EP1907916B1 - Operating element with a central pushbutton - Google Patents

Operating element with a central pushbutton Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1907916B1
EP1907916B1 EP06762336A EP06762336A EP1907916B1 EP 1907916 B1 EP1907916 B1 EP 1907916B1 EP 06762336 A EP06762336 A EP 06762336A EP 06762336 A EP06762336 A EP 06762336A EP 1907916 B1 EP1907916 B1 EP 1907916B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
contact
operating element
set forth
switching
button
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Active
Application number
EP06762336A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1907916A1 (en
Inventor
Andreas Kramlich
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Preh GmbH
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Preh GmbH
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Publication of EP1907916A1 publication Critical patent/EP1907916A1/en
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H25/00—Switches with compound movement of handle or other operating part
    • H01H25/04—Operating part movable angularly in more than one plane, e.g. joystick
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04766—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks providing feel, e.g. indexing means, means to create counterforce
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04777—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks with additional push or pull action on the handle
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H21/00—Switches operated by an operating part in the form of a pivotable member acted upon directly by a solid body, e.g. by a hand
    • H01H21/02—Details
    • H01H21/18—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon
    • H01H21/22—Operating parts, e.g. handle
    • H01H2021/225—Operating parts, e.g. handle with push-pull operation, e.g. which can be pivoted in both directions by pushing or pulling on the same extremity of the operating member
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H25/00—Switches with compound movement of handle or other operating part
    • H01H25/002—Switches with compound movement of handle or other operating part having an operating member rectilinearly slidable in different directions
    • H01H2025/004—Switches with compound movement of handle or other operating part having an operating member rectilinearly slidable in different directions the operating member being depressable perpendicular to the other directions
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H25/00—Switches with compound movement of handle or other operating part
    • H01H25/04—Operating part movable angularly in more than one plane, e.g. joystick
    • H01H25/041—Operating part movable angularly in more than one plane, e.g. joystick having a generally flat operating member depressible at different locations to operate different controls

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an operating element with an actuating button which is mounted in a housing, a console or the like and is pivotally movable between a starting position and a plurality of switching or contact positions.
  • Joystick-like controls of this type are known and are used in practice in a variety of fields to control machines, software programs, etc.
  • the controls in automobiles are used to control a navigation system or a board computer.
  • the control is often located in the center console between the driver and passenger seats, resulting in a clear for the driver operation.
  • an operating element which is designed flat and designed so that the operating knob can be tilted in four different switching or contact layers, each one provided on the operating knob dome with a corresponding contact pill of a circuit board comes into contact and this elastically depresses, which also provides haptic feedback to an operator.
  • each switching position is assigned a contact element with a haptic function.
  • the document DE 100 45 111 A2 reveals an ordinary Bedindewent.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to provide an operating element of the type mentioned, which has a simple structure.
  • the invention is therefore based on the consideration to provide a central button that is used in all tilting directions to set the haptic profile and the switching point or the switching threshold of the control. This ensures that the switching point and the haptic is the same for all contact or switching positions.
  • Another advantage of the invention is that the switching function is decoupled from the direction detection.
  • standard components can be used for the buttons and contact elements, whereby the control element is simple in construction and low in the production.
  • the switching point of the probe and the contact closure of the contact elements can take place with a time delay.
  • the contact elements are arranged such that the detection of a switching position at a smaller tilt angle of the shaft than the switching function of the probe. This ensures the actual switching function of the operating element.
  • the button is depressed during a pivoting movement of the actuating knob from its initial position into a contact position against the restoring force of an elastic element.
  • the button may be depressed in the initial position of the actuating button and released in a pivotal movement of the actuating knob in a contact position and raised by a button associated with the elastic element.
  • the elastic element contributes to the haptic behavior of the operating element by a push or pull function is generated. It is possible to support the operating knob by a central spring on the housing, so that the actuating knob is centered by means of the spring. Alternatively, it is possible to use several smaller springs for each tilt direction.
  • the actuating knob is arranged at the free end of a shaft which is pivotally mounted in the housing, the console or the like.
  • the button is assigned to that end of the shaft, which is opposite to the actuating button, in which case the operating button opposite end of the shaft can be in direct contact with the button in an appropriate manner.
  • the probe can be assigned to a longitudinally guided plunger, which contacts the probe at one end and is operatively connected at its other end to the shaft such that a pivoting movement of the shaft is converted into an axial movement of the plunger.
  • a ball which is mounted in a conical recess in the end face of the plunger.
  • pairs of cooperating contact elements are provided, wherein in each contact position of one of the pairs of contact elements cooperates to give a contact.
  • mechanical contacts or magnetic sensors can be used as contact elements.
  • pressure-sensitive films it is possible to form pressure-sensitive films as contact elements or to carry out the contact elements in an electrically conductive manner, so that a contact closes a circuit.
  • FIGS. 1a to 1c a first embodiment of a control element 1 according to the invention is shown, which is used for example in vehicles to control a navigation system, an on-board computer or the like. It shows the FIG. 1 the control element 1 in its initial position, while the Figures 1b and 1c show the control element 1 in two switching positions.
  • the operating element 1 comprises a housing 2 with a base plate 3, side elements 4 and a cover plate 5, which is designed here as a printed circuit board. Between the base plate 2 and the cover plate 5, an intermediate plate 6 is arranged.
  • control element 1 further includes a arranged in the housing 2 shaft 7, the upper end of which protrudes from the housing 2 and an actuating knob 9 carries.
  • the shaft 7 is pivotally mounted in the housing 2, so that they between the in FIG. 1a illustrated upright starting position and a total of four contact or switching positions to the right ( FIG. 1b ), to the left ( Figure 1c ) as well as from the image plane can be swung forwards and backwards.
  • the shaft 7 In its initial position, the shaft 7 is pressed by a central helical compression spring 8, which is supported between the intermediate plate 6 and arranged on the shaft 7 contact plate 10, so that the contact plate 10 is pressed against the cover plate 5.
  • each one pair of contact elements 11, 12 is associated with one of the four possible switching positions of the shaft 7 and makes a contact when the switching position is reached.
  • a button 13 is further provided, on which the shaft 7 rests in its initial position.
  • the button 13 is depressed when the shaft 7 from the initial position (see FIG. 1a ) in one of their switching or contact positions (see Figures 1b and 1c ) is pivoted.
  • the central button 13 has a haptic function, which defines the haptic profile of the pivoting movement together with the central spring 8, and he also determines the switching point of the operating element 1. Specifically, the arrangement is such that the detection of a switching position at a smaller tilt angle of Wave 7 and thus earlier takes place as the button 13 switches. This ensures that a certain switching state is always determined solely by the switching point set by the button 13.
  • the control element 1 has a so-called push function, ie the shaft 7 with the operating knob 9 must be depressed against the restoring force of the central spring 8 in a pivoting movement from its initial position into one of their contact positions. If a push function is not desired, a pull function can alternatively also be implemented.
  • a push function is not desired, a pull function can alternatively also be implemented.
  • FIGS. 2a to 2c illustrated second embodiment of an operating element 1 according to the invention realized, which has a similar basic structure as the first embodiment.
  • a switching direction is detected when a contact between a provided on the contact plate 10 contact element 11 and a corresponding contact element 12 on the circuit board 5 and 6 takes place (see Figures 1b and 2c Left, Figures 1 c and 2b right).
  • the contact elements 11 or 12 may be formed electrically conductive, so that when a contact, an electrical circuit is closed.
  • pressure-sensitive foils for the contact elements 11, 12 (Force Sensing Resistor FSR Technology).
  • the contact elements 10 of the contact plate 10 are formed by a ring land wedge-shaped cross-section, with which a corresponding, circular and V-shaped groove 14 of the circuit board 5, 6, in which the four circuit board side contact elements 12 at the appropriate peripheral portions are engaged, as is known in the FIGS. 3 and 4 is clearly recognizable.
  • this embodiment has the advantage that the contact plate 10 and the circuit board 5, 6 are always aligned with each other without play when the contact plate 10 is pressed in the initial position of the shaft 7 by the central spring 8 against the circuit board 5, 6.
  • the arrangement therefore makes it possible to guide the joystick in a conical bearing and thus avoid any bearing clearance.
  • non-contact contact elements it is possible to use non-contact contact elements.
  • optical sensors in the form of fork light barriers 12 placed on the circuit board 3 the light path through a shielding element 11 which is provided on the contact plate 10 of the shaft 7 when tilting in a switching position is interrupted, whereby the direction detection takes place.
  • the in the FIGS. 6a to 6c illustrated embodiment corresponds substantially to the in the FIGS. 1a to 1c illustrated first embodiment.
  • the shaft 7 is pivotally mounted here via a ball joint 15 on the housing 2 and is seated with its lower end on a plunger 16, which is guided longitudinally displaceably in the housing and contacts the button 13 on its underside.
  • the shaft 7 and the plunger 16 are coupled together via a ball 17, which lies in a conical recess in the upper end face of the plunger 16.
  • this pivotal movement is implemented via the ball 17 in a linear movement of the plunger 16 so that it is depressed or raised and the button 13 is actuated.
  • FIGS. 7a to 7d is an example that does not belong to the invention, an operating element shown, which also in the FIGS. 1a to 1c substantially corresponds to the first embodiment shown.
  • the shaft 7 is not formed or only approach-shaped in the form of an elastic bearing stub 18 which carries on its upper side the contact plate 10, on which in turn the operating knob 9 is attached directly.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
  • Selective Calling Equipment (AREA)

Abstract

The unit has an actuating knob supported in a housing and pivotally movable between a starting position and switching or contact positions. A central pushbutton (13), which has a haptic function and defines the switching point of the operating unit (1), is associated with the knob. The pushbutton is operated when the knob is pivoted from its initial position in the direction of the switching or contact position at a preset angle.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Bedienelement mit einem Betätigungsknopf, welcher in einem Gehäuse, einer Konsole oder dergleichen gelagert und zwischen einer Ausgangsstellung und mehreren Schalt- oder Kontaktstellungen schwenkend bewegbar ist.The present invention relates to an operating element with an actuating button which is mounted in a housing, a console or the like and is pivotally movable between a starting position and a plurality of switching or contact positions.

Joystickartige Bedienelemente dieser Art sind bekannt und werden in der Praxis in unterschiedlichsten Gebieten eingesetzt, um Maschinen, Softwareprogramme etc. zu steuern. Insbesondere werden die Bedienelemente in Kraftfahrzeugen verwendet, um eine Navigationsanlage oder einen Boardcomputer zu steuern. In diesem Fall ist das Bedienelement häufig in der Mittelkonsole zwischen dem Fahrer- und Beifahrersitz angeordnet, wodurch sich eine für den Fahrer übersichtliche Betätigungsmöglichkeit ergibt.Joystick-like controls of this type are known and are used in practice in a variety of fields to control machines, software programs, etc. In particular, the controls in automobiles are used to control a navigation system or a board computer. In this case, the control is often located in the center console between the driver and passenger seats, resulting in a clear for the driver operation.

Aus der DE 101 52 978 A1 ist beispielsweise ein Bedienelement bekannt, welches flach ausgeführt und so konzipiert ist, daß der Betätigungsknopf in vier unterschiedliche Schalt- oder Kontaktlagen gekippt werden kann, wobei jeweils ein an dem Betätigungsknopf vorgesehener Dom mit einer korrespondierenden Kontaktpille einer Leiterplatte in Berührung kommt und diese elastisch niederdrückt, wodurch auch eine haptische Rückinformationen an einen Bediener erfolgt.From the DE 101 52 978 A1 For example, an operating element is known, which is designed flat and designed so that the operating knob can be tilted in four different switching or contact layers, each one provided on the operating knob dome with a corresponding contact pill of a circuit board comes into contact and this elastically depresses, which also provides haptic feedback to an operator.

Die bekannten Bedienelemente gewährleisten, daß in jeder Schwenklage des Betätigungsknopfs jeweils nur eine Kontaktgabe erfolgt. Es wird jedoch zum Teil als aufwendig angesehen, daß jeder Schaltstellung ein Kontaktelement mit einer haptischen Funktion zugeordnet ist.The known controls ensure that only one contact is made in each pivot position of the operating knob. However, it is sometimes considered expensive that each switching position is assigned a contact element with a haptic function.

Das Dokument DE 100 45 111 A2 offenbart ein gewöhuliches Bedindewent.The document DE 100 45 111 A2 reveals an ordinary Bedindewent.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es daher, ein Bedienelement der eingangs genannten Art anzugeben, das einen einfachen Aufbau besitzt.The object of the invention is therefore to provide an operating element of the type mentioned, which has a simple structure.

Diese Aufgabe wird gelöst durch ein Bedienelement mit den Merkmalen des Anpruchs 1.This object is achieved by an operating element having the features of claim 1.

Der Erfindung liegt damit die Überlegung zugrunde, einen zentralen Taster vorzusehen, der in allen Kipprichtungen verwendet wird, um den haptischen Verlauf sowie den Schaltpunkt bzw. die Schaltschwelle des Bedienelements festzulegen. Damit wird sichergestellt, daß der Schaltpunkt und der Verlauf der Haptik für alle Kontakt- oder Schaltstellungen gleich ist. Ein weiterer Vorteil der Erfindung besteht darin, daß die Schaltfunktion von der Richtungserkennung entkoppelt ist. Somit können für die Taster und auch Kontaktelemente Standardbauteile verwendet werden, wodurch das Bedienelement einfach im Aufbau und günstig in der Herstellung wird. Außerdem können der Schaltpunkt des Tasters und der Kontaktschluß der Kontaktelemente zeitversetzt stattfinden. Zweckmäßiger Weise sind die Kontaktelemente derart angeordnet, daß die Erkennung einer Schaltstellung bei einem kleineren Kippwinkel der Welle erfolgt als die Schaltfunktion des Tasters. Das macht die eigentliche Schaltfunktion des Bedienelements sicher.The invention is therefore based on the consideration to provide a central button that is used in all tilting directions to set the haptic profile and the switching point or the switching threshold of the control. This ensures that the switching point and the haptic is the same for all contact or switching positions. Another advantage of the invention is that the switching function is decoupled from the direction detection. Thus, standard components can be used for the buttons and contact elements, whereby the control element is simple in construction and low in the production. In addition, the switching point of the probe and the contact closure of the contact elements can take place with a time delay. Conveniently, the contact elements are arranged such that the detection of a switching position at a smaller tilt angle of the shaft than the switching function of the probe. This ensures the actual switching function of the operating element.

Gemäß einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, daß der Taster bei einer Schwenkbewegung des Betätigungsknopfes aus seiner Ausgangsstellung in eine Kontaktstellung entgegen der Rückstellkraft eines elastischen Elements niedergedrückt wird. Alternativ kann der Taster in der Ausgangsstellung des Betätigungsknopfes niedergedrückt sein und bei einer Schwenkbewegung des Betätigungsknopfes in eine Kontaktstellung freigegeben und durch ein dem Taster zugeordnetes elastisches Element angehoben werden. Wenn der Betätigungsknopf an dem Gehäuse durch wenigstens ein elastisches Element abgestützt und in seine Ausgangsstellung gedrückt wird, trägt das elastische Element zum haptischen Verhalten des Bedienelements bei, indem ein Druck- bzw. Ziehverhalten (push- bzw. pull-Funktion) erzeugt wird. Dabei ist es möglich, den Betätigungsknopf durch eine zentrale Feder an dem Gehäuse abzustützen, so daß der Betätigungsknopf mittels der Feder zentriert wird. Alternativ ist es möglich, mehrere kleinere Federn für jede Kipprichtung zu verwenden.According to one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the button is depressed during a pivoting movement of the actuating knob from its initial position into a contact position against the restoring force of an elastic element. Alternatively, the button may be depressed in the initial position of the actuating button and released in a pivotal movement of the actuating knob in a contact position and raised by a button associated with the elastic element. When the operating button is supported on the housing by at least one elastic element and pressed into its initial position, the elastic element contributes to the haptic behavior of the operating element by a push or pull function is generated. It is possible to support the operating knob by a central spring on the housing, so that the actuating knob is centered by means of the spring. Alternatively, it is possible to use several smaller springs for each tilt direction.

In der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, daß der Betätigungsknopf an dem freien Ende einer Welle angeordnet ist, die in dem Gehäuse, der Konsole oder dergleichen schwenkbar gelagert ist. In diesem Fall ist der Taster demjenigen Ende der Welle zugeordnet, welches dem Betätigungsknopf gegenüberliegt, wobei dann das dem Betätigungsknopf gegenüberliegende Ende der Welle in zweckmäßiger Weise in direkten Kontakt mit dem Taster stehen kann. Alternativ ist es möglich, den Taster einem in Längsrichtung geführten Stößel zuzuordnen, der an seinem einen Ende den Taster kontaktiert und an seinem anderen Ende mit der Welle derart wirkverbunden ist, daß eine Schwenkbewegung der Welle in eine Axialbewegung des Stößels umgesetzt wird. Beispielsweise kann zwischen dem Taster und dem Stößel eine Kugel angeordnet sein, die in einer kegelförmigen Ausnehmung in der Stirnseite des Stößels gelagert ist.In the invention it is provided that the actuating knob is arranged at the free end of a shaft which is pivotally mounted in the housing, the console or the like. In this case, the button is assigned to that end of the shaft, which is opposite to the actuating button, in which case the operating button opposite end of the shaft can be in direct contact with the button in an appropriate manner. Alternatively, it is possible to assign the probe to a longitudinally guided plunger, which contacts the probe at one end and is operatively connected at its other end to the shaft such that a pivoting movement of the shaft is converted into an axial movement of the plunger. For example, can be arranged between the probe and the plunger, a ball which is mounted in a conical recess in the end face of the plunger.

In üblicher Weise sind an der Welle einerseits und dem Gehäuse andererseits Paare von zusammenwirkenden Kontaktelementen vorgesehen, wobei in jeder Kontaktstellung eines der Paare von Kontaktelementen zusammenwirkt, einen Kontakt zu geben. Dabei können als Kontaktelemente mechanische Kontakte oder magnetische Sensoren zum Einsatz kommen. Insbesondere ist es möglich, als Kontaktelemente druckempfindliche Folien auszubilden oder die Kontaktelemente stromleitend auszuführen, so,daß bei einem Kontakt ein Stromkreis geschlossen wird.In the usual way, on the shaft on the one hand and the housing on the other hand pairs of cooperating contact elements are provided, wherein in each contact position of one of the pairs of contact elements cooperates to give a contact. In this case, mechanical contacts or magnetic sensors can be used as contact elements. In particular, it is possible to form pressure-sensitive films as contact elements or to carry out the contact elements in an electrically conductive manner, so that a contact closes a circuit.

Hinsichtlich weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung wird auf die Unteransprüche sowie die nachfolgende Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen unter Bezugnahme auf die beiliegende Zeichnung verwiesen. In der Zeichnung zeigt:

Figuren 1a bis 1c
in schematischer Darstellung eine erste Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelements in seiner Ausgangsstellung sowie zwei Schaltstellungen, '
Figuren 2a bis 2c
in schematischer Darstellung eine zweite Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelements in seiner Ausgangsstellung sowie zwei Schaltstellungen,
Figur 3
den Ausschnitt Z aus Figur 2 in vergrößerter Darstellung,
Figur 4
in schematischer Draufsicht den Kontaktbereich der Kontaktelemente eines erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelements,
Figuren 5a bis 5c
in schematischer Darstellung ein Beispiel, das nicht zur Erfindung gehört, eines Bedienelements in seiner Ausgangsstellung sowie zwei Schaltstellungen,
Figuren 6a bis 6c
in schematischer Darstellung eine dritte Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäβen Bedienelements in seiner Ausgangsstellung und zwei Schaltstellungen, und
Figuren 7a bis 7d
in schematischer Darstellung ein Beispiel, das nicht zur Erfindung gehört eines Bedienelements in seiner Ausgangsstellung und zwei Schaltstellungen sowie den Kontaktbereich der Kontaktelemente des Bedienelements.
With regard to further advantageous embodiments of the invention, reference is made to the dependent claims and the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawing shows:
FIGS. 1a to 1c
a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a control element according to the invention in its initial position and two switching positions, '
FIGS. 2a to 2c
a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a control element according to the invention in its initial position and two switching positions,
FIG. 3
the cut Z out FIG. 2 in an enlarged view,
FIG. 4
in a schematic plan view of the contact region of the contact elements of a control element according to the invention,
FIGS. 5a to 5c
a schematic representation of an example that does not belong to the invention, a control element in its initial position and two switch positions,
FIGS. 6a to 6c
a schematic representation of a third embodiment of a erfindungsgemäβen operating element in its initial position and two switching positions, and
FIGS. 7a to 7d
a schematic representation of an example that does not belong to the invention of a control element in its initial position and two switching positions and the contact region of the contact elements of the control.

In den Figuren 1a bis 1c ist eine erste Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelements 1 gezeigt, das beispielsweise in Fahrzeugen zum Einsatz kommt, um ein Navigationssystem, einen Bordcomputer oder dgl. zu steuern. Dabei zeigt die Figur 1 das Bedienelement 1 in seiner Ausgangsstellung, während die Figuren 1b und 1c das Bedienelement 1 in zwei Schaltstellungen zeigen. Das Bedienelement 1 umfaßt ein Gehäuse 2 mit einer Grundplatte 3, Seitenelementen 4 und einer Deckelplatte 5, die hier als Leiterplatte ausgebildet ist. Zwischen der Grundplatte 2 und der Deckelplatte 5 ist eine Zwischenplatte 6 angeordnet.In the FIGS. 1a to 1c a first embodiment of a control element 1 according to the invention is shown, which is used for example in vehicles to control a navigation system, an on-board computer or the like. It shows the FIG. 1 the control element 1 in its initial position, while the Figures 1b and 1c show the control element 1 in two switching positions. The operating element 1 comprises a housing 2 with a base plate 3, side elements 4 and a cover plate 5, which is designed here as a printed circuit board. Between the base plate 2 and the cover plate 5, an intermediate plate 6 is arranged.

Zu dem Bedienelement 1 gehört weiterhin eine in dem Gehäuse 2 angeordnete Welle 7, deren oberes Ende aus dem Gehäuse 2 herausragt und einen Betätigungsknopf 9 trägt. Die Welle 7 ist in dem Gehäuse 2 schwenkend gelagert, so daß sie zwischen der in Figur 1a dargestellten aufrechten Ausgangsstellung und insgesamt vier Kontakt- oder Schaltstellungen nach rechts (Figur 1b), nach links (Figur 1c) sowie aus der Bildebene nach vorne und nach hinten verschwenkt werden kann. In ihre Ausgangsstellung wird die Welle 7 durch eine zentrale Schraubendruckfeder 8 gedrückt, die sich zwischen der Zwischenplatte 6 und einer an der Welle 7 angeordneten Kontaktplatte 10 abstützt, so daß die Kontaktplatte 10 gegen die Deckelplatte 5 gedrückt wird.To the control element 1 further includes a arranged in the housing 2 shaft 7, the upper end of which protrudes from the housing 2 and an actuating knob 9 carries. The shaft 7 is pivotally mounted in the housing 2, so that they between the in FIG. 1a illustrated upright starting position and a total of four contact or switching positions to the right ( FIG. 1b ), to the left ( Figure 1c ) as well as from the image plane can be swung forwards and backwards. In its initial position, the shaft 7 is pressed by a central helical compression spring 8, which is supported between the intermediate plate 6 and arranged on the shaft 7 contact plate 10, so that the contact plate 10 is pressed against the cover plate 5.

An der Kontaktplatte 10 und der Deckelplatte 5 sind insgesamt vier um 90° gegeneinander versetzt angeordnete Paare von Kontaktelementen 11, 12 vorgesehen,
wobei jeweils ein Paar von Kontaktelementen 11, 12 einer der vier möglichen Schaltstellungen der Welle 7 zugeordnet ist und einen Kontakt herstellt, wenn die Schaltstellung erreicht ist.On the contact plate 10 and the cover plate 5 are provided a total of four offset by 90 ° from each other arranged pairs of contact elements 11, 12,
wherein each one pair of contact elements 11, 12 is associated with one of the four possible switching positions of the shaft 7 and makes a contact when the switching position is reached.

An der Grundplatte 3 des Gehäuses 2 ist weiterhin ein Taster 13 vorgesehen, auf welchem die Welle 7 in ihrer Ausgangsstellung aufliegt. Der Taster 13 wird niedergedrückt, wenn die Welle 7 aus der Ausgangsstellung (siehe Figur 1a) in eine ihrer Schalt- oder Kontaktstellungen (siehe Figuren 1b und 1c) verschwenkt wird. Der zentrale Taster 13 hat eine haptische Funktion, die zusammen mit der zentralen Feder 8 den haptischen Verlauf der Schwenkbewegung festlegt, und er bestimmt zudem den Schaltpunkt des Bedienelements 1. Konkret ist die Anordnung so getroffen, daß die Erkennung einer Schaltstellung bei einem kleineren Kippwinkel der Welle 7 und damit früher erfolgt als der Taster 13 schaltet. Hierdurch wird sichergestellt, daß ein bestimmter Schaltzustand immer allein durch den vom Taster 13 festgelegten Schaltpunkt bestimmt wird.On the base plate 3 of the housing 2, a button 13 is further provided, on which the shaft 7 rests in its initial position. The button 13 is depressed when the shaft 7 from the initial position (see FIG. 1a ) in one of their switching or contact positions (see Figures 1b and 1c ) is pivoted. The central button 13 has a haptic function, which defines the haptic profile of the pivoting movement together with the central spring 8, and he also determines the switching point of the operating element 1. Specifically, the arrangement is such that the detection of a switching position at a smaller tilt angle of Wave 7 and thus earlier takes place as the button 13 switches. This ensures that a certain switching state is always determined solely by the switching point set by the button 13.

Bei der in den Figuren 1a bis 1c dargestellten Ausführungsform besitzt das Bedienelement 1 eine sogenannte Push-Funktion, d.h. die Welle 7 mit dem Betätigungsknopf 9 muß bei einer Schwenkbewegung aus ihrer Ausgangsstellung in eine ihrer Kontaktstellungen entgegen der Rückstellkraft der zentralen Feder 8 niedergedrückt werden. Wenn eine Push-Funktion nicht gewünscht ist, kann alternativ auch eine Pull-Funktion verwirklicht sein. Eine solche ist bei der in den Figuren 2a bis 2c dargestellten zweiten Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelements 1 verwirklicht, die einen ähnlichen Grundaufbau wie die erste Ausführungsform besitzt. Bei der zweiten Ausführungsform wird die Welle 7 jedoch durch eine zentrale Druckfeder 8, die sich zwischen der Deckelplatte 5 des Gehäuses 2 und der an der Welle 7 vorgesehenen Kontaktplatte 10 abstützt, nach unten gegen die als Leiterplatte ausgebildete Zwischenplatte 6 gedrückt. Dabei wird auch der an der Grundplatte 3 vorgesehene Taster 13 in der in Figur 2a dargestellten Ausgangsstellung durch die Welle 7 niedergedrückt und erst bei einer Schwenkbewegung der Welle 7 in eine ihrer Kontakt- oder Schaltstellung freigegeben, so daß er aus der niedergedrückten Stellung durch ein im Taster 13 vorgesehenes Rückstellelement angehoben wird und schaltet. Bei der Schwenkbewegung der Welle 7 in eine Schaltstellung muß die Kontaktplatte 10 entgegen der Rückstellkraft der zentralen Feder 8 angehoben werden, wodurch die Pull-Funktion erzielt wird.In the in the FIGS. 1a to 1c illustrated embodiment, the control element 1 has a so-called push function, ie the shaft 7 with the operating knob 9 must be depressed against the restoring force of the central spring 8 in a pivoting movement from its initial position into one of their contact positions. If a push function is not desired, a pull function can alternatively also be implemented. Such is the case in the FIGS. 2a to 2c illustrated second embodiment of an operating element 1 according to the invention realized, which has a similar basic structure as the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the shaft 7, however, by a central compression spring 8, which is supported between the cover plate 5 of the housing 2 and provided on the shaft 7 contact plate 10, down against that as a circuit board trained intermediate plate 6 is pressed. It also provided on the base plate 3 button 13 in the in FIG. 2a shown starting position depressed by the shaft 7 and released only in a pivotal movement of the shaft 7 in one of its contact or switching position, so that it is raised from the depressed position by a provided in the button 13 return element and switches. When the pivoting movement of the shaft 7 in a switching position, the contact plate 10 must be raised against the restoring force of the central spring 8, whereby the pull function is achieved.

Bei den in den Figuren 1 und 2 dargestellten Ausführungsformen wird eine Schaltrichtung erkannt, wenn ein Kontakt zwischen einem an der Kontaktplatte 10 vorgesehenen Kontaktelement 11 und einem entsprechenden Kontaktelement 12 an der Leiterplatte 5 bzw. 6 stattfindet (siehe Figuren 1b und 2c links, Figuren 1 c und 2b rechts). Beispielsweise können die Kontaktelemente 11 oder 12 elektrisch leitend ausgebildet sein, so daß bei einem Kontakt ein elektrischer Stromkreis geschlossen wird. Alternativ ist es möglich, für die Kontaktelemente 11, 12 druckempfindliche Folien zu verwenden (Force Sensing Resistor FSR Technology).In the in the FIGS. 1 and 2 A switching direction is detected when a contact between a provided on the contact plate 10 contact element 11 and a corresponding contact element 12 on the circuit board 5 and 6 takes place (see Figures 1b and 2c Left, Figures 1 c and 2b right). For example, the contact elements 11 or 12 may be formed electrically conductive, so that when a contact, an electrical circuit is closed. Alternatively, it is possible to use pressure-sensitive foils for the contact elements 11, 12 (Force Sensing Resistor FSR Technology).

Um exakte Schaltvorgänge zu ermöglichen, werden die Kontaktelemente 10 der Kontaktplatte 10 durch einen Ringsteg keilförmigen Querschnitts gebildet, der mit einer korrespondierenden, kreis- und V-förmigen Nut 14 der Leiterplatte 5, 6, in welcher an den geeigneten Umfangsabschnitten die vier leiterplattenseitigen Kontaktelemente 12 vorgesehen sind, in Eingriff steht, wie dies in den Figuren 3 und 4 gut erkennbar ist. Durch diese Anordnung wird sichergestellt, daß in jeder Schaltstellung nur ein einziger mechanischer Kontaktpunkt zwischen dem keilförmigen Ringsteg der Kontaktplatte und der V-förmigen Nut 14 der Leiterplatte 5, 6 besteht und entsprechend die Kipprichtung zum Schaltpunkt, der durch den Taster 13 definiert ist, eindeutig bestimmt ist. Außerdem bietet diese Ausgestaltung den Vorteil, daß die Kontaktplatte 10 und die Leiterplatte 5, 6 immer spielfrei zueinander ausgerichtet werden, wenn die Kontaktplatte 10 in der Ausgangsstellung der Welle 7 durch die zentrale Feder 8 gegen die Leiterplatte 5, 6 gedrückt wird. Die Anordnung erlaubt es daher, den Joystick in einem konischen Lager zu führen und damit jegliches Lagerspiel zu vermeiden.In order to enable exact switching operations, the contact elements 10 of the contact plate 10 are formed by a ring land wedge-shaped cross-section, with which a corresponding, circular and V-shaped groove 14 of the circuit board 5, 6, in which the four circuit board side contact elements 12 at the appropriate peripheral portions are engaged, as is known in the FIGS. 3 and 4 is clearly recognizable. By this arrangement it is ensured that in each switching position, only a single mechanical contact point between the wedge-shaped ring land of the contact plate and the V-shaped groove 14 of the circuit board 5, 6 and according to the tilting direction to the switching point, which is defined by the button 13, clearly is determined. In addition, this embodiment has the advantage that the contact plate 10 and the circuit board 5, 6 are always aligned with each other without play when the contact plate 10 is pressed in the initial position of the shaft 7 by the central spring 8 against the circuit board 5, 6. The arrangement therefore makes it possible to guide the joystick in a conical bearing and thus avoid any bearing clearance.

Alternativ ist es möglich, berührungslos arbeitende Kontaktelemente einzusetzen. Bei dem in den Figuren 5a bis 5c dargestellten ein Beispiel, das nicht zur Erfindung gehört, werden für die Richtungserkennung optische Sensoren in Form von Gabellichtschranken 12 an der Leiterplatte 3 plaziert, deren Lichtweg durch ein Abschirmungselement 11, welches an der Kontaktplatte 10 der Welle 7 vorgesehen ist, beim Kippen in eine Schaltstellung unterbrochen wird, wodurch die Richtungserkennung erfolgt.Alternatively, it is possible to use non-contact contact elements. In the in the FIGS. 5a to 5c shown an example that does not belong to the invention, optical sensors in the form of fork light barriers 12 placed on the circuit board 3, the light path through a shielding element 11 which is provided on the contact plate 10 of the shaft 7 when tilting in a switching position is interrupted, whereby the direction detection takes place.

Die in den Figuren 6a bis 6c dargestellte Ausführungsform entspricht im wesentlichen der in den Figuren 1a bis 1c dargestellten ersten Ausführungsform. Die Welle 7 ist hier über ein Kugelgelenk 15 an dem Gehäuse 2 schwenkend gelagert und sitzt mit ihrem unteren Ende auf einem Stößel 16 auf, welcher in dem Gehäuse längsverschieblich geführt ist und an seiner Unterseite den Taster 13 kontaktiert. Dabei sind die Welle 7 und der Stößel 16 über eine Kugel 17 miteinander gekoppelt, die in einer konusförmigen Ausnehmung in der oberen Stirnseite des Stößels 16 liegt. Bei einer Schwenkbewegung der Welle aus der in Figur 6a dargestellten Ausgangsstellung in eine der in den Figuren 6b und 6c dargestellten Schaltstellung wird diese Schwenkbewegung über die Kugel 17 in eine Linearbewegung des Stößels 16 umgesetzt, so daß dieser niedergedrückt bzw. angehoben wird und den Taster 13 betätigt.The in the FIGS. 6a to 6c illustrated embodiment corresponds substantially to the in the FIGS. 1a to 1c illustrated first embodiment. The shaft 7 is pivotally mounted here via a ball joint 15 on the housing 2 and is seated with its lower end on a plunger 16, which is guided longitudinally displaceably in the housing and contacts the button 13 on its underside. The shaft 7 and the plunger 16 are coupled together via a ball 17, which lies in a conical recess in the upper end face of the plunger 16. During a pivoting movement of the shaft from the in FIG. 6a shown starting position in one of the Figures 6b and 6c shown switching position, this pivotal movement is implemented via the ball 17 in a linear movement of the plunger 16 so that it is depressed or raised and the button 13 is actuated.

In den Figuren 7a bis 7d ist ein Beispiel, das nicht zur Erfindung gehört, eines Bedienelements dargestellt, welches ebenfalls der in den Figuren 1a bis 1 c dargestellten ersten Ausführungsform im wesentlichen entspricht. Im Unterschied zu der ersten Ausführungsform ist hier lediglich die Welle 7 nicht bzw. nur ansatzförmig in Form eines elastischen Lagerstumpfes 18 ausgebildet, welcher an seiner Oberseite die Kontaktplatte 10 trägt, auf welcher wiederum der Betätigungsknopf 9 unmittelbar angebracht ist.In the FIGS. 7a to 7d is an example that does not belong to the invention, an operating element shown, which also in the FIGS. 1a to 1c substantially corresponds to the first embodiment shown. In contrast to the first embodiment, here only the shaft 7 is not formed or only approach-shaped in the form of an elastic bearing stub 18 which carries on its upper side the contact plate 10, on which in turn the operating knob 9 is attached directly.

Claims (12)

  1. An operating element with an actuator button (9) that is carried in a housing (2), a console or the like and that is pivotally movable between an initial position and several switching or contact positions, a central push button (13) fixing the switching point of the operating element and having a haptic function being associated with said actuator button (9), said central push button being actuated whenever the actuator button (9) is pivoted from its initial position in the direction of a switching or contact position about an imposed angle and the actuator button (9) being mounted at a free end of a shaft (7) that is pivotally mounted in the housing (2) or the like and the push button (13) being associated with that end of the shaft (7) that is located opposite the actuator button (9) and pairs of cooperating contact elements (11, 12) being provided on the shaft (7) on the one side and on the housing (2) on the other side, one of the pairs of contact elements (11, 12) cooperating in every contact position in order to give contact, characterized in that said contact elements (11, 12) are configured on the one side on a support surface in the form of a circular and v-shaped groove (14) and on the other side on a wedge-shaped ring (11) engaging said groove (14).
  2. The operating element as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that the push button (13) is pushed into a switching or contact position against the restoring force of an elastic element associated with said push button (13) when the actuator button (9) is pivoted from its initial position.
  3. The operating element as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that the push button (13) is pushed when the actuator button (9) is in the initial position and is released when said actuator button (9) is pivoted into a switching or a contact position and is lifted by an elastic element associated to said push button (13).
  4. The operating element as set forth in any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the actuator button (9) is supported on the housing (2)by at least one elastic element (8) and is pushed into its initial position.
  5. The operating element as set forth in any one of the claims 1 through 4, characterized in that the end of the shaft (7) located opposite the actuator button (9) is in direct contact with the push button (13).
  6. The operating element as set forth in claim 5, characterized in that a plunger (16) guided in the longitudinal direction is associated with the push button (13), said plunger contacting said push button (13) at its one end and being operatively connected to the shaft (7) at its other end in such a manner that a pivotal movement of the shaft (7) is converted into an axial movement of the plunger (16).
  7. The operating element as set forth in any one of the claims 1 through 6, characterized in that the contact elements (11, 12) are configured to be pressure-sensitive foils.
  8. The operating element as set forth in any one of the claims 1 through 6, characterized in that the contact elements (11, 12) are configured to be current conductive and that a current circuit is caused to close in case of contact.
  9. The operating element as set forth in any one of the claims 1 through 6, characterized in that the contact elements (11, 12) are configured to be magnetic sensors.
  10. The operating element as set forth in any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the contact elements (11, 12) are configured so that a switching position is recognized at a smaller tilt angle of the actuator button (9) than the switching function of the push button (13).
  11. The operating element as set forth in any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the shaft (7) is retained in the housing (2) by a ball bearing (15).
  12. The operating element as set forth in any one of the claims 1 through 10, characterized in that the actuator button (9) is axially movable out of its initial position in order to actuate the push button (13).
EP06762336A 2005-07-15 2006-07-01 Operating element with a central pushbutton Active EP1907916B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102005033129 2005-07-15
DE102005042462A DE102005042462A1 (en) 2005-07-15 2005-09-07 Operating unit e.g. joystick like operating unit, for use in motor vehicle, has pushbutton associated with knob and operated when knob is pivoted from its initial position in direction of switching or contact position at preset angle
PCT/EP2006/006416 WO2007009575A1 (en) 2005-07-15 2006-07-01 Operating element with a central pushbutton

Publications (2)

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EP1907916A1 EP1907916A1 (en) 2008-04-09
EP1907916B1 true EP1907916B1 (en) 2010-05-26

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US (1) US7781686B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1907916B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE469386T1 (en)
DE (2) DE102005042462A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2007009575A1 (en)

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WO2007009575A1 (en) 2007-01-25
ATE469386T1 (en) 2010-06-15
DE102005042462A1 (en) 2007-01-25
US7781686B2 (en) 2010-08-24
EP1907916A1 (en) 2008-04-09
DE502006007044D1 (en) 2010-07-08
US20080245650A1 (en) 2008-10-09

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