EP2016460B1 - Operating element for a motor vehicle - Google Patents
Operating element for a motor vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2016460B1 EP2016460B1 EP07724545.4A EP07724545A EP2016460B1 EP 2016460 B1 EP2016460 B1 EP 2016460B1 EP 07724545 A EP07724545 A EP 07724545A EP 2016460 B1 EP2016460 B1 EP 2016460B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- operating element
- cap
- mask
- transparent
- varnish
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
- H01H9/18—Distinguishing marks on switches, e.g. for indicating switch location in the dark; Adaptation of switches to receive distinguishing marks
- H01H9/182—Illumination of the symbols or distinguishing marks
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
- H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
- H01H13/83—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by legends, e.g. Braille, liquid crystal displays, light emitting or optical elements
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
- H01H9/18—Distinguishing marks on switches, e.g. for indicating switch location in the dark; Adaptation of switches to receive distinguishing marks
- H01H2009/187—Distinguishing marks on switches, e.g. for indicating switch location in the dark; Adaptation of switches to receive distinguishing marks having symbols engraved or printed by laser
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2219/00—Legends
- H01H2219/002—Legends replaceable; adaptable
- H01H2219/008—Adhesive
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2219/00—Legends
- H01H2219/028—Printed information
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2219/00—Legends
- H01H2219/054—Optical elements
- H01H2219/056—Diffuser; Uneven surface
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2229/00—Manufacturing
- H01H2229/01—Foil transfer process
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H2229/00—Manufacturing
- H01H2229/02—Laser
Definitions
- the invention relates to a cap, in particular a key cap, for a control element, in particular a button, for example for use in a motor vehicle.
- the cap has a cap body and a lighting or projection surface arranged in the cover body, which is visible in the intended use and arrangement of the cap as part of an operating element for the operator due to a light source arranged under the cover.
- the lighting or projection surface is used to display a luminous symbol that informs the operator, for example, which device can be operated with the operating element, for example, the heater in a vehicle.
- the lighting or projection surface can be used to inform about the switching state of the control element or the switching state of the devices connected to the control device or it can serve to inform about associated with the control element states of the devices, such as a fault to indicate the device connected to the operating element.
- control element cap with a lighting or projection surface for the purposes mentioned above.
- lighting or projection surfaces made of translucent, diffuse plastic are embedded in the control panel covers, which are designed according to the desired symbol, and are visible to an operator when illuminated by a correspondingly arranged light source.
- These have some drawbacks, especially when another important information is to be reproduced with the condition whether or not the lighting or projection surface is illuminated.
- the symbol in the known control caps usually in daylight, especially in direct Sunlight, already clearly visible, and thus the operator can not distinguish the difference in this lighting, whether the symbol is actually lit or not, that is, for example, whether the switched with the control device is turned on or not or if there is a fault or not.
- a control cap which describes a cap body for covering and / or actuating a switch of an associated operating element.
- This contains a lighting or projection surface, which comprises a film and, when irradiated by a switch-side light source, makes it possible for an operator to be visible on or through the lighting or projection surface.
- a disadvantage is the non-optimal illumination of the symbol and a poorer visibility at a lateral viewing angle.
- a film comprising a transparent substrate, refractive globules surrounded by an opaque matrix, which are in optical contact with the substrate, and an optional diffuser or diffuser layer already disclosed. Upon exposure to light, this passes through the refractive globules, the substrate and an optional diffuser or diffuser layer.
- Such a film is basically suitable for improving the illumination of a symbol, but the processing is difficult.
- the control element cap according to the invention is intended for the covering and / or actuation of a switch of an associated operating element.
- the cap forms at least with the switch the associated Bedlenelement.
- the cap is integrated, for example, in a control panel or dashboard of a motor vehicle.
- the associated switch is a push button switch, rotary switch, etc.
- a lighting or projection surface is configured in the cap body in such a way that by irradiation by a light source arranged on the switch side, an icon, for example a font or a pictogram, displayed on the illuminated or on the projection surface, for an operator of the operating element, for example the driver , becomes visible.
- the cap according to the invention is characterized in that the luminous or projection surface comprises a film.
- This film includes a transparent substrate, a plurality of refractive globules bonded in optical contact with the substrate, an opaque matrix surrounding the beads, and optionally including a diffuser for diffusing light. The light originating from the light source of the control element passes through the refractive globules, the substrate and, if present, the diffuser.
- the beads are glass beads having a diameter of about 60 microns and a refractive index of about 1.5
- the substrate is a transparent polymeric material
- the opaque matrix is a bindered and colored polymeric material layer into which the beads are embedded.
- the beads act as lenses to collect the light projected from the light source onto the film.
- a particularly high light intensity of the symbol displayed on the illumination or projection surface is generated.
- the symbol in the illuminated state is very well recognizable even at high ambient light levels and even at an unfavorable angle.
- an optical aperture forms around each bead.
- the foil and thus the luminous relationship / projection surface is shown as a correspondingly colored surface when the light source is switched off.
- the absorption of ambient light is particularly pronounced and the illuminated or projection surface thus appears black (“black panel" display).
- the diffuser or the diffuser layer has optical advantages, especially when the symbol is projected onto the film.
- the non-transparent ensures Diffuser layer that, viewed from the operator, the bead structure is not visible.
- the diffuser may be created by roughening or roughening the substrate; the diffuser layer are provided of an optically inhomogeneous material.
- the symbol Due to the increase in intensity of the symbol generated by the switch-side light source caused by the film, the symbol can be clearly seen, even with very high ambient light intensity.
- the increase in intensity but also an increase in the emission area attributable to the beads enables reliable recognition of the luminous symbol even at unfavorable viewing angles.
- the difference between the illuminated and non-illuminated symbol can be seen particularly clearly even under particularly high ambient light intensity. Since the operator can reliably recognize this difference, misinformation of the operator can be advantageously avoided.
- the foil is preferably the Vikuiti ® XRVS film which is manufactured by the 3M Corporation and in the EP 0 974 072 B1 which is hereby incorporated by reference.
- the symbol is projected onto the projection surface in one embodiment.
- the luminous area is provided with a mask representing the symbol.
- the mask is a diaphragm with a light passage opening whose shape corresponds to the shape of the symbol to be displayed.
- a mask cap according to the invention can be made particularly inexpensive. By applying the mask directly to the luminous surface a particularly sharp contoured representation of the symbol is achieved.
- the diffuser layer or the diffuser is not necessarily required and the film without diffuser or diffuser layer is cheaper in comparison.
- the mask is produced by means of an opaque lacquer layer, which is removed in sections, for example by means of laser processing.
- the cap according to the invention can be produced particularly inexpensively. Due to the very flexible processing options by the laser, any symbols can be displayed on the cap.
- the cap body is designed to be transparent or transilluminous at least in the area of the illumination or projection surface, preferably the entire cap body, furthermore the mask is arranged on the inside of the cap facing the switch and adjacent thereto and between the mask and the light source, the film is arranged.
- the control element cap according to the invention can be produced comparatively inexpensively.
- the cap body or the lighting or projection surface can be colored to give the symbol shown a desired color. Even with a merely radiopaque and therefore scattering cap body, the diffuser layer or the diffuser is not absolutely necessary and the film without diffuser or diffuser layer is cheaper in comparison.
- a transparent or translucent lacquer layer is applied to the mask and the film adjoins the transparent or translucent lacquer layer and is glued, for example by means of a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Due to the transparent or translucent lacquer layer, that is to say by their distribution after application and before curing, a comparatively smooth surface is produced despite the opening or depressions provided in the mask in the form of a symbol and the unevenness associated therewith. This facilitates the application of the film and thus the production of the control cap.
- the film is with the facing the balls coated side of the substrate of the light source of the control element.
- the invention further relates to an operating element which comprises the previously described control element cap in the previously described embodiments and with the respective advantages described.
- the operating element is, for example, a rotary switch.
- the control element is preferably a push-button switch and, in the case of the control-element cap, a push-button cap.
- control element described above is not least due to the very widely varying light conditions particularly advantageous use in a motor vehicle, where it is integrated, for example, in a dashboard or a control panel.
- the invention further relates to a method for producing a control cap in one of the previously described embodiments.
- the transparent or translucent cover body made of polycarbonate, such as Lexan ® manufactured in an injection molding or deep-drawing process.
- the laser-editable, opaque lacquer on the switch, or the light source the control element facing the inside of the cap body is applied.
- the opaque lacquer for producing the mask representing the symbol is processed with the laser to produce a mask. Except for the opening of the mask, the inside, ie the light source or the switch facing side of the cap body remains sealed light-tight.
- the mask is coated with a transparent or translucent paint to level the surface.
- the film is glued to the transparent or translucent paint.
- the transparent or translucent paint are the one transparent substrate, a plurality of refractive globules bonded in optical contact with the substrate, an opaque matrix surrounding the beads, and optionally a diffuser or a diffuser layer for light scattering-containing film.
- the cap bodies are coated on the side facing the operator with a transparent protective varnish.
- Fig. 1 shows an operating element cap according to the invention, which is generally designated 1.
- the cap 1 comprises a transparent or translucent cap body 2 made of polycarbonate or polymethylmethacrylate, for example Lexan ®, which is manufactured in an injection molding process.
- an opaque lacquer 3 is applied on the inside of the cap body 2 facing the switch (the lower side of the cap body 2).
- the paint 3 was processed to produce a symbol 5 reproducing mask with the laser.
- the underside of the lacquer or the mask (3) is coated with a transparent or translucent lacquer 6, which compensates for the unevennesses in the opaque lacquer 3 produced by the laser processing.
- On the lacquer 6 a film 4 is glued.
- the film 4 which in Fig.
- the cap body 2 is on the operator facing side (top in Fig. 1 ) coated with a transparent protective lacquer 7.
- a light source located below the key body 1 is a light source, not shown. Light from this light source penetrates the foil 4, penetrates the translucent or transparent lacquer 6 and, due to the mask 3 produced by the opaque lacquer, makes the symbol 5 light up.
Description
Die Erfindung betrifft eine Kappe, insbesondere eine Tastenkappe, für ein Bedienelement, insbesondere eine Taste, zum Beispiel für die Verwendung in einem Kraftfahrzeug. Die Kappe weist einen Kappenkörper und eine im Abdeckungskörper angeordnete Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche auf, die bei bestimmungsgemäßen Gebrauch und Anordnung der Kappe als Teil eines Bedienelements für den Bediener aufgrund einer unter der Abdeckung angeordneten Lichtquelle sichtbar ist. Die Leucht- oder Projektionsfläche dient der Darstellung eines leuchtenden Symbols, das beispielsweise den Bediener darüber informiert, welche Vorrichtung mit dem Bedienelement bedienbar ist, beispielsweise die Heizung in einem Fahrzeug. Insbesondere kann die Leucht- oder Projektionsfläche dazu dienen, über den Schaltzustand des Bedienelements beziehungsweise den Schaltzustand der mit dem Bedienelement geschalteten Vorrichtungen zu informieren oder sie kann dazu dienen, über mit dem Bedienelement in Zusammenhang stehende Zustände der Vorrichtungen zu informieren, um so beispielsweise eine Störung der mit dem Bedienelement verbundenen Vorrichtung anzuzeigen.The invention relates to a cap, in particular a key cap, for a control element, in particular a button, for example for use in a motor vehicle. The cap has a cap body and a lighting or projection surface arranged in the cover body, which is visible in the intended use and arrangement of the cap as part of an operating element for the operator due to a light source arranged under the cover. The lighting or projection surface is used to display a luminous symbol that informs the operator, for example, which device can be operated with the operating element, for example, the heater in a vehicle. In particular, the lighting or projection surface can be used to inform about the switching state of the control element or the switching state of the devices connected to the control device or it can serve to inform about associated with the control element states of the devices, such as a fault to indicate the device connected to the operating element.
Es ist bekannt, Bedienelementkappe mit einer Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche zu den eingangs genannten Zwecken vorzusehen. Dazu werden in die Bedienelementabdeckungen zumeist Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsflächen aus lichtdurchlässigen, diffusem Kunststoff eingelassen, die entsprechend dem gewünschten Symbol ausgestaltet sind, und bei Beleuchtung durch eine entsprechend angeordnete Lichtquelle für einen Bediener sichtbar werden. Diese weisen einige Nachteile auf, insbesondere wenn mit der Bedingung, ob die Leuchtbeziehungsweise Projektionsfläche beleuchtet ist oder nicht, eine weitere wichtige Information wiedergegeben werden soll. So ist das Symbol bei den bekannten Bedienelementkappen meist auch bei Tageslicht, insbesondere bei direkter Sonnenlichteinwirkung, schon gut sichtbar, und damit ist für den Bediener bei dieser Beleuchtung der Unterschied nicht erkennbar, ob das Symbol tatsächlich leuchtet oder nicht, das heißt beispielsweise ob die mit dem Bedienelement geschaltete Vorrichtung eingeschaltet ist oder nicht oder ob eine Störung vorliegt oder nicht. Da somit bei nicht allen möglichen Lichtverhältnissen der Unterschied zwischen leuchtendem und nicht leuchtendem Symbol auf der Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche gut zu erkennen ist, ist die Informationsübertragung nicht zuverlässig, da Fehlinformationen nicht bei allen Lichtverhältnissen vermieden werden können. Dies ist insbesondere bei einem Kraftfahrzeug aus sicherheitstechnischen Überlegungen bedenklich. Zudem weist ein trotz ausgeschalteter Lichtquelle des Bedienelements immer noch sichtbares Symbol auf der Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche den Nachteil auf, dass der Bediener mit im Moment nicht relevanter Information überhäuft wird. Um dies zu vermeiden, ist neben der ästhetisch vorteilhaften Wirkung eine bei ausgeschalteter Lichtquelle möglichst unauffällige, das heißt nicht in Erscheinung tretendes Symbol auf der Licht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche erwünscht.It is known to provide control element cap with a lighting or projection surface for the purposes mentioned above. For this purpose, usually lighting or projection surfaces made of translucent, diffuse plastic are embedded in the control panel covers, which are designed according to the desired symbol, and are visible to an operator when illuminated by a correspondingly arranged light source. These have some drawbacks, especially when another important information is to be reproduced with the condition whether or not the lighting or projection surface is illuminated. Thus, the symbol in the known control caps usually in daylight, especially in direct Sunlight, already clearly visible, and thus the operator can not distinguish the difference in this lighting, whether the symbol is actually lit or not, that is, for example, whether the switched with the control device is turned on or not or if there is a fault or not. Since the difference between the luminous and non-luminous symbols on the illumination or projection surface can thus be clearly seen in not all possible light conditions, the information transmission is not reliable, since misinformation can not be avoided in all lighting conditions. This is particularly critical in a motor vehicle for safety considerations. In addition, despite the light source of the operating element still being switched off, a symbol still visible on the lighting or projection surface has the disadvantage that the operator is overwhelmed with information that is currently of no relevance. In order to avoid this, in addition to the aesthetically advantageous effect, a symbol which is as inconspicuous as possible, that is to say does not appear, when the light source is switched off is desired on the light or projection surface.
Aus der
Weiterhin ist in
Es ist daher Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, eine Kappe für ein Bedienelement bzw. ein zugehöriges Bedienelement bereitzustellen, bei dem die Darstellung des auf der Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche wiedergegebenen Symbols im eingangs beschriebenen Sinne verbessert ist. Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine Kappe gemäß Anspruch 1, beziehungsweise ein Bedienelement gemäß Anspruch 5 gelöst. Ein zugehöriges Herstellungsverfahren, sowie eine vorteilhafte Verwendung sind Gegenstand der nebengeordneten Ansprüche 7 und 8. Die Unteransprüche betreffen jeweils vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen.It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cap for an operating element or an associated operating element, in which the representation of the symbol reproduced on the lighting or projection surface is improved in the manner described above. This object is achieved by a cap according to
Die erfindungsgemäße Bedienelementkappe ist für die Abdeckung und/oder Betätigung eines Schalters eines zugehörigen Bedienelements bestimmt. Die Kappe bildet wenigstens mit dem Schalter das zugehörige Bedlenelement. Die Kappe ist beispielsweise in ein Bedienfeld oder ein Armaturenbrett eines Kraftfahrzeugs integriert. Beispielsweise handelt es sich bei dem zugehörigen Schalter um einen Tastschalter, Drehschalter usw.The control element cap according to the invention is intended for the covering and / or actuation of a switch of an associated operating element. The cap forms at least with the switch the associated Bedlenelement. The cap is integrated, for example, in a control panel or dashboard of a motor vehicle. For example, the associated switch is a push button switch, rotary switch, etc.
Erfindungsgemäß ist in dem Kappenkörper eine Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche so ausgestaltet ist, dass durch Bestrahlung durch eine schalterseitig angeordnete Lichtquelle ein auf der Leucht- beziehungsweise auf der Projektionsfläche dargestelltes Symbol, beispielsweise eine Schrift oder ein Piktogramm, für einen Bediener des Bedienelements, beispielsweise den Fahrer, sichtbar wird. Die erfindungsgemäße Kappe zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche eine Folie umfasst. Diese Folie beinhaltet ein transparentes Substrat, mehrere lichtbrechende Kügelchen, die in optischem Kontakt mit dem Substrat verbunden sind, eine opake Matrix, die die Kügelchen umgibt und optional einen Diffusor beziehungsweise eine Diffusorschicht zur Lichtstreuung beinhaltet. Das von der Lichtquelle des Bedienelements stammende Licht durchläuft die lichtbrechenden Kügelchen, das Substrat und falls vorhanden den Diffusor. Beispielsweise handelt es sich bei den Kügelchen um Glaskügelchen mit einem Durchmesser von etwa 60 µm und einem Brechungsindex von etwa 1,5, bei dem Substrat um ein transparentes Polymermaterial und bei der opaken Matrix um ein mit Bindemittel versehene und eingefärbte Polymermaterialschicht, in die die Kügelchen eingebettet sind. Die Kügelchen wirken als Linsen zum Sammeln des von der Lichtquelle auf die Folie projizierten Lichtes. Dadurch wird aufgrund der verstärkenden Wirkung der Linsen eine besonders hohe Lichtintensität des auf der Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche dargestellten Symbols erzeugt. Dadurch ist das Symbol im beleuchteten Zustand sehr gut auch bei hoher Umgebungslichtstärke und auch bei ungünstigem Blickwinkel zu erkennen. Da die Kügelchen zudem in eine opake Matrix eingebunden sind, bildet sich um jedes Kügelchen eine optische Blende. Aufgrund der Einfärbung der Matrix wird von der der Lichtquelle abgewandten Seite, das heißt von der Seite des Bedieners der Folie auf die Matrix fallendes Umgebungslicht von dieser absorbiert. Die Folie und damit die Leuchtbeziehungsweise Projektionsfläche zeigt sich bei abgeschalteter Lichtquelle je nach Einfärbung der opaken Matrix als eine entsprechend eingefärbte Fläche. Bei einer schwarz eingefärbten Matrix, beispielsweise mittels Rußschwarz, ist die Absorption von Um-gebungslicht besonders ausgeprägt und die Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche erscheint somit schwarz ("Black-Panel"-Anzeige). Der Diffusor beziehungsweise die Diffusorschicht weist besonders dann optische Vorteile auf, wenn das Symbol auf die Folie projiziert wird. Zudem sorgt die nicht transparente Diffusorschicht dafür, dass, vom Bediener aus betrachtet, die Kügelchenstruktur nicht sichtbar wird. Der Diffusor kann durch Aufrauen beziehungsweise Rauhigkeiten des Substrats erzeugt werden; die Diffusorschicht aus einem optisch inhomogenen Material bereitgestellt werden.According to the invention, a lighting or projection surface is configured in the cap body in such a way that by irradiation by a light source arranged on the switch side, an icon, for example a font or a pictogram, displayed on the illuminated or on the projection surface, for an operator of the operating element, for example the driver , becomes visible. The cap according to the invention is characterized in that the luminous or projection surface comprises a film. This film includes a transparent substrate, a plurality of refractive globules bonded in optical contact with the substrate, an opaque matrix surrounding the beads, and optionally including a diffuser for diffusing light. The light originating from the light source of the control element passes through the refractive globules, the substrate and, if present, the diffuser. For example, the beads are glass beads having a diameter of about 60 microns and a refractive index of about 1.5, the substrate is a transparent polymeric material, and the opaque matrix is a bindered and colored polymeric material layer into which the beads are embedded. The beads act as lenses to collect the light projected from the light source onto the film. As a result, due to the reinforcing effect of the lenses, a particularly high light intensity of the symbol displayed on the illumination or projection surface is generated. As a result, the symbol in the illuminated state is very well recognizable even at high ambient light levels and even at an unfavorable angle. In addition, since the beads are embedded in an opaque matrix, an optical aperture forms around each bead. Because of the coloring of the matrix, ambient light falling from the side of the operator of the film onto the matrix is absorbed by the side facing away from the light source. Depending on the coloration of the opaque matrix, the foil and thus the luminous relationship / projection surface is shown as a correspondingly colored surface when the light source is switched off. In the case of a black-colored matrix, for example by means of carbon black, the absorption of ambient light is particularly pronounced and the illuminated or projection surface thus appears black ("black panel" display). The diffuser or the diffuser layer has optical advantages, especially when the symbol is projected onto the film. In addition, the non-transparent ensures Diffuser layer that, viewed from the operator, the bead structure is not visible. The diffuser may be created by roughening or roughening the substrate; the diffuser layer are provided of an optically inhomogeneous material.
Aufgrund der durch die Folie bewirkten Intensitätssteigerung des durch die schalterseitige Lichtquelle erzeugten Symbols ist das Symbol deutlich zu erkennen, auch bei sehr hoher Umgebungslichtintensität. Die Intensitätssteigerung aber auch eine auf die Kügelchen zurückzuführende Vergrößerung des Abstrahlbereichs ermöglicht auch bei ungünstigem Betrachtungswinkel ein sicheres Erkennen des leuchtenden Symbols. Durch die Absorption des Umgebungslichtes durch die Folie bei nicht leuchtendem Symbol, das heißt bei ausgeschalteter Lichtquelle, tritt die Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche gar nicht in Erscheinung. Damit ist der Unterschied zwischen beleuchtetem und nicht beleuchtetem Symbol besonders deutlich auch bei besonders hoher Umgebungslichtintensität zu erkennen. Da der Bediener diesen Unterschied sicher erkennen kann, können vorteilhaft Fehlinformationen des Bedieners vermieden werden. Dadurch, dass das Symbol im unbeleuchteten Zustand auch bei hoher Intensität des Umgebungslichtes möglichst wenig zu erkennen ist und der Bediener mit momentan unrelevanter Information nicht belästigt wird, also dass Information wirklich nur nach Bedarf, beispielsweise bei einer Störung, an den Bediener übermittelt wird, wird neben dem damit verbundenen, ästhetisch vorteilhaften Eindruck der Bediener vorteilhaft nicht mit zuviel Informationen überhäuft und verwirrt.Due to the increase in intensity of the symbol generated by the switch-side light source caused by the film, the symbol can be clearly seen, even with very high ambient light intensity. The increase in intensity but also an increase in the emission area attributable to the beads enables reliable recognition of the luminous symbol even at unfavorable viewing angles. Due to the absorption of the ambient light through the film when the symbol is not illuminated, that is to say when the light source is switched off, the lighting or projection surface does not appear at all. Thus, the difference between the illuminated and non-illuminated symbol can be seen particularly clearly even under particularly high ambient light intensity. Since the operator can reliably recognize this difference, misinformation of the operator can be advantageously avoided. The fact that the symbol in the unlit condition is as little as possible to recognize even with high intensity of the ambient light and the operator is not bothered with currently irrelevant information, so that information is really only as needed, for example in case of a fault, transmitted to the operator is In addition to the associated, aesthetically advantageous impression of the operator advantageously not overloaded with too much information and confused.
Bei der Folie handelt es sich bevorzugt um die Vikuiti® XRVS-Folie, die von der 3M Corporation hergestellt wird und in der
Das Symbol wird in einer Ausgestaltung auf die Projektionsfläche projiziert. In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung ist die Leuchtfläche mit einer das Symbol wiedergebenden Maske versehen. Die Maske ist eine Blende mit einer Lichtdurchlassöffnung, deren Form der Gestalt des darzustellenden Symbols entspricht. Mit einer Maske kann die erfindungsgemäße Kappe besonders preiswert hergestellt werden. Durch Aufbringen der Maske unmittelbar auf die Leuchtfläche wird eine besonders scharf konturierte Darstellung des Symbols erreicht. Zudem ist bei dieser Erzeugung des Symbols die Diffusorschicht beziehungsweise der Diffusor nicht zwingend er-forderlich und die Folie ohne Diffusor beziehungsweise Diffusorschicht ist im Vergleich preiswerter.The symbol is projected onto the projection surface in one embodiment. In a further advantageous embodiment, the luminous area is provided with a mask representing the symbol. The mask is a diaphragm with a light passage opening whose shape corresponds to the shape of the symbol to be displayed. With a mask cap according to the invention can be made particularly inexpensive. By applying the mask directly to the luminous surface a particularly sharp contoured representation of the symbol is achieved. In addition, in this generation of the symbol, the diffuser layer or the diffuser is not necessarily required and the film without diffuser or diffuser layer is cheaper in comparison.
Bei einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird die Maske mittels einer opaken Lackschicht, die abschnittsweise beispielsweise mittels Laserbearbeitung entfernt wird, erzeugt. Dadurch kann die erfindungsgemäße Kappe besonders preiswert hergestellt werden. Aufgrund der sehr flexiblen Bearbeitungsmöglichkeiten durch den Laser lassen sich beliebige Symbole auf der Kappe darstellen.In a further advantageous embodiment, the mask is produced by means of an opaque lacquer layer, which is removed in sections, for example by means of laser processing. As a result, the cap according to the invention can be produced particularly inexpensively. Due to the very flexible processing options by the laser, any symbols can be displayed on the cap.
In einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Kappe ist der Kappenkörpers wenigstens im Bereich der Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche, bevorzugt der gesamte Kappenkörper, transparent oder durchleuchtend ausgestaltet, ferner ist die Maske auf der dem Schalter zugewandten Innenseite der Kappe und daran angrenzend angeordnet und zwischen der Maske und der Lichtquelle ist die Folie angeordnet. Durch diese Art der Anordnung lässt sich die erfindungsgemäße Bedienelementkappe vergleichsweise preiswert herstellen. Der Kappenkörper beziehungsweise die Leucht- beziehungsweise Projektionsfläche kann eingefärbt sein, um dem dargestellten Symbol eine gewünschte Farbe zu verleihen. Auch bei einem lediglich durchleuchtenden und damit streuenden Kappenkörper ist die Diffusorschicht beziehungsweise der Diffusor nicht zwingend erforderlich und die Folie ohne Diffusor beziehungsweise Diffusorschicht ist im Vergleich preiswerter.In an advantageous embodiment of the cap according to the invention, the cap body is designed to be transparent or transilluminous at least in the area of the illumination or projection surface, preferably the entire cap body, furthermore the mask is arranged on the inside of the cap facing the switch and adjacent thereto and between the mask and the light source, the film is arranged. By this type of arrangement, the control element cap according to the invention can be produced comparatively inexpensively. The cap body or the lighting or projection surface can be colored to give the symbol shown a desired color. Even with a merely radiopaque and therefore scattering cap body, the diffuser layer or the diffuser is not absolutely necessary and the film without diffuser or diffuser layer is cheaper in comparison.
Gemäß einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung ist auf die Maske eine transparente oder durchscheinende Lackschicht aufgebracht und die Folie grenzt an die transparente oder durchscheinende Lackschicht an und ist beispielsweise mittels eines Haftklebers aufgeklebt. Durch die transparente oder durchscheinende Lackschicht, das heißt durch deren Verteilen nach der Aufbringung und vor dem Aushärten, wird trotz der in der Maske in Symbolform vorgesehenen Öffnung beziehungsweise Vertiefungen und der damit verbundenen Unebenheit eine vergleichsweise glatte Oberfläche erzeugt. Dies erleichtert das Aufbringen der Folie und damit die Herstellung der Bedienelementkappe. Bevorzugt ist die Folie mit der mit den Kugeln beschichteten Seite des Substrats der Lichtquelle des Bedienelements zugewandt. Dadurch dass die mit Kugeln versehene und daher im Vergleich zur anderen Seite der Folie unebene Seite der Folie nicht an der transparenten Lackschicht anliegt, wird die Haftung zwischen Lackschicht und Folie verbessert und die optische Wirkung beeinträchtigende Luftkammern vermieden.According to a further advantageous embodiment, a transparent or translucent lacquer layer is applied to the mask and the film adjoins the transparent or translucent lacquer layer and is glued, for example by means of a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Due to the transparent or translucent lacquer layer, that is to say by their distribution after application and before curing, a comparatively smooth surface is produced despite the opening or depressions provided in the mask in the form of a symbol and the unevenness associated therewith. This facilitates the application of the film and thus the production of the control cap. Preferably, the film is with the facing the balls coated side of the substrate of the light source of the control element. Due to the fact that the side of the film, which is provided with spheres and therefore does not bear on the transparent varnish layer in comparison to the other side of the film, the adhesion between the varnish layer and the film is improved and the air chambers impairing the optical effect are avoided.
Die Erfindung betrifft ferner ein Bedienelement, das die zuvor beschriebene Bedienelementkappe in den zuvor beschriebenen Ausgestaltungen und mit den jeweils beschriebenen Vorteilen umfasst. Das Bedienelement ist beispielsweise ein Drehschalter. Bevorzugt handelt es sich bei dem Bedienelement um einen Tastschalter und bei der Bedienelementkappe entsprechend um eine Tastkappe.The invention further relates to an operating element which comprises the previously described control element cap in the previously described embodiments and with the respective advantages described. The operating element is, for example, a rotary switch. The control element is preferably a push-button switch and, in the case of the control-element cap, a push-button cap.
Das zuvor beschriebene Bedienelement findet nicht zuletzt aufgrund der sehr stark variierenden Lichtverhältnisse besonders vorteilhafte Verwendung in einem Kraftfahrzeug, wo es beispielsweise in ein Armaturenbrett oder ein Bedienfeld integriert ist.The control element described above is not least due to the very widely varying light conditions particularly advantageous use in a motor vehicle, where it is integrated, for example, in a dashboard or a control panel.
Die Erfindung betrifft ferner ein Verfahren zur Herstellung einer Bedienelementkappe in einer der zuvor beschriebenen Ausführungsformen. Dabei wird in einem ersten Schritt der transparente oder durchscheinende Kappenköper aus Polycarbonat, beispielsweise Lexan®, in einem Spritzguss- oder Tiefziehverfahren hergestellt. In einem zweiten, nachfolgenden Schritt wird der mit dem Laser bearbeitbare, opake Lack auf der dem Schalter, beziehungsweise der Lichtquelle, des Bedienelements zugewandten Innenseite des Kappenkörpers aufgebracht. In einem dritten, nachfolgenden Schritt wird der opake Lack zur Erzeugung der das Symbol wiedergebenden Maske mit dem Laser bearbeitet, um eine Maske zu erzeugen. Bis auf die Öffnung der Maske bleibt die Innenseite, das heißt der der Lichtquelle beziehungsweise dem Schalter zugewandten Seite des Kappenkörpers lichtdicht abgeschottet. In einem vierten Schritt wird die Maske mit einem transparenten oder durchscheinenden Lack überzogen, um die Fläche einzuebnen. In einem fünften Schritt wird die Folie auf den transparenten oder durchscheinenden Lack aufgeklebt. Dabei handelt es sich um die ein transparentes Substrat, mehrere lichtbrechende Kügelchen, die in optischem Kontakt mit dem Substrat verbunden sind, eine opake Matrix, die die Kügelchen umgibt und optional einen Diffusor beziehungsweise eine Diffusorschicht zur Lichtstreuung beinhaltende Folie. Bevorzugt bevorzugt um die Vikuiti® XRVS-Folie, die von der 3M Corporation hergestellt wird. In einem sechsten optionalen Schritt der Kappenkörper auf der dem Bediener zugewandten Seite mit einem transparenten Schutzlack überzogen.The invention further relates to a method for producing a control cap in one of the previously described embodiments. In a first step, the transparent or translucent cover body made of polycarbonate, such as Lexan ® manufactured in an injection molding or deep-drawing process. In a second, subsequent step, the laser-editable, opaque lacquer on the switch, or the light source, the control element facing the inside of the cap body is applied. In a third, subsequent step, the opaque lacquer for producing the mask representing the symbol is processed with the laser to produce a mask. Except for the opening of the mask, the inside, ie the light source or the switch facing side of the cap body remains sealed light-tight. In a fourth step, the mask is coated with a transparent or translucent paint to level the surface. In a fifth step, the film is glued to the transparent or translucent paint. These are the one transparent substrate, a plurality of refractive globules bonded in optical contact with the substrate, an opaque matrix surrounding the beads, and optionally a diffuser or a diffuser layer for light scattering-containing film. Preferably, preferably the Vikuiti ® XRVS-film which is manufactured by 3M Corporation. In a sixth optional step, the cap bodies are coated on the side facing the operator with a transparent protective varnish.
In der beigefügten Figur ist eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelementkappe dargestellt, ohne die Erfindung darauf zu beschränken, wobei
Figur 1- eine schematische Seitenschnittansicht der erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelementkappe zeigt.
- FIG. 1
- a schematic side sectional view of the control element cap according to the invention shows.
Claims (8)
- An operating element cap (1), comprising a cap body (2) for covering and / or actuating a switch of an associated operating element, wherein in the cap body (2) a luminous surface or a projection surface, respectively, is configured such that an icon (5) represented on or by the luminous surface or projection surface, respectively, will become visible for an operator of the operating element by irradiation by means of a switch-side arranged light source, characterized in that the luminous surface or the projection surface, respectively, comprises a sheet (4), wherein the sheet (4) includes a transparent substrate and a plurality of light-refracting microspheres, which are attached to the substrate in optical contact, and comprises an opaque matrix surrounding the microspheres and optionally comprises a diffuser or a diffuser layer respectively, wherein the light coming from the light source passes through the light-refracting microspheres, the substrate and optionally the diffuser or the diffuser layer, respectively, wherein the luminous surface is provided with a mask (3) reproducing the icon, and a transparent or translucent varnish layer (6) is coated onto the mask (3) and the sheet (4) is adjacent to, for example is adhered to, the transparent or translucent varnish layer (6).
- The operating element cap according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the mask (3) is created by means of an opaque varnish layer, especially a black varnish layer, which for example is removed by means of laser processing.
- The operating element cap according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cap body (2) is transparently or translucently configured at least in the region of the luminous surface or projection surface, respectively, preferably the complete cap body, that the mask (3) is arranged on the inner side of the cap (1) facing the switch and is arranged adjacently thereto, and the sheet (4) is arranged on the side of the mask (3) facing the light source.
- The operating element cap according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sheet (4) is a Vlkuiti® XRVS sheet.
- The operating element characterized by an operating element cap (1) according to one of the preceding claims.
- The operating element according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the operating element is a pushbutton switch and the operating element cap is a pushbutton cap (1).
- Use of the operating element according to one of the preceding claims in a motor vehicle.
- A process for the manufacture of an operating element cap (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 6, wherein, in a first step, the transparent or translucent cap body (2) is produced of polycarbonate, for example Lexan®, in an injection mold process or a deep drawing process; in a second step the opaque varnish (3) is coated onto the inner side of the cap body (2) facing the switch, in a third step, the opaque varnish (3) is removed to create the mask (3) representing the icon (5), in a fourth step, the varnish or the mask (3), respectively, is coated with a transparent or translucent varnish (6), and in a fifth step, the sheet (4) is adhered to the transparent or translucent varnish (6) and in a sixth optional step, the cap body is coated with a protective varnish (7) on the side facing the operator.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE102006020396 | 2006-04-28 | ||
DE102007018905A DE102007018905B4 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2007-04-19 | Operating element for a motor vehicle |
PCT/EP2007/003615 WO2007124900A1 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2007-04-25 | Operating element for a motor vehicle |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP2016460A1 EP2016460A1 (en) | 2009-01-21 |
EP2016460B1 true EP2016460B1 (en) | 2017-01-18 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP07724545.4A Active EP2016460B1 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2007-04-25 | Operating element for a motor vehicle |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
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EP (1) | EP2016460B1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE102007018905B4 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007124900A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102008062577B3 (en) * | 2008-12-16 | 2009-12-10 | Preh Gmbh | Cap for use in e.g. operating element in motor vehicle, has light sources producing light beams directed in parallel, lenticular screen film arranged between film and sources, and mask formed as strip pattern between films |
DE102008062579B3 (en) * | 2008-12-16 | 2009-12-10 | Preh Gmbh | Operating element cap for use in e.g. instrument panel of motor vehicle, has refractive microspheres embedded in opaque matrix, and transparent carrier plate arranged between foil and mask |
DE102013018989A1 (en) | 2013-11-13 | 2015-05-13 | Valeo Schalter Und Sensoren Gmbh | Touch-sensitive switch for a motor vehicle and motor vehicle |
DE102014008205A1 (en) * | 2014-05-30 | 2015-12-03 | Audi Ag | A method of providing an indication of a motor vehicle |
DE102016001979B4 (en) * | 2016-02-19 | 2020-03-19 | Audi Ag | Motor vehicle operating device and associated manufacturing method |
DE102016108614B4 (en) * | 2016-05-10 | 2018-02-22 | Dr. Schneider Kunststoffwerke Gmbh | Method for producing an at least partially transilluminable component and component |
DE102018216385B4 (en) | 2018-09-26 | 2023-05-11 | Audi Ag | Method for producing a display or control element and display element and control element produced therewith |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3552822A (en) * | 1968-06-07 | 1971-01-05 | Gerald Altman | Rear projection screen |
JPS6415182A (en) * | 1987-07-10 | 1989-01-19 | Kojima Press Kogyo Kk | Method for coloring display body |
US5376314A (en) * | 1993-04-29 | 1994-12-27 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Method of making a laser ablated formed cap |
AUPO523997A0 (en) * | 1997-02-20 | 1997-04-11 | Securency Pty Ltd | Laser marking of articles |
US6519087B2 (en) * | 1997-04-10 | 2003-02-11 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Rear projection screen incorporating diffuser |
DE10339842B4 (en) * | 2003-08-29 | 2008-02-14 | Angell-Demmel Europe Gmbh | Method of making buttons, ornamental and instrument panels with fine symbolism and a button made by the method |
-
2007
- 2007-04-19 DE DE102007018905A patent/DE102007018905B4/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2007-04-25 WO PCT/EP2007/003615 patent/WO2007124900A1/en active Application Filing
- 2007-04-25 EP EP07724545.4A patent/EP2016460B1/en active Active
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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None * |
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WO2007124900A1 (en) | 2007-11-08 |
DE102007018905A1 (en) | 2007-11-15 |
EP2016460A1 (en) | 2009-01-21 |
DE102007018905B4 (en) | 2012-10-31 |
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