EP1907914B1 - Indexing unit and control device comprising such an indexing unit - Google Patents

Indexing unit and control device comprising such an indexing unit Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1907914B1
EP1907914B1 EP06778807A EP06778807A EP1907914B1 EP 1907914 B1 EP1907914 B1 EP 1907914B1 EP 06778807 A EP06778807 A EP 06778807A EP 06778807 A EP06778807 A EP 06778807A EP 1907914 B1 EP1907914 B1 EP 1907914B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
rotor
stator
control member
indexing
magnetized
Prior art date
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Active
Application number
EP06778807A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1907914A1 (en
Inventor
Michel Hallet
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SC2N SAS
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SC2N SAS
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Publication of EP1907914A1 publication Critical patent/EP1907914A1/en
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Classifications

    • 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
    • H01H19/54—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 the operating part having at least five or an unspecified number of operative positions
    • H01H19/56—Angularly-movable actuating part carrying contacts, e.g. drum switch
    • H01H19/58—Angularly-movable actuating part carrying contacts, e.g. drum switch having only axial contact pressure, e.g. disc switch, wafer switch
    • 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
    • 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
    • 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
    • H01H19/10—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon
    • H01H19/11—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon with indexing means
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H3/00—Mechanisms for operating contacts
    • H01H3/32—Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts
    • H01H3/50—Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts with indexing or locating means, e.g. indexing by ball and spring
    • H01H2003/506—Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts with indexing or locating means, e.g. indexing by ball and spring making use of permanent magnets
    • 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
    • H01H19/10—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon
    • H01H19/14—Operating parts, e.g. turn knob
    • H01H2019/146—Roller type actuators
    • 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
    • Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
    • Y10T74/20474—Rotatable rod, shaft, or post
    • Y10T74/20492—Gear

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an indexing unit and a control device comprising such an indexing unit.
  • This indexing unit and the control device find a particular application in the automotive industry, but this is not limiting.
  • They can be used in particular on the dashboard of a vehicle to control the operation of lights, mirrors, wipers, radio or a multimedia device, for example.
  • a control device known in the state of the art generally comprises a manual control member whose actuation by a user causes the activation of an electrical element or the displacement of a mechanical part, depending on the different positions occupied by this body.
  • control devices such as micro-contactors or pushers, provided with a spring whose position is indexed on a notched ramp.
  • the friction of the metal parts together generally causes parasitic forces and premature wear.
  • This device comprises a housing, a rotary manual control member and means for indexing the position of this control member.
  • the indexing means comprise a cylindrical inner ring, integral with the rotary control member and provided on its outer periphery of several permanent magnets and a cylindrical outer ring, integral with the housing, also provided with several magnets on its inner face.
  • the two crowns are mounted coaxially, the magnets of the inner ring being located opposite those of the outer ring.
  • Such a device has the disadvantage that the two rings can be difficult to center relative to each other and the slightest shift crowns causes malfunction or blockage of the device.
  • the object of the invention is to solve the aforementioned drawbacks of the state of the art and to provide a control device whose indexing means for the different operating positions practically do not wear out and thus maintain a constant tactile rendering at course of time.
  • the invention also aims to provide an indexing unit and a control device, which have a small footprint, which are of a simple structure and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble.
  • the invention relates to a unit for indexing in rotation a manual control member, comprising two indexing parts including a rotor rotatably integral with said control member and a stator intended to be held stationary relative to the rotor, the rotor and the stator being mounted coaxially and comprise a plurality of angular sectors, at least some of which are magnetized so as to define stable and unstable positions for said control member, characterized in that the rotor and the stator have a shape conical or frustoconical to reduce the radial size and increase the so-called active surfaces of interaction between the magnets.
  • the invention furthermore relates to a device for controlling an element, in particular an electric circuit or a mechanical member, comprising a fixed support, a rotary manual control member, means for indexing the position of this control member and means for activating said element which act on it, as a function of the different positions occupied by said control member, characterized in that said indexing means comprise an indexing unit as defined above and in that the stator is secured to the support and the rotor is integral in rotation with the rotary manual control member.
  • control device comprises a support 1 in two parts, a rotary manual control member 2, an indexing unit 3 of the position of this member 2 and activation means 4 of an element 5 .
  • the element to be controlled 5 is an electrical circuit and its activation means 4 consist of a movable electrical contact, with several fins, or "wiper".
  • the support 1 comprises a main portion 11 and a secondary portion 12 in the form of a cover.
  • the main part 11 is intended to be fixed for example on the dashboard of a motor vehicle. It is therefore a fixed reference for the order.
  • the main portion 11 is fixed at the vehicle steering wheel, for example on a branch of the steering wheel, at the cushion or on a branch of the controls around the steering wheel such as a radio control satellite.
  • the main portion 11 comprises two parallel flanges 110 and 111, each of which is pierced with a hole 112, respectively 113. These holes 112 and 113 are aligned along a longitudinal axis X-X '.
  • the two flanges 110 and 111 are interconnected by two longitudinal bars 114, 115 forming a spacer. These two bars 114 and 115 are perpendicular to the plane of the two flanges 110 and 111 and extend parallel to the axis X-X '.
  • the flange 110 is traversed from one side, by two holes 117, 117 ', diametrically opposed to the hole 112. Their role will be described later.
  • the electrical circuit 5 is fixed on the inner face 119 of the flange 111, that is to say the face oriented in the direction of the flange 110.
  • the longitudinal bar 115 further comprises a connecting lug 116, inside which are grouped the ends of the conductive tracks 50 of the electrical circuit 5.
  • This connection lug 116 appears better on the figure 3 . It enables the electrical circuit 5 to be connected to its power supply on the one hand and to the devices to be activated on the other hand, such as, for example, lights, a radio or windscreen wipers.
  • It comprises a concave base 120 comprising a cylindrical portion 121 closed by a bottom 122.
  • the area at the intersection of the cylindrical portion 121 and the bottom 122 is tapered and has the numeral 123.
  • the secondary portion 12 further comprises a central rod 124, which extends perpendicularly to the bottom 122, inside the concave base 120.
  • a centering stud 126 protrudes outwardly from the bottom 122. It is located in the extension of the axis of the rod 124.
  • cylindrical portion 121 has a plurality of latching fingers 127, four in number in this embodiment. These fingers 127 extend from the rim of the concave base 120, in the opposite direction to the bottom 122, parallel to the rod 124.
  • the secondary portion 12 is made of a flexible material, for example a plastic material, so that the latching fingers 127 have a certain flexibility.
  • the centering pin 126 is housed inside the hole 112 of the flange 110 and the two pins 125, 125 ', respectively inside the two holes 117, 117 '.
  • the pins 125, 125 'and the stud 126 project out of the outer face 118 of the flange 110.
  • the secondary portion 12 is secured to the fixed main portion 11 and the rod 124 extends along the longitudinal axis X-X '.
  • the rotary manual control member 2 is in the form of a wheel. It will now be described in more detail with reference to figures 1 , 2 and 4 .
  • the control member 2 comprises an outer cylindrical sleeve 20, closed at one of its ends, by a circular bottom 22.
  • the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 20 is coaxial with the axis X-X ' of the main part 11, when all the elements of the control device are assembled.
  • the control member also comprises an inner cylindrical sleeve 21, coaxial with the outer sleeve 20 and extending inside thereof, from the bottom 22.
  • This inner sleeve 21 is of a length less than that of the outer sleeve 20.
  • a journal 23 protrudes outwardly from the bottom 22. It extends along the axis X-X '. In the assembled position, this pin 23 is received inside the hole 113 of the flange 111.
  • the outer surface of the sleeve 20 is notched, so as to improve the grip by the user.
  • the inner sleeve 210 has on its outer surface, longitudinal ribs 210, here three in number, which extend parallel to the axis X-X '. These ribs 210 appear better on the figure 4 .
  • the dimensions of the secondary portion 12 and the control member 2 are such that the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 121 of the base 12 is slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the sleeve 20 so as to be able to mitigate .
  • the diameter of the rod 124 substantially corresponds to the inside diameter of the inner sleeve 21 with a slight clearance.
  • the rod 124 penetrates partially inside the inner sleeve 21, so as to ensure the rotational guidance of the member 2 relative to this abutment 2.
  • a user can rotate the control member 2 relative to said secondary portion 12 about the axis X-X ' which constitutes its axis of rotation.
  • the indexing unit 3 of the position of the control member 2 comprises two indexing parts including a rotor 32 and a stator 31. These two parts have an identical structure, only their magnetization may differ.
  • the stator 31 has a generally frustoconical shape and has a certain thickness. As a result, it comprises a circular opening 311 of large diameter and an opening 310 of smaller diameter and of cylindrical shape.
  • the opening 310 has on its cylindrical inner wall, three longitudinal grooves 312, parallel to the axis of revolution X-X ' of the frustoconical piece, as can be seen on the figure 5 .
  • the frustoconical inner surface of the piece 31 bears the reference 313.
  • the outer surface of the frustoconical piece 31 comprises a cylindrical portion 314 and a frustoconical portion 315.
  • four longitudinal notches 316 are formed in the thickness of the larger diameter portion of the part 31 and open on the cylindrical surface 314 and on a portion of the frustoconical surface 315, located in the vicinity. They are parallel to the axis of revolution X-X ' of the part 31.
  • the inner surface 313, frustoconical, of the indexing piece 31 is magnetized. It is hereinafter referred to as "hollow active surface”.
  • FIG. 5 it can be seen that it comprises a plurality of magnetic angular sectors 317, 318 whose polarities are alternately opposite.
  • a magnetic angular sector 317 of "North” polarity is interposed between two magnetic angular sectors 318 of "South” polarity.
  • the reference “N” for pole “North and” S “for pole” South was brought in each angular sector.
  • the frustoconical outer surface 325 of the indexing piece 32 comprises a plurality of magnetized angular sectors 327, 328, the polarities of which are also alternately opposite with polarities "N" and " S ".
  • the magnetized sectors may be separate elements, glued to the indexing pieces 31, 32 or integrated therein, for example by overmolding. It can also be magnetic elements with sectors, obtained by a sintering process.
  • the hollow active surface 313 of the piece 31 is of a shape complementary to the projecting active surface 325 of the indexing piece 32. that the active surface is larger than that which would be obtained by a radial arrangement.
  • the indexing piece 31 is fixedly mounted and secured to the secondary portion 12 of the support 1, snap-fastening. It is disposed inside this secondary portion 12, so that the latching fingers 127 penetrate into the notches 316.
  • the inside diameter of the opening 310 is much greater than that of the outer diameter of the rod 124, so that it can penetrate inside the indexing piece 31.
  • the piece 32 is mounted around the inner sleeve 21 of the member 2, so that its grooves 322 cooperate with the longitudinal ribs 210 of the sleeve 21.
  • This arrangement ensures the rotational connection of the indexing piece 32 with the control member 2, while allowing its free axial translation, over a limited stroke, with respect to the inner sleeve 21.
  • a helical spring 6 is mounted around the inner sleeve 21. One of its ends abuts against the bottom 22 of the member 2, while its opposite end rests on the frustoconical inner surface 323 of the piece indexing 32.
  • This spring 6 tends constantly to move the indexing piece 32 towards the piece 31.
  • the wiper 4 is integral in rotation with the manual control member 2. It is fixed around the pin 23 and protrudes outwardly from the bottom 22 so as to rub against the conductive tracks of the electric circuit 5.
  • the magnetic active surfaces 313 and 325 are spaced apart from each other by an air gap e.
  • the north poles of the magnets of the indexing piece 31 are opposite the south poles of the magnets of the indexing piece 32.
  • the wiper 4 is in a given position, with respect to the tracks of the electric circuit 5 and the information delivered by it corresponds to a first state.
  • this device allows to control the lights of a motor vehicle, these lights can for example be extinguished.
  • the indexing piece 32 retracts slightly by sliding along the sleeve 21, and slightly compressing the spring 6.
  • the indexing piece 32 passes into the next stable position, in which its magnetic sectors of north poles are opposite the south poles of those of the indexing piece. 31.
  • the magnets attract and the piece 32 slides along the axis X-X ' towards the piece 31, aided by the return force of the coil spring 6.
  • the wiper 4 has changed position relative to the conductive tracks of the electric circuit 5 and the information delivered by it corresponds to a second state, distinct from the first.
  • the lights of the motor vehicle are then lit.
  • the number of magnetized angular sectors is adapted according to the number of different positions that can be selected using the control member 2.
  • the magnetized angular sectors may be provided on only a portion of the frustoconical active surfaces 313, 325, the number of positions likely to be occupied by the control member 2 being then limited by result.
  • Adjusting the width of the air gap e between the two indexing pieces 31 and 32 makes it possible to modulate the attraction force of the magnets and consecutively to adapt the value of the effort that the operator will have to exert on the control member 2 to rotate it.
  • the gap e is obtained by a molding allowance on one of the two indexing pieces 31, 32.
  • the two indexing pieces 31 and 32 could have a conical shape instead of frustoconical.
  • a variant of the indexing unit may be that the magnetization of the indexing pieces is "reduced".
  • the stable position will be defined when a "North" pole will be in front of a non-magnetized sector.
  • the sectors 327 are for example magnetized by a "South" pole, and then, the stable position will be defined when a "South" pole will be in front of a "North” pole, and the positions in which the neutral sectors of the parts 31 and 32 will face each other correspond to unstable positions.
  • the piece 32 can be made entirely of plastic with a single magnetic sector affixed for example by gluing.
  • the figure 8 has an arrangement of parts 31 and 32 for performing an impulse control, which can for example be used to raise or lower speeds of a semi-automatic gearbox, radio stations of a radio satellite, or increment or decrement the speed setpoint of an automatic cruise control.
  • an impulse control which can for example be used to raise or lower speeds of a semi-automatic gearbox, radio stations of a radio satellite, or increment or decrement the speed setpoint of an automatic cruise control.
  • the part 31 has two sectors 318a magnetized by a pole "North” with a sector 317a is magnetically neutral or has a magnetization "South” and corresponding to the rest position.
  • the other sectors 317 and 318 are not magnetized.
  • the piece 32 has a magnetized sector 327a and its rotation relative to the piece 31 is mechanically limited, for example by stoppers 329 shown schematically, so that the pole "North" 327a can move only by being above sectors 318a and 317a.
  • an indexing unit has been created with two unstable control positions corresponding preferably to a position of the wiper 4 establishing an electrical contact so as to form a so-called "pulse" signal to increment or decrement a parameter of a module. command and a stable rest position in the middle and a stable middle position preferably corresponding to a position of the wiper 4 not establishing any electrical contact.
  • the wheel returns automatically to its neutral position after a pulse has been created, the latter can be operated by any appropriate processing unit.
  • the variant of the figure 9 differs from that of the figure 8 only because the sector 327a has a "South" pole magnetization instead of a "North" pole.
  • This bistable indexing unit is suitable for example for a commissioning commissioning or decommissioning of the automatic cruise control.
  • the stable position can be defined more precisely.
  • the indexing piece 31 could also be integral with the secondary part 12 of the support 1.
  • the electrical circuit 5 could for example be replaced by a mechanical member and the wiper 4, by a control finger, whose rotation would cause the displacement of the aforementioned mechanical member.
  • the support 1 and in particular its main part 11 could have a different shape.
  • the trunnion 23 and the flange 111 could be removed and the wiper 4 and the circuit 5 arranged elsewhere, so that the user has access to the bottom 22 of the control member 2.
  • the control member 2 is then under the shape of a control wheel, of the type used to control a radio inside a motor vehicle.
  • control device which has just been described has many advantages over devices of the state of the art.
  • the frustoconical shape of the indexing parts 31 and 32 makes it possible to have a self-centering of these parts and to be able to increase the area of the magnetized surfaces and therefore the torque of the rotational movement, without increasing the diameter of the pieces 31,32.
  • the indexing piece 32 being movable in axial translation, this makes it possible to maintain a recoil motion between the magnetized active surfaces 313, 325, and to adjust the force / displacement curve.
  • the present invention is not limited to a construction with a support 11.
  • the configuration described above to perform the indexing with two frustoconical magnetized parts is compact and allows easy and easy integration into a lever. command for example for lights or windshield wipers of a motor vehicle.
  • the present invention has been described with rotary indexing for a control wheel.
  • the present invention can also be applied in a rotary control button, for example for multifunctional controls and navigation in a motor vehicle.
  • the small radial size of the present indexing mechanism with two frustoconical parts makes it possible to easily house one of the two frustoconical parts in the same button while the other part is held by the support of the button.

Abstract

The invention relates to a rotatable indexing unit for a manual control member (2), comprising two indexing components (31, 32) one of which is the rotor (32) rotatably secured to said control member and the other is the stator (31) which is embodied in such a way that it is fixedly maintained with respect to the rotor. The rotor and the stator are mounted coaxially and comprise a plurality of angular segments (317, 318, 327, 328) at least some of which are magnetised in such a way that they define stable and unstable positions for said control member, and the rotor and the stator have a conical or tapering shape which makes it possible to reduce the required radial space and increase the so-called active surfaces of interaction between the magnets.

Description

La présente invention concerne une unité d'indexage et un dispositif de commande comprenant une telle unité d'indexage.The present invention relates to an indexing unit and a control device comprising such an indexing unit.

Cette unité d'indexage ainsi que le dispositif de commande trouvent une application particulière dans l'industrie automobile, sans toutefois que celle-ci soit limitative.This indexing unit and the control device find a particular application in the automotive industry, but this is not limiting.

Ils peuvent être utilisés notamment sur le tableau de bord d'un véhicule pour commander le fonctionnement des feux, des rétroviseurs, des essuie-glaces, de la radio ou d'un dispositif multimédia, par exemple.They can be used in particular on the dashboard of a vehicle to control the operation of lights, mirrors, wipers, radio or a multimedia device, for example.

Un dispositif de commande connu dans l'état de la technique comprend de façon générale un organe de commande manuelle dont l'actionnement par un utilisateur entraîne l'activation d'un élément électrique ou le déplacement d'une pièce mécanique, en fonction des différentes positions occupées par cet organe.A control device known in the state of the art generally comprises a manual control member whose actuation by a user causes the activation of an electrical element or the displacement of a mechanical part, depending on the different positions occupied by this body.

Il est important que l'utilisateur ressente un effet tactile, par exemple par le passage d'un point dur, lorsqu'il agit sur cet organe de commande, de façon à avoir la sensation que la manoeuvre a bien été effectuée. Cet effet est dénommé « indexage » de la position de l'organe de commande.It is important that the user feels a tactile effect, for example by the passage of a hard point, when acting on this control member, so as to have the feeling that the maneuver has been made. This effect is called "indexing" of the position of the control member.

On connaît déjà d'après l'état de la technique, des dispositifs de commande, tels que des micro-contacteurs ou des poussoirs, munis d'un ressort, dont la position est indexée sur une rampe crantée. Toutefois, dans de tels dispositifs, le frottement des pièces métalliques entre elles provoque généralement des efforts parasites et leur usure prématurée.Already known from the state of the art, control devices, such as micro-contactors or pushers, provided with a spring whose position is indexed on a notched ramp. However, in such devices, the friction of the metal parts together generally causes parasitic forces and premature wear.

On connaît également d'après le document FR-A-2 804 240 , un dispositif de commande des fonctions électriques d'un véhicule automobile, par commutation magnétique.It is also known from the document FR-A-2 804 240 , a device for controlling the electric functions of a motor vehicle, by magnetic switching.

Ce dispositif comprend un boîtier, un organe de commande manuelle rotatif et des moyens d'indexage de la position de cet organe de commande.This device comprises a housing, a rotary manual control member and means for indexing the position of this control member.

Les moyens d'indexage comprennent une couronne intérieure cylindrique, solidaire de l'organe de commande rotatif et munie sur sa périphérie extérieure de plusieurs aimants permanents et une couronne extérieure cylindrique, solidaire du boîtier, munie également de plusieurs aimants sur sa face intérieure. Les deux couronnes sont montées coaxiales, les aimants de la couronne intérieure étant situés en regard de ceux de la couronne extérieure.The indexing means comprise a cylindrical inner ring, integral with the rotary control member and provided on its outer periphery of several permanent magnets and a cylindrical outer ring, integral with the housing, also provided with several magnets on its inner face. The two crowns are mounted coaxially, the magnets of the inner ring being located opposite those of the outer ring.

Un tel dispositif présente l'inconvénient que les deux couronnes peuvent être difficiles à centrer l'une par rapport à l'autre et que le moindre décalage des couronnes entraîne un disfonctionnement, voire un blocage du dispositif.Such a device has the disadvantage that the two rings can be difficult to center relative to each other and the slightest shift crowns causes malfunction or blockage of the device.

En outre, il nécessite la fabrication de deux pièces aimantées de structures différentes.In addition, it requires the manufacture of two magnetized parts of different structures.

Enfin, l'encombrement radial est élevé afin d'obtenir un effet tactile assez important.Finally, the radial size is high to obtain a significant tactile effect.

L'invention a pour objectif de résoudre les inconvénients précités de l'état de la technique et de fournir un dispositif de commande dont les moyens d'indexage des différentes positions de fonctionnement ne s'usent pratiquement pas et conservent ainsi un rendu tactile constant au cours du temps.The object of the invention is to solve the aforementioned drawbacks of the state of the art and to provide a control device whose indexing means for the different operating positions practically do not wear out and thus maintain a constant tactile rendering at course of time.

L'invention a également pour objectif de fournir une unité d'indexage et un dispositif de commande, qui présentent un encombrement réduit, qui soient d'une structure simple et peu coûteux à fabriquer et à monter.The invention also aims to provide an indexing unit and a control device, which have a small footprint, which are of a simple structure and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne une unité d'indexage en rotation d'un organe de commande manuelle, comprenant deux pièces d'indexage dont un rotor solidaire en rotation dudit organe de commande et un stator destiné à être maintenu fixe par rapport au rotor, le rotor et le stator étant montés coaxialement et comportent une pluralité de secteurs angulaires dont au moins certains sont aimantés de façon à définir des positions stables et instables pour ledit organe de commande, caractérisé en ce que le rotor et le stator possèdent une forme conique ou tronconique pour réduire l'encombrement radial et augmenter les surfaces dites actives d'interaction entre les aimants.For this purpose, the invention relates to a unit for indexing in rotation a manual control member, comprising two indexing parts including a rotor rotatably integral with said control member and a stator intended to be held stationary relative to the rotor, the rotor and the stator being mounted coaxially and comprise a plurality of angular sectors, at least some of which are magnetized so as to define stable and unstable positions for said control member, characterized in that the rotor and the stator have a shape conical or frustoconical to reduce the radial size and increase the so-called active surfaces of interaction between the magnets.

Les documents US 3,597,714 et DE-U1-20220379 montrent les caractéristiques du préambule de la revendication 1.The documents US 3,597,714 and DE-U1-20220379 show the features of the preamble of claim 1.

L'unité d'indexage peut en outre comprendre une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes :

  • le rotor et le stator possèdent chacun des secteurs angulaires ayant des polarités alternativement contraires,
  • le rotor ou le stator comprennent des secteurs angulaires dont uniquement un secteur sur deux est aimanté avec la même polarité magnétique,
  • les secteurs angulaires aimantés du stator et du rotor possèdent la même polarité magnétique et les secteurs angulaires non aimantés sont plus petits que les secteurs angulaires aimantés pour définir les positions stables de façon plus précises,
  • les secteurs angulaires aimantés du stator possèdent une même polarité magnétique et les secteurs angulaires du rotor possèdent une même polarité opposée de celle du stator et en ce que les secteurs angulaires non aimantés sont plus grandes que les secteurs angulaires aimantés pour définir les positions stables de façon plus précises,
  • l'un des deux, le stator ou le rotor, comporte un seul secteur angulaire aimanté et l'autre des deux, le rotor ou le stator, comporte des secteurs angulaires ayant des polarités alternativement contraires ou des secteurs angulaires dont uniquement un secteur sur deux est aimanté avec la même polarité magnétique,
  • pour une unité d'indexage adaptée pour une organe de commande impulsionnelle, l'aimantation des secteurs angulaires des rotor et stator est réalisée de façon à définir à une position stable de repos et une ou deux positions instables adjacentes, et la rotation du rotor est limitée mécaniquement au niveau de la position de la ou des positions instables,
  • le rotor et le stator sont espacés l'un de l'autre par un entrefer e.
  • l'entrefer e est réalisé par surmoulage d'un revêtement, de préférence anti-adhésif, sur l'un ou les deux pièces d'indexage.
The indexing unit may further include one or more of the following features:
  • the rotor and the stator each have angular sectors having alternately opposite polarities,
  • the rotor or the stator comprise angular sectors of which only one sector out of two is magnetized with the same magnetic polarity,
  • the magnetized angular sectors of the stator and the rotor have the same magnetic polarity and the unmagnetized angular sectors are smaller than the magnetized angular sectors to define the stable positions more precisely,
  • the magnetic angular sectors of the stator have the same magnetic polarity and the angular sectors of the rotor have the same polarity opposite to that of the stator and in that the unmagnetized angular sectors are larger than the angular sectors magnetized to define the stable positions of more precise,
  • one of the two, the stator or the rotor, comprises a single magnetic angular sector and the other of the two, the rotor or the stator, comprises angular sectors having alternately opposite polarities or angular sectors of which only one sector out of two is magnetized with the same magnetic polarity,
  • for an indexing unit adapted for an impulse control member, the magnetization of the angular sectors of the rotor and stator is performed so as to define at a stable rest position and one or two adjacent unstable positions, and the rotation of the rotor is mechanically limited at the position of the unstable position (s),
  • the rotor and the stator are spaced from one another by an air gap e.
  • the gap e is made by overmolding a coating, preferably anti-adhesive, on one or both indexing pieces.

L'invention concerne de plus un dispositif de commande d'un élément, notamment un circuit électrique ou un organe mécanique, comprenant un support fixe, un organe de commande manuelle rotatif, des moyens d'indexage de la position de cet organe de commande et des moyens d'activation dudit élément qui agissent sur celui-ci, en fonction des différentes positions occupées par ledit organe de commande, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens d'indexage comprennent un unité d'indexage comme définie ci-dessus et en ce que le stator est solidaire du support et le rotor est solidaire en rotation de l'organe de commande manuelle rotatif.The invention furthermore relates to a device for controlling an element, in particular an electric circuit or a mechanical member, comprising a fixed support, a rotary manual control member, means for indexing the position of this control member and means for activating said element which act on it, as a function of the different positions occupied by said control member, characterized in that said indexing means comprise an indexing unit as defined above and in that the stator is secured to the support and the rotor is integral in rotation with the rotary manual control member.

Le dispositif selon l'invention peut comporter une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes :

  • le rotor peut coulisser axialement par rapport à cet organe de commande, le long de son axe de rotation X-X', à l'encontre de la force de rappel de moyens élastiquement déformables, de façon que sa surface active s'écarte de la surface active du stator,
  • les moyens élastiquement déformables sont un ressort hélicoïdal, monté autour de l'axe de rotation X-X' de l'organe de commande, solidaire à l'une de ses extrémités de l'organe de commande et à son autre extrémité de ladite pièce d'indexage mobile, ce ressort tendant en permanence à rapprocher le rotor du stator,
  • l'organe de commande est réalisé sous forme d'une molette rotative, d'un bouton rotatif de commande ou d'un embout rotatif de levier de commande présentant un axe interne de rotation portant le rotor,
  • le stator est maintenu fixe dans une pièce de forme cylindrique servant de pallier pour l'organe de commande.
The device according to the invention can comprise one or more of the following characteristics:
  • the rotor can slide axially with respect to this control member, along its axis of rotation X-X ', against the restoring force of elastically deformable means, so that its active surface deviates from the active surface of the stator,
  • the elastically deformable means are a helical spring, mounted around the axis of rotation X-X ' of the control member, integral at one of its ends with the control member and at its other end of said piece movable indexing, this spring tending constantly to bring the rotor of the stator,
  • the control member is embodied in the form of a rotary wheel, a rotary control knob or a rotary control lever endpiece having an internal axis of rotation carrying the rotor,
  • the stator is held stationary in a cylindrical piece serving to compensate for the control member.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront de la description qui va maintenant en être faite, en référence aux dessins annexés, qui en représentent, à titre indicatif mais non limitatif, un mode de réalisation possible.Other features and advantages of the invention will appear from the description which will now be made, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which represent, by way of indication but not limitation, a possible embodiment.

Sur ces dessins :

  • la figure 1 est une vue éclatée, en perspective, d'un mode de réalisation du dispositif de commande conforme à l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est une vue en coupe axiale d'une partie du dispositif de la commande, prise selon le plan de coupe passant par la ligne A-A' de la figure 3,
  • la figure 3 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de la figure 1, sur laquelle les divers éléments constitutifs sont en position assemblée, l'organe de commande étant représenté partiellement et en transparence à des fins de clarification,
  • la figure 4 est une vue en perspective de l'intérieur dudit organe de commande, et
  • la figure 5 est une vue en perspective de l'intérieur de l'une des deux pièces d'indexage du dispositif,
  • la figure 6 est une vue en perspective de l'intérieur de l'une des deux pièces d'indexage du dispositif selon une variante,
  • la figure 7 est une vue en perspective de l'intérieur des deux pièces d'indexage du dispositif selon une autre variante,
  • la figure 8 est une vue en perspective de l'intérieur des deux pièces d'indexage du dispositif selon une autre variante dite « impulsionnelle »,
  • la figure 9 est une vue en perspective de l'intérieur des deux pièces d'indexage du dispositif selon une autre variante dite bistable.
On these drawings:
  • the figure 1 is an exploded view, in perspective, of an embodiment of the control device according to the invention,
  • the figure 2 is an axial sectional view of a part of the control device, taken along the plane of section passing through the line A-A ' of the figure 3 ,
  • the figure 3 is a perspective view of the device of the figure 1 on which the various constituent elements are in assembled position, the control member being partially and transparently represented for the purpose of clarification,
  • the figure 4 is a perspective view of the interior of said control member, and
  • the figure 5 is a perspective view of the inside of one of the two indexing parts of the device,
  • the figure 6 is a perspective view of the inside of one of the two indexing pieces of the device according to a variant,
  • the figure 7 is a perspective view of the inside of the two indexing parts of the device according to another variant,
  • the figure 8 is a perspective view of the inside of the two indexing parts of the device according to another so-called "impulse" variant,
  • the figure 9 is a perspective view of the inside of the two indexing parts of the device according to another so-called bistable variant.

En se reportant à la figure 1, on peut voir que le dispositif de commande comprend un support 1 en deux parties, un organe de commande manuel rotatif 2, une unité d'indexage 3 de la position de cet organe 2 et des moyens d'activation 4 d'un élément 5.Referring to the figure 1 it can be seen that the control device comprises a support 1 in two parts, a rotary manual control member 2, an indexing unit 3 of the position of this member 2 and activation means 4 of an element 5 .

Dans le mode de réalisation ici représenté, l'élément à commander 5 est un circuit électrique et ses moyens d'activation 4 sont constitués par un contact électrique mobile, à plusieurs ailettes, ou "frotteur".In the embodiment shown here, the element to be controlled 5 is an electrical circuit and its activation means 4 consist of a movable electrical contact, with several fins, or "wiper".

Les différents éléments constitutifs de ce dispositif vont maintenant être décrits plus en détail.The various components of this device will now be described in more detail.

Le support 1 comprend une partie principale 11 et une partie secondaire 12 en forme de couvercle.The support 1 comprises a main portion 11 and a secondary portion 12 in the form of a cover.

La partie principale 11 est destinée à être fixée par exemple sur le tableau de bord d'un véhicule automobile. Elle constitue donc un référentiel fixe pour la commande.The main part 11 is intended to be fixed for example on the dashboard of a motor vehicle. It is therefore a fixed reference for the order.

Selon d'autres variantes non représentées, on prévoit de cette partie principale 11 soit fixée au niveau du volant de véhicule, par exemple sur une branche du volant, au niveau du coussin ou encore sur une branche des commandes autour du volant comme par exemple un satellite de commande radio.According to other variants not shown, it is expected that the main portion 11 is fixed at the vehicle steering wheel, for example on a branch of the steering wheel, at the cushion or on a branch of the controls around the steering wheel such as a radio control satellite.

La partie principale 11 comprend deux flasques parallèles 110 et 111, chacun d'entre eux étant percé d'un trou 112, respectivement 113. Ces trous 112 et 113 sont alignés selon un axe longitudinal X-X'. The main portion 11 comprises two parallel flanges 110 and 111, each of which is pierced with a hole 112, respectively 113. These holes 112 and 113 are aligned along a longitudinal axis X-X '.

Les deux flasques 110 et 111 sont reliés entre eux par deux barrettes longitudinales 114, 115 formant entretoise. Ces deux barrettes 114 et 115 sont perpendiculaires au plan des deux flasques 110 et 111 et s'étendent parallèlement à l'axe X-X'. The two flanges 110 and 111 are interconnected by two longitudinal bars 114, 115 forming a spacer. These two bars 114 and 115 are perpendicular to the plane of the two flanges 110 and 111 and extend parallel to the axis X-X '.

En outre, le flasque 110 est traversé de part en part, par deux perçages 117, 117', diamétralement opposés par rapport au trou 112. Leur rôle sera décrit ultérieurement.In addition, the flange 110 is traversed from one side, by two holes 117, 117 ', diametrically opposed to the hole 112. Their role will be described later.

Le circuit électrique 5 est fixé sur la face intérieure 119 du flasque 111, c'est-à-dire la face orientée en direction du flasque 110.The electrical circuit 5 is fixed on the inner face 119 of the flange 111, that is to say the face oriented in the direction of the flange 110.

La barrette longitudinale 115 comporte en outre une patte de connexion 116, à l'intérieur de laquelle sont regroupées les extrémités des pistes conductrices 50 du circuit électrique 5. Cette patte de connexion 116 apparaît mieux sur la figure 3. Elle permet de connecter le circuit électrique 5 à son alimentation d'une part et aux dispositifs à activer d'autre part, tels que par exemple les feux, une radio ou les essuie-glaces.The longitudinal bar 115 further comprises a connecting lug 116, inside which are grouped the ends of the conductive tracks 50 of the electrical circuit 5. This connection lug 116 appears better on the figure 3 . It enables the electrical circuit 5 to be connected to its power supply on the one hand and to the devices to be activated on the other hand, such as, for example, lights, a radio or windscreen wipers.

La partie secondaire 12 va maintenant être décrite conjointement avec les figures 1 et 2.The abutment 12 will now be described together with the figures 1 and 2 .

Elle comprend une embase 120 concave, comportant une partie cylindrique 121 obturée par un fond 122.It comprises a concave base 120 comprising a cylindrical portion 121 closed by a bottom 122.

La zone située au niveau de l'intersection entre la partie cylindrique 121 et le fond 122 est biseautée et porte la référence numérique 123.The area at the intersection of the cylindrical portion 121 and the bottom 122 is tapered and has the numeral 123.

La partie secondaire 12 comprend en outre une tige centrale 124, qui s'étend perpendiculairement au fond 122, à l'intérieur de l'embase concave 120.The secondary portion 12 further comprises a central rod 124, which extends perpendicularly to the bottom 122, inside the concave base 120.

Un plot de centrage 126 fait saillie vers l'extérieur, depuis le fond 122. Il est situé dans le prolongement de l'axe de la tige 124.A centering stud 126 protrudes outwardly from the bottom 122. It is located in the extension of the axis of the rod 124.

De plus, la partie cylindrique 121 comporte plusieurs doigts d'encliquetage 127, au nombre de quatre dans ce mode de réalisation. Ces doigts 127 s'étendent depuis le rebord de l'embase concave 120, dans la direction opposée au fond 122, parallèlement à la tige 124.In addition, the cylindrical portion 121 has a plurality of latching fingers 127, four in number in this embodiment. These fingers 127 extend from the rim of the concave base 120, in the opposite direction to the bottom 122, parallel to the rod 124.

De préférence, la partie secondaire 12 est réalisée dans un matériau souple, par exemple une matière plastique, pour que les doigts d'encliquetage 127 présentent une certaine flexibilité.Preferably, the secondary portion 12 is made of a flexible material, for example a plastic material, so that the latching fingers 127 have a certain flexibility.

Enfin, deux tétons 125, 125' font saillie vers l'extérieur, depuis le fond 122. Ils sont diamétralement opposés par rapport au plot de centrage 126.Finally, two studs 125, 125 'protrude outwardly from the bottom 122. They are diametrically opposed with respect to the centering stud 126.

Lorsque la partie secondaire 12 est montée à l'intérieur de la partie principale 11, le plot de centrage 126 est logé à l'intérieur du trou 112 du flasque 110 et les deux tétons 125, 125',respectivement à l'intérieur des deux perçages 117, 117'.When the secondary portion 12 is mounted inside the main portion 11, the centering pin 126 is housed inside the hole 112 of the flange 110 and the two pins 125, 125 ', respectively inside the two holes 117, 117 '.

Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 3, en position assemblée, les tétons 125, 125' et le plot 126 font saillie hors de la face extérieure 118 du flasque 110.As can be seen on the figure 3 in the assembled position, the pins 125, 125 'and the stud 126 project out of the outer face 118 of the flange 110.

Dans cette position, la partie secondaire 12 est donc solidaire de la partie principale 11 fixe et la tige 124 s'étend selon l'axe longitudinal X-X'. In this position, the secondary portion 12 is secured to the fixed main portion 11 and the rod 124 extends along the longitudinal axis X-X '.

Dans le mode de réalisation ici décrit, l'organe de commande manuelle rotatif 2 se présente sous la forme d'une molette. Il va maintenant être décrit plus en détail en faisant référence aux figures 1, 2 et 4.In the embodiment described here, the rotary manual control member 2 is in the form of a wheel. It will now be described in more detail with reference to figures 1 , 2 and 4 .

L'organe de commande 2 comprend un manchon cylindrique extérieur 20, obturé à l'une de ses extrémités, par un fond circulaire 22. L'axe longitudinal du manchon 20 est coaxial à l'axe X-X' de la partie principale 11, lorsque tous les éléments du dispositif de commande sont assemblés.The control member 2 comprises an outer cylindrical sleeve 20, closed at one of its ends, by a circular bottom 22. The longitudinal axis of the sleeve 20 is coaxial with the axis X-X ' of the main part 11, when all the elements of the control device are assembled.

L'organe de commande comprend également un manchon cylindrique intérieur 21, coaxial au manchon extérieur 20 et qui s'étend à l'intérieur de celui-ci, depuis le fond 22. Ce manchon intérieur 21 est d'une longueur inférieure à celle du manchon extérieur 20.The control member also comprises an inner cylindrical sleeve 21, coaxial with the outer sleeve 20 and extending inside thereof, from the bottom 22. This inner sleeve 21 is of a length less than that of the outer sleeve 20.

Un tourillon 23 fait saillie vers l'extérieur, depuis le fond 22. Il s'étend selon l'axe X-X'. En position assemblée, ce tourillon 23 est reçu à l'intérieur du trou 113 du flasque 111.A journal 23 protrudes outwardly from the bottom 22. It extends along the axis X-X '. In the assembled position, this pin 23 is received inside the hole 113 of the flange 111.

De préférence, la surface extérieure du manchon 20 est crantée, de façon à améliorer la préhension par l'utilisateur.Preferably, the outer surface of the sleeve 20 is notched, so as to improve the grip by the user.

Enfin, le manchon intérieur 210 présente sur sa surface extérieure, des nervures longitudinales 210, ici au nombre de trois, qui s'étendent parallèlement à l'axe X-X'. Ces nervures 210 apparaissent mieux sur la figure 4.Finally, the inner sleeve 210 has on its outer surface, longitudinal ribs 210, here three in number, which extend parallel to the axis X-X '. These ribs 210 appear better on the figure 4 .

Comme on peut le voir en se reportant à la figure 2, les dimensions de la partie secondaire 12 et de l'organe de commande 2 sont telles, que le diamètre extérieur de la partie cylindrique 121 de l'embase 12 est très légèrement inférieur au diamètre intérieur du manchon 20 de manière à pouvoir servir de pallier. De plus, le diamètre de la tige 124 correspond sensiblement au diamètre intérieur du manchon intérieur 21 avec un léger jeu.As can be seen by referring to the figure 2 , the dimensions of the secondary portion 12 and the control member 2 are such that the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 121 of the base 12 is slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the sleeve 20 so as to be able to mitigate . In addition, the diameter of the rod 124 substantially corresponds to the inside diameter of the inner sleeve 21 with a slight clearance.

Ainsi, lorsque la partie secondaire 12 et l'organe de commande 2 sont assemblés, la tige 124 pénètre partiellement à l'intérieur du manchon intérieur 21, de façon à assurer le guidage en rotation de l'organe 2 par rapport à cette partie secondaire 2.Thus, when the secondary portion 12 and the control member 2 are assembled, the rod 124 penetrates partially inside the inner sleeve 21, so as to ensure the rotational guidance of the member 2 relative to this abutment 2.

Un utilisateur peut faire tourner l'organe de commande 2 par rapport à ladite partie secondaire 12, autour de l'axe X-X' qui constitue son axe de rotation.A user can rotate the control member 2 relative to said secondary portion 12 about the axis X-X ' which constitutes its axis of rotation.

L'unité d'indexage 3 de la position de l'organe de commande 2 comprennent deux pièces d'indexage dont un rotor 32 et un stator 31. Ces deux pièces ont une structure identique, seule leur aimantation peut différer.The indexing unit 3 of the position of the control member 2 comprises two indexing parts including a rotor 32 and a stator 31. These two parts have an identical structure, only their magnetization may differ.

Dans un premier exemple de réalisation, seule la pièce 31, le stator, sera décrite en détail, en faisant référence aux figures 1, 2 et 5. Les différentes parties constitutives du rotor 32 qui sont identiques à la pièce 31 portent les mêmes références numériques, mais déclinées à partir du préfixe 32.In a first exemplary embodiment, only the part 31, the stator, will be described in detail, with reference to the figures 1 , 2 and 5 . The different constituent parts of the rotor 32 which are identical to the part 31 bear the same reference numerals, but declined from the prefix 32.

Le stator 31 présente une forme générale tronconique et possède une certaine épaisseur. De ce fait, elle comprend une ouverture circulaire 311 de grand diamètre et une ouverture 310 de plus faible diamètre et de forme cylindrique.The stator 31 has a generally frustoconical shape and has a certain thickness. As a result, it comprises a circular opening 311 of large diameter and an opening 310 of smaller diameter and of cylindrical shape.

L'ouverture 310 présente sur sa paroi intérieure cylindrique, trois rainures longitudinales 312, parallèles à l'axe de révolution X-X' de la pièce tronconique, comme on peut le voir sur la figure 5.The opening 310 has on its cylindrical inner wall, three longitudinal grooves 312, parallel to the axis of revolution X-X ' of the frustoconical piece, as can be seen on the figure 5 .

La surface intérieure tronconique de la pièce 31 porte la référence 313.The frustoconical inner surface of the piece 31 bears the reference 313.

La surface extérieure de la pièce tronconique 31 comprend une partie cylindrique 314 et une partie tronconique 315.The outer surface of the frustoconical piece 31 comprises a cylindrical portion 314 and a frustoconical portion 315.

Enfin, comme on peut le voir sur les figures 1 et 5, quatre encoches longitudinales 316 sont ménagées dans l'épaisseur de la partie de plus grand diamètre de la pièce 31 et débouchent sur la surface cylindrique 314 et sur une partie de la surface tronconique 315, située au voisinage. Elles sont parallèles à l'axe de révolution X-X' de la pièce 31.Finally, as can be seen from the figures 1 and 5 , four longitudinal notches 316 are formed in the thickness of the larger diameter portion of the part 31 and open on the cylindrical surface 314 and on a portion of the frustoconical surface 315, located in the vicinity. They are parallel to the axis of revolution X-X ' of the part 31.

La surface intérieure 313, tronconique, de la pièce d'indexage 31 est aimantée. Elle est dénommée ci-après "surface active en creux".The inner surface 313, frustoconical, of the indexing piece 31 is magnetized. It is hereinafter referred to as "hollow active surface".

En se reportant à la figure 5, on peut voir qu'elle comporte une pluralité de secteurs angulaires aimantés 317, 318 dont les polarités sont alternativement contraires. En d'autres termes, un secteur angulaire aimanté 317 de polarité «Nord» est intercalé entre deux secteurs angulaires aimantés 318 de polarité « Sud ». La référence « N » pour pôle « Nord et « S » pour pôle « Sud » a été apporté dans chaque secteur angulaire.Referring to the figure 5 it can be seen that it comprises a plurality of magnetic angular sectors 317, 318 whose polarities are alternately opposite. In other words, a magnetic angular sector 317 of "North" polarity is interposed between two magnetic angular sectors 318 of "South" polarity. The reference "N" for pole "North and" S "for pole" South "was brought in each angular sector.

Inversement, la surface extérieure tronconique 325, de la pièce d'indexage 32, dite "surface active en saillie", comporte une pluralité de secteurs angulaires aimantés 327, 328, dont les polarités sont également alternativement contraires avec des polarités « N » et « S ».Conversely, the frustoconical outer surface 325 of the indexing piece 32, called the "projecting active surface", comprises a plurality of magnetized angular sectors 327, 328, the polarities of which are also alternately opposite with polarities "N" and " S ".

Les secteurs aimantés peuvent être des éléments séparés, collés sur les pièces d'indexage 31, 32 ou intégrés dans celles-ci, par exemple par surmoulage. Il peut également s'agir d'éléments magnétiques avec des secteurs, obtenus par un procédé de frittage.The magnetized sectors may be separate elements, glued to the indexing pieces 31, 32 or integrated therein, for example by overmolding. It can also be magnetic elements with sectors, obtained by a sintering process.

Les deux pièces d'indexage 31 et 32 étant de dimensions identiques, la surface active en creux 313 de la pièce 31 est d'une forme complémentaire de la surface active en saillie 325 de la pièce d'indexage 32. On constate de plus, que la surface active est de dimension supérieure à celle qui serait obtenu par une disposition radiale.The two indexing pieces 31 and 32 being of identical dimensions, the hollow active surface 313 of the piece 31 is of a shape complementary to the projecting active surface 325 of the indexing piece 32. that the active surface is larger than that which would be obtained by a radial arrangement.

Ces deux pièces d'indexage sont assemblées comme représenté sur la figure 2.These two indexing pieces are assembled as shown on the figure 2 .

La pièce d'indexage 31 est montée fixe et solidaire de la partie secondaire 12 du support 1, par encliquetage. Elle est disposée à l'intérieur de cette partie secondaire 12, de façon que les doigts d'encliquetage 127 pénètrent dans les encoches 316.The indexing piece 31 is fixedly mounted and secured to the secondary portion 12 of the support 1, snap-fastening. It is disposed inside this secondary portion 12, so that the latching fingers 127 penetrate into the notches 316.

Le diamètre intérieur de l'ouverture 310 est nettement plus grand que celui du diamètre extérieur de la tige 124, de sorte que celle-ci peut pénétrer à l'intérieur de la pièce d'indexage 31.The inside diameter of the opening 310 is much greater than that of the outer diameter of the rod 124, so that it can penetrate inside the indexing piece 31.

Par ailleurs, la pièce 32 est montée autour du manchon intérieur 21 de l'organe 2, de façon que ses rainures 322 coopèrent avec les nervures longitudinales 210 de ce manchon 21.Furthermore, the piece 32 is mounted around the inner sleeve 21 of the member 2, so that its grooves 322 cooperate with the longitudinal ribs 210 of the sleeve 21.

Ce montage assure la solidarisation en rotation de la pièce d'indexage 32 avec l'organe de commande 2, tout en permettant sa libre translation axiale, sur une course limitée, par rapport au manchon intérieur 21.This arrangement ensures the rotational connection of the indexing piece 32 with the control member 2, while allowing its free axial translation, over a limited stroke, with respect to the inner sleeve 21.

Lorsqu'elles sont assemblées, les axes de révolution des deux pièces d'indexage 31 et 32 sont coaxiaux à l'axe de rotation X-X' de l'organe de commande 2.When they are assembled, the axes of revolution of the two indexing pieces 31 and 32 are coaxial with the axis of rotation X-X 'of the control member 2.

Par ailleurs, un ressort hélicoïdal 6 est monté autour du manchon intérieur 21. L'une de ses extrémités vient en butée contre le fond 22 de l'organe 2, tandis que son extrémité opposée repose sur la surface intérieure tronconique 323 de la pièce d'indexage 32.Furthermore, a helical spring 6 is mounted around the inner sleeve 21. One of its ends abuts against the bottom 22 of the member 2, while its opposite end rests on the frustoconical inner surface 323 of the piece indexing 32.

Ce ressort 6 tend en permanence à déplacer la pièce d'indexage 32 en direction de la pièce 31.This spring 6 tends constantly to move the indexing piece 32 towards the piece 31.

Le frotteur 4 est solidaire en rotation de l'organe de commande manuelle 2. Il est fixé autour du tourillon 23 et fait saillie vers l'extérieur, depuis le fond 22, de façon à frotter contre les pistes conductrices du circuit électrique 5.The wiper 4 is integral in rotation with the manual control member 2. It is fixed around the pin 23 and protrudes outwardly from the bottom 22 so as to rub against the conductive tracks of the electric circuit 5.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif va maintenant être décrit plus en détail.The operation of the device will now be described in more detail.

Dans la position initiale stable de repos, illustrée sur la figure 2, les surfaces actives aimantées 313 et 325 sont espacées entre elles d'un entrefer e. Les pôles nord des aimants de la pièce d'indexage 31 sont en regard des pôles sud des aimants de la pièce d'indexage 32.In the stable initial position of rest, illustrated on the figure 2 the magnetic active surfaces 313 and 325 are spaced apart from each other by an air gap e. The north poles of the magnets of the indexing piece 31 are opposite the south poles of the magnets of the indexing piece 32.

Le frotteur 4 est dans une position donnée, par rapport aux pistes du circuit électrique 5 et l'information délivrée par celui-ci correspond à un premier état. A titre d'exemple purement illustratif, si ce dispositif permet de commander les feux d'un véhicule automobile, ces feux peuvent par exemple être éteints.The wiper 4 is in a given position, with respect to the tracks of the electric circuit 5 and the information delivered by it corresponds to a first state. As a purely illustrative example, if this device allows to control the lights of a motor vehicle, these lights can for example be extinguished.

Lorsque l'utilisateur souhaite activer le circuit 5, il fait tourner l'organe de commande 2. Les pôles nord du disque 32 passent de façon transitoire dans une position, dans laquelle ils sont situés en regard des pôles nord de la pièce d'indexage 31. Les champs magnétiques se repoussent et cette position est instable.When the user wishes to activate the circuit 5, he rotates the control member 2. The north poles of the disc 32 transiently pass into a position, in which they are located opposite the north poles of the indexing piece 31. Magnetic fields repel each other and this position is unstable.

Dans cette position, la pièce d'indexage 32 recule très légèrement en coulissant le long du manchon 21, et en comprimant légèrement le ressort 6. ,In this position, the indexing piece 32 retracts slightly by sliding along the sleeve 21, and slightly compressing the spring 6.,

Lorsque les secteurs angulaires de même polarité des deux pièces d'indexage 31 et 32 se trouvent en regard l'un de l'autre et se repoussent, l'opérateur ressent une résistance et le passage d'un point dur.When the angular sectors of the same polarity of the two indexing pieces 31 and 32 are facing each other and repel each other, the operator feels a resistance and the passage of a hard point.

Lorsque l'opérateur poursuit le mouvement de rotation de l'organe 2, la pièce d'indexage 32 passe dans la position stable suivante, dans laquelle ses secteurs aimantés de pôles nord sont en regard des pôles sud de ceux de la pièce d'indexage 31. Les aimants s'attirent et la pièce 32 coulisse le long de l'axe X-X', en direction de la pièce 31, aidée en cela par la force de rappel du ressort hélicoïdal 6.When the operator continues the rotational movement of the member 2, the indexing piece 32 passes into the next stable position, in which its magnetic sectors of north poles are opposite the south poles of those of the indexing piece. 31. The magnets attract and the piece 32 slides along the axis X-X ' towards the piece 31, aided by the return force of the coil spring 6.

L'opérateur ressent qu'il a franchi un point dur et a la sensation tactile que le déplacement de l'organe 2 a bien été effectué.The operator feels that he has crossed a hard point and has the tactile sensation that the displacement of the member 2 has been done.

Par ailleurs, le frotteur 4 a changé de position, par rapport aux pistes conductrices du circuit électrique 5 et l'information délivrée par celui-ci correspond à un second état, distinct du premier. Dans l'exemple précité, les feux du véhicule automobile sont alors allumés.Furthermore, the wiper 4 has changed position relative to the conductive tracks of the electric circuit 5 and the information delivered by it corresponds to a second state, distinct from the first. In the example above, the lights of the motor vehicle are then lit.

Le nombre de secteurs angulaires aimantés est adapté en fonction du nombre de positions différentes que l'on veut pouvoir sélectionner à l'aide de l'organe de commande 2.The number of magnetized angular sectors is adapted according to the number of different positions that can be selected using the control member 2.

Selon une variante de réalisation non représentée sur les figures, les secteurs angulaires aimantés peuvent être prévus sur une portion seulement des surfaces actives tronconiques 313, 325, le nombre de positions susceptibles d'être occupées par l'organe de commande 2 étant alors limité en conséquence.According to an alternative embodiment not shown in the figures, the magnetized angular sectors may be provided on only a portion of the frustoconical active surfaces 313, 325, the number of positions likely to be occupied by the control member 2 being then limited by result.

Le réglage de la largeur de l'entrefer e entre les deux pièces d'indexage 31 et 32 permet de moduler la force d'attraction des aimants et consécutivement, d'adapter la valeur de l'effort que l'opérateur devra exercer sur l'organe de commande 2 pour le faire tourner.Adjusting the width of the air gap e between the two indexing pieces 31 and 32 makes it possible to modulate the attraction force of the magnets and consecutively to adapt the value of the effort that the operator will have to exert on the control member 2 to rotate it.

L'entrefer e est obtenu par une surépaisseur de moulage sur l'une des deux pièces d'indexage 31, 32.The gap e is obtained by a molding allowance on one of the two indexing pieces 31, 32.

Enfin, on notera que d'autres variantes de réalisation de l'invention sont envisageables.Finally, it will be noted that other embodiments of the invention are conceivable.

Ainsi, les deux pièces d'indexage 31 et 32 pourraient présenter une forme conique au lieu de tronconique.Thus, the two indexing pieces 31 and 32 could have a conical shape instead of frustoconical.

En référence à la figure 6, une variante de l'unité d'indexage peut consister à ce que l'aimantation des pièces d'indexage est « réduite ».With reference to the figure 6 a variant of the indexing unit may be that the magnetization of the indexing pieces is "reduced".

Ainsi, on peut prévoir que pour la pièce 31 seuls les secteurs 318 sont aimantés par exemple par un pôle « Nord », les secteurs 317 restant « magnétiquement » neutres et, de façon analogue, sur la pièce 32, seuls les secteurs 327 sont aimantés par exemple par un pôle « Nord ». Cette variante présente un avantage en termes de coût, étant donné que seule la moitié des secteurs formant la surface active sont aimantés.Thus, it can be predicted that for the part 31 only the sectors 318 are magnetized for example by a "North" pole, the sectors 317 remaining "magnetically" neutral and, similarly, on the part 32, only the sectors 327 are magnetized for example by a "North" pole. This variant has an advantage in terms of cost, since only half of the sectors forming the active surface are magnetized.

Dans cette variante, la position stable sera définie quand un pôle « Nord » sera en face d'un secteur non aimanté.In this variant, the stable position will be defined when a "North" pole will be in front of a non-magnetized sector.

Bien entendu, on peut également prévoir que les secteurs 327 sont par exemple aimantés par un pôle « Sud », et alors, la position stable sera définie quand un pôle « Sud » sera en face d'un pôle « Nord », et les positions dans lesquelles les secteurs neutres des pièces 31 et 32 seront en face à face correspondent à des positions instables.Of course, one can also predict that the sectors 327 are for example magnetized by a "South" pole, and then, the stable position will be defined when a "South" pole will be in front of a "North" pole, and the positions in which the neutral sectors of the parts 31 and 32 will face each other correspond to unstable positions.

Selon la variante de la figure 7, on peut prévoir que pour la pièce 31 seuls les secteurs 318 sont aimantés par exemple par un pôle « Nord », les secteurs 317 restant « magnétiquement » neutres et, que sur la pièce 32, un seul secteur 327a est aimantés par exemple par un pôle « Sud ».According to the variant of the figure 7 it can be predicted that for the part 31 only the sectors 318 are magnetized for example by a "North" pole, the sectors 317 remaining "magnetically" neutral and, that on the part 32, a single sector 327a is magnetized for example by a South Pole ".

Ainsi la pièce 32 peut être réalisée entièrement en plastique avec un seul secteur magnétique apposé par exemple par collage.Thus the piece 32 can be made entirely of plastic with a single magnetic sector affixed for example by gluing.

La figure 8 présente une disposition des pièces 31 et 32 destiné à réaliser une commande impulsionnelle, ce qui peut par exemple être utilisé pour monter ou descendre des vitesses d'une boîte de vitesses semi-automatique, des stations radio d'un satellite de radio, ou encore incrémenter ou décrémenter la consigne de vitesse d'un régulateur automatique de vitesse.The figure 8 has an arrangement of parts 31 and 32 for performing an impulse control, which can for example be used to raise or lower speeds of a semi-automatic gearbox, radio stations of a radio satellite, or increment or decrement the speed setpoint of an automatic cruise control.

Selon cet exemple, la pièce 31 possède deux secteurs 318a aimantés par un pôle « Nord » avec un secteur 317a soit magnétiquement neutre, soit possédant une aimantation « Sud » et correspondant à la position de repos. Les autres secteurs 317 et 318 ne sont pas aimantés.According to this example, the part 31 has two sectors 318a magnetized by a pole "North" with a sector 317a is magnetically neutral or has a magnetization "South" and corresponding to the rest position. The other sectors 317 and 318 are not magnetized.

La pièce 32 possède un secteur 327a aimanté et sa rotation par rapport à la pièce 31 est mécaniquement limitée, par exemple par des butées 329 représentées schématiquement, de manière que le pôle « Nord » 327a ne peut se déplacer qu'en étant au dessus des secteurs 318a et 317a.The piece 32 has a magnetized sector 327a and its rotation relative to the piece 31 is mechanically limited, for example by stoppers 329 shown schematically, so that the pole "North" 327a can move only by being above sectors 318a and 317a.

Ainsi, on a crée une unité d'indexage avec deux positions instables de commande correspondant de préférence à une position du frotteur 4 établissant un contact électrique de manière à former un signal dit « impulsionnel » pour incrémenter ou décrémenter un paramètre d'un module de commande et une position stable de repos au milieu et une position médiane stable correspondant de préférence à une position du frotteur 4 n'établissant aucun contact électrique.Thus, an indexing unit has been created with two unstable control positions corresponding preferably to a position of the wiper 4 establishing an electrical contact so as to form a so-called "pulse" signal to increment or decrement a parameter of a module. command and a stable rest position in the middle and a stable middle position preferably corresponding to a position of the wiper 4 not establishing any electrical contact.

Dans cette configuration, la molette revient de façon automatique dans sa position neutre après qu'une impulsion a été créée, cette dernière pouvant être exploitée par tout unité de traitement appropriée.In this configuration, the wheel returns automatically to its neutral position after a pulse has been created, the latter can be operated by any appropriate processing unit.

La variante de la figure 9 se distingue de celle de la figure 8 seulement par le fait que le secteur 327a possède une aimantation pôle « Sud » au lieu de pôle « Nord ».The variant of the figure 9 differs from that of the figure 8 only because the sector 327a has a "South" pole magnetization instead of a "North" pole.

Ainsi, on a crée une unité d'indexage bistable, car seule les deux positions où le pôle « Sud » du secteur 327a est au dessus d'un des pôles « Nord » des secteurs 318a sont des positions stables.Thus, a bistable indexing unit has been created, since only the two positions where the "South" pole of the sector 327a is above one of the "North" poles of the sectors 318a are stable positions.

Cette unité d'indexage bistable convient par exemple au pour une commande de mise en service ou mise hors service du régulateur automatique de vitesses.This bistable indexing unit is suitable for example for a commissioning commissioning or decommissioning of the automatic cruise control.

Par ailleurs, pour une meilleure définition des positions stables et instables, en particulier quand seulement une partie des secteurs est aimantés, l'autre partie restant neutre, on prévoit que les secteurs possèdent une étendue angulaire différente.On the other hand, for a better definition of the stable and unstable positions, in particular when only a part of the sectors is magnetized, the other part remaining neutral, it is expected that the sectors have a different angular extent.

Ainsi, en prévoyant des secteurs « neutres » moins larges, par exemple moitié moins large que les secteurs aimantés, on peut définir la position stable de façon plus précise.Thus, by providing smaller "neutral" sectors, for example half as wide as the magnetized sectors, the stable position can be defined more precisely.

La pièce d'indexage 31 pourrait également être venue de matière avec la pièce secondaire 12 du support 1.The indexing piece 31 could also be integral with the secondary part 12 of the support 1.

Le circuit électrique 5 pourrait par exemple, être remplacé par un organe mécanique et le frotteur 4, par un doigt de commande, dont la rotation entraînerait le déplacement de l'organe mécanique précité.The electrical circuit 5 could for example be replaced by a mechanical member and the wiper 4, by a control finger, whose rotation would cause the displacement of the aforementioned mechanical member.

Enfin, le support 1 et notamment sa partie principale 11 pourrait présenter une forme différente. Le tourillon 23 et le flasque 111 pourraient être supprimés et le frotteur 4 et le circuit 5 disposés ailleurs, de façon que l'utilisateur ait accès au fond 22 de l'organe de commande 2. L'organe de commande 2 se présente alors sous la forme d'une molette de commande, du type de celles servant à commander une radio à l'intérieur d'un véhicule automobile.Finally, the support 1 and in particular its main part 11 could have a different shape. The trunnion 23 and the flange 111 could be removed and the wiper 4 and the circuit 5 arranged elsewhere, so that the user has access to the bottom 22 of the control member 2. The control member 2 is then under the shape of a control wheel, of the type used to control a radio inside a motor vehicle.

Le dispositif de commande qui vient d'être décrit présente de nombreux avantages par rapport aux dispositifs de l'état de la technique.The control device which has just been described has many advantages over devices of the state of the art.

La forme tronconique des pièces d'indexage 31 et 32 permet d'avoir un auto-centrage de ces pièces et de pouvoir augmenter l'aire des surfaces aimantées et donc le couple du mouvement de rotation, sans augmenter le diamètre des pièces 31,32.The frustoconical shape of the indexing parts 31 and 32 makes it possible to have a self-centering of these parts and to be able to increase the area of the magnetized surfaces and therefore the torque of the rotational movement, without increasing the diameter of the pieces 31,32.

De plus, la pièce d'indexage 32 étant mobile en translation axiale, ceci permet de conserver un mouvement de recul entre les surface actives aimantées 313, 325, et de régler la courbe effort/déplacement.In addition, the indexing piece 32 being movable in axial translation, this makes it possible to maintain a recoil motion between the magnetized active surfaces 313, 325, and to adjust the force / displacement curve.

La présente invention n'est pas limitée à une construction avec un support 11. En effet, la configuration décrite ci-dessus pour réaliser l'indexage avec deux pièces aimantées tronconiques est de faible encombrement et permet une intégration facile et aisée dans un levier de commande par exemple pour des feux ou des essuies glaces d'un véhicule automobile.The present invention is not limited to a construction with a support 11. In fact, the configuration described above to perform the indexing with two frustoconical magnetized parts is compact and allows easy and easy integration into a lever. command for example for lights or windshield wipers of a motor vehicle.

La présente invention a été décrite avec un indexage rotatif pour une molette de commande.The present invention has been described with rotary indexing for a control wheel.

Bien entendu, la présente invention peut aussi être appliquée dans un bouton de commande rotatif, par exemple pour des commandes multifonctions et de navigation dans un véhicule automobile. Dans ce cas aussi, le faible encombrement radial du présent mécanisme d'indexage avec deux pièces tronconiques permet de loger de façon aisée une des deux pièces tronconiques dans le bouton même tandis que l'autre pièce est maintenue par le support du bouton.Of course, the present invention can also be applied in a rotary control button, for example for multifunctional controls and navigation in a motor vehicle. In this case too, the small radial size of the present indexing mechanism with two frustoconical parts makes it possible to easily house one of the two frustoconical parts in the same button while the other part is held by the support of the button.

Claims (14)

  1. Rotatable indexing unit for a manual control member, comprising two indexing components (31, 32) one of which is a rotor rotationally integral with said control member and a stator intended to be fixedly maintained with respect to the rotor, the rotor and the stator being mounted coaxially and comprise a plurality of angular segments (317, 318, 327, 328) at least some of which are magnetized in such a way that that they define stable and unstable positions for said control member, characterized in that the rotor and stator have a conical or tapering shape for reducing the radial space requirement and increasing the so-called active surfaces of interaction between the magnets.
  2. Unit according to Claim 1, characterized in that the rotor and the stator each have angular segments with alternately opposite polarities.
  3. Unit according to Claim 1, characterized in that the rotor or the stator comprise angular segments of which only one segment out of two is magnetized with the same magnetic polarity.
  4. Unit according to Claim 3, characterized in that the magnetized angular segments (317, 318, 327, 328) of the stator and the rotor have the same magnetic polarity and in that the non-magnetized angular segments are smaller than the magnetized angular segments for defining stable positions more precisely.
  5. Unit according to Claim 3, characterized in that the magnetized angular segments of the stator have the same magnetic polarity and in that the angular segments of the rotor have the same polarity opposite to that of the stator and in that the non-magnetized angular segments are larger than the magnetized angular segments for defining stable positions more precisely.
  6. Unit according to Claim 1, characterized in that one of the two, the stator or the rotor, comprises a single magnetized angular segment (327a) and in that the other of the two, the rotor or the stator, comprises angular segments (317, 318) having alternately opposite polarities or angular segments of which only one segment out of two is magnetized with the same magnetic polarity.
  7. Indexing unit according to Claim 1, adapted for an impulse control member, characterized in that the magnetization of the angular segments of the rotor and stator is carried out so as to define a stable rest position and one or two adjacent unstable positions, and in that the rotation of the rotor is limited mechanically to the level of the position of the unstable position or positions.
  8. Unit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotor and the stator are spaced apart from one another by an air gap e.
  9. Unit according to Claim 8, characterized in that the air gap e is produced by overmolding of a preferably non-stick covering on one or both indexing components.
  10. Control device for an element (5), particularly an electrical circuit or a mechanical member, comprising a fixed support (1, 11, 12), a rotary manual control member (2), means of indexing (3, 31, 32) the position of this control member (2) and means of activating (4) said element (5) which act upon it, according to the different positions occupied by said control member (2), characterized in that said means of indexing comprise an indexing unit according to any one of Claims 1 to 7 and in that the stator is integral with the support and the rotor is rotationally integral with the rotary manual control member.
  11. Control device according to Claim 10, characterized in that the rotor (32) may slide axially with respect to this control member (2), along its rotation axis X-X', counter to the backward force of elastically deformable means (6), in such a way that its active surface (313, 325) is parted from the active surface (325, 313) of the stator (31).
  12. Control device according to Claim 11, characterized in that the elastically deformable means (6) are a helical spring, mounted around the rotation axis X-X' of the control member (2), integral at one of its extremities with the control member (2) and at its other extremity with said mobile indexing component (31, 32), this spring (6) constantly tending to bring the rotor closer to the stator.
  13. Device according to Claim 12, characterized in that the control member is made in the form of a rotary knurled wheel, a rotary control knob or a rotary end of a control lever with an internal rotation shaft bearing the rotor.
  14. Device according to Claim 13, characterized in that the stator is kept fixed in a cylindrically shaped component (121) acting as a bearing for the control member.
EP06778807A 2005-07-18 2006-07-05 Indexing unit and control device comprising such an indexing unit Active EP1907914B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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FR0507611A FR2888648B1 (en) 2005-07-18 2005-07-18 INDEXING UNIT AND A CONTROL DEVICE COMPRISING SUCH AN INDEXING UNIT
PCT/FR2006/001632 WO2007010109A1 (en) 2005-07-18 2006-07-05 Indexing unit and control device comprising such an indexing unit

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EP1907914A1 EP1907914A1 (en) 2008-04-09
EP1907914B1 true EP1907914B1 (en) 2010-04-07

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EP (1) EP1907914B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5197366B2 (en)
CN (1) CN101258458B (en)
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DE (1) DE602006013464D1 (en)
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FR2888648B1 (en) 2007-09-14
CN101258458A (en) 2008-09-03
CN101258458B (en) 2011-07-27
US7800469B2 (en) 2010-09-21
JP2009501988A (en) 2009-01-22
WO2007010109A1 (en) 2007-01-25
ATE463777T1 (en) 2010-04-15
DE602006013464D1 (en) 2010-05-20
JP5197366B2 (en) 2013-05-15
US20080210047A1 (en) 2008-09-04
EP1907914A1 (en) 2008-04-09
FR2888648A1 (en) 2007-01-19

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