CONTROL ELEMENT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a control element, in particular for a vehicle seat, comprising a second element which is movable relative to a first element, wherein the movement of the second element actuates a Bowden cable, and wherein the movement of the second element can be locked by a detent device.

[0002] A vehicle seat has a variety of components that allow for the adjustment of various seat parameters. The occupant should be able to modify these parameters to suit their needs. Such seat components can include, for example, spring and / or damping systems. The corresponding adjustable seat parameters would be, for instance, spring stiffness or damper stiffness. Other seat parameters might include the backrest angle or seat height. Appropriate mechanisms are provided for adjusting these parameters.

[0003] Typically, such components or devices are not directly operable by the user. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a control element located on the vehicle seat in a position easily accessible to the occupant. A Bowden cable can be used to transmit movement of the control element or corresponding forces. Currently known control elements for Bowden cable systems comprise a large number of components and are therefore complex to manufacture. Furthermore, these known control elements often suffer from material fatigue due to frequent use, rendering them unusable.

[0004] DE 10 2011 014 234 A1 relates to a detent switch for specifying a setpoint, comprising at least one detent track with several detents, a lever pivotable about an axis and at least one detent element.

[0005] WO 2020 / 074 684 A1 shows a control unit for specifying a target value for a height adjustment device and a vehicle seat.

[0006] US 566 2000 A concerns a rotatable detent actuation system.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a control element that overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to provide a vehicle seat with a control element that overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0008] This problem is solved by a control element having the features of claim 1 and furthermore by a vehicle seat having the features of claim 11.

[0009] The Bowden cable is actuated by the movement of the second element relative to the first element. The Bowden cable is preferably connected to a corresponding component or mechanism of the vehicle seat. The Bowden cable transmits the movement of the second element, or the corresponding tensile or compressive force, to the component or mechanism. The occupant can thus manipulate the component or mechanism and adjust the vehicle seat to their needs. By locking the first locking element to the second, or vice versa, the second element can be locked in a specific position. The corresponding setting of the component or mechanism can therefore also be advantageously fixed.

[0010] In a first embodiment, the first element and the spring element are formed as a single unit, while the second detent element is still arranged on the second element. The operating element according to the invention has the advantage that the first element is formed as a single unit with the spring element. The first element is preferably manufactured from a single, uniform part. It is therefore extremely simple and cost-effective to manufacture.

[0011] Preferably, in the first variant, the second element and the second locking element are also formed in one piece. A one-piece design of the second element and the second locking element would also be conceivable. A one-piece design means that, although the elements are not manufactured from a single, uniform part, they are not only firmly but so intimately connected to one another that they do not appear as several components joined together and, in any case, cannot be separated from each other.

[0012] In a second embodiment, the second element and the spring element are formed as a single unit, while the second detent element remains attached to the first element. The operating element according to the invention also has the advantage here that the second element is formed as a single unit with the spring element. The second element is preferably manufactured from a single, unified part. It is therefore extremely simple and cost-effective to produce.

[0013] Preferably, in the second variant, the first element and the second locking element are also formed in one piece. A one-piece design of the first element and the second locking element would also be conceivable. A one-piece design means that, although the elements are not manufactured from a single, uniform part, they are not only firmly but so intimately connected to one another that they do not appear as several components joined together and, in any case, cannot be separated from one another.

[0014] The basic function of operating the Bowden cable can therefore be achieved with just two elements. This allows for a significantly simpler and more cost-effective manufacturing of the operating element.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the first element has a plate-like base section by means of which the first element can be attached to the vehicle seat. This can be done, for example, via a screw connection. However, other connections such as snap connections, rivet connections, or similar connections would also be conceivable. Advantageously, a through-opening for the Bowden cable is provided in the plate-like base section. Advantageously, the Bowden cable can therefore be guided through the first element to the second element.

[0016] In a further preferred embodiment, the first element and the spring element are made of a plastic. Preferably, the first element and the spring element are made of the same plastic. Preferably, the first element and the spring element are manufactured by injection molding. The one-piece design of the first element and the spring element can be achieved very simply by the advantageous use of injection molding. Preferably, the plastic from which the first element and the spring element are manufactured is a plastic suitable for injection molding. Advantageously, the second element and the second locking element are also manufactured by injection molding. Preferably, the second element and the second locking element are made of a plastic, preferably the same one. This advantageously achieves the one-piece design according to the first embodiment.According to the second variant, it is advantageous for the second element and the spring element to be made of the same plastic. Preferably, the second element and the spring element are made of the same plastic. Preferably, the second element and the spring element are manufactured by injection molding. Advantageously, the first element and the second locking element are also manufactured by injection molding. Preferably, the first element and the second locking element are made of the same plastic.

[0017] In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the spring element is a curved bending spring and / or leaf spring. Preferably, the spring element has at least two arcs of curvature. Advantageously, the spring element has two arcs of curvature. Preferably, the spring element, or the curved bending spring and / or leaf spring, has an S-shaped profile. Preferably, each section of the spring element that has an arc of curvature can be considered a partial spring. Preferably, these partial springs can be considered as connected in series. A resulting spring constant, or the spring stiffness (circle), for partial springs connected in series is calculated as follows: 1 K res = ∑ i = 1 n 1 K i

[0018] Accordingly, the spring stiffness decreases when partial springs are connected in series. The locking mechanism of the second element relative to the first element, or the interlocking of the second element with the first element, should advantageously be sufficiently stable to withstand external mechanical loads, but it should also be easily re-released by the occupant to allow for modifications. Therefore, it is advantageous to use a spring element with a lower spring rate. This can be achieved, for example, by reducing the material thickness. However, such a reduction in material thickness negatively impacts the service life of the spring element.The advantageous design of the spring element, featuring at least two curved sections or two curved sections with an S-shaped profile, allows for a reduction in the resulting spring stiffness while simultaneously ensuring sufficient material thickness. This prevents material fatigue in the spring element and guarantees adequate stability. Consequently, the spring element, or the operating element, has a longer service life.

[0019] The second element is rotatably arranged on the first element about an axis of rotation. This axis of rotation extends along a lateral axis Y and runs along a vertical axis Z beneath the first locking element. Preferably, the first element has two guide projections, each of which is located in a receptacle on the second element. The guide projections preferably extend along the lateral axis Y. They are preferably located on opposite side faces of the first element and thus extend in opposite directions along the lateral axis Y. The receptacles can preferably be designed as recesses or bores.Advantageously, the guide projections and the receptacles are dimensioned such that rotation of the second element relative to the first element is permitted, and the second element is securely attached to the first element. Preferably, the Bowden cable is attached to the second element such that the rotational movement moves an inner section of the Bowden cable. A Bowden cable advantageously comprises an inner section that runs within a flexible, yet compression-resistant (in the direction of tension) cable sheath. Such a sheath serves to guide the inner section and as a counter-bearing to support the tensile forces to be transmitted.

[0020] In a further preferred embodiment, the first detent element has a plurality of detent grooves. The first detent element has a convex curvature along the height axis Z. Preferably, the detent grooves are separated by detent steps.

[0021] In a further preferred embodiment, the second detent element has at least one detent cam. Preferably, the second detent element has at least two detent cams. More preferably, the second detent element has at least three detent cams. Preferably, the at least one detent cam engages in a detent groove, or in a first subset of detent grooves. Due to the advantageous contact of the second element with the first element, the spring element is compressed, so that a certain preload exists between the first element and the second element, or between the first detent element and the second detent element, or between the at least one detent cam and a subset of detent grooves. The spring force of the spring element thus presses the first detent element against the second detent element. The at least one detent cam preferably extends along the width axis (Y).Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one locking cam extends parallel to the locking grooves.

[0022] Advantageously, by rotating the second element about the axis of rotation, the engagement of at least one detent cam can be released from the first subset of detent slots and shifted to a second subset of detent slots. During such an advantageous rotation, sufficient adjusting force is applied so that the at least one detent cam can slide from the first subset of detent slots over the corresponding detent steps. This advantageously causes compression of the spring element, which shifts the first detent element downwards along the vertical axis Z. The necessary adjusting force is therefore preferably defined by the preload between the first detent element and the second detent element and the height of the detent steps.The advantageous design of the spring element with at least two, or two, curved sections ensures that tilting along the lateral axis (Y) of the first detent element is prevented during compression of the spring element. Such advantageous compression of the spring element advantageously occurs in both the first and the second variant.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second locking elements are aligned parallel along the width axis (Y) in both an engaged and a released position. Advantageously, the second locking element has a width extension along the width axis Y. Preferably, due to the parallel alignment of the two locking elements in an engaged position, the second locking element rests against the first locking element along its entire width. Preferably, in both an engaged and a released position, the at least one locking cam and the first subset of locking grooves are aligned parallel along the width axis (Y). Preferably, due to the parallel alignment of the locking cam and the first subset of locking grooves, the at least one locking cam rests against the first subset of locking grooves along its entire width in an engaged position.Advantageously, the parallel alignment of the locking elements in both an engaged and a released position is achieved by the advantageous design of the spring element, which has at least two curved sections, preferably two, and a corresponding S-shaped profile. This shape of the spring element ensures that the first locking element is pressed against the second along its entire width. With appropriate compression of the spring element, the first locking element is not tilted relative to the second. With a conventional spring containing only one curved section, skipping the individual locking steps and the accompanying compression of the spring element would cause the first locking element to tilt. In this case, the two locking elements would no longer be in contact across their full width.This would cause uneven wear of the locking elements.

[0024] Preferably, haptic and / or acoustic feedback can be predetermined by the height of the detent steps. Comparatively high detent steps cause greater compression of the spring element or a greater displacement of the first detent element along the vertical axis (Z). The sliding of at least one detent cam over higher detent steps can advantageously be perceived acoustically, for example, as a loud click. A corresponding haptic sensation as the detent cam slides further is therefore advantageously also present. With lower detent step heights, acoustic or haptic feedback is correspondingly less pronounced.

[0025] The advantageous parallel alignment of the first and second locking elements along the width axis (Y) significantly enhances the haptic and / or acoustic feedback. This is due to the increased contact area along the width direction (Y9).

[0026] It would be conceivable for the detent steps to have different heights, thus indicating different detent positions to the user. For example, a favorable displacement path of the second detent element along the first could be divided into discrete sections, which would be indicated by raised detent steps. It would also be possible to indicate a predetermined end section of the displacement path by raised detent steps.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, the second element comprises a cap-like section which at least partially encloses the first locking element and the spring element. Preferably, the second locking element is arranged at least partially on an inner surface of the cap-like section. Preferably, at least one gripping surface, and preferably several gripping surfaces, are provided on the cap-like section. In such an advantageous embodiment, the operating element consists of only two elements.

[0028] The user can advantageously grasp the second element using at least one of the gripping surfaces and move it accordingly. The shape of the gripping surfaces can be designed so that the user can comfortably apply the necessary force. The shape of the gripping surfaces can be adapted to the position of the control element on the vehicle seat. Depending on the position of the control element on the vehicle seat, the occupant's usual gripping direction towards the control element also changes.

[0029] Advantageously, haptic and / or protective coatings are applied to at least one gripping surface of the cap-like section. Such coatings can be textured, influencing the tactile experience. These coatings can make the at least one gripping surface of the cap-like section resistant to mechanical stresses such as impacts, heat, acids, etc. The at least one gripping surface of the cap-like section can have a textile-like or soft leather texture. It can also be velvety, matte, soft, or have a pearlescent finish. Preferably, additional haptic elements such as grip pads, rubber coatings, and the like can be arranged on the at least one gripping surface of the cap-like section. The at least one gripping surface of the cap-like section can also be colored.Furthermore, identification elements can preferably be provided on at least one gripping surface of the cap-like section. Such identification elements can be tactile elements or symbols, or visual symbols that indicate the function of the control element. It would also be possible to arrange luminescent or luminous elements on at least one gripping surface of the cap-like section, which improve the detectability of the control element or provide an indication of its function.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment, a handle cap can be arranged on the second element. Preferably, the second element comprises a lever arm extending from the axis of rotation. Preferably, the handle cap can be arranged on the lever arm. Preferably, at least one gripping surface is provided on the handle cap. Such an advantageous embodiment consists of only three elements, with only the first and second elements being necessary for the function of the control element. The handle cap advantageously serves for the specific customer-specific design of the appearance of the control element, or rather its gripping surfaces. In manufacturing, the first and second elements can advantageously be produced identically for each embodiment. Depending on the respective purpose or the customer's requirements, the second element can be fitted with a specially designed handle cap.

[0031] The user can advantageously grasp at least one gripping surface of the handle cap and move the second element. The shape of the gripping surfaces can be designed so that the user can comfortably apply the necessary force. The shape of the gripping surfaces can be adapted to the position of the control element on the vehicle seat. Depending on the position of the control element on the vehicle seat, the occupant's usual gripping direction towards the control element also changes.

[0032] Advantageously, at least one gripping surface of the grip cap has haptic and / or protective coatings applied. Such coatings can be textured, influencing the tactile experience. These coatings can make the gripping surface of the grip cap resistant to mechanical stresses such as impacts, heat, acids, etc. The gripping surface of the grip cap can have a textile-like or soft leather texture. It can also be velvety, matte, soft, or have a pearlescent finish. Preferably, additional haptic elements such as grip pads, rubber coatings, and similar features can be arranged on the gripping surface of the grip cap. The gripping surface of the grip cap can also be different colors.Furthermore, identification elements can preferably be provided on at least one gripping surface of the handle cap. Such identification elements can be tactile elements or symbols, or visual symbols that indicate the function of the control element. It would also be possible to arrange luminescent or luminous elements on at least one gripping surface of the handle cap, which improve the detectability of the control element or provide an indication of its function.

[0033] The task is further solved by a vehicle seat comprising a control element, according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0034] The vehicle seat can be equipped with all the features already described above in the context of the control element, either individually or in combination, and vice versa.

[0035] It is a vehicle seat with a control element comprising a second element which is movably arranged relative to a first element, wherein the second element is connected to a Bowden cable and can be locked relative to the first element, wherein the control element comprises a spring element on which a first detent element is provided, wherein the spring force of the spring element presses the first detent element against a second detent element, causing the first detent element and the second detent element to lock into place, wherein the second element and the spring element are formed as one piece and the second detent element is arranged on the first element, wherein the second element is rotatably arranged on the first element about an axis of rotation, wherein the axis of rotation extends along a lateral axis and runs along a vertical axis below the first detent element, wherein the first detent element has a convex curvature along the vertical axis.

[0036] Preferably, the vehicle seat comprises components and / or devices that can be operated by the control element. Preferably, seat parameters can be modified by such components and / or devices. Such seat parameters include, for example, the inclination of the backrest or the seat height, the damping stiffness and / or the spring stiffness of a spring and / or damping device for vertical and / or horizontal vibrations.

[0037] Further advantages, objectives, and features of the present invention are explained with reference to the accompanying figures. Similar components may have the same reference numerals in the different embodiments.

[0038] The figures show: Fig. 1 Isometric view of a control element according to one embodiment; Fig. 2 Rear view of a control element according to one embodiment; Fig. 3a, 3 Isometric view of a control element according to one embodiment in different positions; Fig. 4a Rear view of the second element according to one embodiment; Fig. 4b Front view of the second element according to one embodiment; Fig. 5a Side isometric view of the first element according to one embodiment; Fig. 5b Side view of the first element according to one embodiment; Fig. 6a Side view of the first element according to one embodiment; Fig. 6b Side isometric view of the first element according to one embodiment; Fig. 7 Top view of the first element according to one embodiment; Fig. 8 Sectional view along the section axis AA from Figure 7 Fig. 9 Top view of the control element according to one embodiment; Figs. 10a to 10c Sectional views along the section axis BB from Figure 9Fig. 11 Isometric view of a control element according to one embodiment; Fig. 12 Exploded view of a control element according to one embodiment; Fig. 13 Side view of the control element according to one embodiment; Fig. 14 Top view of the control element according to one embodiment; Figs. 15a to 15c Sectional views along the section axis EE from Figure 16 ; Fig. 16 Side view of a vehicle seat with a control element according to one embodiment.

[0039] In the Figures 1 to 15cAn operating element 1 is shown, in particular for a vehicle seat 100, comprising a second element 3 which is movably arranged relative to a first element 2, wherein the second element 3 is connected to a Bowden cable 4 and can be locked relative to the first element 2, wherein the operating element 1 comprises a spring element 5 on which a first locking element 6 is provided, wherein the spring force of the spring element 5 presses the first locking element 6 against a second locking element 7, causing the first locking element 6 and the second locking element 7 to lock, wherein the first element 2 and the spring element 5 are formed in one piece and the second locking element 7 is arranged on the second element 3 or the second element 3 and the spring element 5 are formed in one piece and the second locking element 7 is arranged on the first element 2.

[0040] The control element 1 extends along a height axis Z, a longitudinal axis X and a width axis Y.

[0041] In a first embodiment, the first element 2 and the spring element 5 are formed integrally with the first locking element 6, and the second locking element 7 is further arranged on the second element 3. The second element 3 and the second locking element 7 can also be formed integrally or as a single piece. The first element 2 and the spring element 5 can be manufactured from the same plastic, preferably the same plastic, using an injection molding process. Similarly, the second element 3 and the second locking element 7 can advantageously be manufactured from the same plastic, preferably the same plastic, using an injection molding process.

[0042] In a second embodiment, the second element 3 and the spring element 5 are formed as a single unit with the first locking element 6. The second locking element 7 is still arranged on the first element 2. The first element 2 and the second locking element 7 can also be formed as single units or integral parts. The second element 3 and the spring element 5 with the first locking element 6 can be manufactured from a single, preferably identical, plastic using an injection molding process. Advantageously, the first element 2 and the second locking element 7 can also be manufactured from a single, preferably identical, plastic using an injection molding process.

[0043] In the Figures 1 to 16 The first variant is shown. However, the functionality of the second variant is analogous to that of the first.

[0044] The first element 2 has a plate-like base section 8 by means of which the first element 2 can be arranged on the vehicle seat 100. This can be done in various ways. The embodiments according to Figures 1 to 10c They have bores 20 for this purpose. According to the embodiments as described in the Figures 11 to 15c A hook-like element 21 is provided which can engage with corresponding devices on the vehicle seat 100.

[0045] A through-opening 9 for the Bowden cable 4 is provided in the plate-like base section 8. A receptacle 22 is provided in the second element 3, to which the Bowden cable 4, in particular the inner cable of the Bowden cable, can be attached. The cable housing of the Bowden cable can advantageously be attached in the through-opening 9, so that a relative movement of the second element 3 to the first element 2 results in a relative movement of the inner cable to the cable housing. However, the cable housing can also be fixed to the vehicle seat in another way. The Bowden cable 4 is only secured in the Figures 3b and 11 It is indicated, but for the sake of clarity, it is not shown in the other figures.

[0046] The spring element 5 is a curved leaf spring, which has two arcs of curvature 10a, 10b and an S-shaped profile. Of course, embodiments with more than two arcs of curvature 10a, 10b would also be conceivable. The S-shaped profile of the spring element 5 is described in Figure 8The spring element 5 comprises a lower section 10c, to which a lower curved section 10b extends along the vertical direction Z. An arm 10d, extending along the horizontal axis Y, connects to this curved section 10b. The arm 10d transitions into the upper curved section 10a, which in turn transitions into the first locking element 6. The upper curved section 10a is also visible in Figures 5b and 6b. The spring element 5 can therefore be considered a series connection of partial springs. The reciprocal of this resultant spring stiffness is the sum of the reciprocal spring stiffnesses of the individual partial springs. The material thickness of the leaf spring, or the height of the leaf spring, and the type of material, or plastic, determine the respective spring stiffnesses of the partial springs. By connecting the partial springs in series, the resultant spring stiffness can be reduced without having to reduce the material thickness.This has the advantage that the spring element is more durable, reducing the likelihood of material fatigue.

[0047] The second element 3 is rotatably mounted on the first element 2 about an axis of rotation (D). The axis of rotation D extends along the lateral axis Y. Furthermore, the axis of rotation D runs along a vertical axis Z below the first locking element 6. Two guide projections 11 are arranged on the first element 2, located on opposite sides of the first element and thus extending in opposite directions along the lateral axis Y. These guide projections 11 are each positioned in a receptacle 12 on the second element 3 such that the second element 6 is rotatable relative to the first element 2. The second element 3 is also mounted on the first element 2 in such a way that it is compressed by the spring element 5. This causes the first locking element 5 and the second locking element 6 to press against each other due to the spring force of the spring element 5, thus pre-tensioning them.

[0048] The first locking element 6 has a plurality of locking grooves 13. The locking grooves 6 are separated by locking steps 14. Furthermore, the first locking element 6 has a convex curvature along the height axis Z, with the locking grooves 6 being separated by locking steps 14. The second locking element 7 is thus arranged on the second element 3 such that it extends towards the first locking element 5. The second locking element 7 is advantageously formed integrally with the second element 3. A one-piece design would also be conceivable. The second locking element 7 comprises at least one locking cam 15.

[0049] At least one locking cam 15 engages in the detent grooves 6, or in a subset of the detent grooves 6, due to the aforementioned preload. The rotational movement of the second element 3 relative to the first element 2 applies a force that causes the at least one locking cam 15 to slide over the corresponding detent step 14, or over further subsequent detent steps 14. The engagement of the at least one locking cam 15 in a first subset of detent grooves 13 is therefore achieved by the rotational movement. After the rotational movement is complete, the at least one locking cam 15 is moved to another subset of the detent grooves 13 and now engages in them. The height of the detent steps 14 can be designed such that haptic and / or acoustic feedback can be provided.The individual resting levels 14 of the first resting element 2 can also have different heights in order to make certain areas of the displacement path along the first resting element 2 identifiable for the user.

[0050] The rotational movement moves the inner cable of the Bowden cable 4. This movement, or force, can then operate a corresponding component or device of the vehicle seat 100, thereby allowing the corresponding seat parameters to be adjusted.

[0051] In both an engaged and a released position, the first detent element 5 and the second detent element 6 are aligned parallel along the width axis Y. Accordingly, at least one detent cam 15 and the first subset of detent grooves 13 are also aligned parallel along the width axis Y in both an engaged and a released position. Due to the parallel alignment of the two detent elements 5 and 6, in an engaged position the second detent element 6 rests against the first detent element 5 along its entire width.

[0052] The parallel alignment of the locking elements 5, 6 in both an engaged and a released position is achieved by the advantageous design of the spring element 5 with at least two curved arcs, preferably two curved arcs, and a corresponding S-shaped profile of the spring element 5. This shape of the spring element 5 ensures that the first locking element 5 is pressed against the second locking element 6 along its entire width. With appropriate compression of the spring element 5, the first locking element 5 is not tilted relative to the second locking element 6.

[0053] The figures show two basic embodiments. Figures 1 to 3 and 9 to 10cFigure 1 shows an embodiment in which the second element 3 comprises a cap-like section 16 which at least partially encloses the first locking element 6 and the spring element 5. Grip surfaces 17 are provided on this cap-like section 16, by which the user can grasp the operating element 1 and perform a corresponding movement of the second element 3. Figure 1 An exploded view of this embodiment is shown. Figure 2 shows a rear view of this embodiment. In Figure 3a The control element is shown in a lower position. The receiver 22 is positioned here at a maximum distance from the first element 2, or the through-opening 9. The inner cable of the bottom cable 4 is thus also moved a maximum distance relative to the cable housing (outwards). In the Figure 3bThe upper position of control element 1 is shown. Here, the distance between the recording 22 and the first element 2 is minimal.

[0054] In the Figures 4a and 4b The second element 3 is shown. It can be seen that the second locking element 7 is designed as an arm element 24, on the underside of which a plurality of locking cams are arranged. Advantageously, the arm element 24 is designed in an arc shape. The arm element 24 can protrude at least partially from the cap-like section.

[0055] The embodiment according to the Figures 1 to 3 and 9 to 10c This has the advantage that only two components are required for the entire control element 1.

[0056] In the Figures 11 to 14A handle cap 18 is provided, which is arranged on the second element 3. Grip surfaces 20 are provided on the handle cap 18, on which the user can grasp the control element 1 and perform a corresponding movement of the second element 3. In both embodiments, the first element 2, shown for example in the Figures 5a to 7 , essentially the same. The advantage of this embodiment is that the appearance of the control element 1, which is essentially defined by the grip surfaces, can be customized. However, the functionally relevant components, in the form of the first element 2 and the second element 3, can be manufactured in essentially the same way.

[0057] The gripping surfaces 17 of the embodiment according to the Figures 1 to 3 and 9 to 10c and the gripping surfaces 20 of the embodiment according to the Figures 11 to 14The grip surfaces 17 and 20 may have haptic coatings and / or protective coatings. Haptic elements and / or identification elements may be arranged on the grip surfaces 17 and 20. Furthermore, luminescent or luminous elements may be provided on the grip surfaces 17 and 20.

[0058] In the Figures 11 to 14 A lever arm 19 is provided, on which the handle cap 18 is arranged. Furthermore, a snap connection 23 is provided, which comprises at least one projection 23a, preferably two projections 23a. The two projections 23a are provided on the lateral sides of the second element 3 opposite each other along the width direction Y. The projection 23a engages in an opening 23b of an arm on the handle cap 18.

[0059] In the Figure 11 The upper position of control element 1 is shown. Here, the distance between the recording 22 and the first element 2 is minimal. In the Figure 13The control element 1 is shown in a lower position. The receptacle 22 is positioned here at a maximum distance from the first element 2, or the through-opening 9. The inner cable of the bottom cable 4 is thus also moved a maximum distance relative to the cable housing (outwards).

[0060] In Figure 12An exploded view of the control element 1 is shown. It can be seen that the second element 3 is V-shaped. At its lower end, along the vertical axis Z, two arms with receptacles 12 are provided. At its upper end, along the vertical axis Z, a lever arm 19 and an arm 25, on which the receptacle 22 for the Bowden cable is located, are provided. The arm 25 and the lever arm 19 terminate in a base section 26. This base section 26 is arranged, at least partially, along the vertical axis Z above the first locking element 5. The second locking element 7 is arranged on the underside of the base section 26 and extends towards the first locking element 2.

[0061] The lever arm 19 is part of a lever length 27, which extends from the axis of rotation D. This is in Figure 15c evident. Even if, according to the embodiment, Figures 1 to 3 and 9 to 10cSince no explicit lever arm 19 is provided, a substantially uniform lever length 27 can be achieved through the design of the cap-like section 16. This is in Figure 10c The lever length 27 determines the force required by the user to release the engagement of the detent cams 15 from the detent grooves, or to release the detent between the first detent element 6 and the second detent element 7. The adjusting force is further influenced by the height of the detent steps 14 and the preload.

[0062] In the Figures 10a to 10c is a section along the BB axis on Figure 9 depicted. In the Figures 15a to 15c is a section along the EE axis from Figure 14 shown. In these sectional views, the respective control element is shown in different positions. Figures 10a to 10c and 15a to 15care described in parallel below, as the corresponding arrangements are analogous.

[0063] Three locking cams 15 are provided, each engaging in three locking grooves. The locking cams lie parallel to the locking grooves along the width axis Y. The additional S-shaped design of the spring element 5 allows for a defined bending axis of the spring element 5 along the entire adjustment range of the first locking element 5. This ensures a constant adjusting force over the entire adjustment range. With these embodiments, the spring element 5 deforms uniformly under vertical force.

[0064] In the Figures 10a , 15a The upper position of control element 1 is shown. Here, the distance between the recording 22 and the first element 2 is minimal. In the Figures 10b , 15b A middle position of control element 1 is shown. In the Figures 10c and 15cThe operating element 1 is shown in a lower position. The receptacle 22 is positioned at a maximum distance from the first element 2, or the through-opening 9. The inner cable of the bottom cable 4 is thus also moved a maximum distance relative to the cable housing (outwards). The adjustment angle in this design lies within a range of 0° to 32.5°. Three further detents are perceptible between the uppermost and lowermost positions. The adjustment angle and the detents can be extended or shortened as desired, depending on the position of the upper and lower stops.

[0065] In Figure 16 Figure 1 shows a vehicle seat 100 on which a control element 1 is arranged. The control element can, in principle, be arranged at any accessible point on the vehicle seat. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the arrangement position shown. Reference symbol list

[0066] 1 Operating element 2 First element 3 Second element 4 Bowden cable 5 Spring element 6 First detent element 7 Second detent element 8 Plate-like base section 9 Through-opening for the Bowden cable 10a Curve 10b Curve 11 Guide projections 12 Receptacles for the guide projections 13 Detent grooves 14 Detent steps 15 Detent cam 16 Cap-like section 17 Grip surface 18 Grip cap 19 Grip surface 20 Bores 21 Hook-like elements 22 Receptacle for Bowden cable 23 Snap connection 23 23a Projection 23b Opening 24 Arm element 25 Arm 26 Base section 27 Lever length D Axis of rotation Z Vertical axis X Longitudinal axis Y Lateral axis

Claims

1. A control element (1), in particular for a vehicle seat (100), comprising a second element (3) which is arranged to be movable relative to a first element (2), wherein the second element (3) is connected to a Bowden cable (4) and is lockable relative to the first element (2), wherein the control element (1) comprises a spring element (5) on which a first latching element (6) is provided, wherein the first latching element (6) presses against a second latching element (7) through the spring force of the spring element (5), whereby the first latching element (6) and the second latching element (7) latch, characterized in that the first element (2) and the spring element (5) are formed in one piece and the second latching element (7) is arranged on the second element (3), wherein the second element (3) is arranged on the first element (2) to be rotatable about an axis of rotation (D), wherein the axis of rotation (D) extends along a horizontal axis (Y) and runs along a vertical axis (Z) below the first latching element (6), wherein the first latching element (6) has a convex curvature along the vertical axis (Z).

2. The control element (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first element (2) has a plate-like base portion (8) by means of which the first element (2) can be arranged on the vehicle seat (100), wherein a through opening (9) for the Bowden cable (4) is provided on the plate-like base portion (8).

3. The control element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first element (2) and the spring element (5) consist of a plastics material, wherein the first element (2) and the spring element (5) consist of the same plastics material, wherein the first element (2) and the spring element (5) are produced by an injection-molding process.

4. The control element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (5) is a curved spiral spring and / or leaf spring, wherein the spring element (5) has at least two arcs of curvature (10a, 10b), wherein the spring element (5) has two arcs of curvature (10a, 10b), wherein the spring element (5) has an S-shaped profile.

5. The control element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two guide projections (11) are arranged on the first element (2), which each extend along the horizontal axis (Y) and are each arranged in a receptacle (12) on the second element (3), wherein the Bowden cable (4) is fastened to the second element (3) in such a way that an inner cable of the Bowden cable (4) is moved by the rotary movement.

6. The control element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first latching element (6) has a plurality of latching grooves (13), wherein the latching grooves (13) are separated by latching steps (14).

7. The control element (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the second latching element (7) has at least one latching cam (15) which engages in a first subset of latching grooves (13), wherein the engagement of the at least one latching cam (15) is releasable from the first subset of latching grooves (13) by a rotary movement of the second element (3) about the axis of rotation (D) and is displaceable to a second subset of latching grooves (13), wherein a haptic and / or acoustic feedback can be specified by the height of the latching steps (14).

8. The control element (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that both in an engaged position and in a released position the first latching element (6) and the second latching element (7) are aligned parallel along the horizontal axis (Y), wherein both in an engaged position and in a released position the at least one latching cam (15) and the first subset of latching grooves (13) are aligned parallel along the horizontal axis (Y).

9. The control element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second element (3) comprises a cap-like portion (16) which at least in portions encloses the first latching element (6) and the spring element (5), wherein at least one gripping surface (17) is provided on the cap-like portion (16), wherein haptic coatings and / or protective coatings are applied to at least one gripping surface (17), wherein haptic elements are arranged on at least one gripping surface (17), wherein identification elements are arranged on at least one gripping surface (17), wherein luminescent or luminous elements are arranged on at least one gripping surface (17).

10. The control element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a grip cap (18) can be arranged on the second element (3), wherein the second element (3) comprises a lever arm (19) extending from the axis of rotation (D), wherein the grip cap (18) can be arranged on the lever arm (19), wherein at least one gripping surface (20) is provided on the grip cap (18), wherein haptic coatings and / or protective coatings are applied to at least one gripping surface (20), wherein haptic elements are arranged on at least one gripping surface (20), wherein identification elements are arranged on at least one gripping surface (20), wherein luminescent or luminous elements are arranged on at least one gripping surface (20).

11. A vehicle seat (100) with a control element (1) comprising a second element (3) which is arranged to be movable relative to a first element (2), wherein the second element (3) is connected to a Bowden cable (4) and is lockable relative to the first element (2), wherein the control element (1) comprises a spring element (5) on which a first latching element (6) is provided, wherein, by the spring force of the spring element (5), the first latching element (6) presses against a second latching element (7), whereby the first latching element (6) and the second latching element (7) latch, wherein the second element (3) and the spring element (5) are formed in one piece and the second latching element (7) is arranged on the first element (2), wherein the second element (3) is arranged on the first element (2) to be rotatable about an axis of rotation (D), characterized in that the axis of rotation (D) extends along a horizontal axis (Y) and runs along a vertical axis (Z) below the first latching element (6), wherein the first latching element (6) has a convex curvature along the vertical axis (Z).