingestellt. Bei dem vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel geschieht dies mittels einer Übersetzung, mit der ein in die weitere Schicht 8 eingearbeitetes Zahnrad 13 zusammenarbeitet. Die aus Fig. 2 ersichtliche Verzahnung 14 kann sich dabei um einen vollen Kreis oder aber auch nur auf einen Teil eines Kreisbogens erstrecken. Um die weitere Schicht 8 fest mit der Deckschicht 7 und dem Lichtleiter 2 zu verbinden, sind ein oder mehrere Stege 15 vorgesehen, die durch die Deckschicht 7 bzw. den Lichtleiter 2 ragen.In Fig. 1, the actuating wheel 1 is shown in section. The The core of the actuating wheel 1 is a light guide 2, the is made up of three sections. The first paragraph 3 has the shape of a circular cylinder with the diameter D1. The first section then merges into a second section 4, which is essentially the shape of a hollow truncated cone has. Then closes on the truncated cone third section 5, which is essentially in the form of a Circular ring. It is important for the invention that the outer surface of the light guide 2 largely through a cover layer is surrounded by white plastic, which on the Boundary layer of the light guide reflects directed radiation, so that no light from the light guide undesirable this can leak. The light guide 2 can be made of Makrolon be made crystal clear, while for the top layer 7 Makrolon white can be used. The cover layer 7 in turn is surrounded by another layer 8, which consists of dark or black colored Pocan. This another layer 8 is an entry of extraneous light in the Prevent light guide 2 at an undesired location. The further one Layer 8 also has a circumferential approach 10, which has the shape of a grip ring and with a knurling 11 is provided. The outer circumferential surface of this ring with the knurling 11 serves as an actuating surface for the actuating wheel, which in a manner not shown about an axis of rotation 12 is rotatable. The one for producing the grip ring 10 or the further layer 8 plastic used for example made of black pocan. When pressing the Actuating wheel 1 is assigned in a suitable manner electrical device set. In the present embodiment this is done by means of a translation, with a gear incorporated into the further layer 8 13 works together. The toothing shown in FIG. 2 14 can be a full circle or just extend to part of an arc. To the further Layer 8 firmly with the cover layer 7 and the light guide 2nd to connect, one or more webs 15 are provided, the protrude through the cover layer 7 or the light guide 2.

Ein wichtiges Merkmal der Erfindung ist es, daß die Produktion der inneren Mantelfläche 17 des zweiten Abschnitts 4 sich in axialer Richtung über den Durchmesser D1 erstreckt, so daß die gesamte in den Durchmesser D1 eingestrahlte Strahlung von der inneren Mantelfläche 17 des zweiten Abschnitts 4 reflektiert wird, wobei diese Grenzfläche wie ein Spiegel wirkt. Es ist daher nicht zweckmäßig, diese Mantelfläche mit der Deckschicht 7 abzudecken. Die innere Mantelfläche 17 einer konischen Ausnehmung in dem zweiten Abschnitt 4 wirkt somit als spiegelnde Grenzfläche, durch welche die in den Abschnitt 3 in Richtung der Längsachse 12 eingestrahlte Lichtstrahlung in radialer Richtung zu dem ringförmigen Abschnitt 5 in radialer Richtung abgestrahlt wird. Die konische Ausnehmung in dem zweiten Abschnitt 4, deren Grenzfläche 17 als Spiegel für die Strahlung wirkt, läßt sich in ihrer spiegelnden Wirkung also erheblich dadurch verbessern, daß eine Grenzfläche zwichen Luft und dem Material des Lichtleiters gebildet wird. Die hohe Spiegelfähigkeit der Grenzfläche 17 ist besonders in dem der Längsachse 12 nahen Bereich wichtig, da hier das Zentrum der in den ersten Abschnitt 3 eingespeisten Strahlung liegt.An important feature of the invention is that the production the inner lateral surface 17 of the second section 4 extends in the axial direction over the diameter D1, so that the entire one irradiated into the diameter D1 Radiation from the inner lateral surface 17 of the second section 4 is reflected, this interface like a Mirror works. It is therefore not advisable to use this lateral surface cover with the top layer 7. The inner surface 17 a conical recess in the second section 4 thus acts as a reflective interface through which in section 3 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 12 radiated light radiation in the radial direction to the annular section 5 radiated in the radial direction becomes. The conical recess in the second section 4, whose interface 17 acts as a mirror for the radiation, can be considerably reflected in its reflective effect improve that an interface between air and Material of the light guide is formed. The high mirroring ability the interface 17 is particularly in that of the longitudinal axis 12 near area important, since here the center of the in the first section 3 is fed radiation.

Auf diese Weise ist es möglich, hinsichtlich der beiden Schichten 7,8 eine Bohrungsfläche 18 zu schaffen, die als Drehlager für das Betätigungsrad 1 ausgenutzt werden kann. Durch einen an die weitere Schicht angeformten Lagerring 19 läßt sich die Bohrungsfläche noch vergrößern und damit auch die Lagerfläche bzw. die Belastung der Lagerfläche verringern.This way it is possible with regard to the two Layers 7, 8 create a bore surface 18 which is called Rotary bearing for the actuating wheel 1 can be used. Through a bearing ring 19 molded onto the further layer the bore area can be enlarged and thus also reduce the storage area or the load on the storage area.

Aus Fig. 1 ist ersichtlich, daß die äußere Mantelfläche 20 der Deckschicht 7 nicht durch eine weitere Schicht abgedeckt ist. Diese äußere Mantelfläche bildet die Grundfläche einer Skala. Damit diese ebenfalls so dunkel wie der Griffring 10 mit seiner Rändelung 11 erscheint, wird die Mantelfläche 20 insgesamt mit einer nicht dargestellten schwarzen Lackschicht abgedeckt. Aus dieser Lackschicht werden dann die gewünschten Skalensymbole bzw. Buchstaben oder Zahlen durch Laserstrahlung herausgearbeitet. Dabei werden die Symbole um so heller erscheinen, je tiefer sie aus der Lackschicht und der darunter liegenden Deckschicht herausgearbeitet werden. Allerdings wird man in der Regel einen Teil der Deckschicht 7 stehenlassen, damit die gewünschten Symbole weitgehend hell und blendfrei erscheinen. Die Deckschicht wirkt in diesem Sinne also als in der Optik übliche, die Leuchtkraft gleichmäßig verteilende Streulichtscheibe.From Fig. 1 it can be seen that the outer lateral surface 20th the top layer 7 is not covered by another layer is. This outer surface forms the base of one Scale. So that it is also as dark as the grip ring 10 appears with its knurling 11, the outer surface 20 overall with a black lacquer layer, not shown covered. This layer of varnish then becomes desired scale symbols or letters or numbers Laser radiation worked out. The symbols around appear the lighter the deeper they are from the paint layer and the underlying cover layer are worked out. However, you usually become part of the top layer Leave 7 so that the desired symbols largely appear bright and glare-free. The top layer works in this So the senses as usual in optics, the luminosity evenly spreading lens.

Insgesamt wird man die durch den Durchmesser D1 festgelegte Eintrittsfläche in den Lichtleiter so groß wie möglich halten. Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel liegt D1 in dem Größenbereich des halben Durchmessers der äußeren Mantelfläche 20, wobei sie im vorliegenden Fall etwas kleiner ist. Weiterhin wird man die Stege 15 in Bereiche legen, in denen kein Skalensymbol aufscheinen soll, da in diesen Bereichen, wie aus der Zeichnung ersichtlich, die Lichtleitung behindert ist.Overall, one becomes the one defined by the diameter D1 Keep the entry area in the light guide as large as possible. In the embodiment, D1 is in the size range half the diameter of the outer lateral surface 20, in the present case it is somewhat smaller. Farther you will place the webs 15 in areas where there is no scale symbol should appear because in these areas, as from the drawing shows that the light guide is disabled.

Claims (12)

  1. Control wheel for actuating a device, in particular rotating a potentiometer in a motor vehicle, with at least one region (20) on the lateral periphery of the wheel (1) which can be illuminated from the interior of the wheel (1) by means of a optical fibre (2), the lighting current being supplied into the optical fibre (2) in the axial region (12) of the wheel (1), characterised in that the optical fibre (2), with the exception of the area (D1) serving to supply the lighting current, is predominantly encapsulated by injection moulding by a reflective layer in the form of a light, preferably white outer layer (8).
  2. Control wheel according to claim 1, characterised in that the optical fibre (2) consists of three portions (3, 4, 5), the first portion (3) being arranged centrally with respect to the axis of rotation (12) of the wheel (1), the third portion (5) being substantially annular, the external surface (19) of the ring (5) extending into the illuminated region of the wheel (2) and a peripheral second portion (4) connecting the first portion to the third portion.
  3. Control wheel according to claim 2, characterised in that the second portion (4) substantially has the shape of a truncated hollow cone, the truncated top face corresponding to the cross-portional face of the roller (3), the external surfaces of the truncated cone being inclined toward the axis of rotation (12) by approximately 45° and the wall thickness of the cone corresponding approximately to the width of the annular first portion (3).
  4. Control wheel according to claims 1 and 3, characterised in that the internal surface (17) of the truncated cone (4) is substantially free of one or more outer layers (7, 8).
  5. Control wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that it is provided with a handling face (10, 11) made of a continuously coloured, preferably black, second plastics material and in that the outer layer (7) formed from the first plastics material is largely covered by a further layer (8) formed from the second plastics material.
  6. Control wheel according to claims 2 and 4, characterised in that a handling ring (10) also formed from the second plastics material is moulded on the further layer (8), which ring (10) preferably has substantially the same external diameter as the annular third portion (5).
  7. Control wheel according to claim 4, characterised in that teeth (13, 14) are inserted into the further layer (8) at the side of the control wheel remote from the light supply (D1).
  8. Control wheel according to claim 5, characterised in that the control wheel is provided with at least one web (15) formed from the second plastics material and extending in the axial direction (12), radially offset from the axis of rotation (12).
  9. Control wheel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a bearing ring (19) formed from the second plastics material is moulded on the further layer (8) on the side of the control wheel (1) remote from the light supply.
  10. Control wheel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the outer layer (7) is covered on its external surface (20) surrounding the third portion (5) with a covering, light-proof paint.
  11. Control wheel for actuating a device, in particular rotating a potentiometer in a motor vehicle, with at least one region (20) on the lateral periphery of the wheel (1) which can be illuminated from the interior of the wheel (1) by means of a optical fibre (2), the lighting current being supplied into the optical fibre (2) in the axial region of the wheel (1), characterised in that the optical fibre (3, 4, 5) predominantly covered by a reflective outer layer (7) made of plastics material is provided with a coaxial, conical recess (17) for deflecting the axially supplied lighting current into a substantially radially directed emission of rays, the surface (17) of which recess (17) serves as a reflective contact face for deflecting the lighting current, and in that the contact face (17) is largely kept free of a covering outer layer (7).
  12. Control wheel according to claims 1 and 11, characterised in that at least one region of the contact face (17) located radially internally and adjacent to the longitudinal axis (12) is kept free of a covering outer layer (7).
EP97912154A 1996-12-28 1997-10-09 Illuminated serrated wheel Expired - Lifetime EP0883839B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19654651A DE19654651A1 (en) 1996-12-28 1996-12-28 Illuminated thumb wheel
DE19654651 1996-12-28
PCT/EP1997/005561 WO1998029789A1 (en) 1996-12-28 1997-10-09 Illuminated serrated wheel

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0883839A1 EP0883839A1 (en) 1998-12-16
EP0883839B1 true EP0883839B1 (en) 2002-01-09

Family

ID=7816382

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97912154A Expired - Lifetime EP0883839B1 (en) 1996-12-28 1997-10-09 Illuminated serrated wheel

Country Status (7)

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US (1) US6092902A (en)
EP (1) EP0883839B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2001509287A (en)
BR (1) BR9707882A (en)
DE (2) DE19654651A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2166529T3 (en)
WO (1) WO1998029789A1 (en)

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DE19943589A1 (en) * 1999-09-11 2001-04-05 Preh Elektro Feinmechanik Fiber optic
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WO2004093111A1 (en) * 2003-04-18 2004-10-28 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Lighting device for operating part
US6826841B2 (en) * 2003-05-10 2004-12-07 Wen Shin Liao Rotatable light leveling device
DE102007019517B4 (en) * 2007-04-25 2016-03-31 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Hausgeräteeinstellvorrichtung
US20090038535A1 (en) * 2007-08-07 2009-02-12 Jorge Morales Instrument Pointer Assembly
ES2376447B1 (en) * 2010-01-08 2013-01-29 Fagor, S. Coop. ILLUMINABLE CONTROL DEVICE ADAPTED TO A CONTROL PANEL OF AN APPLIANCES.
US8783927B2 (en) 2010-01-21 2014-07-22 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Light ring for appliance control adjustable for console thickness
US10345514B2 (en) * 2017-02-22 2019-07-09 Haier Us Appliance Solutions, Inc. Appliance and illuminated knob assembly
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BR9707882A (en) 1999-07-27
DE19654651A1 (en) 1998-07-02
JP2001509287A (en) 2001-07-10
US6092902A (en) 2000-07-25
ES2166529T3 (en) 2002-04-16
EP0883839A1 (en) 1998-12-16
WO1998029789A1 (en) 1998-07-09
DE59705977D1 (en) 2002-02-14

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