Operating element for a machine

Abstract

An operating element for controlling a function of a machine is provided. The operating element comprises a lever (11) pivotable about a rotation axis (12), a return assembly (20) configured to apply a return torque to the lever (11) to return the lever to an initial position, and a torque adjustment assembly (40) configured to apply an adjustment torque to the lever (11) to adjust a torque required to pivot the lever (11) about the rotation axis (12). The return assembly (20) comprises a first guide element (21) having a first guide surface (22) for applying a force to generate the return torque. The torque adjustment assembly (40) comprises a second guide element (41) having a second guide surface (42) for applying a force to generate the adjustment torque. The first guide surface (22) is spatially separated from and independent of the second guide surface (42).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an operating element for controlling the functions of a machine, particularly a mobile machine such as a vehicle, and to a method of operating such an operating element. Background Technology

[0002] Mobile machinery (such as agricultural or construction vehicles) typically includes multiple different functions that need to be controlled. This can include controlling the movement of the vehicle itself as well as controlling different functions of the vehicle, such as an excavator arm or agricultural tools. Accordingly, mobile machinery may therefore include multiple different operating elements, such as levers (e.g., in the form of joysticks), switches, buttons, etc. Such a large number of operating elements requires excessive space.

[0003] Therefore, the installation space available for the corresponding operating elements becomes smaller, necessitating more compact operating elements. To accommodate more complex operating elements (such as joysticks) within this limited installation space, the operating elements are typically designed with a simple configuration and fewer functions. However, this can reduce the user-friendliness of the operating element and may lead to reduced strength or lifespan. A conventional joystick's lever can, for example, be simply connected to a spring to provide a restoring force that returns the lever to the center position. This simplified configuration may, for example, result in excessive play (e.g., when the joystick is in the center position) and may also have rather limited functionality.

[0004] More complex configurations are known to provide improved functionality and operation of such operating elements; however, these configurations typically require more installation space. Document DE102012104098A1, for example, describes an operating element in the form of a joystick with a reset mechanism having two springs mounted to a lever, wherein the lever can be locked in a pivot position. While such a joystick provides improved functionality, it requires relatively large space.

[0005] US5176041A discloses a control transmitter comprising: a housing; a switching lever arranged to deflect within the housing along at least two principal axes; a ball joint rotatably supporting the switching lever within the housing; two control brackets arranged perpendicularly to each other and rotatably supported within the housing, such that the switching lever is operatively connected to the control brackets; a rotation angle transmitter arranged at a bearing point of each control bracket; and a spring-loaded slider arranged on the switching lever and having an outer edge that slides on a tapered curved profile of the housing with different elevation portions.

[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a compact operating element that is user-friendly. It is also desirable to allow for flexible use of this operating element and to provide it in a robust manner to improve its lifespan. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, it is necessary to mitigate at least some of the aforementioned disadvantages and provide improved operating elements. Specifically, there is a need for compact control elements that can be easily configured.

[0008] This requirement is met by the features of the independent claim. The dependent claims describe embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an operating element for controlling the function of a machine, particularly a mobile machine (such as a vehicle), is provided. The operating element includes: a lever pivotable about a rotation axis; a return assembly configured to apply a return torque to the lever to return it to an initial position; and a torque adjustment assembly configured to apply an adjustment torque to the lever to adjust the torque required to pivot the lever about the rotation axis. The return assembly includes a first guide element and at least one return force applying element having a first contact portion. The first contact portion is arranged to move on a first guide surface of the first guide element when the lever pivots. The first guide surface is shaped such that when the lever pivots, the return force applying element applies a force to the first guide surface to generate a return torque. The torque adjustment assembly includes a second guide element and an adjustment force applying element having a second contact portion. The second contact portion is arranged to move on a second guide surface of the second guide element when the lever pivots. The second guide surface is shaped such that when the lever pivots, the adjustment force applying element applies a force to the second guide surface to generate an adjustment torque. The first guide surface and the second guide surface are spatially separated and independent.

[0010] This configuration provides a highly functional and compact operating element. By providing a torque adjustment component, several types of tactile feedback can be implemented, facilitating intuitive user operation of the operating element and making it suitable for controlling various machine functions. A compact and flexible configuration is achieved by separating the second guide surface through which the adjusting torque is applied from the first guide surface that generates the return torque. The first guide element can, for example, have a simpler structure and can be placed closer to the axis of rotation, thus reducing the installation depth of the operating element. Furthermore, the shape of the separate second guide surface can be designed to provide specific torque characteristics when operating the lever. Moreover, because it is provided separately, the operating element can be equipped with different types (specifically, different shapes) of second guide surfaces, allowing for adjustment of torque characteristics. This improves the versatility of the operating element. For example, different shapes of second guide surfaces can be installed in the final stage of assembling the operating element, thus enabling the provision of different torque characteristics for the operating element under standardized assembly processes and standardized form factors.

[0011] In some embodiments, the operating element may include only a return component, and the torque regulating component is optional. In such embodiments, the return component may have any configuration disclosed herein. In other embodiments, only the torque regulating component may be provided, and the return component is optional. In such embodiments, the torque regulating component may have any configuration described herein. Several advantageous embodiments of the operating element can thus be achieved.

[0012] The actuating element may include a housing, and a lever may be pivotable relative to the housing. Specifically, a corresponding torque may be applied to the lever relative to the housing, for example, it may act between the housing and the lever. The actuating element may be a single-axis actuating element or a multi-axis actuating element. The actuating element may be a corresponding joystick.

[0013] The first and second guide surfaces can be arranged on the same side of the rotation axis, specifically, when the rod is in the initial position, they are arranged on the same side of a plane including the rotation axis. Specifically, when the rod is in the initial position, the two guide surfaces can be arranged on one side of a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rod or perpendicular to the direction of the force applied by the restoring force applying element, and preferably, this plane includes the rotation axis of the rod, and the handle of the rod can be arranged on the other side of the plane. Similarly, in the initial position of the rod, the first and second guide elements can be arranged on the same side of a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rod or perpendicular to the direction of the force applied by the restoring force applying element, and preferably, this plane includes the rotation axis of the rod.

[0014] Alternatively, when the rod is in its initial position, the first and second guide surfaces can be arranged on different sides of a plane parallel to or including the axis of rotation. For example, when the rod is in its initial position, this plane can also be perpendicular to the extension direction of the rod or perpendicular to the direction in which the force is applied by the restoring force applying element. Thus, these guide surfaces do not interfere with each other.

[0015] One of the first and second guide surfaces may be stationary relative to the housing of the operating element, and the other of the first and second guide surfaces may be coupled to the rod to move together with the rod.

[0016] In an embodiment, the shape of the second guide surface is designed to generate an adjusting torque that provides one or a combination of the following: a pressure point that must be overcome when the lever is pivoted; a locking position different from the initial position, in which the lever is locked after being released; and / or a default position, in which the adjusting torque must be overcome to move the lever away from the default position. Such a default position can be the lever's initial position, such as the equilibrium position. The locking position can be, for example, a position where the lever is latched or snapped in; the user can, for example, pivot the lever to the locking position and release it, at which point the lever remains in the locking position. With this torque adjusting assembly, a variety of different torque characteristics of the operating element can therefore be achieved. The torque characteristics can thus be adapted to the functions provided by the operating element, particularly by shaping the corresponding second guide surface.

[0017] For example, if the actuating element is used to control the hydraulic functions of a machine, such as agricultural or construction machinery (e.g., tractors, excavators, etc.), the shape of the second guide surface can be designed to provide a pressure point. By applying sufficient torque to the rod to move it past the pressure point, the floating position of the hydraulic system can be reached, for example. The user of the actuating element can thus reliably determine when the floating position has been reached.

[0018] The lever can pivot in two opposite directions (e.g., back and forth), and the adjusting torque generated by the torque adjusting component can be the same or different for different operating directions of the lever. Different adjusting torques can be achieved by varying the shape of the second guide surface for different directions of movement of the second contact on the second guide surface (e.g., from the initial position). As an example, pressure points can be symmetrically arranged on each side of the second guide surface, or two or more pressure points can be arranged on at least one side of the second guide surface, or one side of the second guide surface may not generate any adjusting torque. Other examples and combinations are, of course, conceivable.

[0019] In an alternative example, the first guide element or at least one restoring force applying element may be coupled to (specifically, mounted to) the rod and pivot with the rod. Preferably, the first guide element is coupled to the rod to pivot with the rod, for example, mounted to a shaft that rotates when the rod pivots.

[0020] In an optional example, the adjusting force application element or the second guiding element may be coupled to (specifically, mounted to) the rod and pivot with the rod. Preferably, the adjusting force application element is coupled to the rod and pivots with the rod.

[0021] For example, a first guide element is coupled to a rod to pivot together with the rod, and an adjusting force application element is mounted to the first guide element. This allows for a compact configuration.

[0022] The connection to the rod can be indirect. For example, the rod can be supported by a gimbal, and a corresponding first or second guide element can be mounted to a shaft (e.g., a short shaft) of the gimbal that rotates with the rod as it pivots.

[0023] This arrangement allows the first guide surface to face the axis of rotation. The distance of the first guide surface from the axis of rotation (perpendicular to the axis of rotation) can be less than the distance of the axis of rotation from the end of the housing of the operating element along the rod direction. In other words, the first guide element can be mounted close to the axis of rotation, thereby achieving a compact configuration.

[0024] The return assembly may include two return force applying elements arranged on opposite sides of the rotation axis. Each return force applying element can apply a force to a first guide surface to generate a return torque on the rod. The return torque generated by the first return force applying element may be opposite to the return torque generated by the second return force applying element. With such opposing force applying elements, stable positioning can be achieved even in the initial position, and advantageous return torque characteristics can be obtained.

[0025] The shape of the first guide surface can be designed, for example, such that the restoring torque acting to return the rod to its initial position when it moves away from the initial position is greater than the opposite restoring torque. Therefore, the restoring torque can reliably return the rod to its initial position.

[0026] The first and second restoring force applying elements can be preloaded to apply similar (or identical) magnitudes of restoring torque when the lever is in the initial position. The initial position can therefore be an equilibrium position in which the two restoring torques cancel each other out. This preload can have the advantage of making the initial position very clearly defined, and it also allows the torque required to move the lever away from the initial position to increase rather steeply. This reduces play in the lever in the initial position and can essentially eliminate this center play. The lever will therefore reliably center in the initial position, which improves the operator's tactile feedback and, in particular, allows the operator to determine whether the lever has actually been actuated.

[0027] The shape of the first guiding surface may at least partially surround the first contact portion of each of the two restoring force applying elements.

[0028] Each restoring force applying element may include a spring that acts on a corresponding first contact portion (specifically, pushes the first contact portion) to apply a force to the first guide surface. This provides a simple and compact configuration. The spring may be a helical spring. One end of the spring may be supported by the housing of the operating element; this end may rest on the housing portion. For example, such a housing portion may have a protrusion that inserts into the helical spring and provides guidance for the helical spring when it is compressed or stretched.

[0029] The first contact portion may be supported by a shaft (e.g., a shaft member) that is movably supported within the housing of the operating element. The first contact portion may, for example, be a roller that rolls on a first guide surface.

[0030] In one embodiment, the housing includes a mounting portion, and the first contact portion is axially supported within the mounting portion. The mounting portion can be configured to allow movement of the shaft in one dimension, specifically, a dimension perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft. For example, it can allow movement in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the spring of the restoring force applying element. Thus, the first contact portion can remain in contact with the spring and can move in the axial direction of the spring when the spring is compressed or stretched. Specifically, the extension direction of the spring can be the central axial direction of the helical spring (i.e., the central axis of the cylindrical shape). The mounting portion can be, for example, a groove or recess in the housing, wherein the groove or recess extends in the corresponding direction of the spring. It can also be formed by a plurality of parallel ridges or ribs disposed on a portion or wall of the housing. Such a contact portion can provide effective torque application while reducing frictional resistance to the pivoting movement of the rod.

[0031] In one embodiment, the adjusting force generating element includes a spring, which is arranged to push a second contact portion against a second guide surface to apply a force to the second guide surface. The shape of the second guide surface can be designed to change the spring load as the rod pivots about a rotation axis to generate the adjusting torque. This allows for a compact arrangement that provides effective torque application while remaining mechanically simple. The adjusting force generating element can, for example, include a leaf spring, specifically a metal plate spring. By using this type of spring, the mounting depth of the operating element can be kept small.

[0032] The second contact portion can be formed by a protrusion of the spring. Specifically, it can be integral with the spring. For example, a leaf spring or metal plate spring can have a shape that forms such a protrusion, for example, protruding outward at the center where the two spring arms intersect. Since the force-generating element can therefore be composed of a single component, the complexity of the operating element can be further reduced.

[0033] The protrusion can slide on the second guide surface, for example, when the rod pivots. Therefore, the shape of the second guide surface causes different degrees of compression of the corresponding leaf springs or metal plate springs, and thus causes different adjusting torques applied to the rod.

[0034] In this example, the shape of the second guide surface is designed to provide one or a combination of the following: (1) A recess, arranged such that the second contact portion engages the recess when the rod is in the initial position; the protrusion of the spring may, for example, engage the recess. This increases the torque required to move the rod away from the initial position in both directions of movement. This further reduces the center clearance of the rod and allows for better definition of the initial position.

[0035] (2) At least one recess or protrusion, over which the second contact portion must move when the lever pivots from the first position to the second position, wherein the shape of the recess or protrusion is designed such that the adjusting torque generated by moving the second contact portion over the corresponding recess or protrusion is less than the restoring torque at the position of the corresponding recess or protrusion. This creates a pressure point that the lever must move over, and thus provides tactile feedback for the lever to reach a specific position. Since the adjusting torque is less than the restoring torque, the lever will return to the initial position upon release. One or more pressure points (i.e., corresponding recesses or protrusions) may be provided on one side or each side of the second guide surface.

[0036] (3) At least one recess or protrusion, over which a second contact portion must move when the lever pivots from a first position to a second position, wherein the shape of the recess or protrusion is designed such that the adjusting torque generated by moving the second contact portion over the corresponding recess or protrusion is greater than the restoring torque at the position of the corresponding recess or protrusion. This creates a locking position that provides resistance to lever pivoting. When the lever is moved, the torque at the locking position must be overcome, thus receiving tactile feedback. Furthermore, when the lever is released in the locking position, it will not return to the initial position because the restoring torque is less than the adjusting torque at the locking position. This locking position can also be designated as a latching position or an engaged position.

[0037] The shape of the guide surface can be designed to provide a combination of corresponding functions; it can, for example, provide a corresponding recess for defining the default position and can provide pressure points and / or locking positions on one or both sides.

[0038] The second guide element can be a separate part mounted to one side of the housing of the operating element in a replaceable or interchangeable manner. For example, it can be mounted to the lower side opposite the upper side from which the rod protrudes. This facilitates defining the torque characteristics of the operating element during the final assembly step of installing the corresponding second guide element. Furthermore, it facilitates changing the torque characteristics by replacing the second guide element. Specifically, it allows for on-site adjustments to the function of the operating element. Therefore, flexibility can be significantly increased, and the effort required to change the characteristics of the operating element can be reduced.

[0039] The second guide element can be designed, for example, as a plate or frame. The second guide element can be configured to be mounted onto the housing of the operating element in two orientations. The second guide element can have two different second guide surfaces, and in each orientation, the different second guide surfaces can interact with the adjusting force applying element. The torque characteristics of the operating element can therefore be easily changed by rotating the second guide element. It can be mounted onto the housing of the operating element, for example, by one, two, or more screws, making it easy to replace or rotate.

[0040] In one embodiment, the lever is pivotable about a second axis of rotation, specifically, the second axis of rotation being pivoted perpendicular to the first axis of rotation. Therefore, it can realize a multi-axis actuating element. The second guide element may have an additional second guide surface for generating an adjusting torque applied to the lever as it pivots about the second axis of rotation. A single second guide element can thus define the torque characteristics for the lever in both pivoting directions in a simple and independent manner, thereby providing a compact and simple mechanical configuration.

[0041] For a dual-axis operating element, the operating element may, for example, include: a second return assembly configured to apply a return torque about a second rotation axis to the lever to return the lever to a second initial position; and a second torque adjustment assembly configured to apply an adjustment torque about the second rotation axis to the lever to adjust the torque required to pivot the lever about the second rotation axis. Therefore, corresponding components for generating the return torque and the adjustment torque can be provided to allow the lever to pivot in both directions. As described above, either the return assembly or the torque adjustment assembly is optional, such that the operating element may include only the second return assembly or the second torque adjustment assembly.

[0042] The second return component can have any configuration disclosed herein with respect to the previously mentioned return component. The second torque adjustment component can also have any configuration disclosed herein with respect to the previously mentioned torque adjustment component. Therefore, similar advantages can be achieved for the second pivoting direction of the lever.

[0043] The rod can be mounted, for example, via a gimbal with two axes that rotate about corresponding axes of rotation when the rod pivots in a corresponding direction. Components of the corresponding return assembly and the corresponding torque adjustment assembly can be mechanically coupled to or mounted to the corresponding axes to pivot with them as the axes rotate by pivoting the rod. Such a gimbal can also be referred to as a "universal suspension." Therefore, the operating elements can have a fairly symmetrical configuration for two different pivoting directions, further simplifying the mechanical configuration.

[0044] According to another embodiment of the invention, a machine, particularly a mobile machine, such as a construction vehicle, agricultural vehicle, or industrial vehicle, is provided. The machine includes operating elements having any of the configurations described herein, wherein the operating elements are arranged to control at least one function of the machine.

[0045] According to another embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for operating an operating element having any of the configurations described herein. The method includes pivoting a lever from an initial position about a rotation axis, thereby generating a restoring torque on the lever via a restoring assembly and an adjusting torque on the lever via a torque adjusting assembly. This method achieves advantages similar to those further outlined above.

[0046] As mentioned above, only one of the recovery component and the torque adjustment component can be provided, and the method can be adjusted accordingly.

[0047] It should be understood that the features mentioned above, as well as those still described below, can be used not only in the indicated combinations, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention. Specifically, features of different aspects and embodiments of the invention can be combined with each other, unless otherwise indicated. Attached Figure Description

[0048] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional side view of the operating element according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a simplified cross-sectional side view of the operating element, wherein the rod is in a pivoted position.

[0051] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the operating element.

[0052] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional view of the partially disassembled operating components.

[0053] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the second guide element and the housing of the operating element.

[0054] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an operating element according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0055] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description of the embodiments is given for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. It should be noted that the drawings are to be regarded as schematic representations only, and the elements in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Rather, various representations of elements have been chosen such that their function and general purpose will become apparent to those skilled in the art. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” should be interpreted as open terms (i.e., meaning “including but not limited to”).

[0056] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the operating element 10 is shown. The lever 11 of the operating element 10 is pivotable relative to the housing 15 of the operating element 10. The lever 11 may be supported by a shaft 13 that is rotatable about a rotation axis 12. The housing 15 may be adjusted to the size of available mounting space and may have any known configuration; details are omitted here for the sake of compact presentation.

[0057] Operating element 10 includes a return component 20 for returning lever 11 to an initial or default position, which may be... Figure 1 The position is shown in the diagram. The return assembly 20 has a first guide element 21 that is coupled to the rod 11 and thus pivots with the rod 11. The first guide element 21 may be mounted to the end of the rod 11 (for a single-axis operating element) or may be mounted directly or indirectly to the shaft 13 that rotates when the rod 11 pivots. The first guide element 21 includes a guide surface 22 facing the axis of rotation 12. The first guide element 21 and its guide surface 22 extend symmetrically in a lateral direction perpendicular to the direction of extension of the rod 11. Therefore, the distance from the guide surface 22 to the wall of the housing 15 changes when the rod 11 pivots.

[0058] The return assembly 20 also includes two return force applying elements 30 mounted to the housing 15 on opposite sides of the rotation axis 12. Each return force applying element 30 includes a first contact portion 31 pushed to contact the first guide surface 22. It also includes a spring 32 (specifically, a helical spring) that applies a thrust to the contact portion 31 to apply a corresponding force to the first guide surface 22 via the contact portion 31. The housing 15 may include a protrusion or support portion 16 inserted into the spring 32 and supporting and guiding the spring 32 when it is compressed or stretched. In the initial or default position, the spring 32 and the protrusion 16 extend in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis 12 and substantially parallel to the extension of the rod 11. Specifically, they extend downward from the upper side of the housing 15 (from which the rod 11 extends) toward the first guide surface 22.

[0059] When lever 11 pivots to the left, as Figure 2 As shown, the left portion of the guide element 21 pivots downwards, while the right portion pivots upwards. Therefore, the right-hand side spring 32 is compressed via the first contact portion 31. The restoring force applying element 30 on the right-hand side thus applies an increased force to the guide surface 22, such that the restoring torque acting on the pivot rod 11 in the rightward direction is applied to the rod 11 via the guide element 21. Due to the shape of the first guide surface 22, the compression of the left-hand side spring 32 changes only slightly. Therefore, a certain amount of spring tension can be maintained.

[0060] By selecting the shape of the first guide surface 22, the torque characteristics of the restoring torque can be adjusted. Specifically, it can be determined how steeply the torque increases when the rod pivots away from its initial position, and how the restoring torque changes along the pivot range.

[0061] The first contact portion 31 can be a roller supported by and rotating around the shaft 33. This reduces friction, making the operation of the rod 11 smoother. To allow the position of the first contact portion 31 to change, and thus allow the compression of the spring 32, the housing 15 can be provided with a mounting portion that allows corresponding movement of the shaft 33. Specifically, the mounting portion can allow one-dimensional movement of the shaft 33 in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the shaft 33 and substantially parallel to the direction in which the spring 32 is compressed and stretched. Figure 3 An exemplary implementation of the mounting portion 17 is shown. The mounting portion 17 is configured as an elongated recess or slit in the wall of the housing 15, in which the end of the shaft 33 is guided. A groove in the housing 1 extends parallel to the extension of the spring 32. Similar to... Figure 2 In the situation, Figure 3 The left-hand side shows the left-hand spring stretched (shaft 33 at the bottom of the slot) and the right-hand spring compressed (shaft 33 at the top of the slot 17). Note that this is merely schematic to show the different positions that shaft 33 can take, and these positions do not correspond to... Figure 3 The position of rod 11 in the middle.

[0062] return Figure 1 The springs 32 on opposite sides of the rotation axis 12 are preloaded, so that in Figure 1 In the initial position, a force is applied to the guide surface 22 on either side of the rotation axis 12. This configuration can be symmetrical about a plane passing through the rotation axis 12 (in the default position, this configuration is mirror-symmetrical about a plane including the central axis of the rotation axis 12 and the rod 11). The applied force can therefore be similar, and a similar restoring torque acting in the opposite direction can therefore be applied to the rod 11. Thus, the rod 11 remains in an equilibrium position corresponding to the initial position. Due to preload, the play in the rod 11 in this initial position is significantly reduced, and a clearly defined initial position can be provided, thereby providing improved tactile feedback.

[0063] The operating element 10 also includes a torque adjustment assembly 40 that generates a torque acting on the lever 11 when the lever 11 is pivoted. Assembly 40 includes a second guide element 41 on which the second contact portion 51 of the adjusting force application element 50 is guided and moves when the lever 11 pivots. As shown, the second guide surface 42 of the second guide element 41 is separated from the first guide surface 22. Therefore, the adjusting torque (e.g., providing tactile feedback) can be adjusted and generated independently of the return torque.

[0064] The adjusting force application element 50 is provided in the form of a leaf spring 52, which is bent to form a protrusion providing the second contact portion 51. The spring 52 is mounted to the first guide element 21 and thus pivots about the axis of rotation 12 together with the rod 11. During pivoting, the second contact portion 51 moves, specifically, slides, on the second guide surface 42. The second guide surface 42 includes recesses and / or protrusions that the second contact portion 51 must overcome as it moves along the guide surface 42. Since a force is required for the contact portion 51 to move away from the recess or over the protrusion, a corresponding torque or force needs to be applied to the rod 11. The interaction between the spring 52 and the guide surface 42 thus adjusts the torque characteristics of the rod 11 and applies a corresponding adjusting torque to the rod 11 to overcome the movement of the rod.

[0065] exist Figure 1 In one example, the guide surface 42 includes a recess 45 positioned such that the second contact member 51 engages the recess 45 when the rod is in its initial position, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown. Since additional torque must be applied to move the second contact portion 51 away from the recess, the clearance of the rod 11 in the initial position is reduced, and the operating element holds the rod 11 more stably in the initial position.

[0066] The guide surface 42 also includes a protrusion 46 that requires additional torque to be applied to the rod 11 so that the contact portion 51 overcomes the protrusion 46. After the protrusion 46 is overcome, the torque required to move the rod is reduced again. The user of the pivoting rod will accordingly feel the applied torque (i.e., the pressure point) and will therefore receive tactile feedback when moving the rod.

[0067] Figure 2 The lever is shown in the position where the second contact 51 has overcome the protrusion 46. If the user now releases the lever, and the adjusting torque generated by the protrusion 46 is less than the restoring torque generated by the return assembly 20, the lever will return to its initial position. By increasing the size of the protrusion 46, the torque required to overcome the protrusion 46 can be greater than the restoring torque, so that the lever 11 will retain its pivoted position upon release. Therefore, this corresponds to the locked position where the lever 11 is locked or latched. Different functions of the operating element 10 can thus be achieved by adjusting the shape of the second guide surface 42. Figure 1 and Figure 2In one example, a single pressure point 46 is provided on one side of the initial position (at the recess 45). For movement of the rod in the opposite direction, the second guide surface 42 does not include any recesses or protrusions, so that the torque is not adjusted. In other implementations, the second guide surface 42 may have the same shape on either side of the initial position 45. One, two, or more pressure points and / or one, two, or more locking positions may be provided on one or either side of the initial position. The recess 45 at the initial position is optional. Instead of using protrusions, the pressure points may also be provided with recesses. Similarly, the locking positions may be provided with (deeper) recesses.

[0068] The second guide element 41 can be a component mounted to the housing 15, for example, mounted to one side of the housing, specifically, to the lower side of the housing opposite to the side from which the rod 11 protrudes. Therefore, it can be easily replaced, allowing the torque curve of the rod 11 to be adjusted to the desired function. The guide element 42 can be screwed to the housing 15 by one, several, or two screws 19 or can be otherwise fastened to the housing. Figure 5 ).

[0069] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the pivoting of lever 11 about a rotation axis 12; the operating element 10 can be implemented as a single-axis operating element, such as a joystick. It can also be implemented as a multi-axis operating element, for example, having a first rotation axis 12-1 and a second rotation axis 12-2 about which lever 11 can rotate, such as... Figure 3 As shown. Rod 11 can be mounted via a universal joint supported by two corresponding rotating shafts 13-1 and 13-2, allowing rod 11 to pivot quite freely about the two rotating axes. Such universal joints are well-known and will not be explained in more detail herein. Shafts 13-1 and 13-2 are supported in housing 15, and a corresponding return assembly 20 and / or a corresponding torque adjustment assembly 40 can be provided on either shaft. If a greater torque is required, the two corresponding assemblies can also be positioned on either side of the same rotating axis. The configuration of this additional return assembly and / or torque adjustment assembly can be similar to the configuration described above.

[0070] The torque adjustment assemblies 30 for the two axes 12-1 and 12-2 can share the same second guide element 41, which can provide two independent second guide surfaces 42-1 and 42-2, such as Figure 3 As shown.

[0071] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3A perspective view of the configuration is provided, in which the housing and other components have been removed for simplification. The second guide element 41 is visible with its two guide surfaces 42-1 and 42-2, and a corresponding leaf spring 52 engaging with the recess 45 is shown. The housing 15 and the second guide element 41 are configured such that the second guide element 41 can be mounted in different orientations; specifically, the second guide element can be rotated 90°. It can have multiple different guide surfaces 41-1 to 41-4, and by rotating the guide element 41, a specific guide surface can be engaged with the corresponding leaf spring 52. Therefore, the torque characteristics of the rod 11 can be quickly adjusted by rotating the second guide element 42 and mounting it to the housing 15 in different orientations. Furthermore, it can be easily replaced to change the torque characteristics.

[0072] This is Figure 5 More clearly, a perspective view of the lower side of the operating element 10 is shown, in which only the housing 15 and the second guide element 41 are shown. The second guide element 41 may be provided in the form of a rectangular or square plate or frame, which may optionally have an opening in the middle and provide a corresponding guide surface. The second guide element 42 can be easily installed and removed by bolts 19. In addition to reducing clearance in the initial position and providing greater flexibility with respect to torque characteristics, the disclosed configuration also has a reduced installation depth because the separation of the two guide surfaces 22, 42 allows for simplification of both configurations. Furthermore, a particularly thin profile configuration of the torque adjustment assembly 40 can be achieved by using a leaf spring 52.

[0073] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of operating the corresponding operating element 10 is shown. In step S1, the operator or user pivots the lever 11 away from its initial position, i.e., the position where the second contact portion 51 engages the recess 45 and the two springs 32 apply equal restoring torque to the lever 11. In step S2, by pivoting the lever, the return assembly 20 provides a restoring torque to the lever 11. Furthermore, in step S3, by this pivoting, the torque adjusting assembly 40 applies an adjusting torque to the lever, thereby changing the torque that the operator must apply to the lever. This method can be performed using the operating element 10 in any of the above-described configurations.

[0074] Although in the above embodiment, the first guide element 21 and the adjusting force application element 50 are connected to the rod 11, it should be understood that this configuration can also be changed. For example, these restoring force application elements 30 can be connected to the rod 11 and the first guide element 21 can be kept stationary relative to the housing 15, and / or the second guide element 41 can be connected to the rod 11 and the adjusting force application element 50 can be kept stationary relative to the housing.

[0075] While specific embodiments have been disclosed herein, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects, and all variations falling within the meaning and equivalents of the appended claims are intended to be encompassed therein.

[0076] List of reference numerals

[0077] 10 Operating elements

[0078] 11 strokes

[0079] 12. Rotation axis

[0080] 13 Universal joint shafts

[0081] 15. Housing

[0082] 16. Protrusion - Support for the spring

[0083] 17 Mounting part for the shaft of the roller

[0084] 19 Screws

[0085] 20 Reply Components

[0086] 21 First guiding element

[0087] 22 First guiding surface

[0088] 30 First force applying element

[0089] 31 First Contact Section

[0090] 32 Coil Spring

[0091] 33 roller shaft

[0092] 40 Torque Adjustment Components

[0093] 41 Second guiding element

[0094] 42 Second guiding surface

[0095] 45 Recess - Default Position

[0096] 46. ​​Protrusion - Pressure Point

[0097] 50 Second force applying element

[0098] 51 Second Contact Section

[0099] 52 Leaf springs

[0100] S1-S3 Method Steps

Claims

1. An operating element for controlling the functions of a machine, comprising: - Rod (11) can pivot about the axis of rotation (12); - A return component (20) configured to apply a return torque to the rod (11) to return the rod to its initial position; and - A torque adjustment assembly (40) configured to apply an adjustment torque to the rod (11) to adjust the torque required to pivot the rod (11) about the rotation axis (12). The return assembly (20) includes a first guide element (21) and at least one return force applying element (30) having a first contact portion (31), wherein the first contact portion (31) is arranged to move on a first guide surface (22) of the first guide element (21) when the rod (11) pivots, wherein the first guide surface (22) is shaped to cause the return force applying element (30) to apply a force to the first guide surface (22) to generate a return torque when the rod pivots, wherein the torque adjusting assembly (40) includes a second guide element (41) and an adjusting force applying element (50) having a second contact portion (51), wherein the second contact portion (51) is arranged to move on a second guide surface (42) of the second guide element (41) when the rod (11) pivots, wherein the second guide surface (42) is shaped to cause the adjusting force applying element (50) to apply a force to the second guide surface (42) to generate an adjusting torque when the rod (11) pivots. Wherein, the first guide surface (22) and the second guide surface (42) are spatially separated and independent, and Wherein, the first guide element (21) is coupled to the rod (11) and pivots together with the rod, and / or wherein the second guide element (42) is coupled to the rod (11) and pivots together with the rod.

2. The operating element according to claim 1, wherein, The second guide surface (42) is shaped to generate an adjustment torque that provides: a pressure point (46) that must be overcome when the rod (11) pivots; and / or a locking position different from the initial position, in which the rod (11) is locked after being released; and / or a default position (45), in which the adjustment torque must be overcome to move the rod (11) away from the default position.

3. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first guide surface (22) and the second guide surface (42) are arranged on one side of a plane, the plane being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rod (11) when the rod is in the initial position, or the plane being perpendicular to the direction of the force applied by the restoring force applying element (30), wherein the plane includes the rotation axis (12) of the rod (11).

4. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first guide element (21) is coupled to the rod (11) and pivots together with the rod, wherein the adjusting force applying element (50) is mounted to the first guide element (21).

5. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The recovery assembly (20) includes two recovery force applying elements (30) arranged on opposite sides of the rotation axis (12), each of the recovery force applying elements (30) applying a force to the first guide surface (22) to generate a recovery torque on the rod (11), wherein the recovery torque generated by the first recovery force applying element of the two recovery force applying elements is opposite to the recovery torque generated by the second recovery force applying element of the two recovery force applying elements.

6. The operating element according to claim 5, wherein, The first restoring force applying element and the second restoring force applying element (30) are pre-tightened to apply a restoring torque of similar magnitude when the rod (11) is in the initial position.

7. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the restoring force applying elements (30) includes a spring (32) that acts on a corresponding first contact portion (31) to apply a force to the first guide surface (22).

8. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The housing (15) of the operating element (10) includes a mounting portion (17), wherein the shaft (33) of the first contact portion (31) is supported in the mounting portion (17), the mounting portion (17) being configured to allow the shaft (33) to move in one dimension perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft (33).

9. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The adjusting force generating element (50) includes a spring (52) arranged to push the second contact (51) onto the second guide surface (42) to apply a force to the second guide surface (42), wherein the shape of the second guide surface (42) is designed to change the spring load of the spring (52) as the rod pivots about the axis of rotation to generate an adjusting torque.

10. The operating element according to claim 9, wherein, The second contact portion (51) is formed by the protrusion of the spring (52).

11. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second guide surface (42) is shaped to provide at least one of the following: - A recess (45) is arranged such that when the rod (11) is in the initial position, the second contact portion (51) engages the recess (45). - At least one recess or protrusion (46) over which the second contact (51) must move when the rod (11) pivots from the first position to the second position, wherein the recess or protrusion (46) is shaped such that the adjusting torque generated by moving the second contact (51) over the recess or protrusion is less than the restoring torque at the corresponding position of the recess or protrusion; and - At least one recess or protrusion, wherein when the rod pivots from the first position to the second position, the second contact (51) must move over the recess or protrusion, wherein the shape of the recess or protrusion is designed such that the adjusting torque generated by moving the second contact (51) over the recess or protrusion is greater than the restoring torque at the corresponding position of the recess or protrusion.

12. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second guide element (41) is a separate part that can be removably mounted to one side of the housing (15) of the operating element (10).

13. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rod (11) is pivotable about a second rotation axis (12-2), wherein the second guide element (42) has an additional second guide surface (42-2) for generating an adjusting torque applied to the rod (11) as the rod (11) pivots about the second rotation axis (12-2).

14. The operating element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rod (11) is pivotable about a second rotation axis (12-2), wherein the operating element (11) includes: a second return assembly (20) configured to apply a return torque about the second rotation axis (12-2) to the rod (11) to return the rod to a second initial position; and / or a second torque adjustment assembly (40) configured to apply an adjustment torque about the second rotation axis (12-2) to the rod (11) to adjust the torque required to pivot the rod (11) about the second rotation axis (12-2).

15. A method of operating the operating element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The method includes: - The rod (11) is pivoted from the initial position about the axis of rotation (12), thereby generating a restoring torque on the rod (11) by the restoring assembly (20) and an adjusting torque on the rod (11) by the torque adjusting assembly (40).

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