EP4143047A1

EP4143047A1 - Control element and vehicle with control element

Info

Publication number: EP4143047A1
Application number: EP21719075.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Bernhard STANJE; Andreas PENTSCHER-STANI; Johannes Burger
Original assignee: TDK Electronics AG
Current assignee: TDK Electronics AG
Priority date: 2020-04-27
Filing date: 2021-04-09
Publication date: 2023-03-08
Also published as: US20230159100A1; JP2023522230A; DE102020111405A1; WO2021219343A1; CN115485162A

Abstract

The invention relates to a control element (100), for example for a vehicle (1000), which control element has at least one tubular section (2) with a chamber (4) at least partially enclosed by a wall (3) and a piezoelectric component (1) which is located in the chamber and is provided and designed to generate a haptic signal on at least one portion of the control element and/or to detect a pressure acting on at least one part of the piezoelectric component. The invention further relates to a vehicle (1000) with the control element (100).

Description

description

Control element and vehicle with control element

An operating element and a vehicle with an operating element are specified.

In order to provide a vehicle driver with feedback in certain driving situations, there are vehicles such as, for example, motor vehicles, the steering wheel of which is equipped with a vibration device for generating haptic feedback. The vibration device can, for example, be coupled to a lane departure warning system and set up so that the steering wheel can give feedback to the vehicle driver when the vehicle leaves the lane, for example by means of a click or a vibration, so that the driver can react accordingly.

So-called linear resonator or unbalance motor solutions, also referred to as "Linear Resonant Actuator" (LRA) or "Eccentric Rotating Mass" (ERM), which can only generate a predefined vibration, have so far been used to generate such haptic feedback.

At least one object of certain embodiments is to specify an operating element. At least one further object of specific embodiments is to specify a vehicle with an operating element.

These objects are achieved by subject matter according to the independent patent claims. Beneficial Embodiments and further developments of the objects are characterized in the dependent claims and are furthermore apparent from the following description and the drawings.

According to at least one embodiment, an operating element has at least one piezoelectric component. The operating element can in particular be an element operated by a user, by means of which haptic feedback and / or an input functionality can be made possible. The control element can also be referred to as a so-called human-machine interface (HMI: "Human-Machine Interface").

According to at least one further embodiment, a vehicle has an operating element with a piezoelectric component.

The features described above and below and

Embodiments apply equally to the control element and the vehicle.

According to a further embodiment, the operating element has at least one tubular section with a cavity at least partially surrounded by a wall. The piezoelectric component is arranged in the cavity. The piezoelectric component can in particular be provided and configured to generate a haptic signal on at least a partial area of the operating element. This can mean, in particular, that a haptic signal for a user of the operating element who, for example, touches it with one hand, or at least touches it with one hand, by means of a suitable electrical control of the piezoelectric component partially encloses, can be generated. Alternatively or additionally, the piezoelectric component can be provided and set up to detect the effect of pressure on at least part of the piezoelectric component. This can mean in particular that a pressure effect on the piezoelectric component, which is exerted, for example, by the user of the operating element, can be converted into an electrical signal.

The operating element can be, for example, an operating element for a vehicle. The operating element can particularly preferably be a steering element for a vehicle, in particular a steering element of a vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the operating element can be a braking element, for example a brake lever, and / or a gear selection element, for example a gear lever or a gear shift lever. In addition, the operating element can be an input device, for example a pen-like input device, which can still be used, for example, in connection with a display device, for example in a vehicle.

The piezoelectric component can be connected to a control device for generating an electrical control signal for operating the piezoelectric component and / or for detecting an electrical signal generated by the piezoelectric component. The control device, for example in the form of a control device of the vehicle or at least a part thereof in the case of an operating element for a vehicle, can be fully or partially integrated in the operating element. Furthermore, the control device can also be wholly or partially outside of the control element and be connected, for example, via electrical lines to the piezoelectric component, which extend into the control element and run in it.

According to a further embodiment, the operating element is designed as a steering element for a vehicle and has a handlebar or is a handlebar that has the tubular section. In this case, the vehicle can preferably be a conventionally or electrically operated motorcycle such as a motorcycle, a so-called trike or a so-called quad. Furthermore, the vehicle can be a bicycle, for example a so-called e-bike or a conventional bicycle. The handlebar, which can also be referred to as a handlebar, can preferably be designed at least in the area of the tubular section and particularly preferably essentially as a whole as a tube. In this context, the handlebar can be straight, slightly curved or designed with curved or kinked sections.

Particularly preferably, the tubular section can be a grip area of the operating element, that is to say the area that is enclosed or at least touched by the user's hand during normal use. In the case of an operating element designed as a handlebar, the grip area can thus be the area which, during normal use, is enclosed or at least touched by a hand of the user, that is to say in particular of the vehicle driver. In the case of a motorcycle handlebar, the grip area can also be rotatable. In particular, the handlebar can have two grip areas. Accordingly, the handlebar can also have at least two tubular sections, each with one of one Have wall at least partially surrounded cavity. A piezoelectric component is preferably arranged in at least one or both of the cavities. Alternatively or additionally, at least one tubular section with at least one piezoelectric component can also be present outside of the grip areas.

As an alternative to this, the operating element can be designed as a steering element for a vehicle and can have or be a steering wheel which has the tubular section. In this case, the vehicle can preferably be a conventionally operated and / or electrically operated motor vehicle such as a passenger car or a truck or another vehicle with a steering wheel. The steering wheel can preferably be designed at least in the area of the tubular section and particularly preferably essentially as a whole as a curved tube. In particular, the steering wheel can be essentially circular or at least approximate to a circular shape. As already described for the control element in general and for the handlebar, the steering wheel can have one and preferably at least two grip areas, which are enclosed or at least touched by one hand of the user, in particular the vehicle driver, during normal use. Correspondingly, the steering wheel can also have at least two tubular sections, each with a cavity at least partially surrounded by a wall. A piezoelectric component is preferably arranged in at least one or both of the cavities. Alternatively or additionally, at least one tubular section with at least one piezoelectric component can also be present outside of the grip areas. In the following, reference is made to a tubular section of the operating element with a cavity with at least one piezoelectric component. The operating element can, as described above by way of example for an operating element designed as a steering element, also have more than one tubular section with a cavity with at least one piezoelectric component, wherein each of the tubular sections with the respective at least one piezoelectric component can have one or more of the features described below . The tubular sections with the respective at least one piezoelectric component can be designed identically or differently and thus have the same or different functionalities.

The piezoelectric component particularly preferably has a piezoelectric actuator which is based on a piezoelectric material, in particular a piezoelectric ceramic material or a piezoelectric polymer material. The piezoelectric actuator can be constructed, for example, in a multilayer construction with a plurality of piezoelectric layers and internal electrodes arranged on top of one another along a stacking direction. Furthermore, the piezoelectric actuator can have a longitudinal direction which can correspond to the direction with the greatest extent. The longitudinal direction can in particular be perpendicular to the stacking direction.

By applying a suitable electrical signal, the piezoelectric actuator can perform a change in expansion in at least one direction, this change being part of the haptic signal that is direct or can be passed on to a user indirectly via further components of the piezoelectric component and / or of the operating element. When an alternating voltage is applied, a periodic change and thus a vibration can be generated. In particular, the change in the expansion of the piezoelectric actuator can be caused at least by the d31 effect and correspond to at least a change in length of the piezoelectric actuator along the longitudinal direction.

The use of a piezoelectric actuator to generate a haptic signal offers significant advantages. A piezoelectric actuator has a short response and decay time. Accordingly, the point in time and the period in which the haptic signal is generated can be defined and set very precisely. Furthermore, by varying the control signal applied to the piezoelectric actuator, for example with respect to the frequency, the electrical voltage, the pulse sequence and the signal type, it can be determined with which amplitude, which frequency and which duration the piezoelectric component is controlled. Different control signals can make it possible to generate different haptic signals.

Piezoelectric actuators have a small volume compared to other components for generating a vibration, for example unbalance motors or linear resonators. By using a piezoelectric actuator in the piezoelectric component, it is thus possible to construct a component which has a comparatively small footprint. The piezoelectric component can furthermore have at least one mechanical reinforcement element which is attached to the piezoelectric actuator in such a way that the change in length of the piezoelectric actuator moves a region of the mechanical reinforcement element in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction along its longitudinal direction.

The reinforcing element can comprise metal or be made of metal and particularly preferably be a metal bracket, which is attached, for example, with two end regions to end regions along the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator and has a central region spaced from the piezoelectric actuator between the end regions. The mechanical reinforcement element can be attached to the piezoelectric actuator, for example by means of an adhesive connection. The metal of the reinforcement element can be titanium, for example. Titanium can have the advantage that its coefficient of thermal expansion is very similar to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the piezoelectric actuator, so that there is little or no mechanical stress in the event of temperature changes.

By means of the mechanical reinforcement element, the change in length of the piezoelectric actuator caused by the d31 effect can be converted into a lifting movement perpendicular to the change in length, the direction of the lifting movement being able to correspond to the stacking direction. The stroke movement can have a significantly greater amplitude than the change in length. For example, the amplitude of the stroke movement can be 5 to 40 times the amplitude of the change in length. By combining the Piezoelectric actuator with the reinforcement element can thus be effected, for example, significantly stronger movements.

The mechanical reinforcement element can be free of notches and have a constant wall thickness. By dispensing with notches in the reinforcing element, simple production of the reinforcing element can be made possible. In alternative embodiments, the reinforcement element can have at least one notch which reduces a mechanical resistance to deformation of the mechanical reinforcement element. In particular in the case of reinforcement elements with a thickness in which deformations of the reinforcement element require a lot of force, the use of notches in the reinforcement element can be useful, since the notches can facilitate the deformation of the reinforcement element.

The piezoelectric component can in particular be arranged in the tubular section in such a way that it has a force effect in the radial direction in relation to the pipe cross section, that is to say perpendicular to a pipe axis of the tubular section. In other words, in the case of an embodiment with at least one reinforcement element described above, the piezoelectric component can be arranged such that the stroke direction runs along a radial direction of the tubular section.

According to a further embodiment, the piezoelectric component is arranged in the tubular section in such a way that the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator runs along a tube axis of the tubular section. Knows If the tubular section has a curved course, "running along the tube axis" can mean, for example, a tangential approach to the tube axis or to a longitudinal direction of the tubular section. In such an arrangement, which can also be referred to as a longitudinal arrangement, a piezoelectric component can be used be, which has a linear expansion that can be far greater than a diameter of the tubular portion.

According to a further embodiment, the piezoelectric component is arranged in the tubular section in such a way that the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator runs transversely to the tube axis of the tubular section. In such an arrangement, also referred to as a transverse arrangement, the longitudinal extent of the piezoelectric component is limited by the diameter of the tubular section. However, this allows several piezoelectric components to be placed close to one another along the pipe axis.

According to a further embodiment, a plurality of piezoelectric components is arranged in the tubular section, it being possible for the piezoelectric components to be identical or different. For example, the plurality of piezoelectric components can be arranged next to one another to form an array. Each of the piezoelectric components can, for example, be read out and / or controlled separately from the remaining piezoelectric components. As a result, different piezoelectric components can fulfill different functions. As an alternative to this, several piezoelectric components can also be read out or controlled together, so that the functionality can be compared can be multiplied into a single piezoelectric component.

According to a further embodiment, the operating element has at least one interaction element by means of which a user can exert pressure on the piezoelectric component and / or to which the piezoelectric component can transmit the haptic signal for forwarding to the user. In particular, the piezoelectric component can act on the interaction element through the stroke movement described above. Furthermore, the interaction element can transmit a pressure exerted by a user on the interaction element to the piezoelectric component, so that the effect of pressure from the piezoelectric component can be detected by generating an electrical signal in the piezoelectric component. In this case, the interaction element can form a button which can be actuated by the user and which can be used to trigger a specific function.

The interaction element can be designed, for example, in the form of a button or a stamp. In the case of a piezoelectric component with a reinforcement element described above, the interaction element can be arranged or attached to the reinforcement element. The interaction element can be arranged at least partially in an opening in the wall of the tubular section and extend into the cavity. Due to the lifting movement of the piezoelectric component, the interaction element, which in the rest position before the lifting movement can be sunk into the opening or protruding out of the opening, can be pushed out a little (further) out of the opening and thus a noticeable haptic for a user Cause a signal. Conversely, the interaction element can protrude from the opening in a rest position and can be pressed by a user in the direction of the piezoelectric component.

Furthermore, the wall can have an interaction area which forms the interaction element or on which a previously described interaction element is arranged within the cavity of the tubular section. In this case, the wall does not have an opening and the haptic signal or the effect of pressure is passed on at least partially via the interaction area of the wall. Thus, the piezoelectric component can exert a force on the interaction area of the wall in the tubular section when generating the haptic signal, either directly or via an interaction element. It can be advantageous if the wall in the interaction area has greater mechanical deformability than in other areas, so that the interaction area can have sufficient flexibility, for example for forwarding a haptic signal to a user. For example, the wall in the interaction area can be thinner than in other areas and / or be surrounded by a notch around the interaction area.

According to a further embodiment, the piezoelectric component is between the interaction element and one seen from the piezoelectric component

Interaction element arranged opposite rear side area of the wall. A support element can be arranged in the cavity of the tubular section between the piezoelectric component and the rear side area of the wall. The support element can, for example, be a support surface for the piezoelectric component and, on a surface opposite the support surface, have a support surface which clings to the rear side area.

The lifting movement of the piezoelectric component can be directed completely in the direction of the interaction element by the support element.

As an alternative to this, it can also be possible for the piezoelectric component to be arranged between two interaction elements. The interaction elements can in particular be arranged radially opposite one another in relation to the pipe cross section.

According to a further embodiment, the operating element has a grip element which surrounds the tubular section with the piezoelectric component and which has a plastic that is softer than the wall of the tubular section. For example, at least the tubular section of the operating element can have a metal. The grip element can comprise or be made of a plastic, for example a rubber, and / or also a metal.

The described invention enables the integration of haptic feedback and / or the integration of functional keys in a control element. For example, in the case of a control element designed as a steering element, the integration can take place in the grip area of a handlebar or a steering wheel and serve to notify or alert the driver, for example, in a dangerous situation, when parameters are exceeded or other messages are received, specifically via a tactile or perceptible signal can. Furthermore you can Due to the dual functionality of the piezoelectric component, active control commands can also be triggered by targeted pressure in the grip area.

As described above, the movement of the piezoelectric actuator in the longitudinal or transverse direction in relation to the tube axis of the tubular section is preferably used to implement haptic feedback, in particular in the grip area. The reinforcement element of the piezoelectric component can convert it into an increased movement in a radial direction, that is, perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions. This mechanical translation presses or spreads the tubular section or at least the interaction element apart and is responsible for noticeable haptic feedback. The movement can preferably act on an interaction element, for example a stamp, as a result of which the movement can be passed on to the user. It can thereby be achieved that the haptic feedback can have an essentially local or preferably only local effect in a very defined area of a contact surface with the user.

In contrast to ERM and LRA solutions, the use of the piezoelectric component makes it possible to use different control signals in the form of one or more of the following changeable parameters: electrical voltage, frequency, signal type, pulse sequence. The variation of the control signal results in a modified perception by the user, which enables different signals to be used for different functions. The haptic feedback can also only be available locally in a defined area on the contact surface with the user while conventional solutions can only generate global feedback.

As described above, the use of the piezoelectric component also offers the advantage that the piezoelectric component can also be used as a push button in a dual function. By applying pressure to the piezoelectric component, the user can generate an electrical signal that can be used to trigger a defined function, for example switching displays and / or accepting or rejecting calls and other functions.

Further advantages, advantageous embodiments and developments emerge from the exemplary embodiments described below in connection with the figures.

Show it:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic representations of FIG

Embodiments of an operating element and a vehicle with an operating element,

FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle with an operating element according to a further exemplary embodiment,

FIGS. 3A and 3B show schematic representations of a piezoelectric component in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment,

Figures 4A to 4C are schematic representations of a

Operating element according to a further exemplary embodiment, FIGS. 5 to 7 are schematic representations of

Control elements according to further exemplary embodiments and FIGS. 8A to 8C are schematic representations of a

Operating element according to a further embodiment.

In the exemplary embodiments and figures, elements that are the same, of the same type or have the same effect can each be provided with the same reference symbols. The elements shown and their proportions to one another are not to be regarded as true to scale; rather, individual elements such as layers, components, components and areas can be shown exaggeratedly large for better illustration and / or for better understanding.

In FIGS. 1A and 1B, exemplary embodiments for an operating element 100 and a vehicle 1000 with an operating element 100 are shown. The following description applies equally to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the vehicle 1000 is a motorcycle. In particular, as shown, it can be a conventionally or electrically operated motorcycle such as a motorcycle. Alternatively, the vehicle can also be a trike, a quad or a bicycle, for example. These vehicle types usually have a handlebar 101, also referred to as a handlebar, as a steering element for steering the vehicle. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the steering element is designed as an operating element 100, purely by way of example. The handlebar 101 has grip areas 111 which are grasped or at least touched with their hands by a user, that is to say a vehicle driver, during normal use for driving.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the operating element 100 has at least one piezoelectric component 1 in one tubular section 2. For this purpose, the operating element 100, that is to say in the exemplary embodiment shown the handlebar 101 indicated in FIG. The piezoelectric component 1, which is arranged in the cavity 4, is provided and set up to generate a haptic signal on at least a partial area of the operating element 100 and / or to detect the effect of pressure on at least a part of the piezoelectric component 1.

The handlebar 101 can preferably be designed at least in the area of the tubular section 2 and particularly preferably essentially as a whole as a tube. In this context, the handlebar rod can be straight or, as indicated in FIG. 1B, slightly curved or configured with curved or kinked sections. Particularly preferably, the tubular section 2 can be the grip area 111 of the handlebar 101. In the case of the motorcycle handlebar shown, the grip area can also be rotatable and thus form a rotatable part of the operating element 100. Corresponding to the two grip areas 111, the operating element 100 can also have at least two tubular sections 2, each with a cavity 4 at least partially surrounded by a wall 3. At least one piezoelectric component 1 is preferably arranged in at least one or in both of the cavities. As an alternative or in addition, at least one tubular section 2 with at least one piezoelectric component 1 can also be present outside the grip areas 111.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the operating element 100 has a gripping element 5 in each of the gripping areas 111 which surrounds the tubular section 2 with the piezoelectric component 1 and which preferably comprises a plastic that is softer than the wall 3 of the tubular section 2. For example, at least the tubular section 2 of the operating element 100 can comprise a metal. In particular, the handlebar 101 can comprise a metal. The grip element 5 can comprise or be made of a plastic, for example a rubber, and / or a metal and be a conventional grip element for a motorcycle or bicycle that is pulled directly onto the handlebar 101.

FIG. 2 shows a further exemplary embodiment for a vehicle 1000 which, compared to the previous exemplary embodiment, is a conventionally and / or electrically operated motor vehicle. As indicated in Figure 2, it can be a passenger car. Alternatively, a truck or another vehicle is also possible which, as shown in FIG. 2, has a steering wheel 102 as operating element 100.

The steering wheel 102 has at least one tubular section which can be designed as explained in connection with FIG. 1A and which has a cavity with at least one piezoelectric component. The steering wheel can be designed, for example, at least in the area of the tubular section and particularly preferably essentially as a whole as a curved tube. In particular, the steering wheel can be essentially circular or at least approximate to a circular shape. As already described for the handlebar of the previous exemplary embodiment, the steering wheel 102 can, for example, have at least two grip areas 111 which, during normal use, of each hand of the user, so in particular the vehicle driver, are enclosed or at least touched. Correspondingly, the steering wheel can also have at least two tubular sections, each with a cavity at least partially surrounded by a wall. A piezoelectric component is preferably arranged in at least one or both of the cavities. As an alternative or in addition, at least one tubular section with at least one piezoelectric component can also be present outside the grip areas 111.

The piezoelectric component integrated in the operating element 100 enables a driver of a vehicle 1000, for example, to be notified or alerted in a targeted manner via a tactile or perceptible signal in a dangerous situation, when parameters are exceeded or when other messages are received. Furthermore, due to the dual functionality of the piezoelectric component, active control commands can also be triggered by targeted pressure.

For the implementation of haptic feedback, in particular in the grip area 111 of the operating elements 100 shown in FIGS Part of the tubular section a pressure can be exerted. As a result, the tubular section can, for example, be at least partially spread, which a user can preferably also perceive through the grip element. The piezoelectric component can achieve that the haptic feedback can only act locally in a very defined area of a contact surface with the user.

The use of the piezoelectric component makes it possible to use different control signals in the form of one or more changeable parameters, for example voltage, frequency, signal type and / or pulse sequence, which enables different signals to be used for different functions.

By exerting pressure on the piezoelectric component, the user can generate an electrical signal that can be used to trigger a defined function, for example switching displays and / or accepting or rejecting calls and other functions.

As an alternative to the control element for a vehicle described in the previous exemplary embodiments in the form of a steering element, the control element 100 can also be designed as another element, in particular, for example, as another control element for a vehicle. For example, the operating element can be a braking element, for example a brake lever, and / or a gear selection element, for example a gear lever or a gear shift lever. In addition, the operating element can also be, for example, an input device, for example a pen-like input device, which can still be used, for example, in connection with a display device, for example in a vehicle. In connection with the figures described below, preferred modifications and developments of the operating element 100 are described, which, for example, as shown can be a control element for a vehicle. Elements and features that are not described or shown can be designed as described in the previous exemplary embodiments.

In FIGS. 3A and 3B, a preferred exemplary embodiment for a piezoelectric component 1 that can be used in an operating element is shown in a perspective view and a sectional illustration.

The piezoelectric component 1 has a piezoelectric actuator 11 and two mechanical reinforcement elements 13a, 13b. The piezoelectric actuator 11 has a stack of internal electrodes 21 and piezoelectric layers 22 alternately stacked in a stacking direction S. The piezoelectric actuator 11 has a first outer electrode 23, which is arranged on a first end face 24, and a second outer electrode 23, which is arranged on a second end face. The internal electrodes 21 are alternately contacted in the stacking direction S with one of the first external electrodes 23.

The piezoelectric layers 22 can be, for example, lead-zirconate-titanate ceramics (PZT ceramics). The PZT ceramic can also contain Nd and Ni. Alternatively, the PZT ceramic can also additionally contain Nd, K and possibly Cu. Alternatively, the piezoelectric layers 22 can have a composition containing _{Pb (Zr x} _{Tii- x)} O3 + y Pb (Mni _/ 3Nb2 _/ 3) O3. As an alternative to a piezoelectric ceramic material, a piezoelectric polymer can also be used, for example will. The internal electrodes 21 preferably have copper or particularly preferably consist of copper.

The piezoelectric actuator 11 is preferably cuboid, as shown. A surface whose normal to the surface points in the stacking direction S is referred to as the base surface. The base is rectangular. The longer side of the base defines the length L of the piezoelectric actuator 11 and the shorter side of the base defines the width B of the piezoelectric actuator 11.

The piezoelectric actuator 11 has a length L between 5 mm and 100 mm and a width B between 2 mm and 8 mm. In a particularly preferred exemplary embodiment, the piezoelectric actuator 11 has, for example, a length L of 60 mm and a width B of 5 mm.

The extension of the piezoelectric actuator 11 in the stacking direction S defines the height H of the piezoelectric actuator 11. The height H of the piezoelectric actuator 11 can be between 200 μm and 3 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the height H is 1.8 mm.

The actuator 11 has two insulation areas 12. The respective insulation area 12 is formed in an end area of the actuator 11. In particular, the respective insulation area 12 is formed in the area of an end face 24 of the actuator 11.

In the insulation area 12, only internal electrodes 21 of one polarity extend to the end face 24 of the actuator 11. The insulation area 12 can be used to make contact with the actuator 11. For example, the respective Insulation area 12 can be provided with the external electrodes 23 for electrical contacting.

The actuator 11 is designed such that when an electrical voltage is applied, the actuator 11 is deformed, in particular a change in length in the longitudinal direction RI indicated in FIG. 3B. In particular, the piezoelectric layers 22 are polarized in such a way that the application of an electrical voltage between the internal electrodes 21 leads to a contraction of the actuator 11 in which the length L of the actuator 11 changes perpendicular to the stacking direction S. As a result, the actuator expands transversely to the direction of polarization and to the electric field, which is also referred to as the d31 effect.

In order to divert the effect of the change in length in the stacking direction S, the device has two reinforcing elements 13a, 13b. If a voltage is applied to the actuator 11, the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b deform at least partially as a result of the change in the expansion of the actuator 11. In particular, the two reinforcement elements 13a,

13b dimensioned and connected to the actuator 11 in such a way that a central area 17a, 17b of the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b each executes a lifting movement in the lifting direction R2 indicated in FIG The amplitude of the stroke movement is greater than the amplitude of the change in the length L of the actuator 11.

As shown, the actuator 11 is preferably arranged between the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b. the Reinforcing elements 13a, 13b lie at least partially on the top 25 or the bottom 26 of the actuator 11.

Each of the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b is preferably designed in one piece and strip-shaped and has a rectangular basic shape. Furthermore, each of the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b is curved or bent and is bow-shaped. For example, the reinforcing elements 13a, 13b each have a sheet metal strip or are made from it, in particular with or made of titanium.

Each of the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b is subdivided into several areas or sections. Each reinforcement element 13a, 13b has a central area 17a, 17b. The middle areas 17a, 17b are connected to respective end areas 18a, 18b via connecting areas 20a, 20b. The two end regions 18a, 18b of each of the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b lie directly on a surface of the actuator 11. In other words, the first and the second end regions 18a of the first reinforcement element 13a rest on a partial region of the top 25 of the actuator 11. Furthermore, the first and second end regions 18b of the second reinforcing element 13b rest on a partial region of the underside 26 of the actuator 11. The end regions 18a, 18b are preferably permanently connected to the surface of the actuator 11. In particular, the end regions 18a, 18b are connected to the surface of the actuator 11 by an adhesive connection 15.

The respective central area 17a, 17b is spaced apart from the surface of the actuator 11. In particular, a is located between the respective central area 17a, 17b and the bottom 26 or the top 25 of the actuator 11 Free area 16. The free area 16 has a height h.

A free height h between the actuator 11 and the respective central area 17a, 17b is preferably between 0.2 mm and 5.0 mm and in a particularly preferred embodiment is approximately 3 mm, the free height h being the maximum distance between the respective central area 17a, 17b and the piezoelectric actuator 11 indicates when no voltage is applied to the actuator 11 and no external force acts on the reinforcement element 13a, 13b.

The central regions 17a, 17b are preferably designed in such a way that they run parallel to the surface of the actuator 11. The connection areas 20a, 20b run obliquely to the surface of the actuator 11. In other words, the respective connection area 20a, 20b forms an angle with the upper side 25 and the lower side 26 of the actuator 11. The angle is preferably less than or equal to 45 °. The height h of the free area 16 is thus reduced in the direction from the central area 17a, 17b towards the end area 18a, 18b of the respective reinforcing element 13a, 13b. A total height of the piezoelectric component 1 with the actuator 11 and the two reinforcement elements 13a, 13b can be approximately 9 mm in a preferred exemplary embodiment.

If an electrical voltage is now applied to the actuator 11, the subregions 17a, 17b of the respective reinforcement element 13a, 13b move relative to the actuator 11 in the stroke direction R2. In particular, the central areas 17a, 17b move in the stroke direction R2. The reinforcement elements 13a, 13b bend at transitions between the central areas 17a, 17b and the connecting areas 20a, 20b and between the connecting areas 20a, 20b and the end regions 18a, 18b. The reinforcement elements 13a, 13b can have at least one thinning, preferably several thinnings, between the respective areas, which enable better deformability of the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b and an easier execution of the lifting movement. Furthermore, the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b can have, for example, stamped structures to increase the strength of individual areas.

A movement of the end regions 18a, 18b in the stroke direction R2 is prevented by the adhesive connection 15 with the actuator 11. Rather, the end regions 18a, 18b move with the actuator 11 in the longitudinal direction RI. There is thus a relative movement between the end regions 18a, 18b and the central regions 17a, 17b. In a preferred exemplary embodiment, when an electrical voltage of up to 120 V is applied, a total stroke movement of approximately 200 pm can be achieved.

If a force is exerted on the piezoelectric component 1 along the stroke movement R2, the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b are deformed in such a way that, in particular, the end regions 18a, 18b are moved away from one another in the longitudinal direction RI. By attaching the reinforcement elements 13a, 13b to the piezoelectric actuator 11, the latter is also deformed in the longitudinal direction. As a result, an electrical voltage is generated in the piezoelectric actuator 11. This voltage can be detected and in this way conclusions can be drawn about the effect of a force. For this purpose, the piezoelectric actuator 11 can be connected to a control element, for example a microcontroller or a control device of the vehicle, which evaluates the electrical voltages generated at the piezoelectric actuator 11. Of the Piezoelectric actuator 11 can thus be used as a sensor which can recognize a force exerted by a user.

In addition, as described above, the piezoelectric component 1 can also be used to generate a haptic signal. If an electrical voltage is applied to the actuator 11, the piezoelectric actuator 11 is deformed in the longitudinal direction RI and the reinforcing elements 13a, 13b accordingly execute the stroke movement described. By applying an alternating voltage, a vibration can be generated which is transmitted to the tubular section of the operating element and can be perceived by a user.

FIGS. 4A to 4C show an exemplary embodiment for an operating element 100 in which the piezoelectric component 1 described above is used. The operating element 100 can be, for example, an operating element for a vehicle as described above. FIGS. 4A to 4C show a perspective view and two sectional views of part of the operating element 100. In particular, the tubular section 2 is shown, in which the piezoelectric component 1 is arranged. The tube axis of the tubular section 2 runs in the direction 91 indicated in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the tube cross section lies in the plane spanned by the directions 92 and 93. A possible grip element pulled onto the tubular section 2, as shown for example in FIG. 1A, is not shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C and in the following figures for the sake of clarity. The piezoelectric component 1 is arranged in the tubular section 2 in such a way that the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator runs along the tube axis of the tubular section. In such a longitudinal arrangement, a piezoelectric component 1 can be used, as shown, which has a length which is far greater than a diameter of the tubular section 2.

Furthermore, the operating element 100 has at least one interaction element 6 by means of which a user can exert pressure on the piezoelectric component 1 and / or to which the piezoelectric component 1 can transmit the haptic signal for forwarding to the user. In particular, the piezoelectric component 1 can act on the interaction element 6 through the stroke movement described above. Furthermore, the interaction element can transmit a pressure exerted by a user on the interaction element 6 to the piezoelectric component 1, so that the effect of pressure from the piezoelectric component 1 can be detected by generating an electrical signal in the piezoelectric component 1. In this case, the interaction element 6 can form a button which can be actuated by the user and which can be used to trigger a specific function.

The interaction element 6 is shown in FIG

Embodiment designed in the form of a button or a stamp and arranged or attached to a reinforcing element of the piezoelectric component 1.

The interaction element is partially arranged in an opening 62 in the wall 3 of the tubular section 2 and extends into the cavity 4. The lifting movement of the Piezoelectric component 1, the interaction element 6, which can be sunk into the opening in the rest position before the lifting movement or also protruding from the opening, can be pushed a little (further) out of the opening 62 and thus cause a perceptible haptic signal for a user . Conversely, the interaction element 6 can protrude from the opening 62 in a rest position and can be pressed by a user in the direction of the piezoelectric component 1.

The operating element 100 also has a support element 7 on a side of the piezoelectric component 1 facing away from the interaction element 6. The piezoelectric component 1 is thus arranged between the interaction element 6 and a rear side region 63 of the wall 3, which is opposite the interaction element 6 as seen from the piezoelectric component 1. The support element 7 is thus arranged in the cavity 4 of the tubular section 2 between the piezoelectric component 1 and the rear side region 63 of the wall 3. As shown, the support element 7 has a bearing surface 71 for the piezoelectric component 1, with which the piezoelectric component 1 can be supported against the support element 7. On a side opposite the support surface 71, the support element 7 has a support surface 72 which clings to the rear side area 63. The lifting movement of the piezoelectric component 1 can be directed completely in the direction of the interaction element 6 by the support element 7.

As shown, the tubular section 2 of the operating element 100 can have a round, in particular a circular, tubular cross section. In addition, are however, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible, since in particular the shapes of the support element 7 and of the interaction element 6 can easily be adapted to other pipe cross-sections.

FIGS. 4A to 4C thus show a concept of the piezoelectric component 1 which can be moved on one side within the operating element 100 and which enables the actuator movement to be used on one side. In particular, only the interaction element 6 moves against the tubular section 2, while the opposite side is completely blocked in the rear side area 63. This means that the deflection of the interaction element can be maximized. The interaction element 6 and / or the support element 7 can each be with or made of a plastic, preferably a hard plastic, or with or made of a metal, in order to be able to transmit the forces of the piezoelectric component 1 to a user or vice versa as effectively as possible.

In the following figures, the directions 91, 92, 93 are also shown for the sake of clarity.

As can be seen in FIG. 5 according to a further exemplary embodiment, the wall 3 can have an interaction area 31 which forms the interaction element or on which, as shown, a previously described interaction element 6 is arranged within the cavity 4 of the tubular section. In this case, the wall 3 has no opening and the haptic signal or the action of pressure is passed on at least partially via the interaction area 31 of the wall. Thus, the piezoelectric component can act on the interaction area 31 of the wall in the tubular section when generating the haptic signal directly or, as shown, via the Interaction element 6 exert a force. It can be advantageous if the wall 3 in the interaction area 31 has a greater mechanical deformability than in other areas, so that the interaction area 31 can have sufficient flexibility, for example for forwarding a haptic signal to a user. For example, as indicated in the interaction area 31, the wall can be thinner than in other areas and / or be surrounded by a notch around the interaction area.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a plurality of piezoelectric components 1 can also be arranged in the tubular section 2, wherein the piezoelectric components 1 can be identical or different with regard to their technical design and / or functionality. For example, the plurality of piezoelectric components 1 can be arranged next to one another to form an array, as shown. Each of the piezoelectric components 1 can, for example, be read out and / or controlled separately from the remaining piezoelectric components. As a result, different piezoelectric components 1 can fulfill different functions. As an alternative to this, several piezoelectric components 1 can also be read out or controlled together, so that the functionality can be multiplied in comparison to a single piezoelectric component 1. The piezoelectric components 1 can be arranged, for example, in a partial area of the grip area or also distributed over the grip area. This means that interactions with a user can be possible at different positions. As indicated in FIG. 6, the piezoelectric components 1 can be placed in a longitudinal arrangement in the tubular section. As shown in FIG. 7, the piezoelectric components 1 can also be arranged in the tubular section 2 in such a way that the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuators runs transversely to the tube axis of the tubular section 2. In this arrangement, referred to as a transverse arrangement, several piezoelectric components 1 can be placed close to one another along the pipe axis, so that the piezoelectric components can, for example, simulate the function of a slide control together.

A further exemplary embodiment for an operating element 100 is shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C, the views corresponding to those of FIGS. 4A to 4C. In comparison to the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the piezoelectric component 1 is between two

Interaction elements 6 arranged. The interaction elements 6, which are each arranged as a button or stamp in a respective opening 62 of the wall 3, as shown, can in particular be arranged radially opposite one another in relation to the pipe cross-section. In comparison to the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 4A to 4C, this concept allows deflections in opposite directions and thus an interaction in both directions with a user.

The features and exemplary embodiments described in connection with the figures can be combined with one another according to further exemplary embodiments, even if not all combinations are explicitly described. Furthermore, in connection with the figures described exemplary embodiments alternatively or additionally have further features according to the description in the general part. The description on the basis of the exemplary embodiments is not restricted to the invention. Rather, the invention encompasses every new feature and every combination of features, which in particular includes every combination of features in the patent claims, even if this feature or this combination itself is not explicitly included in the claims

Claims or exemplary embodiments is specified.

List of reference symbols

1 piezoelectric component

2 tubular section

3 wall

4 cavity

5 handle element

6 interaction element 7 support element

11 Piezoelectric actuator

12 Isolation area

13a reinforcement element

13b reinforcement element

15 Adhesive connection

16 free area 17a, 17b middle area 18a, 18b end area 20a, 20b connecting area 21 inner electrode 22 piezoelectric layer 23 outer electrode 62 opening 63 rear side area

71 contact area

72 Support surface 91, 92, 93 Direction 100 Control element 101 Handlebar 102 Steering wheel 111 Grip area 1000 Vehicle B Width h Height H height

L length

RI longitudinal direction

R2 stroke direction S stack direction

Claims

1. Control element (100), having

- At least one tubular section (2) with a cavity (4) and at least partially surrounded by a wall (3)

- A piezoelectric component (1) which is arranged in the cavity and which is provided and set up to generate a haptic signal on at least a partial area of the operating element and / or to detect the effect of pressure on at least a part of the piezoelectric component.

2. Control element according to claim 1, wherein the control element has a handlebar or a steering wheel for a vehicle (1000) which has the tubular portion.

3. Control element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control element has at least one interaction element (6) by means of which a user can exert pressure on the piezoelectric component and / or to which the piezoelectric component can emit the haptic signal.

4. Control element according to claim 3, wherein the interaction element is at least partially arranged in an opening (62) in the wall.

5. Control element according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the wall has an interaction area (31) which forms the interaction element or on which the interaction element is arranged, and the wall in the Interaction area has a greater mechanical deformability than in other areas.

6. Control element according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the piezoelectric component is arranged between the interaction element and a rear side area (63) of the wall, seen from the piezoelectric component, opposite the interaction element, and a support element is arranged between the piezoelectric component and the rear side area of the wall in the cavity (7) is arranged.

7. Control element according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the piezoelectric component is arranged between two interaction elements.

8. Control element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the tubular portion of the control element comprises a metal.

9. Control element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control element has a grip element (5) which surrounds the tubular section with the piezoelectric component and which has a plastic that is softer than the wall of the tubular section.

10. Control element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the piezoelectric component has a piezoelectric actuator (11) with a longitudinal direction and at least one mechanical reinforcing element (13a, 13b) which is attached to the piezoelectric actuator in such a way that by a change in length of the piezoelectric actuator along its longitudinal direction a region of the mechanical reinforcing element is moved in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

11. Control element according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the piezoelectric component so in the tubular

Section is arranged that the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator runs along a pipe axis of the tubular portion.

12. Operating element according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the piezoelectric component is arranged in the tubular section that the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator runs transversely to a tube axis of the tubular section.

13. Operating element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of piezoelectric components is arranged in the tubular section.

14. Vehicle (1000) with an operating element (100) according to one of the preceding claims.

15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the vehicle is a motorcycle.