EP1715401B1 - Electric switch - Google Patents

Abstract

The switch has an operating body (3) that cooperates with rotating and swiveling units over a torsional coupler (7) in such a manner that the units and their masses are decoupled from one another. A rotating-swiveling-actuator is flexibly or rigidly coupled with the units over the coupler for an associated switching unit. A handle is arranged on a side of an axle of the operating body, where the side is turned away to coupler.

Description

The invention relates to an electrical switch according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

Electric switches formed in the manner of a joystick or cursor switch serve to input data for an electrical appliance by a user. For example, such switches are used for car radios, navigation devices, on-board computers or for controlling other functions in motor vehicles. In particular, such an electrical switch can also be used as a multi-function switch for menu control of functions via a display in the motor vehicle.

Such an electrical switch is from the US-A-4,459,440 known and has a movable in a pivot plane mounted actuator which is adjustable in at least two directions. The actuator is movable from a neutral position in a respective direction associated switching position by the user. In the switching position, the actuator acts on a switching element switching.

The known switch can thus be operated by pivoting. However, this switch lacks further actuation possibilities, so that its functionality is insufficient for some applications.

An electrical switch with extended functionality is out of the DE 296 04 717 U1 known. This switch has a cooperating with Verschwenkmitteln actuator so that the actuator in two mutually perpendicular pivot planes each in two directions a neutral position in pivoting positions is pivotable. The actuator can further cooperate with displacement means, so that the actuator is linearly movable by a distance from a zero position in a displacement position. Next, the actuator can still cooperate with rotating means such that the actuator is rotated by certain angle from an initial position in rotational positions. The pivoting position, the displacement position and optionally the rotational position can according to the US-A-4,459,440 each be designed as a switching position, in which the actuating member acts on a switching element switching.

In the DE 296 04 717 U1 No details are given for the formation of the pivoting, the shifting and the rotating means. In particular, there is no indication as to how the functionality of pivoting and, where appropriate, shifting and optionally turning by means of a single actuator can be realized. Furthermore, the known switch gives no indication of the realization of ergonomic requirements, in particular those that are desirable for use in motor vehicles. Finally, it is also not clear whether this switch is suitable for use in a motor vehicle with tight installation spaces.

Furthermore, from the US 2003/0107502 A1 a joystick switch with an actuator located on an axis, in which the actuator is pivotable in two mutually perpendicular directions and rotatable by a certain angle. The axle is mounted in a ball joint and cooperates for the pivoting movement with carriers in the manner of a universal joint. For the rotational movement, the ball of the ball joint is rotatably mounted in a further carrier. The ball joint thus cooperates with the carrier as a kind of torque coupling for the pivoting and rotating movement.

Finally, in the US Pat. No. 6,429,849 B1 a joystick switch is shown with a arranged on a shaft handle which is pivotable in the X and Y directions. As a pivoting means cooperating with the shaft universal joint is used. In addition, the handle is rotatable about the Z-axis by the handle being rotatably mounted on the shaft.

The invention is based on the US 2003/0107502 A1 the object of developing the pivoting and optionally the rotating means and optionally the displacement means. Beyorzugterweise they should be designed such that the ergonomics is increased for the switch provided with high functionality, the switch should, however, in particular with a small space to make do.

This object is achieved in a generic electrical switch by the characterizing features of claim 1.

When electrical switch according to the invention, the rotating means and the pivoting means cooperates via a torque coupling with the actuating member. This interaction is such that the rotating means and the pivoting means, in particular their masses, are decoupled from each other. Advantageously, the components for the rotational movement and vice versa during rotation, the components for the pivoting movement must therefore not be moved during pivoting, which improves the usability of the switch for the user. In a simple and cost-effective manner, the torque coupling consists of a leaf spring-like designed disc. Further embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

The actuator of the electrical switch may have an axis. A handle is arranged on the side of the axle facing away from the torque coupling. In Compact design is the axis on the side facing the torque coupling side with a universal joint in connection. Further, the actuator may comprise a rotary-pivot actuator, wherein the rotary-pivot actuator extends from the handle to the torque coupling and surrounds the axis. The rotary-pivoting actuator is suitably on the one hand with the handle and on the other hand with the torque coupling in combination.

In a particularly ergonomic embodiment of the rotary-pivot actuator is largely rigidly coupled via the torque coupling with the rotating means, which is configured for example as a rotary ring, for the associated switching element. The rotary-pivoting actuator is elastically deflectable coupled via the torque coupling with the pivoting means for the associated switching element. As already mentioned, the pivoting means may comprise the universal joint, so that a pivoting in four mutually perpendicular directions in the manner of a wind rose is possible. The rotary-pivot actuator acts on pivoting on the axis for actuating the pivoting means.

The disc for the torque coupling has an outer ring and an inner ring. Conveniently, the inner ring is secured by means of webs on the outer ring, in such a way that the inner ring of the plane of the disc is pivotable and the outer ring in the plane of the disc is rotatable.

The torque coupling in the manner of a disc can be produced in a simple manner as a stamped part, for example made of spring steel. There are recesses are introduced into the disk so that webs to connect the outer and inner ring stop. Furthermore, openings on the outer and on the inner ring for attachment of the rotary-pivoting actuator on the inner ring and the rotating means may be arranged on the outer ring.

If the electrical switch should also be actuated by displacement, the actuating member may comprise a displaceable push button, wherein the push button is movable from a zero position to a displacement position. In this case, the push button acts in the displacement position on a switching element switching. For ease of use, it makes sense that the push button is arranged substantially centrally in the handle.

Conventionally, the switch has a housing, wherein the actuator protrudes from the housing at the upper part. As a switching element are various design, for example as an electrical switch, as an optical switching element in the manner of a forked light barrier, in which engages a movable aperture, as a magnetic switching element, which cooperates with a Hall sensor, o. The like. Where the electric switch, the forked light barrier, the Hall sensor o. The like. For ease of assembly half is arranged on a circuit board. The printed circuit board is arranged in the housing, preferably in the lower part of the housing, in order to utilize the space available there. In addition, then the circuit board can be used to arrange there an electronics for the evaluation and optionally further processing of the switching signals.

In order to provide the user with a tactile feedback in the operation of the switch, the actuator can cooperate with a haptic generating element for pivoting and / or turning and / or moving. In a cost effective and simple way, there is the haptic for the displacement generating element of a snap disk. The haptic-generating element for pivoting can in space-saving manner from a backdrop at one the universal joint consist receiving bearing shell, in which engages an approach to the axis under the pressing force by a spring. The haptic for turning and optionally locking positions for the rotation generating element can be made to increase the functionality of a magnetic means which is arranged on the rotating means, as well as a cooperating with the magnetic means sprocket which is fixedly arranged in the housing.

It lends itself to further that the magnetic means consists of an electromagnet with a solid core, whereby a variably controllable feel can be generated. Conveniently, the sprocket has radially projecting teeth. A variable haptic and / or changeable detents for the rotational movement of the actuator are then produced in a simple manner by appropriate angular arrangement and / or energization of the coils of the magnetic means and by corresponding angular arrangement of the teeth on the sprocket.

• Entkopplung der Massen beim Schieben,
• Trennung der Funktionselemente,
• geringe Baugröße,
• Verschleißfreiheit der haptikgebenden Elemente, und
• geringe bewegliche Masse.

In summary, it should be emphasized that, especially in the present invention, a rotary pressing and sliding actuator is to be realized, which has decoupled the various functional directions and masses. Here are the following points to consider:

• Decoupling of the masses when pushing,
• Separation of functional elements,
• small size,
• Wear resistance of the haptic-giving elements, and
• low moving mass.

To decouple the masses a torque clutch is selected. This offers the advantage that the components for the rotational movement do not have to be moved. Thus, the moving mass is lower. As a haptic element for the rotational movement of a magnet with an iron cage is chosen, which offers the advantage that it is wear-free over its lifetime Another advantage is that it generates no noise For the Schiebehaptik a spring-sleeve link system is selected which differs in the execution of conventional systems. Important in the execution is the bearings play free of play. This is achieved by a bearing compensation by means of a spring. Due to the modular design, the concept is open for an extension of the functionality. For example, the arrangement of coils and stops further additional functions can be installed.

The flip-up switch has a haptic base with a guide, a sleeve with four lateral guide pins and a spring. The function is as follows. The sleeve moves on the backdrop of the haptic socket. Due to the spring tension, the sleeve is pressed onto the backdrop. The formation of the backdrop, the arrangement of the guide pins on the sleeve and the spring pressure allow a tilting movement of the sleeve in only four fixed directions. Furthermore, this ensures the desired feel when tilting the sleeve and its return to the starting position. Advantageously, the leadership of the tilting movement of the sleeve in four certain directions (right, left, front, back) is guaranteed and achieved the feel and recovery by the shape of the backdrop and compressive force of the spring.

• Einfache Bedienbarkeit,
• Drehen präzise, leichtgängig, diskrete Drehhaptik mit hochwertiger Lagerung,
• Schieben / Kippen in 2 Ebenen,
• Verringerung der Schiebekräfte, ungefähr bei 5 N Druckpunkt,
• Sicherheit gegen Fehlbetätigung durch Trennung der Funktionsbereiche,
• Geringe bewegliche Masse,
• Kleiner Bedienknopfdurchmesser von in etwa 35 mm,
• Entkopplung der Betätigungselemente,
• Aktive Haptik für begrenzte Funktionsbereiche (Jog Shuttle für Menüwahl),
• Selbsterklärend durch Anordnungen und Design (Funktionsbereiche sind selbstredend und einfach erkennbar dargestellt),
• Beleuchtung der aktiven Funktionsbereiche möglich,
• Eingabe von alpha-numerischen Zeichen möglich,
• Integration von kapazitivem Sensor für Tasten mit Hilfefunktion,
• Modularer Aufbau für Ausbaustufen,
• Ausbaustufe mit "freiem Schieben" möglich,
• Wertigkeitelemente für Bedienknopfdesignvarianten,
• Entkopplung der Betätigungselemente.

Furthermore, the following is guaranteed:

• Easy to use,
• Turning precise, smooth, discreet turning feel with high-quality storage,
• Pushing / tilting in 2 levels,
• Reduction of the pushing forces, approximately at 5 N pressure point,
• Safety against incorrect operation by separation of functional areas,
• Low moving mass,
• Small control knob diameter of about 35 mm,
• Decoupling of the actuators,
• Active haptics for limited functional areas (jog shuttle for menu selection),
• Self-explanatory through arrangements and design (functional areas are obviously and easily recognizable),
• Illumination of active functional areas possible,
• Input of alphanumeric characters possible,
• Integration of capacitive sensor for buttons with help function,
• Modular construction for expansion stages,
• Expansion stage with "free sliding" possible,
• Valence elements for control button design variants,
• Decoupling of the actuators.

For the Enter function a decoupling is given by the separate Enter key. A safety mat is located directly on the button.

For turning a decoupling is given by a separate actuator and the torque coupling. In addition, a magnetic detent with high-quality storage is possible.

For tipping a decoupling is given by a fixed ring and the torque coupling. The haptic is generated by means of a plunger with spring and link, with a bearing compensation is ensured by the spring.

The torque coupling allows deflection in the X and Y directions without entrainment of the rotating components. A precise haptic and ease of operation of the actuators and a decoupling of the masses and the individual components is given. Furthermore, the bearing clearance is minimized and given a high-quality bearings. The fact that the rotating component is arranged on the outside, an optional extension of the functional scope is possible.

The advantages achieved by the invention are in particular that the switch manages despite high functionality with little space. Thus, the switch for tight spaces, as given in the dashboard, the center console, the armrest o. The like. In the vehicle are suitable. Furthermore, the switch is error-prone and has a long service life. The switch according to the invention can thus be used advantageously in harsh environmental conditions, for example in motor vehicles. In addition, the switch has a good feel, for example, the switch has eight preferential directions for the actuator with low actuation paths and haptic feedback, which contributes to the increase in ergonomics. Despite high functionality, the switch is simple, for example, with the fingers of one hand to operate, with incorrect operations are largely excluded. In addition, the switch is inexpensive to manufacture.

• Günstiges Wirkprinzip,
• Verschleißfreiheit,
• Kompakte Bauweise,
• Entkoppelte Massen beim Schieben, und
• Geräuschreduzierte Anordnung.

Further advantages can be seen in it:

• Favorable mode of action,
• Freedom from wear,
• Compact design,
• Decoupled masses when pushing, and
• Noise reduced arrangement.

Fig. 1

perspektivisch einen durch Schwenken, Drücken und Drehen betätigbaren elektrischen Schalter in der Art eines Multifunktionsschalters, der teilweise aufgeschnitten ist,

Fig. 2

einen Schnitt durch den elektrischen Schalter aus Fig. 1, wobei das Gehäuse weggelassen ist,

Fig. 3

eine vergrößerte Detailansicht des Drehmittels aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 4

die Drehmomentkupplung als Einzelteil, und

Fig. 5

die Drehmomentkupplung aus Fig. 4, wobei der Innenring verschwenkt ist.

An embodiment of the invention with various developments and refinements is shown in the drawings and will be described in more detail below. Show it

Fig. 1

in perspective, an actuatable by pivoting, pressing and turning electrical switch in the manner of a multi-function switch, which is partially cut,

Fig. 2

a section through the electrical switch Fig. 1 with the housing omitted,

Fig. 3

an enlarged detail view of the rotating means Fig. 1 .

Fig. 4

the torque coupling as a single part, and

Fig. 5

the torque coupling off Fig. 4 , wherein the inner ring is pivoted.

In Fig. 1 a switch 1 with housing 2 and actuator 3 can be seen. With the actuator 3 pivoting 4 act as well as rotating means 5 together. In the switching positions of the actuator 3 switching elements 6 (see Fig. 2 ). The actuating member 2 interacts with the rotating means 5 and with the pivoting means 4 via a torque coupling 7.

How farther Fig. 2 it can be seen, the actuating member 3 has an axis 8 and a handle 9. The pivoting means 4 comprises a universal joint 10. The actuator 3 comprises a rotary pivot actuator 11. Finally, there is a push button 17 on the actuator. 3

The torque coupling 7, which is closer in Fig. 4 consists of an outer ring 12 and an inner ring 13. Webs 14 connect the outer ring 12 with the Inncring 13. The torque coupling 7 is made of a Blechschcibe as a stamped part by Ausnehinungen 15 are introduced to form the webs 14. Thus, the inner ring 13 relative to the outer ring 12 from the plane of the disc is deflected, which is closer in Fig. 5 is shown. In Fig. 3 visible openings 16 are used for fastening the rotating means 5 and the rotary-pivoting actuator 11 to the torque coupling. 7

In the housing 2 is a printed circuit board 18, as in Fig. 2 can be seen on which the switching elements 6 are arranged. The switching element 6 can be used as a Hall sensor 19 or as an in Fig. 1 visible fork light barrier 20 may be formed. Of course, the switching element 6 may also be a conventional electrical switch.

In the push button 17 snap discs 21 are arranged to produce its feel. The haptic for the pivoting movement is generated by a located on a bearing shell 22 slide 23 into which engages a projection 24 on the axis 8, which is closer from Fig. 3 evident. The approach 24 is by means of the force of a in Fig. 2 schematically indicated spring 25 guided in the link 23. The haptic for the rotational movement is finally generated by a magnetic means 26, which is also in Fig. 3 you can see. The magnetic means 26 comprises a sprocket 27 and an electromagnet 28 having a fixed core 29. The electromagnet 28 cooperates with teeth 30 on the ring gear 27, so that not only the feel but also locking positions for the rotational movement are adjustable.

Such a multi-function switch can be used for car radios and / or for control devices, displays o. The like. In motor vehicles. However, the invention is not on the described and illustrated embodiment limited. Rather, it also encompasses all expert developments within the scope of the invention defined by the claims. In addition to automotive applications, such a multi-function switch can also be advantageously used as input means for computers, machine tools, household appliances or the like.

Reference numeral list;

1:

electrical switch

2:

casing

3:

actuator

4:

Verschwenkmittel

5:

center of rotation

6:

switching element

7:

torque coupling

8th:

axis

9:

handle

10:

Universal joint

11:

Which can pivot rotary actuator

12:

outer ring

13:

inner ring

14:

web

15:

recess

16:

breakthrough

17:

push-button

18:

circuit board

19:

Hall sensor

20:

Light barrier

21:

snap disk

22:

bearing shell

23:

scenery

24:

approach

25:

feather

26:

magnetic medium

27:

sprocket

28:

electromagnet

29:

hard core

30:

tooth

Claims (11)

1. Electric switch, in particular in the form of a joystick or cursor switch, with a movable actuating element (3), a pivoting means, a rotary means and a torque coupling, wherein the actuating element (3) interacts with the pivoting means (4), such that the actuating element (3) can be pivoted in a pivot plane in at least one direction from a neutral position into a pivot position, wherein the actuating element (3) interacts with the rotary means (5) such that the actuating element (3) can be pivoted from an initial position by at least one angle into a rotary position, wherein the pivot position and the rotary position are respectively the switching position, such that the actuating element (3) in the switching position actuates a switch element (6), sensor element, signal element or the like, and wherein the rotary means (5) and the pivoting means (4) via the torque coupling (7) cooperate with the actuating element (3) such that the rotary means (5) and the pivoting means (4) are decoupled from one another, in particular their masses, characterised in that the torque coupling (7) consists of a disc designed as a type of a leaf-spring.
2. Electric switch according to claim 1, characterised in that the actuating element (3) comprises an axis (8), in that preferably a handle (9) is arranged on the side of the axis (8) facing away from the torque coupling (7), and in that also preferably the axis (8) on the side facing the torque coupling (7) is connected to a universal joint (10).
3. Electric switch according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the actuating element (3) comprises a rotary-pivot actuator (11), whereby in particular the rotary-pivot-actuator (11) extends from the handle (9) to the torque coupling (7) and if necessary surrounds the axis (8), and in that preferably the rotary-pivot actuator (11) is connected on the one hand to the handle (9) and on the other hand to the torque coupling (7).
4. Electric switch according to claim 3, characterised in that the rotary-pivot actuator (11) is coupled largely rigidly via the torque coupling (7) to the rotary means (5), which is designed in particular as a rotary ring, for the associated switch element (6), in that preferably the rotary-pivot actuator (11) is coupled in an elastically displaceable manner via the torque coupling (7) to the pivoting means (4), which comprises in particular the universal joint (10) for pivoting in four directions perpendicular to one another in the form of a wind rose, for the associated switch element (6), and in that also preferably the torque-pivot-actuator (11) on pivoting acts on the axis (8) for activating the pivoting means (4).
5. Electric switch according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, characterised in that the torque coupling (7) comprises an external ring (12) and an internal ring (13), and in that preferably the internal ring (13) is secured by means of webs (14) to the external ring (12), in particular such that the internal ring (13) can be pivoted out of the plane of the disc and the external ring (12) into the plane of the disc.
6. Electric switch according claim 5, characterised in that the torque coupling (7) is produced as a stamped part, in particular made of spring steel, in that preferably recesses (15) are inserted into the disc such that webs (14) remain for connecting the external and internal rings (12, 13), and in that also preferably openings (16) are formed on the external and internal ring (12, 13) for securing the rotary-pivot actuator (11) onto the internal ring (13) and the rotary means (5) onto the external ring (12).
7. Electric switch according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the actuating element (3) comprises a displaceable push button (17), in that preferably the push button (17) can be moved from a zero position to a displacement position, in particular such that the push button (17) in the displacement position has a switching effect on a switch element (6), and in that also preferably the push button (17) is arranged essentially centrally in the handle (9).
8. Electric switch according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the switch (1) has a housing (2), in that preferably the actuating element (3) projects out of the housing (2), in particular at the upper part of the housing (2), in that also preferably the switch element (6) is designed as an electric switch, as an optical switch element in the form of a forked light barrier (20), into which a movable screen connects, as a magnetic switch element, which cooperates with a Hall sensor (19) or is similarly designed, in that also preferably the electric switch, the forked light barrier (20), the Hall sensor (19) or the like is arranged on a circuit board (18), and in that also preferably the circuit board (18) is arranged in the housing (2), in particular in the lower part of the housing (2).
9. Electric switch according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the actuating element (3) interacts with an element generating a haptic for pivoting and/or rotation and/or displacement, in that preferably the element generating the haptic for displacement consists of a snap disc (21), and in that also preferably the element generating the haptic for pivoting consists of a slide (23) on a bearing shell (22) mounting the universal joint (10), into which a shoulder (24) on the axis (8) engages, in particular under the pressing force of a spring (25).
10. Electric switch according to claim 9, characterised in that the element generating the haptic for the rotation and if necessary detent positions for the rotation consists of a magnetic means (26), which is arranged in particular on the rotary means (5), and a toothed gear (27) cooperating with the magnetic means (26), which is arranged in particular fixed in the housing (2).
11. Electric switch according to claim 10, characterised in that the magnetic means (26) consists of an electromagnet (28) with a solid core (29), in that preferably the toothed gear (27) has radially projecting teeth (30), and in that also preferably a changeable haptic and/or changeable detent positions for the rotary movement of the actuating element (3) can be generated by the corresponding angular arrangement and/or charging with current of the coils of the magnetic means (26) and if necessary by the corresponding angular arrangement of the teeth (30) on the toothed gear (27).

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