EP1834229A2

EP1834229A2 - Input device and method for the operation thereof

Info

Publication number: EP1834229A2
Application number: EP05785201A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Michael Prados; Philippe Alessandrini; Wolfgang Bloehs
Original assignee: Volkswagen AG
Current assignee: Volkswagen AG
Priority date: 2004-12-30
Filing date: 2005-09-21
Publication date: 2007-09-19
Also published as: WO2006074712A2; WO2006074712A3; US8599142B2; US20060146036A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an input device, in particular for a motor vehicle. Said device comprises: a display for reproducing a control element; a touchscreen, which is located above the display, for registering a touched position on the control surface of said screen; a force sensor, which is associated with the touchscreen, for measuring the force that is exerted on the control surface of the touchscreen; and a controller for generating a warning, when the control surface of the touchscreen is touched or pressed in the vicinity of the reproduction of the control element and for generating a control command that is associated with the control element, if after the warning has been generated, a force is exerted on the control surface that exceeds a force threshold value.

Description

description

input device

The invention relates to an input device, in particular for a motor vehicle, with a touch screen.

A touch screen is e.g. from DE 201 02 197 U1 (incorporated by reference). DE 201 02 197 U1 discloses a touchscreen for the visualization of electronic signals and an confirming touch input of characters and symbols consisting of a functional level for visualization and key input and a higher, punctually deformable protective level corresponding thereto. At a selection of certain points of the function level by touch over the protection plane away at least one confirmation signal for the sense of touch (haptic stimulus) of the user perceptible generated at the position of the touch point in the deformed protective plane and the confirmation signal for the sense of touch (haptic stimulus) by -. generated eccentrically, within and / or below the functional plane arranged Schwingungselemante. In addition, in the case of the touchscreen known from DE 201 02 197 U1, the transmission of the vibrations generated from the functional to the protective plane takes place by direct contact of the two planes and / or over the edge regions of the planes by means of rigid or elastic connecting elements.

Details of touchscreens may e.g. on the website www.3m.com/3mtouchsystems/. For example, the following touchscreens are offered by 3M ™:

- MicroTouch ™ 12.1 "FPD Touch Monitor

(see www.Sm.com/Smtouchsystems/Products/Monitors/FPDdesktop.jhtml)

- MicroTouch ™ M150 FPD Touch Monitor

(see www.3m.com/3mtouchsysterns/Products/Monitors/M1 δO.jhtml)

- MicroTouch ™ CRT Touch Monitor

(see www.3m.com/3mtouchsystems/Products/Monitors/CRTdesktop.jhtml)

- MicroTouch ™ ChassisTouch ™ FPD Touch Monitor

(see www.3m.com/3mtouchsystems/Products/Monitors/FPDchassis.jhtml)

- MicroTouch ™ ChassisTouch ™ CRT Touch Monitor (see www.3m.com/3mtouchsystems/Products/Monitors/CRTchassis.jhtml)

Further details on touchscreens can also be found on the following websites:

- www.cybertouch.com

- www.elotouch.com/products/default.asp

- www.Sm.com/Smtouchsystems/Products/Resistive/δ-wire.jhtml

- www.3m.com/3mtouchsystems/Products/Resistive/PL.jhtml

- www.Sm.com/Smtouchsystems/Products/Resistive/FG.jhtml

- www.Sm.com/Smtouchsystems/Products/Resistive/SRTS.jhtml

From DE 201 80 024 U1 or the corresponding WO 01/54109 A1 <incorporated by reference) is also known haptic feedback touch control with haptic feedback for inputting signals into a computer and for outputting forces to a user of the touch control, wherein the touch controller comprises a touch input device having an approximately flat touch surface operable to input a position signal into a processor of the computer based on a position on the touch surface that a user touches, the position signal being in position Reflects dimensions. The touch control according to WO 01/54109 A1 also has at least one actuator connected to the touch input device, wherein the actuator outputs a force to the touch input device to provide a haptic sensation to the user touching the touch surface, the actuator applying the force due to one of outputted to the processor power information directly to the touch input device.

Haptic feedback is also known from US Pat. No. 6,429,846, WO 03/038800 A1 and WO 03/41046 A1.

From DE 197 31 285 A1 a Bedieneiement for a device with a plurality of selectable menus, functions and / or function values is known, which has a surface that can be detected by the operator and on the selection by a local movement or contact the surface is audible. The surface is variable in shape according to the selected and / or selectable menu, function and / or function value. It is an object of the invention to improve an input device with a touch screen. It is desirable to provide an input device that is particularly suitable for motor vehicles.

The above object is achieved by an input device, wherein the input device is a display for displaying a control element in the display arranged above the touch screen for detecting the position of a touch, in particular on a side facing away from the display side of the touch screen, control surface of the touch screen, a Touch sensor associated force sensor for measuring a force exerted on the control surface of the touch screen and a control to generate a warning when touching the control surface of the touch screen in the display of the control or pressing the control surface of the touch screen in the display of the control and to generate a the control element associated control command, in particular for controlling a device operable by means of the input device, if after generation of the warning, in particular in the area of the representation of the operating element, on the Bedienfläc when a force exceeding a force limit is exerted.

A warning generated by the controller according to the invention can be issued optically, acoustically and / or haptically to an operator of the input device. The display can be used for visual warning. For haptic warning, the touch screen can be moved.

The representation of the control element may e.g. done by displaying a button.

In one embodiment of the invention, at least two different values of a force exerted on the operating surface can be distinguished by means of the force sensor.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is configured as a transparent force measuring layer integrated into the touchscreen or connected to the touchscreen. In this case, in a further embodiment of the invention, the force measuring layer covers a substantial part of the display. In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is designed as a force-dependent resistor, € in such a force-dependent resistance can e.g. be implemented by FSR technology.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the input device further comprises an actuator for moving the touch screen in at least one direction. In a further embodiment of the invention, the input device further comprises a substantially U-shaped spring for mechanically connecting the touch screen with the reference body.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the touch screen for confirming successful operation of the operating element by means of the control by driving the actuator is movable.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement of the touchscreen is dependent on the force exerted on the touchscreen.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by a method for operating a, in particular one or more of the aforementioned features, input device having a display for displaying a control element and arranged above the display touch screen for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen, with a warning is generated when touching the control surface of the touch screen or pressing on the control surface of the touch screen in the area of the display of the control, whereby a force exerted on the control surface of the touch screen is measured, and wherein a control command associated with the control is generated, if after generating the warning, in particular in the area of the representation of the operating element, on the operating surface a force is exerted that exceeds a force limit.

In one embodiment of the invention, the touchscreen is moved to confirm a successful operation of the operating element.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the touch screen is moved to confirm successful operation of the operating element as a function of the force exerted on the touch screen.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by a method for operating an input device comprising, in particular, one or more of the aforementioned features, a display for displaying a control element and a touchscreen arranged above the display for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touchscreen, wherein a on the control surface ^ it touchscreens force applied a warning is generated when pressing on the control surface of the touch screen in the area of the display of the control element, if a force is applied to the control surface, which exceeds a first force limit, wherein a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen force is measured again, and wherein a control command associated with the operating element is generated, provided that the warning, in particular in the area of the representation of the operating element, is exerted on the operating surface which exceeds a second force limit value.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by an input device, wherein the input device comprises the following components:

a display for displaying a control element and for displaying information;

a touchscreen arranged above the display for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touchscreen, in particular on a side of the touchscreen remote from the display;

a force sensor assigned to the touch screen for measuring a force exerted on the operating surface of the touch screen and

a control for generating a control command dependent on the force exerted on the operating surface of the touchscreen, in particular for controlling a device which can be operated by means of the input device, and / or for generating a display control signal dependent on the force exerted on the control surface of the touchscreen for displaying said on the Display of displayable information.

In a further embodiment of the invention, at least two different values of a force exerted on the operating surface can be distinguished by means of the force sensor.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is configured as a transparent force measuring layer integrated into the touchscreen or connected to the touchscreen. In this case, the force-measuring layer covers in a further embodiment of the invention, a substantial part of the display. In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is configured as a force-dependent resistor.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by a method for operating, in particular one or more of the aforementioned features, an input device with a display for displaying a control element and for displaying information and a mouse over the display arranged touch screen for detecting the position of a touch, In particular, provided on a side facing away from the screen of the touch screen, control surface of the touch screen, wherein a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen force is measured, and wherein a force exerted by the force applied to the control surface of the touch screen control command, in particular for controlling -eines means of the Input device operable device, and / or one of the force applied to the control surface of the touch screen display control signal for displaying said displayable information is generated on the display.

a touch screen for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen,

a force sensor associated with the touch screen for measuring a force exerted on the operating surface of the touch screen,

an actuator for moving the touchscreen in at least one direction, and

a control for moving the touch screen by driving the actuator, wherein the extent of the movement of the touch screen is dependent on the force exerted on the touch screen.

In one embodiment of the invention, the input device further comprises a display arranged on one side of the touch screen remote from the control surface of the touch screen.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is configured as a transparent force measuring layer integrated into the touchscreen or connected to the touchscreen. In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is configured as a force-dependent resistor.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by a method for operating a, in particular one or more of the aforementioned features, input device with a touch screen for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen, wherein a force exerted on the control surface of the touch screen force is measured, the touch screen is moved, and wherein the movement or the The amount of movement of the touch screen is dependent on the force applied to the touch screen.

The movement of the touch screen can e.g. be dependent on the force exerted on the touch screen that the touch screen is moved when the force applied to the control surface of the touch screen is greater than a first force limit. The movement of the touch screen can e.g. depending on the force exerted on the touch screen that the touch screen is moved again when the force applied to the control surface of the touch screen is greater than a second force limit, the second force limit is greater than the first force limit.

- A display for displaying a control element;

a force sensor associated with the touch screen for measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen;

an actuator for moving the touchscreen in at least one direction and

a control for such activation of the actuator,

that a surface structure of the operating surface can be felt by movement of the touch screen in a direction parallel to the operating surface, as long as the operating surface touches a position intended for a structure and a force greater than a first force limit value is exerted on the operating surface, and that

- The touch screen is moved in a direction parallel to the operating surface, if the operating surface is touched at a position at which a control is shown by means of the display, and if on the control surface, a force is applied, which is greater than a second force limit.

It can be provided that the first force limit essentially comprises O N.

In one embodiment of the invention, at least two different values of a force exerted on the operating surface can be distinguished by means of the force sensor. In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is configured as a transparent force measuring layer integrated into the touchscreen or connected to the touchscreen. In this case, the .Kraftmessschicht covered in a further embodiment of the invention, a substantial part of the display. In a further embodiment of the invention, the force sensor is configured as a force-dependent resistor.

By means of a force sensor according to the invention, a force can be measured continuously or in two, three or more stages.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by motor vehicle with one of the aforementioned input devices. Motor vehicle according to the invention is in particular a land vehicle which can be used individually in road traffic. Motor vehicles according to the invention are not limited in particular to land vehicles with internal combustion engine.

Further advantages and details will become apparent from the following description of embodiments, wherein like reference numerals designate the same or similar elements.

Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a cockpit of a motor vehicle;

Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of a cockpit of a motor vehicle;

Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of an input device;

Fig. 4 shows a cross section of the input device along the section line A-A according to Fig. 3;

Fig _. Fig. 5 shows another embodiment of an input device;

Fig. 6 shows a simple control signal;

Fig. 7 shows a movement of the touch screen in a direction substantially parallel to the touch screen;

Fig. 8 shows a movement of the touch screen in a direction substantially parallel to the touch screen;

Fig. 9 shows another control signal;

Fig. 10 shows another control signal;

Fig. 11 shows a method of generating another control signal;

Fig. 12 shows an embodiment of an illustrated by means of an input device

Basic mask;

Fig. 13 shows an embodiment of a mask for operating an air conditioner;

Fig. 14 shows an embodiment of a mask for operating a navigation system; Fig. 15 shows an embodiment of a sub-mask for operating a

Navigatioπssystems;

FIG. 16 shows an exemplary embodiment of a further sub-mask for operating a

Navigation system;

Fig. 17 shows an embodiment of a mask for operating a telephone;

Fig. 18 shows an embodiment of a mask for changing settings;

Fig. 19 shows an embodiment for generating the warning; and

Fig. 20 shows another embodiment for generating the warning.

Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a cockpit 1 of a motor vehicle. In the cockpit 1, a steering wheel 2 is arranged below a dashboard 3. The dashboard 3 has an input device 4 arranged next to the steering wheel 2. Fig. 2 shows an alternative embodiment of a cockpit 5 of a motor vehicle, wherein in the cockpit 5 also below a dashboard 7, a steering wheel 6 is arranged. In the steering wheel 6, however, deviating from the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 1, an input device 8 is arranged.

Fig. 3 shows - as a possible embodiment of an input device 4 or 8 - an input device 10 for optically displaying information and for inputting commands in a plan view. 4 shows a cross section of the input device 10 along the section line A-A according to FIG. 3. The input device 10 has a transparent touchscreen 16 with a control surface 16A arranged above a display 17. FIG. 5 shows-as a possible further exemplary embodiment of an input device 4 or 8 -a further input device 110 for optically displaying information and for inputting commands in a plan view. The input device 110 has a transparent touchscreen 116 with a control surface 116A arranged above a display 17. The display 17 of the input device 10 or the input device 110 is connected to a reference body 21 by means of holders 29A, 29B, 29C and 29D. The reference body 21 may be part of the dashboard 3 or the steering wheel 6.

The touch screen 16 or 116 is held by means of a frame 15. The frame 15 has four U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14, which are connected by means of connecting elements 15A, 15B, 15C and 15D with each other. The frame 15 is a plastic casting, that is, the U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14 are molded together with the connecting elements 15A, 15B, 15C and 15D in one piece of plastic. Such a plastic may in particular polycarbonate, ABS, acetal or polyethylene (English: polyethylerie) include. Particularly suitable U-shaped springs are made of acetal.

The frame is glued to the connecting elements 15A and 15C with the touch screen 16 and 116, respectively. In an alternative or additional embodiment, the touch screen 16 or 116 is held by a bias of the U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14 in the frame.

The frame 15 has a (flexible) connector 19 which is connected to the connector 15C. The connecting piece 19 has a curvature 19A, which comprises an eccentric drive shaft journal 18A of an actuator 18 designed as an electric motor. The rotational movement of the actuator 18 is converted into a translational movement. The actuator 18 is designed as a <dc (brush) motor. But there are also other embodiments in connection with another connection to the frame 15, such as e.g. Piezoactors or so-called voice coils, can be used.

The U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14 each have two spring arms 25 and 27, «ine between the two spring arms 25 and 27 arranged opening 28 and a connection point 26 on which the two spring arms 25 and 27 are connected. The U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14 have a Hauptfederkonstante substantially parallel to the opening 28 and substantially perpendicular to the opening 28 on a Nebenfederkonstante, wherein the Nebenfederkonstante is at least four times the Hauptfederkonstante. In the present exemplary embodiment, the main spring constant refers to a direction designated in FIG. 3 as the main direction HR and secondary spring constant to an integral one. 3 as the secondary direction NR direction. The main direction HR and the secondary direction NR are orthogonal to one another but parallel to the operating surface 16A or 116A.

The U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14 have a thickness D of 0.5mm to 2mm, in the present embodiment of 0.8mm on. The width of the opening 28 is between 5mm and 30mm. The specific width of the opening 28 is selected depending on the material such that a desired main spring constant is achieved. The chief constant is thereby matched to a mass of the touch screen 16 or 116 such that the touch screen 16 or 116 in conjunction with the U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14 a mechanical natural frequency of 5Hz to 150Hz, in particular a natural frequency of 30Hz to 75Hz. In the present embodiment, it is provided that the natural frequency is 55 Hz. Natural frequency in the context of the invention is in particular the smallest mechanical Resonant frequency of the system of the U-shaped springs 11, 12, 13, 14 and the touch screen 16 and 116th

The term U-shaped springs should be understood in particular broadly. Thus, U-shaped springs according to the invention should in particular comprise springs which have two spring arms.

The touchscreen 16 or 116 and the display 17 according to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 or according to FIG. 5 are data-technically connected to a controller 20, from which the display 17 a display control signal AZ is transmitted with information to be displayed on the display 17. From the touch screen 16 or 116, the controller 20 receives a signal P indicating where a user of the touch screen 16 or 116 touches the touch screen 16 or 116.

The touchscreen 16 comprises a transparent force measuring layer integrated into the touchscreen 16 or connected to the touchscreen (not shown in the cross-sectional representation according to FIG. 4) for measuring a force exerted on the operating surface 16A of the touchscreen 16. An embodiment of a suitable touch screen 16 is z. B. as DualForce touchscreen by the company CyberTouch (See www.cybertouch.com/DUALFORCE.html) offered. The output signal of the force measuring layer, d. H. the force exerted on the touch screen 16 or the operating surface 16A of the touch screen 16 is designated in FIG. 3 by the reference symbol F. The CyberTouch DualForce touchscreen can distinguish between a light touch on the touch screen 16 and a touch on the touch screen 16. In an embodiment, the input device 10 is provided that an input is not already effected by simply touching the touchscreen 16 but by pressing on the touchscreen 16. In this case, pressing on the touchscreen 16 at a point displayed as an operating element does not lead to an operation of the touchscreen 16, but not a simple touch of the touchscreen 16 by an operator on a point displayed as an operating element. The latter is a procedure particularly suitable for use in motor vehicles.

The input device 110 comprises force sensors 200, 201, 202 and 203 assigned to the touch screen 116 for measuring a force exerted on the operating surface 116A of the touch screen 116. The force sensors 200, 201, 202 and 203 may be configured, for example, as force-dependent resistors. Such force-dependent resistors can be implemented eg by FSR technology. Force sensors 200, 201, 202 and 203 configured in this manner allow a substantially continuous measurement of a force on the operating surface 116A of the Touchscreens 116 applied force. However, it may be provided to distinguish, by means of the controller 20 even in such an implementation, only between two states, namely a light touch of the touch screen 116 and pressures on the touch screen 116, or only between three states. In this case, it is also provided that an input is not already simple. Touching the touch screen 116 but by <slight) pressing on the touch screen 116 and the control surface 116A takes place.

As confirmation of such an input (a command), the controller 20 generates a control signal S lasting at least 50 ms, by means of which the actuator 18 is briefly moved. The individual components of the input device are dimensioned such that the touch screen 16 or 116 is deflected less than 1mm. A control signal S may e.g. a simple jump function 40, shown in FIG. 6 over time t, or a control signal to produce a more complex movement. FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of a movement 41 of the touchscreen 16 or 116 as confirmation of an input by means of the touchscreen 16 or 116 over the time t. M designates the deflection of the touch screen 16 or 116 in a direction parallel to the touch screen 16 or 116, where M is less than 1 mm. The deflection of the touch screen 16 or 116 takes place for a duration between 50 ms and 800 ms, in particular for a duration between 100 ms and 400 ms. It has been found that some subjects prefer a movement stimulated by a jump function-the touch screen 16 or 116, respectively.

In a preferred embodiment of other subjects, the touch screen is 16 or 116 for confirming the command entered by means of the touch screen 16 and 116 as shown in Fig. 8 as a deflection M of the touch screen 16 and 116 over the time t - with a decaying Oscillation 42 in a direction parallel to the touch screen 16 and 116 direction. The decaying vibration 42 has an envelope 43 or 44 with an exponential component. In this case, the envelope 43 or 44, for example, a term t ^a or Terrή b ^ι , where a and b are variables. Thus, the envelope 43 or 44 may be a function of a1 + a2-t ^a3 or b1 + b2 *, where a1, a2, a3, b1 and b2 are variables. In addition, the decaying vibration 42 has a frequency between 5Hz and 80Hz. 9 shows a further control signal 45 for moving the touch screen 16 or 116 in a direction substantially parallel to the touch screen 16 or 116 over the time t in sampling points, a sampling interval being 51.2 μs. The control signal 45 is shown normalized to its maximum value. It has a frequency of 38.1Hz and decays after 210ms, with the decay occurring according to a quadratic relationship. A suitable quadratic relationship for the upper envelope HO is, for example

A suitable quadratic relationship for the lower envelope HU is e.g.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the extent of the movement of the touch screen 16 or 116 for confirming the command entered by means of the touch screen 16 or 11ß from the on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on the control surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 and 116 applied force F is dependent. In this case, it is provided in particular that the amplitude and / or the frequency of an oscillation for confirming the command entered by means of the touch screen 16 or 116 from the touch screen 16 or 116 or the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 is dependent on the applied force. Thus, e.g. It is provided that the envelope of the oscillation according to FIG. 9 is dependent on the force exerted on the touch screen 16 or 116 or the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116. A suitable relationship for the upper envelope HO is e.g.

2lQnts ≤t

A suitable relationship for the lower envelope HU is in accordance with e.g.

g <F) is an increasing value with the force F exerted on the touch screen 16 or 116 or the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116, which is equal to 0, as long as the force applied to the touch screen 16 or 116 or ., force F applied to the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 is less than a limit value and is not more than 1.

10 shows a particularly suitable control signal or its electrical current I _s for controlling the actuator 18 to be dependent on the force F exerted on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 Moving the touch screen 16 or 116, in particular to confirm an input by means of the touch screen 16 or 116 command. In this case, ΔF1 denotes a first force limit value, ΔF2 a second force limit value and ΔF3 a third force limit value. In an exemplary embodiment, the first force limit value is 100 mN, the second force limit value is 1 N in an exemplary embodiment, and the third force limit value is, in an exemplary embodiment, 1.5 mN.

FIG. 11 shows a method for generating a further particularly suitable control signal for moving the touch screen 16 or 116, respectively, depending on the force F exerted on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 . the electric current l _s to the corresponding control of the actuator 18. the method begins with a query 46, whether the force F 16 and 116 applied to the touch screen 16 or 116 and on the operating surface 16A and 116A of the touch screen is greater than a first force limit - in an exemplary embodiment 100 mN - is. If the force F exerted on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 is greater than the first force limit value, then the query 46 is followed by a step 47 in which the actuator 18 is active for 200 ms is controlled by means of the controller 20 in accordance with the control signal S mapped to the step 47, where Is denotes the electric current of the control signal S.

The step 47 is followed by a query 48 as to whether the force F exerted on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 is greater than a second force limit - in an exemplary embodiment 1 N -. If the force F exerted on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 is greater than the first force limit, then the query 48 is followed by a step 49 in which the actuator 18 is active for 200 ms is controlled by means of the controller 20 in accordance with the control signal S mapped to the step 49, where l _s denotes the electrical current of the control signal S.

It can furthermore be provided for certain areas of the touchscreen 16 or 116, for example via control elements and / or elements of a map represented by the display 17, when touching the touchscreen 16 or 116 or its operating area 16A or 116A and / or. or with slight pressure on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on its operating surface 16A or 116A to simulate a relief-like structure of the touch screen 16 or 116 or its operating surface 16A or 116A. In this case, the controller 20 generates at a simple touch of the touch screen 16 or 116 or its. Control surface 16A and 116A by an operator on a displayed as a control element and / or as an element of a map a slight light during the touch of the touch screen 16 or 116 and its control surface 16A and 116A lasting vibration. A suitable vibration has an amplitude of 0.2 mm and a frequency of 38.1 Hz. With stronger pressure on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on the control surface 16A or 116A, however, there is an operation of the control element shown and a - for example, with reference to FIG. 9 explained - haptic feedback.

Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the touch screen 16 or 116 or its operating surface 16A or 116A is touched and / or light touched on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on its operating surface 16A or 116A at the border of a a relief-like structure provided area to generate a movement of the touch screen 16 and 116, respectively. This movement of the touch screen 16 or 116 is in particular stronger than a movement of the touch screen 16 or 116 when touching the touch screen 16 or 116 or its operating surface 16A or 116A and / or by slight pressure on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on its operating surface 16A or 116A within a region provided for a relief-like structure.

Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided when touching the touch screen 16 or 116 or its operating surface 16A or 116A and / or by slight pressure on the touch screen 16 or 116 or on its operating surface 16A or 116A within one of a relief-like Structure provided area the touch screen 16 and 116 in response to a speed of movement over the touch screen 16 or 116 or via the control surface 16A and 116A to move. The speed of movement via the touchscreen 16 or 116 or via its operating surface 16A or 116A can be reduced, for example. be determined by means of a Kalman filter from the signal P. Details on Kalman filters can be found in the book "Optimum Systems Control", pages 191 to 261 (incorporated by reference).

The input devices 10 and 110 designed according to the input devices 4 and 8 can advantageously replace, for example, a display and operating device disclosed in WO 00/21795 (incorporated by reference) while retaining their menu-guided functionality. FIGS. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 show different masks which can be represented by means of the input device 10 or 110. In Fig. 12, the input device 10 or 110 is shown with a basic mask. In this case, the input device 10 or 110 represents six operating elements 141, 142, 143, 144, 145 and 146 executed by ellipses. Pressing the operating element 142 in FIG. 12 calls up a mask for operating a radio, and pressing the operating element 143 In Fig. 12, a mask for operating a CD player is called.

By depressing the control element 145 in FIG. 12, a mask shown in FIG. 13 is called to operate an air conditioning system. In the mask shown in Fig. 13 T-emperaturangaben the individual places in the vehicle interior together with controls 50, 51, 52, 53 and 54 are shown, wherein the temperature data refer to currently set temperatures, via the controls 50, 51, 53 and 54 can be changed.

The illustration according to FIG. 13 with the heading "TEMPERATURE" and the display of an interior 55 of a motor vehicle makes it clear that the temperature in the vehicle interior can be set individually and seat-related. The operator 50 indicates to the front driver's seat 56 that a temperature of 19 ° C is set. The control element 53 indicates for the front passenger seat 57, that a temperature of 20 ⁰ C is set. For the rear seats 58 and 59 17 ⁰ C are set to the left 19 ° C and on the right side. The operating element 52 has an assignment, ie a function assignment, which is shown in the display field with "back" (to the next higher menu representation, ie in the present case to the mask according to FIG. 12).

By pressing the operating element 141 in FIG. 12, a mask shown in FIG. 14 is called up to operate a navigation system. The mask shows a section of a road map 60 of the current vehicle location and above the road map 60 in a field 61 the destination and the distance to the destination. In addition, operating elements 62, 63,

64, 65, 67 and 68, by means of which submasks can be called up by pressing. An operating element 66 for displaying a full screen and an operating element 69 for starting a route guidance are also shown. With regard to details of the highlighted menu, reference is made to WO 00/21795, wherein the operating elements 62, 63, 64,

65, 66, 67, 68 and 69 replace the control elements 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g and 3h disclosed in WO 00/21795.

By pressing the operating element 62 in FIG. 14, a sub-mask according to FIG. 15 is called up, which displays the destination in a field 70. By means of the sub-mask according to FIG. 15 In addition, controls 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78 and 79 are shown. With regard to details of the highlighted menu, reference is also made to WO 00/21795, wherein the control elements 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78 and 79 shown on the display, the operating elements 3a disclosed in WO 00/21795, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g and 3h.

By pressing the operating element 72 in FIG. 15, a sub-mask according to FIG. 16 is called up, which displays in a field 80 a destination to be entered. By means of the sub-mask according to FIG. 16, control elements 82, 83, 84 and 85 are additionally displayed which replace the operating elements 3a, 3d, 3g and 3h disclosed in WO 00/21795. In the field 80, a letter selection line 88 and controls 86, 87 and 89 are shown. The letter selection line 88 is movable up or down by depressing the controls 86 and 87, respectively. By pressing the control element 89, a marked letter can be selected. It is provided in an advantageous embodiment that the controller 20 is generated at pressures on the controls 86 and 87 in such a manner dependent on the force exerted on the control surface 16A and 116A of the touch screen 16 and 116 force F display control signal that the speed of movement The letter selection line 88 is dependent on the force F exerted on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116. In this case, by means of the controller 20 also generated by the force applied to the control surface 16A and 116A of the touch screen 1 ^* 6 and 116 force F dependent control command for a navigation system for correspondingly fast selection of letters. For example, a volume control or a transmitter selection can also be implemented in a manner analogous to control elements 86 or 87 designed in this way, the speed of the volume control or the transmitter selection depending on the force F exerted on the control surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 is.

By pressing the operating element 144 in FIG. 12, a mask shown in FIG. 17 is called up to operate a telephone which displays in a field 90 selection keys for a telephone. By means of the mask according to FIG. 17, operating elements 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98 and 99 are also displayed which contain the operating elements 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g disclosed in WO 00/21795 and replace 3h. The dial buttons for a telephone shown in the field 90 are designed as controls by means of which a telephone number can be selected.

In the masks and sub-masks according to FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16 or FIG. 17, furthermore, operating elements 100, 101, 102, 103 and 104 are shown which correspond to the operating elements 141, 142, 143, 144 and 145 correspond. By means of the operating elements 50, 51/52, 53, 54, "2, 63, 64, 65," 66, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 82, 83 , 84, 85, 86, 87, 89, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 141, 142, 143, 144 and 145, becomes a haptic For this purpose, the touch screen of the input device 10 or 110 is then moved in a manner described with reference to Figures ^1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9, respectively, when pressed the corresponding control element 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 82, 83, 84 , 85, 86, 87, 89, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 141, 142, 143, 144 and 145, respectively, a user input has occurred, ie when the touch has been, for example, long enough and / or sufficient pressure has been exerted on the touchscreen This is particularly advantageous for use in a motor vehicle, since an operator, eg the driver of a motor vehicle, in this way Confirmation of his input without having to look at the display. In this way, safety is increased during a trip.

By pressing the operating element 146 in FIG. 12, a mask shown in FIG. 18 for switching on and off an airbag designated by AIRBAG 1 by means of a designated by reference numeral 171 control element for switching on and off of a designated AIRBAG2 airbag by means of a called control element designated by reference numeral 172, for switching on and off of an anti-lock braking system by means of a designated by reference numeral 173 control element and to turn on or off an anti-slip control by means of an operating element designated by reference numeral 175. By means of a control element designated by reference numeral 174 further sub-masks can be called, and by operation of a designated by reference numeral 176 control element a return to the mask shown in Fig. 12 is possible.

With regard to the operating elements 171 and 172, a sequence illustrated in FIG. 19 is implemented in the controller 20. The sequence begins with a query 300 as to whether a force is exerted on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touchscreen 16 or 116 in the region of the representation of the operating element 171 or of the operating element 172 which exceeds a first force limit value. If a force F which exceeds a first force limit value is exerted on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touchscreen 16 or 116 in the region of the representation of the operating element 171 or the operating element 172, the query 300 follows a step 301 in which -a optical, acoustic and / or haptic warning is generated. For visual warning, the display 17 can be controlled by the controller 20, for example, such that the corresponding control element 171 or 172 flashes and / or is highlighted in red. For haptic warning, the touch screen 16 or 116, such as for an input confirmation (see eg Fig. 9). In addition, it may be provided in step 301 to wait a certain time, eg 1s.

The step 301 is followed by a query 302 whether a force F is applied to the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 in the region of the representation of the operating element 171 or of the operating element 172, which exceeds a second force limit value, the second force limit value being greater or equal to the first force limit. If a force F is exerted on the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 in the region of the representation of the operating element 171 or the operating element 172, then the query 302 is followed by a step 303 with an input confirmation (cf., for example, FIG. and the execution of a function of the control element 171 or 172 corresponding action. In the present embodiment, the designated AIRBAG 1 airbag {in the case of the control element 171) or the AIRBAG2 designated airbag {in cases of the control element 172) on or off. A corresponding method sequence can also be provided with regard to switching off the anti-lock system or the anti-slip control.

FIG. 20 shows an exemplary embodiment of an alternative procedure to the flow in accordance with FIG. 19, wherein a query of query 300 denoted by reference numeral 312, a step denoted by reference numeral 313, arrives at step 301, a query of query 302 designated by reference numeral 314 and FIG Reference 315 corresponds to step 303. The sequence shown in FIG. 20 begins with a query 310 as to whether the operating surface t6A or 116A of the touchscreen 16 or 116 is touched in the region of the representation of the operating element 171 or of the operating element 172. If the operating surface 16A or 116A of the touch screen 16 or 116 touches in the region of the representation of the operating element 171 or the operating element 172, then the query 31-0 is followed by a step 311, in which a vibration, e.g. is simulated with an amplitude of 0.2mm and a frequency of 38.1Hz. Step 311 is followed by query 312.

The device according to the invention can also be applied to a multifunctional operating device according to DE 101 39 693 A1 (incorporated by reference), wherein, for example, the rotary element disclosed in DE 101 39 693 A1 can be replaced by operating elements which are designed in accordance with the operating elements 86 and 87 , LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

; 5. Cockpit, 6 Steering wheel, 7 Dashboard, 8,10, 110 € Input device 1,12,13,14 "Spring 5 frame 5A, 15B, 15C, 15D Connection element 6, 116 Touch screen 6A.116A Control surface 7 Display 8 Actuator 8A Drive shaft pin 9 Connector 9A Warp 0 Control 1 Reference body 5,27 Spring arm 6 Connection point 8 Opening 9A, 29B, 29C ₁ 29D Holder 0 Jump function 1 Motion 2 Oscillation 3,44 Envelope 5, control signal 6, 48, 300, 302, 10,312,314 Query 7,49,301,303, 11,313,315 step

0,51,52,53,54 62, 63, 64, 65, 66,

67, 68, 69, 72, 73,

74, 75, 76, 77, 78,

79, 82, 83, 84, 85,

86,87,89,92,93 ,.

94, 95, 96, 97, 98,

99, 100, 101, 102,

103, 104, 141, 142,

143, 144, 145, 146,

171, 172, 173, 174,

175, 176 controls

55 interior

56 driver's seat

57 Passenger seat 58, 59 Rear seat

60 ■ ^'• Road map

61,70,80,90 field

88 letter selection line

200,201,202,203 force sensor

AZ display control signal

F force

P signal

D thickness

HR main direction

Is electric current of a control signal

NR secondary direction

M deflection

S control signal t time

ΔF1, ΔF2, ΔF3, force limit

Claims

claims

An input device, the input device comprising: a display for displaying a control element; a touch screen disposed over the display for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen; a force sensor associated with the touch screen for measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen; and a controller for generating a warning when touching the control surface of the touch screen in the area of the display of the control element or pressing the control surface of the touch screen in the display of the control element and for generating a control command associated with the control, if after generating the warning on the control surface a force is exerted that exceeds a force limit.

2. Input device according to claim 1, wherein at least two different values of a force exerted on the operating surface can be distinguished by means of the force sensor.

3. Input device according to claim 1, wherein the force sensor is designed as integrated into the touch screen or connected to the touch screen transparent force measuring layer.

4. Input device according to claim 3, wherein the force measuring layer covers a substantial part of the display.

5. Input device according to claim 1, wherein the force sensor is designed as a force-dependent resistor.

6. The input device of claim 1, the input device further comprising: an actuator for moving the touch screen in at least one direction.

7. The input device of claim 6, the input device further comprising: a substantially U-shaped spring for mechanically connecting the touch screen to the reference body.

8. Input device according to claim 6, wherein the touch screen to confirm a successful operation of the control element by means of the control by driving the actuator is movable.

9. Input device according to claim 8, wherein the movement of the touch screen is dependent on the force exerted on the touch screen.

10. A method for operating an input device with a display for displaying a control element and with a touchscreen arranged above the display for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touchscreen; the method comprising:

Generating a warning when touching the touch screen control surface or

Pressing on the control surface of the touchscreen in the area of the display of the

control element;

Measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen; and generating a control command associated with the operating element, if so

Generation of the warning on the control surface a force is exerted, the one

Exceeds force limit.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the touch screen for confirming a successful operation of the operating element is moved.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the touch screen for confirming a successful operation of the operating element is moved in response to the force exerted on the touch screen.

13. A method of operating an input device having a display for displaying a control element and having a touchscreen arranged above the display for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touchscreen; the method comprising:.

Measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen;

Generating a warning when pressing on the control surface of the touch screen in the area of the representation of the control element, if a force is applied to the control surface, which exceeds a first force limit; re-measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touchscreen; and

Generating a control command associated with the control element, if after the generation of the warning on the control surface a force is exerted that exceeds a second force limit.

14. An input device, the input device comprising: a display for displaying a control element and for displaying information; a touch screen disposed over the display for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen; a force sensor associated with the touch screen for measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen; and a controller for generating a control command dependent on the force exerted on the operating surface of the touchscreen and / or for generating your display control signal dependent on the force exerted on the operating surface of the touchscreen for displaying said information that can be displayed on the display.

15. Input device according to claim 14, wherein at least two different values of a force exerted on the operating surface can be distinguished by means of the force sensor.

16. The input device according to claim 14, wherein the force sensor is designed as a touch screen integrated into the touch screen or connected to the transparent force measuring layer.

17. Input device according to claim 16, wherein the force measuring layer «covers a substantial part of the display.

18. Input device according to claim .14, wherein the force sensor is designed as a force-dependent resistor.

19. A method for operating a Eingangsevoπϊchtung with a display for displaying a control element and for displaying information and with a display arranged above the touch screen for detecting the position of a touch a ßedienfläche € of the touch screen; the method comprising:

Measuring a force exerted on the control surface of the touch screen and generating a force dependent on the force applied to the control surface of the touch screen control command and / or generating a dependent on the force applied to the control surface of the touch screen display control signal for displaying said displayable information on the display.

20. An input device, the input device comprising: a touch screen for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen; a force sensor associated with the touch screen for measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen; an actuator for moving the touch screen in at least one direction; and a controller for moving the touch screen by driving the actuator, wherein the amount of movement of the touch screen is dependent on the force applied to the touch screen.

21. The input device according to claim 20, the input device further comprising: a display disposed on a side of the touch screen remote from the control surface of the touch screen.

22. The input device according to claim 20, wherein at least two different values of a force exerted on the operating surface can be distinguished by means of the force sensor.

23. The input device according to claim 20, wherein the force sensor is configured as a touch screen integrated into the touchscreen or connected to the transparent force measuring layer.

24. Input device according to claim 20, wherein the force sensor is designed as a force-dependent resistor.

25. A method for operating an input device with a touch screen for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen; the method comprising:

Measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen; Moving the touch screen, where the movement or amount of movement of the touch screen depends on the force applied to the touch screen.

26. The method of claim 25, the method further comprising:

Inquire whether the force exerted on the control surface of the touchscreen is greater than a first force limit; and

Moving the touchscreen when the force applied to the touchscreen touchpad is greater than the first force limit.

27. The method of claim 26, the method further comprising:

Querying whether the force applied to the control surface of the touchscreen is greater than a second force limit, the second force limit being greater than the first force limit; and

Move the touchscreen when the force applied to the touchscreen touchpad is greater than the second force limit.

28, input device, the input device comprising: a display for displaying a control element; a touch screen disposed over the display for detecting the position of a touch of a control surface of the touch screen; a force sensor associated with the touch screen for measuring a force applied to the control surface of the touch screen; an actuator for moving the touch screen in at least one direction; and a controller for such activation of the actuator, in that a surface structure of the operating surface can be felt by movement of the touchscreen in a direction parallel to the operating surface, as long as the operating surface touches a position provided for a structure and a force is exerted on the operating surface which is greater than a first force limit, and in that the touchscreen is moved in a direction parallel to the operating surface, if the operating surface is touched at a position at which a control is shown by means of the display, and if on the operating surface a force is exerted, which is greater than a second force limit.

29. The input device according to claim 28, wherein at least two different values of a force exerted on the operating surface can be distinguished by means of the force sensor.

30. The input device according to claim 28, wherein the force sensor is designed as a touch screen integrated into the touchscreen or connected to the transparent force measuring layer.

31. The input device of claim 30, wherein the force sensing layer covers a substantial portion of the display.

32. Input device according to claim 28, wherein the force sensor is designed as a force-dependent resistor.