Devices and methods for adjusting parameter values ​​in vehicles

Abstract

The device for adjusting a parameter value in a vehicle (1) comprises at least one sensor element (Sa, Sb, Sc) having a detection area, wherein at least one first sub-area and at least one second sub-area of ​​the detection area are assigned to different parameter values, and wherein the sensor element (Sa, Sb, Sc) is configured to detect an operation performed at an operating position in the detection area. The device also comprises a control unit (3) configured to assign the operating position to the first or second sub-area of ​​the detection area and to adjust the parameter value according to the assigned sub-area. The control unit (3) is also configured to determine the approach to a sub-area of ​​the detection area that is not assigned according to the sensor signal and to output the determined approach. The method is suitable for operating the device according to the invention.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a device and a method for adjusting a parameter value in a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] In modern vehicles, in particular motor vehicles, a number of electronic devices are provided which must be adjustable and operated by the driver or other vehicle occupants. These devices include, for example, air conditioning units, by means of which air can be introduced into certain areas of the vehicle interior and by means of which other elements, such as seat heating, can also be controlled. Other devices are, for example, navigation systems, driver assistance systems and communication and multimedia units, such as telephone devices or devices for playing music and voice, such as radios or CD players.

[0003] Various operating units are known for operating the vehicle. However, the driver is often faced with the challenge of having to operate very complex devices. The driver must devote some of his attention to mastering and operating a number of operating elements in such a way that the operation can be carried out or changed in the desired manner. This often requires very precise operation, during which the driver can only take his eyes off the traffic situation for a short time. Incorrect operation should be avoided, which could significantly affect driving comfort and lead to the need for further operation.

[0004] At the same time, the adjusted parameters must be easily visible to the user in order to determine whether the currently adjusted parameter values ​​should be changed or whether the appropriate adjustment can be maintained.

[0005] Patent specification DE 10 2016 200 110 A1 discloses a device for operating a heating and air conditioning system of a vehicle, in which a finger groove is formed in a substantially flat surface, in which a sliding gesture performed can be detected.

[0006] A typical difficulty in regulating devices in vehicles is that systems for high-resolution detection are complex to produce and require a large amount of installation space. Summary of the invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a device and a method for regulating parameter values ​​in a vehicle, in which the parameter values ​​can be detected particularly flexibly and accurately and which nevertheless allow simple and cost-effective installation.

[0008] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a device for regulating a parameter value in a vehicle and a method for regulating a parameter value in a vehicle.

[0009] The device for adjusting a parameter value in a vehicle according to the invention comprises at least one sensor element having a detection area, wherein at least one first sub-area and at least one second sub-area of ​​the detection area are correspondingly assigned (or allocated, assigned, associated) to different parameter values, and wherein the sensor element is configured to detect an operation performed at an operating position in the detection area. The device further comprises a control unit, which is configured to assign the operating position to the first sub-area or the second sub-area of ​​the detection area and to adjust the parameter value according to the correspondingly assigned sub-area. The control unit is also configured to determine the approach to a sub-area of ​​the detection area that is not correspondingly assigned based on the sensor signal and output the determined approach.

[0010] In the method, the user can therefore advantageously not only adjust the parameter value by operating the sub-area, but also determine and output the spatial relationship of the operation relative to other sub-areas. The user can thus easily recognize whether he has approached other sub-areas during the operation or whether he should continue to approach in order to adjust the parameter value.

[0011] The method also advantageously enables the parameter value to be adjusted with high resolution by a relatively small number of sensors. By detecting not only the manipulation of a sub-region of the detection range, but also the approach to other sub-regions and analyzing them, the parameter value can be determined with additional accuracy.

[0012] When determining the approach, a spatial relationship between the operating position and other positions, in particular other sub-areas of the detection area, is determined. In particular, a change in this relationship is determined. The approach can, for example, relate to the distance between the operating position and the sub-area or to individual positions within the sub-area. The determined approach can also relate to a direction of movement in which the operating position changes over time. In particular, the approach speed can also be detected here. This makes it possible to distinguish between different types of operations, for example, those performed with the aid of different gesture types, which differ in the speed with which the movement is carried out, in particular with respect to a determined position or a sub-area of ​​the detection area.

[0013] The approach is output in particular in such a way that the user can understand the output, for example by means of a display screen or a light-emitting display device. By outputting a greater degree of approach, for example when the operating position is close to the ion area, the user can understand, for example, which sub-area the approach is made to and / or the degree of clarity of the approach. The output can also be implemented in such a way that the adjusted parameter value is determined based on the approach.

[0014] In one embodiment of the device according to the invention, the sensor element comprises a capacitive sensor. This advantageously allows particularly simple detection of the spatial relationship between the sensor and the actuation position.

[0015] Capacitive sensors detect signals that depend, in particular, on the distance between the operating object and the sensor or the position to a large extent. This makes it possible to determine the position of the operating object in the detection space with high accuracy. For example, it is possible to detect a touch of a surface at an operating position or to detect the operating position at a certain distance from the surface, for example when the operating object has not yet touched the surface, but is, for example, moving toward the surface or is located in the vicinity. Other sensors can be used alternatively or in addition. The detection of gestures can be realized, for example, according to optical or electronic detection methods; for detection, for example, lasers, electromagnetic fields in the microwave range or other methods and combinations of the above methods can be used. In particular, multiple sensors, for example, multiple individual pixels of a sensor element matrix of a touch screen can also be combined into a unified sensor element.

[0016] In another embodiment, the detection region is arranged on a surface and the operation comprises touching the surface by the operating element. Advantageously, this allows an input to be carried out particularly simply.

[0017] The detection region can be designed in a manner known per se. The detection region is in particular designed in an elongated manner and has a longitudinal dimension which is preferably at least twice, preferably at least three times, the width of the detection region extending perpendicularly thereto. Thus, it can be, for example, a slide bar element (or so-called slide bar element), by which the function of a slide bar adjuster is implemented.

[0018] The sub-regions of the detection region can be configured in particular freely and can be defined, for example, according to a distance range relative to a sensor or sensors. For example, a certain distance range can be defined according to the signal detected by the sensor, which in turn corresponds to a sub-region of the detection region. In one embodiment, the device has a plurality of configurations with different arrangements and configurations of the detection region and / or sub-regions of the detection region.

[0019] The detection of operations, for example operations based on gestures, is not necessarily limited to the surface. Instead, gestures can be performed in a detection area that is formed in practice at will and, if necessary, detected using different detection methods. For example, gestures in three-dimensional space can also be detected. In particular, virtual operating objects, such as virtual buttons, can be provided. For example, gestures can be detected in a spatial area in which a virtual operating object is generated, for example, by projection or by virtual reality methods, and the gesture is detected with reference to the virtual operating object. In particular, the position of the gesture, the trajectory of the gesture, the direction of the gesture and / or the speed of the gesture are detected for this purpose.

[0020] In one embodiment, the sensor element can detect the operation in different sub-areas of the detection area and the sub-areas are respectively assigned parameter values. When the operation is detected at the operating position in one of the sub-areas, the correspondingly assigned parameter value is adjusted (or generated).

[0021] In another embodiment, the sub-regions of the detection range are designed virtually, that is, they are not fixedly predetermined by the properties of the sensor, which can only detect an operation in a certain range. Instead, the sub-regions can be defined by processing the sensor signals in such a way that certain sensor signals of the same sensor are determined to belong to a certain sub-region of the larger detection range.

[0022] For example, a detection area designed in the form of an elongated strip can include a plurality of sub-areas arranged side by side along the longitudinal dimension of the detection area, each of which is assigned to a different parameter value. The sub-areas are particularly arranged and assigned to the parameter values ​​in such a way that a scale is formed, in which the correspondingly assigned parameter values ​​are arranged in an ordered row along the longitudinal dimension, for example increasing or decreasing in one direction. In addition, the scale can be designed so that the correspondingly assigned sub-areas are very small, in order to achieve a high resolution of the scale that can be perceived continuously or at least quasi-continuously, according to which the parameter value can be adjusted steplessly (or steplessly).

[0023] The stepless adjustment or free configuration of subareas in the detection area is achieved in particular by determining the approach to a non-assigned subarea, in which no manipulation is currently detected. The subarea itself does not need to be manipulated in order to influence the adjustment of the parameter value, but the parameter value can also be adjusted depending on the subarea for which the approach is determined.

[0024] In order to perform the input gesture, an operating object, in particular a hand or finger of a user, is used. In the following description, the operating object is a finger of the user, but the description is generally applicable to other operating objects, such as a pen. The operation includes, for example, entering the detection area or touching the operating position and / or the operating object moving along the operating track in the detection area.

[0025] The operation comprises in particular an input gesture. The input gesture comprises in particular a determined position of an operating object or a determined movement performed by an operating object. The input gesture can be designed in a known manner. The operating gesture comprises in particular a tap gesture, a swipe gesture and a hold gesture as well as a combination of a plurality of such gestures which are performed quickly in succession if necessary. The gesture is performed in a detection area which comprises in particular the surface of the detection unit. A particularly simple and intuitive input possibility is provided to the user by controlling the user interface.

[0026] In an extended design, the operation includes an input gesture and the control unit is further configured to assign a gesture type to the input gesture and output the approach according to the assigned gesture type. For example, a wiping gesture or a tapping gesture can be detected as a gesture type. In addition, a special subtype can be assigned to one of these gesture types, for example a click or hold gesture as a subtype of the tapping gesture. This advantageously enables the control to be designed to be particularly flexible.

[0027] Input gestures of different gesture types lead in particular to different changes in the adjusted parameter value. The parameter value can be selected in particular directly as an absolute parameter value, for example, depending on the scale or depending on the input, a relative change of the currently adjusted parameter value can be achieved by a certain difference, for example an increase or decrease.

[0028] For example, in a wiping gesture, a wiping trajectory in the detection area is determined. The parameter value can then be adjusted according to the wiping trajectory. In a wiping gesture, the operating object in particular touches the surface in the detection area and then moves along the operating trajectory before releasing the touch again. The operating trajectory includes a sequence of operating positions arranged in chronological order, along which the operating object moves. That is, the starting position and the end position can be determined based on the operating trajectory. In addition, the temporal course of the movement can be determined.

[0029] For example, when an input is detected, the operating position can be assigned to an absolute parameter value in the form of a slide bar adjuster, or a relative change of the currently adjusted parameter value can be obtained according to the length and / or direction of the operating track in the form of a rotary adjuster.

[0030] Furthermore, the input may include a tap gesture, which is particularly suitable for directly selecting an absolute value, for gradually increasing or decreasing a value, in particular by multiple operations, or for activating or deactivating a function depending on a parameter value.

[0031] When a tap gesture is performed, in particular the operating object touches the surface of the detection area and releases the touch again after a certain time, wherein the touch position remains essentially unchanged. In particular, the operating position is determined based on the tap gesture.

[0032] In one embodiment, the operation includes a start time and an end time, and the control unit is further configured to generate a control signal at the start time and / or the end time to adjust the parameter value. This makes it possible to use different adjustment possibilities particularly flexibly, in particular by calling up absolute and relative adjustment possibilities according to different gesture types.

[0033] In this case, in particular when a wiping gesture is performed, a control signal is generated when the touch begins at the starting position, during a change of the operating position along the operating trajectory and / or when the touch is released at the end position, in order to adjust a parameter value, for example. For example, a parameter value can be adjusted when a wiping gesture is performed; the parameter value then passes through the detection area along the path of the operating object and changes when a position corresponding to another parameter value is reached.

[0034] In the case of a tap gesture, in particular, the duration of the touch can be determined. In this case, a control signal is generated when the touch begins at the operating position or when the touch is released, for example to adjust a parameter value. Furthermore, in particular in the case of a hold gesture, a control signal is alternatively or additionally generated when a predetermined time interval has expired, which can also be referred to as a "long press" or "long press". When performing a hold gesture, a control signal can also be generated each time an integer multiple of a predetermined time interval has passed, so that when the touch is held for a longer period of time, a control signal is automatically generated at certain intervals.

[0035] In another design, the detected operation includes direction information. The direction information is determined in particular based on the operation trajectory of the wiping gesture. The direction information can be determined in particular based on the wiping trajectory. This can advantageously and particularly specifically adjust the parameter value.

[0036] The direction information includes, for example, the information about which sub-area of ​​the detection area the input gesture is directed to. The direction information can therefore be used, for example, to more accurately determine the determined approach. For example, it can be determined to which sub-area the approach was made during the operation. In particular, it can be determined to what extent the operating position is close to the sub-area.

[0037] In one embodiment, parameter values ​​are assigned to the sub-areas corresponding to the operating position and to the sub-areas not assigned to the operation and to which the proximity is determined according to the operation. The currently adjustable parameter values ​​between the correspondingly assigned parameter values ​​are determined according to these parameter values. If, for example, the operation starts from a sub-area for a first parameter value and the proximity to another sub-area for a second parameter value is determined, a third parameter value located therebetween can be adjusted, which is determined in particular according to the determined proximity. This makes it possible to adjust the parameter value with particularly high accuracy even if a corresponding number of multiple individual sensor elements are not provided or the same number of sub-areas as adjustable parameter values ​​are not formed in the detection area.

[0038] In another embodiment, the speed is determined in a first detection area as a function of the detected input, in particular a swiping gesture, and the parameter value is adjusted as a function of the speed of the input. This advantageously allows for particularly flexible and convenient regulation. For example, the higher the detected speed, the faster the parameter value can be changed, for example stepwise with larger intervals.

[0039] In one embodiment, at least one light-emitting element is arranged in the detection region, wherein the control unit is further configured to output the determined approach by means of the lighting state of the light-emitting element. This advantageously enables the approach to be particularly easily understood.

[0040] For example, the lighting state can be defined by the intensity or color of the illumination of the lighting element. The lighting state changes in particular with the approach. For example, a lighting element can be assigned to a sub-area and the greater the approach to the sub-area, i.e., the closer the operating position is to the sub-area, the brighter the lighting element. If the operating position reaches the sub-area, an operation in the sub-area is indicated, i.e., the lighting state has a certain fixed intensity and the parameter value is adjusted accordingly.

[0041] Although the parameter value may only change in steps, a stepless change in the parameter value is nevertheless displayed in particular according to the lighting state. This means that, for example, during an operation by a wiping gesture, an approach to a further adjustable level of the parameter value is output by the continuously changing lighting state until an operation in the sub-area is detected after the approach.

[0042] In one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged side by side and the control unit is also configured to output parameter values ​​by means of the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are arranged side by side in the form of a scale, in particular corresponding to the ordered sequence of the parameter values. The display is realized in a manner known per se, in particular by means of a segmented display (or area display, segmented display). This advantageously makes it possible to read the parameter values ​​particularly easily.

[0043] The light-emitting element is particularly arranged in the detection area so that the position of the light-emitting element displaying a certain parameter value is arranged at a position in the detection area corresponding to the parameter value, that is, the same parameter value output by the light-emitting element is adjusted when an operation is performed in the area of ​​the light-emitting element.

[0044] In one design, the currently adjusted parameter value is output by means of a segmented display via a plurality of light-emitting elements. When an operation is performed, in particular a wiping gesture in the detection area, the segmented display changes so that when approaching an operating position for another parameter value, the light-emitting element illuminates more strongly or less strongly in order to indicate the approach. When the operating position where the parameter value is actually adjusted is reached, the parameter value is finally output via the segmented display. That is, when the parameter value changes in steps, a continuous transition between the different output contents of the segmented display is output.

[0045] In one design, at least one basic activation state and at least one display activation state can be activated for each light-emitting element, wherein the light-emitting element emits light of a basic intensity in the basic activation state and emits light of a display intensity in the display activation state. The display intensity is higher than the basic intensity. The light-emitting element is controlled in such a way that the basic activation state or the display activation state of the light-emitting element is activated so that a parameter value is output. That is, unlike the common light-emitting segment display, all light-emitting elements emit at least light of a basic intensity that is higher than the intensity of a dark state, in which the light-emitting elements are deactivated. This advantageously avoids overflow light. In this way, light from an activated light element also partially illuminates adjacent light elements. In addition, light elements that are not actually used to display parameter values ​​can also be made visible; by means of these additional light elements with a basic intensity, the entire range for possible parameter values ​​can be output, for example, as in an analog controller, in which the position of the control element relative to the total extent indicates the current parameter value.

[0046] The device has, in particular, a covering layer which is designed such that the lighting element cannot be seen by an observer of the device in the dark state. In particular, a so-called “black panel” is used.

[0047] In another embodiment, a surface structure, in particular a recess or a protrusion, is formed in the first and / or second partial region. This advantageously makes it possible to find and operate the operable region particularly easily.

[0048] In particular, a tactile auxiliary structure is provided in this way, by means of which the user can grasp the position and extent of the detection area, in particular the sub-area. For example, the surface deformation that can be perceived tactilely can include a locally changed roughness. In addition, essentially point-shaped protrusions or recesses can be designed on the surface, or elongated recesses or protrusions can be provided. In addition, complex shapes, such as recesses, which have edges extending therein or tangible markings, are conceivable. In addition, the recesses can extend straight or along a curved line.

[0049] In the method for adjusting a parameter value in a vehicle according to the invention, an operation performed at an operating position is detected in a detection area. The detection area has a first and a second sub-area that are assigned accordingly. The operating position is assigned to the first or second sub-area of ​​the detection area, and the parameter value is adjusted according to the assigned sub-area. In addition, an approach to a sub-area of ​​the detection area that is not assigned accordingly is determined, and the determined approach is output.

[0050] The method according to the invention is designed in particular for operating the above-described device according to the invention. The method thus has the same advantages as the device according to the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] The present invention will be described below based on embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] Figure 1 A vehicle having an embodiment of the device according to the invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 2 shows further details of an embodiment of the device according to the invention;

[0054] Figures 3A to 3C An embodiment for outputting parameter values ​​by means of segmented display is shown;

[0055] Figure 4A and 4B An embodiment for adjusting a parameter value by means of a slide bar element is shown;

[0056] Figures 5A to 5F An embodiment of regulating air distribution by a fan is shown, and

[0057] Figures 6A to 6C A further exemplary embodiment for adjusting a parameter value by means of a sliding rod element is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Reference Figure 1 A vehicle having an embodiment of the apparatus is described.

[0059] The vehicle 1 comprises a detection unit 2 which is coupled to a control unit 3. Furthermore, an air conditioning unit 4 is coupled to the control unit 3.

[0060] In the exemplary embodiment, the detection unit 2 has a surface facing the user in the vehicle 1. Various symbols are arranged on this surface, which are partially backlit by light sources, especially light-emitting diodes. In addition, an area with a luminous surface is provided, which is covered by a color layer in such a way that the luminous surface can be seen by the user only when it is actually illuminated, and when it is not illuminated, it is practically invisible. In particular, a display device designed as a so-called black panel is used here.

[0061] The surface of the detection unit 2 can be designed to be flat. The surface can also have recesses and / or protrusions, which can be felt by the user with his fingers and can serve as tactile auxiliary structures to specifically mark certain areas of the surface. Such tactile auxiliary structures can, for example, highlight touch-sensitive areas of the surface, such as those designed as button elements or slide elements, or mechanical switches.

[0062] The detection unit 2 also includes a film manufactured by IML technology (in-mould labeling) and post-injected with plastic. The detection unit also includes sensor elements Sa, Sb, Sc, which are designed as capacitive sensor elements in the embodiment. The sensor elements Sa to Sc are arranged behind the surface of the detection unit 2 so that the sensor elements cannot be seen by the user. The sensor elements Sa to Sc are designed in a manner known per se so that the sensor elements can detect the operation performed by the operating element. The sensor elements have a detection area for this purpose, which includes, for example, an area on the surface of the detection unit 2 and / or a spatial area arranged above the surface. In particular, the user's finger can be used as an operating element. In the embodiment, the sensor elements Sa to Sc detect the operation according to the operation element entering the detection area, the touch of the opposite side, the distance between them and the sensor elements Sa to Sc, the movement in the detection area and / or the duration of the detection of the operating element during the period. The operation is then analyzed by the detection unit 2 and / or the control unit 3.

[0063] In the embodiment, the sensor elements Sa to Sc are arranged equidistant from one another along a straight line. Thus, a slide element or a slide bar element is designed along this line. The function of the slide element or the slide bar element will be explained in detail below.

[0064] In other exemplary embodiments, the detection unit 2 may alternatively or additionally have touch-sensitive surface areas designed in other known ways. By means of these surface areas, an operation of the operating element may be detected in a manner similar to the above-described operation of the sensors Sa to Sc.

[0065] When an operation is detected, the detection unit 2 generates a control signal and transmits it to the control unit 3. The parameter value can be adjusted, wherein either the detection unit 2 itself has processed the input (or the input content) to such an extent that the detection unit assigns a specific parameter value to the input information, or the control unit 3 performs such processing of the input signal or control signal generated by the detection unit 2.

[0066] Furthermore, the detection unit 2 comprises light emitting elements La, Lb, Lc, Ld, Le, which are arranged adjacent to each other in a segmented manner along a linear extension direction. The light emitting elements La to Le can be controlled independently of each other by the control unit 3 .

[0067] The air conditioning unit 4 is designed in a manner known per se and in the described embodiment comprises essentially a heater for the vehicle 1, a seat heater for the driver's seat and the front passenger's seat, a steering wheel heater, a window heater and a fan for introducing air into the interior of the vehicle 1, wherein the direction, distribution, intensity and temperature of the inflowing air can be adjusted.

[0068] Reference Figure 2 The above references to the device are described in more detail Figure 1 The embodiments described.

[0069] Figure 2 The view of the surface of the detection unit 2 facing the user in the interior of the vehicle 1 is shown. The surface is designed essentially as a horizontally extending rectangle. In the upper region, button elements 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107 are arranged side by side. In the exemplary embodiment, these button elements are designed as touch-sensitive surface areas, which can be operated by touching with an operating element, in particular a finger of a user. Figure 2 The dashed lines indicate the touch-sensitive areas that are assigned to the individual button elements 101 to 107. Lighting surfaces are also provided in these areas, which can be illuminated by light of a certain intensity and / or color by activating LEDs arranged behind them, in order to output, for example, the status, activation or setting of the functions that are assigned to the respective button elements 101 to 107. The detection unit 2 is controlled by the control unit 3 and the signals detected by the detection unit 2 are evaluated as necessary.

[0070] Other button elements 108, 109, 110, 111 are also designed in the middle and lower areas of the surface of the detection unit 2. The other button elements are also formed by means of a touch-sensitive surface area shown by a dotted line in the embodiment. Other functions can be called, activated or adjusted by operating the other button elements 108 to 111. Thus, for example, a menu view can be called on a display in the vehicle 1 by operating the button element 110 "MENU". The air conditioning unit 4 can be turned off by operating the button element 111 "OFF". The air conditioning device of the air conditioning unit 4 of the vehicle 1 can be activated by means of the button element 109 "A / C", and the automatic mode of the air conditioning unit 4 can be activated by the button element 108 "AUTO".

[0071] In other embodiments, the button elements 101 to 111 may be designed as mechanical switches, in particular pushbutton switches. In addition, other functions may be provided alternatively or additionally in other embodiments.

[0072] In the middle and lower regions of the surface of the detection unit 2, segmented displays 115, 116 are also arranged, which are suitable for outputting two-digit temperature values ​​with one decimal place in the embodiment. In addition, slide elements 112, 113, 114 for adjusting the temperature and the fan level are arranged here. The functions of the air conditioning unit 4 that can be adjusted separately are shown on the surface by markings. The slide elements 112 to 114 each include a horizontal straight line of a certain length, along which the recess is designed on the surface of the detection unit 2. Behind it, covered by the surface are sensor elements Sa to Sc, through which touches in the region of the slide elements 112 to 114 can be detected respectively, wherein in particular the position of the touch and, if necessary, the movement along the slide elements 112 to 114 are detected.

[0073] In the embodiment, the line of the slide bar element 112 for adjusting the fan, ie, the fan slide bar 112 , can be illuminated in sections by light-emitting elements La to Le arranged behind the line.

[0074] Reference FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C An exemplary embodiment of the steps formed by adjusting the fan of the outlet air conditioning unit 4 by means of a segmented display is described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The exemplary embodiment described is used as a starting point. The segmented display of the exemplary embodiment is arranged in particular in the region of the fan slide 112 and is controlled by the control unit 3 .

[0075] In the embodiment, seven luminous surfaces LED1 to LED7, which can be illuminated by light-emitting diodes in particular, are arranged side by side along a straight line, and the luminous surfaces can be controlled independently of each other. The number of luminous surfaces LED1 to LED7 that are illuminated corresponds to the level of activation of the fan, that is, there are as many levels as the luminous surfaces LED1 to LED7. In the embodiment, a diffuser glass is also arranged above the luminous surfaces LED1 to LED7, so that the illuminated luminous surfaces LED1 to LED7 arranged side by side form a continuous line from the user's perspective.

[0076] exist Figure 3A In the situation shown, the fan of the air conditioning unit 4 is in the deactivated state. The diagram shows the intensity of the light emission on the Y axis, while the individual luminous areas LED1 to LED7 are assigned to positions along the X axis. No luminous surface is luminous, which is Figure 3A is represented in the chart by bars that are not actually visible.

[0077] exist Figure 3B and Figure 3CIn the situation shown, the third level of the fan of the air conditioning device 4 is activated. The figures show the intensity of the light emitted by the luminous surfaces LED1 to LED7 depending on the position or depending on the corresponding luminous surfaces LED1 to LED7. Figure 3B In the case shown, the night mode of the segment display is activated. Figure 3C In the case shown, the day mode of the segmented display is activated. The first three luminous surfaces are controlled in such a way that they illuminate at 60% or 100% of the maximum intensity, while the remaining four luminous surfaces are controlled in such a way that they illuminate at only 10% or 20% of the maximum intensity. This means that in the day mode, the display is displayed with an increased light intensity compared to the night mode, so that the display content can also be easily read in the stronger ambient light during the day, while the user is not disturbed or dazzled by the excessively high intensity at night when the ambient light is weak.

[0078] In the embodiment described, the "overflow light" from the brighter illuminated light-emitting surface to the adjacent, unilluminated or weakly illuminated light-emitting surface is masked in such a way that all light-emitting surfaces are illuminated at least at the base intensity. Only the light-emitting surfaces that are actually used for display are illuminated at the higher display intensity. This means that all light-emitting surfaces that are not used for displaying the fan level are illuminated uniformly, rather than the light-emitting surfaces having different intensities depending on the distance to the light-emitting surface illuminated at a higher intensity due to the overflow light.

[0079] In order to achieve this uniform illumination with a basic intensity, it may be necessary to load the light-emitting diodes with different currents; this can in particular compensate for the overflow light. Figure 3B In the case shown, it is provided that the first three light-emitting diodes, i.e., LED1, LED2, LED3, are operated at a first current for 60% of the maximum intensity, wherein the overflow light causes a certain intensity to be emitted in the region of two adjacent light-emitting surfaces LED4 and LED5. The light-emitting diodes of these light-emitting surfaces LED4 and LED5 are therefore operated only at a lower current than the light-emitting surfaces LED6 and LED7 located further away, in order to achieve a uniform basic intensity of the light-emitting diodes LED4 to LED7. For example, the directly adjacent light-emitting surface LED4 is operated at 5%, and the further adjacent light-emitting surface LED5 is operated at 7%, while the further away light-emitting surfaces LED6 and LED7 are operated at 10%. In other embodiments, other light sources, in particular, which irradiate light into the light-emitting surfaces LED1 to LED7, can be considered, which are compensated by appropriately controlling the light-emitting diodes.

[0080] In other embodiments, other relationships between the intensities and the different modes can be specified. For example, the ambient brightness can be detected and the light intensity of the activated luminous surface can be dynamically adapted to the detected ambient brightness. In addition, the values ​​of the base intensity and the display intensity assigned to each other can be fixedly predetermined as in the case of the described embodiment. In addition, the base intensity can, for example, be part of the determination of the display intensity or can be determined in another way, for example according to a physical model, in which the intensity of the overflow light is determined according to the display intensity and then the base intensity is formed in such a way that the overflow light is thereby covered.

[0081] In another embodiment, when the fan is deactivated, the entire luminous surface is also illuminated with a basic intensity, which is determined, for example, as a function of the ambient brightness. In this way, the luminous surface can be used as a design element and for displaying the level "0". In particular, the user can recognize that the display for adjusting the fan is located in a specific area and / or that an operation for adjusting the fan can be performed in this area.

[0082] In other embodiments, the light-emitting surface can be used to display other parameters. The light-emitting surface can also be used in connection with different slider elements 112, 113, 114 or other display devices and controlled in the described manner.

[0083] Furthermore, a greater number of luminous surfaces can be used, in particular more luminous surfaces can be adjusted or provided than the number of levels. For example, intermediate levels can be displayed in this way or during operation, for example, with the aid of the fan slide 112, the illuminated luminous surfaces can follow the position of the operating object on the slide 112. The luminous surfaces can also be arranged in another way, for example in a two-dimensional matrix, instead of being arranged linearly side by side.

[0084] Reference Figure 4A and 4B An embodiment of adjusting the parameter value by means of a slide rod element is described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The exemplary embodiment described is used as a starting point. In particular, the control is performed by means of the control unit 3 .

[0085] The following description is exemplified with respect to the slide bar element 112, which in the exemplary embodiment is assigned as a fan slide bar 112 to the detection unit 2 for adjusting the fan of the air conditioning unit 4. The method can naturally also be used for other slide bar elements 112, 113, 114 and for detecting other parameter values.

[0086] like Figure 2As shown, on the surface of the detection unit 2 facing the user, a horizontal line is arranged in the area of ​​the fan slide 112, a fan mark 112a for the fan's off state is arranged at the left end of the line, and a fan mark 112b for the fan's maximum activation state is arranged at the upper end of the right end of the line.

[0087] Light sources are arranged behind the surface, in the exemplary embodiment, light-emitting diodes, by means of which both the line 112 and the markings 112a, 112b can be illuminated. In the exemplary embodiment, the line 112 can also be illuminated as a segmented display, i.e. light sources are arranged side by side in a row behind the line so that individual areas of the line 112 can be illuminated independently of one another with different intensities. Thus, for example, according to the above reference Figures 3A to 3C The method described outputs the level of adjustment of the fan. The symbols 112a, 112b and the line 112 can be permanently visibly embossed or designed by means of black panel technology to be visible only when they are illuminated from behind.

[0088] exist Figure 4A and 4B 14 and 142i are shown by dashed lines in the figure. In these areas, the sensor elements Sa to Sc detect the operation performed by the operating object as explained above, or the detection can also be realized in other ways. During operation, according to the embodiment, the surface of the detection unit 2 is touched by the operating object in the touch-sensitive area. In other embodiments, instead of touching, the detection can also be performed when the operating object is located in a certain spatial area or, for example, is located close to the surface of the detection unit 2.

[0089] In the embodiment, the operation at a determined position is detected in the following way, that is, the sensor elements Sa to Sc detect signals of different strengths depending on the position of the operation object. For example, the strength of the signal detected by the capacitive sensor depends on the distance of the operation object entering the detection area. In the embodiment, the user touches the slide bar element 112 at an arbitrary point or the user moves the position along the movement of the slide bar element 112. Thus, different signal strengths are detected by the sensor elements Sa to Sc depending on the current position. The position is determined based on the signal strength and the parameter value is adjusted based on the determined position.

[0090] In this way, different spatial areas, in particular surface areas on the surface of the detection unit 2, can be used as areas separated from one another in order to detect operations in these areas. These operations can also be evaluated differently depending on the corresponding surface area. The surface area can be configured, for example, as a button element with a certain response characteristic, i.e., for example, with a certain threshold value for the time interval (or time period) for the operation, or as a slide bar element with other response characteristics.

[0091] This means that the surface area in which the operation can be detected can be designed only virtually, without having to set a separate surface area for each arbitrary area. A continuous area can be formed in which the position or operation trajectory of the operation is detected, or individual areas can be formed in which the operation is detected when the operation corresponds to an arbitrary position within these individual areas.

[0092] In the exemplary embodiment described, it is also provided that the adjusted level is displayed by means of a segmented display in the region of the slide bar element 112. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The method of explaining is implemented. When the slide bar element 112 is operated at a position, the slide bar element is illuminated at the corresponding position and adjusted to form the corresponding level of the fan. However, in the embodiment, not only is it detected in which level of area the operating position is currently located, but also the approach to the surrounding area is detected. In particular, when the operating object, such as the user's finger, moves in the direction of another level, the detection is performed and the approach is also displayed. For example, the user can move his finger along the slide bar element 112 and approach the area corresponding to the next level assigned to the fan. The closer the user is to the area of ​​the next level, the light-emitting elements arranged in the area are illuminated with increasing intensity. When the user reaches the next area, the next area is illuminated with normal display intensity.

[0093] In contrast to known touch-sensitive surfaces, in an embodiment of the method, the parameter values ​​are detected with fewer sensors, particularly flexibly and / or with a higher resolution. Whereas the known method provides at least one sensor element for each position that can be detected, in the method fewer sensors are used in a particularly space-saving, cost-effective and simple manner.

[0094] Different parameters of the operation are detected and analyzed, such as the starting position at which the touch is initiated, the end position at which the touch is terminated, and the trajectory along which the operating object moves along the surface from the starting position to the end position. Alternatively or additionally, the duration of the touch and / or the duration of the stay at a certain position can be detected. If necessary, the direction and / or speed of movement along the surface can also be determined and analyzed.

[0095] A plurality of operating possibilities can be distinguished, which in particular represent different types of operations for inputting or selecting parameter values ​​and are also referred to below as “use cases.” These operating possibilities can be used, for example, for button elements or slide elements in a touch-sensitive surface area or for mechanical switches.

[0096] The user can operate the touch-sensitive area by "clicking", wherein a time interval Δt is measured between the start and end of the touch, which is shorter than a determined threshold value t0: Δt<t0. The threshold value t0 can be, for example, 400 ms or 800 ms. The point in time at which an operating event is detected and, for example, a parameter value is changed is usually the point in time at which the touch is released. Alternatively, an operating event can also be detected at the beginning of the touch, wherein in this case each touch already triggers a click event. Typical applications of clicking are, for example, turning a function on or off, incrementally changing a parameter value, or directly selecting a parameter value by clicking on the operating surface.

[0097] The user can also maintain the touch at a certain position or in a certain surface area for a time interval △t that is longer than the threshold value t1: △t>t1. The threshold value t1 can be, for example, 400ms or 800ms. This operation can be called "hold", "long press" or "long press". Once the maintained time interval △t exceeds the threshold value t1 or when the touch is released, the corresponding hold event can be triggered. As other situations, it can be stipulated that the touch at a certain position or in a certain area must be released in order to trigger the hold event; in this case, the user can prevent the triggering by sliding the operating object to other areas, such as other button elements.

[0098] Furthermore, a "multiple hold" can be performed in that the first surface area is touched for longer than a threshold value t1, and then a transition is made to a second surface area, and then the second surface area is also touched for longer than the threshold value t1. This makes it possible, for example, to operate multiple button elements without having to lift the operating object. For this purpose, a first button element is operated by a "hold" gesture, and the user then slides the operating object further to another button element without releasing the touch.

[0099] In the case of "continuous holding", the operation is detected in a time interval Δt longer than the threshold value t0, and a new operation is detected at each multiple of the threshold value t0. The user can trigger multiple operations by maintaining the operation for a corresponding multiple of the threshold value t0.

[0100] Furthermore, for example, a "wipe" can be detected as an operation when the operating object stays in a surface area for a time interval Δt shorter than the threshold value t0 and then operates an adjacent surface area. This operation can then be detected, for example, for an adjacent surface area when the touch is released, in particular taking into account whether the user touches the adjacent surface area for a time interval Δt shorter than the threshold value t0 or, for example, holds the touch.

[0101] Furthermore, a "swipe" can be detected as an operation, in which the position of the touch moves from a first surface area to a second surface area and in particular crosses other surface areas. The speed of the position change is also taken into account, and for example, a parameter value may change more quickly than in a swipe. A "swipe" can be detected in particular if the speed of the wiping gesture exceeds a threshold value.

[0102] exist Figure 4A In the illustrated case, the fan slider is defined as a continuous effective slider area 149, which extends over the entire length of the line 112 and on adjacent marks 112a, 112b. The position of the touch and operation can be detected within the surface 149 of the effective slider area 149. When the operating object moves along the extension of the fan slider 112, the position of the touch is continuously detected, especially during the wiping gesture, and the level of the fan adjustment follows the position. For example, the lowest level corresponds to the left area of ​​the fan slider 112 or the fan mark 112a on the left, and the highest level corresponds to the right area of ​​the fan slider 112 or the fan mark 112b on the right. Between the left area of ​​the fan slider or the fan mark on the left and the right area of ​​the fan slider or the fan mark on the right, there are areas of the same size distributed on the longitudinal extension of the fan slider 112, and the areas are respectively configured with levels between the lowest level and the highest level.

[0103] In the example, when the operating object reaches the position assigned to this level, it is adjusted to this level. In other embodiments, the level is not adjusted until the touch is released, wherein it is then adjusted to the level corresponding to the position assigned to the time of releasing the touch.

[0104] And in Figure 4B In the case shown, individual touch-sensitive surface areas 142a to 142i are provided. These surface areas are operated by clicking, so that the user can directly select the level of the fan by selecting the touch-sensitive surface area 142a to 142i.

[0105] The two outermost left touch-sensitive surface areas 142a, 142b and the right touch-sensitive surface areas 142h, 142i are additionally combined here to form an extended operating area 141a, 141b. By clicking in the extended operating area 141a, 141b, the user can increase or decrease the fan level step by step. By holding in one of the extended operating areas 141a, 141b, the level is increased or decreased step by step depending on the time period during which the touch is held.

[0106] In the embodiment, the feasibility of directly selecting the fan level is limited due to the expansion of the operating area 141a, 141b, because the lowest and highest levels cannot be directly selected. Instead, the lowest and highest levels can be reached only by clicking again or continuously holding the corresponding expanded operating area 141a, 141b from the nearest adjacent level.

[0107] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The situation shown in the embodiment should not be understood as a static configuration of the detection unit 2. Rather, the detection unit 2 dynamically switches between the two configurations according to the type of operation detected, that is, the use case detected. This means that when the user performs a wiping gesture, as described above with reference to Figure 4A If the user performs a click gesture or a continuous hold gesture, the operation is explained as described in Figure 4B The gesture is analyzed as described in the configuration.

[0108] In other embodiments, the configurations described may be combined or designed in other ways.

[0109] In the embodiment, it is further provided that, after a wiping gesture is detected in the region of one of the slide bar elements 112, 113, 114, the button elements 108 to 111 arranged adjacent to the slide bar elements 112, 113, 140 are locked for the purpose of detecting an operation. This prevents the user from accidentally operating one of the button elements 108 to 111 when the user continues to move the operating object out of the region of the slide bar elements 112, 113, 114 while performing a wiping gesture.

[0110] The adjacent button elements 108 to 111 or other touch-sensitive surfaces or switch elements are locked in a determined locking time interval, which starts in particular at the time when the touch on the slide bar elements 112, 113, 114 ends and can be determined dynamically, for example, based on the speed of the flick gesture and / or the driving speed of the vehicle 1.

[0111] In other embodiments, a distance from the slider elements 112, 113, 114 is defined within which no operation is detected during the locking time interval. The distance can also be determined dynamically, for example, as a function of the speed of the wiping gesture, the longitudinal extension of the slider elements 112, 113, 114 and / or as a function of the travel speed of the vehicle 1. Based on the distance, in particular, a surface area can be defined that extends the longitudinal extension of the slider elements 112, 113, 114; for example, the surface above or below the horizontally extending slider elements 112, 113, 114 is not locked, while the laterally adjacent surface areas are locked during the locking time interval.

[0112] In another embodiment, adjacent button elements 108 to 111 are locked only when the wiping gesture is detected to at least the lateral ends of the slider elements 112, 113, 114 or to the ends. In other embodiments, the locking of a specific surface area of ​​the detection unit 2 is triggered by other events other than the wiping gesture, for example, by any operation in the specific surface area.

[0113] In another embodiment, the user first actuates the first button, then changes his selection and slides to another button. In this case, it can be provided that the actuation is detected only when the user releases the touch. The lockout time interval is then triggered. This means that in this case the user can slide from the first button to the second button without releasing the touch and actuate the second button when lifting the finger. The lockout time interval then begins and no further buttons can be actuated.

[0114] In one embodiment, acoustic feedback is generated when an input gesture or gesture type is recognized. In particular, acoustic feedback is generated when a control signal is generated based on the detected input. The user can thereby recognize whether his input is received. Alternatively or additionally, acoustic feedback can be generated when a parameter value is changed. The acoustic feedback is generated in a manner known per se, wherein different feedback can be output, for example, in order to output the recognized gesture type, the adjusted parameter value or other influencing factors. Acoustic feedback can also be formed dynamically for this purpose, for example in the form of a pitch formed according to the adjusted parameter value.

[0115] Reference Figures 5A to 5F Exemplary embodiments for regulating air distribution by means of a fan are described. The exemplary embodiments described above are taken as a starting point.

[0116] In the embodiment described, the detection unit 2 is Figure 2The surface shown in FIG. 1 comprises a button element 104, by means of which the distribution of the air introduced into the interior of the vehicle 1 via the air conditioning unit 4 can be adjusted. In the region of this button element 104, a display of the adjusted distribution is also output.

[0117] exist FIG. 5A to FIG. 5F In the embodiment, the distribution is output by arrows 132, 133, 134, which are arranged at different heights relative to the occupant view 131. The arrows 132, 133, 134 are formed by luminous surfaces that can be illuminated independently of each other, while the occupant view 131 is displayed on the surface and is therefore constantly visible. In the embodiment, the arrows 132, 133, 134 are arranged approximately at the height of the head area, the torso area or the foot area of ​​the occupant view 131.

[0118] In the exemplary embodiment, the button element 104 is used as a "toggle switch". This means that a fixed sequence of different settings is defined and the following setting according to the sequence is set with each actuation of the button element 104. When the last setting is reached, a jump to the first setting in the sequence is made, in particular according to a periodic boundary condition. In other exemplary embodiments, the sequence can continue in the opposite direction when the last setting is reached, in particular according to a reflective boundary setting.

[0119] exist Figure 5A In the case shown, the air is introduced into the upper region of the vehicle interior. Figure 5B In the case shown, the introduction is additionally carried out in the foot region of the interior. Figure 5C In the situation shown, air flows only into the foot area. Figure 5D In the case of Figure 5E Finally, in the case of Fig. 5F In the case of , the air is introduced in such a way that it blows onto the occupants in the vehicle 1 , for example in the torso region.

[0120] In other embodiments, the air distribution may be arranged in other sequences or formed in other ways.

[0121] Reference Figures 6A to 6C A further exemplary embodiment for adjusting a parameter value by means of a sliding rod element is described. The exemplary embodiment described above is used as a starting point.

[0122] The temperature slide bar 113 comprises a horizontal straight line 113, at the ends of which temperature markings 113a, 113b are arranged. In the exemplary embodiment, these temperature markings are blue on the left and red on the right to symbolize low or high temperatures. The effective slide bar areas 150, 150a, 150b, 150c are Figure 2 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B Similarly indicated by a dotted line.

[0123] exist Fig. 6A In the case shown, the active slider area 150 extends over the entire length of the line 113 and over a narrow area around the line. The user can change the value of the temperature parameter of the air conditioning unit 4 within the active slider area 150 by a swiping gesture along the line 113 .

[0124] In this exemplary embodiment, it is provided that when a wiping gesture pointing to the right is detected, the set temperature is increased, whereas when a wiping gesture pointing to the left is detected, the set temperature is decreased.

[0125] In the exemplary embodiment, the difference in the temperature change depends on the operating trajectory along which the wiping gesture is performed. The temperature can be increased or decreased by a certain interval, for example not exceeding 4° C., in the case of maximum utilization of the slider length, i.e., when the wiping gesture is performed over the entire width of the line 113. When the wiping gesture is performed over a smaller distance, the temperature parameter is changed proportionally smaller. This means that when the wiping gesture is performed, the slider element 113 represents a relative scale for relatively changing the adjusted temperature.

[0126] Furthermore, in another embodiment, a swiping gesture is provided in which a speed exceeding a certain threshold value is detected for a wiping gesture. If such a swiping gesture is detected, the temperature parameter can be changed more quickly by jumping to a maximum or minimum temperature or by changing a larger interval, for example twice the interval provided for the wiping gesture, i.e. 8° C.

[0127] exist Figure 6B In the case shown, an effective slide bar area 150a, 150b is designed, which surrounds the left or right temperature mark 113a, 113b and the left or right part of the line 113. In the embodiment, similar to the above, Figure 4B The operation is performed as described for the enlarged operating areas 141 a , 141 b : the active slide bar areas 150 a , 150 b can be operated here by clicking, holding or continuously holding, wherein the set temperature parameter is thereby increased step by step.

[0128] For example, each time you click in the left area 150a, the temperature decreases by 0.5°C, and each time you click in the right area 150b, the temperature increases by 0.5°C.

[0129] In other embodiments, the parameter is increased in succession by multiple step values ​​while being maintained, and in particular maintained continuously for a longer duration, wherein the size of the step value can be determined, for example, according to the duration of the holding, so that, for example, the parameter is changed in steps of 1° C. after being maintained continuously for a certain time in order to achieve a faster change.

[0130] exist Figure 6C In the case shown, similar effective slider areas 150a, 150b are as in Figure 6B 150c, which is arranged between the two lateral effective slide bar areas 150a, 150b. In the embodiment described, the central effective slide bar area 150c extends over approximately 20% of the length of the line 113, while the two lateral effective slide bar areas 150a, 150b each occupy approximately 40% of the length on the right and left sides of the central effective slide bar area. In the case shown here, the user can directly adjust the minimum, maximum or intermediate temperature value.

[0131] In the embodiment, it is provided that when the touch in one of the valid slide bar areas 150a, 150b, 150c is maintained for a time longer than a certain threshold value, the maintenance is detected as an operation and analyzed as a direct selection. In the embodiment, when a hold gesture is detected in the valid slide bar area 150a on the left, the minimum parameter value "LO" for the temperature is directly adjusted. Similarly, when a hold gesture is detected in the valid slide bar area 150b on the right, the maximum parameter value "HI" is directly adjusted for the temperature, and when a hold gesture is detected in the valid slide bar area 150c in the middle, the preset parameter value 22°C is adjusted.

[0132] In other exemplary embodiments, other parameter values ​​may be selected directly. In addition, different regions, for example regions with different numbers or different sizes, may be provided as active slide bar regions 150a, 130b, 150c.

[0133] In other embodiments, other operations for direct selection can be provided, such as clicking on the effective slider areas 150, 150a, 150b, 150c with multiple fingers at the same time. In addition, other gestures can be set, such as operating the effective slider areas 150a, 150b on the outside at the same time or operating the slider areas 150, 150a, 150b, 150c with multiple fingers. Certain gestures can also be used to call certain functions or to adjust certain parameters. For example, the "SYNC" mode of the air conditioning unit 4 of the vehicle 1 can be activated, wherein the same settings are adjusted for different areas of the interior space of the vehicle 1, such as the driver area and the co-pilot area. In addition, different functions can be turned on or off by the same element with the help of certain use cases.

[0134] The effective slider area 150, 150a, 150b, 150c is FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C The configuration and arrangement shown in the figure can be designed as a static configuration of the detection unit 2. However, in the embodiment, it is provided that the detection unit 2 dynamically switches between various configurations according to how the temperature slider 113 is operated, that is, which use case is detected. If an operation is detected by means of a wiping gesture or a waving gesture, the operation is Fig. 6A The input of the configuration shown with a narrow effective slider area 150 is analyzed accordingly. If a click gesture, a hold gesture or a continuously held gesture is detected, it can automatically switch to the corresponding Figure 6B or Figure 6C The configuration is detected in order in particular to enable direct selection.

[0135] In other embodiments, the configurations described may be combined or designed in other ways.

[0136] In other exemplary embodiments, the vehicle 1 alternatively or additionally comprises other devices for which the parameter value is detected by means of the detection unit 2. Such other devices may be, for example, a multimedia player or a navigation system of the vehicle 1. The input is then detected in a manner analogous to the detection unit 2 and to the exemplary embodiments of the method for inputting parameter values ​​explained above.

[0137] The above-mentioned feasibility for inputting parameter values ​​can be combined and adapted to each other in principle at will. In addition, the detection unit 2 can include different operating elements, which can also be arranged differently. For example, the slide bar elements 112, 113, 114 can extend vertically or along other spatial directions instead of extending horizontally.

[0138] In the exemplary embodiment, control is effected via control unit 3. However, different system configurations can be provided, for example, via a control device of detection unit 2, which takes over control and / or optionally analyzes and preprocesses the inputs present and generates control signals, for example to adjust parameter values.

[0139] Reference numerals list

[0140] 1. Transportation

[0141] 2 Detection unit

[0142] 3 Control unit

[0143] 4 Air conditioning units

[0144] La, Lb, Lc, Ld, Le light emitting elements

[0145] LED1, LED2, LED3, LED4, LED5, LED6, LED7 light emitting surface

[0146] Sa, Sb, Sc sensor elements

[0147] 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107 button components

[0148] 108 Button element "AUTO"

[0149] 109 Button element "A / C"

[0150] 110 Button element "MENU"

[0151] 111 Button element "OFF"

[0152] 112 Slide element; fan slide; line

[0153] 112a Fan logo (left side)

[0154] 112b Fan logo (right side)

[0155] 113 Slider element; Temperature slider (left); Line

[0156] 113a Temperature mark (left side)

[0157] 113b Temperature mark (right side)

[0158] 114 Slider element; Temperature slider (right); Line

[0159] 115, 116 segment display

[0160] 131 Crew View

[0161] 132 Arrow(upper)

[0162] 133 Arrow(middle)

[0163] 134 Arrow(lower)

[0164] 141a Expanded operating area (left); face area

[0165] 141b Expanded operating area (right side); face area

[0166] 142a to 142i effective operating area; surface area

[0167] 149 Valid slider area; face area

[0168] 150 Effective slider area; face area

[0169] 150a Valid slider area (left side); face area

[0170] 150b Valid slider area (right side); face area

[0171] 150c Effective slider area (middle); face area

Claims

1. A device for adjusting a parameter value in a vehicle (1), the device comprising at least one sensor element (Sa, Sb, Sc) having a detection area; wherein, At least one first sub-area and at least one second sub-area of ​​the detection area are correspondingly configured with different parameter values; and wherein, The sensor element (Sa, Sb, Sc) is provided for detecting an operation performed at an operating position in a detection region; and A control unit (3), the control unit being configured to assign the operating position to the first sub-area or the second sub-area of ​​the detection area, and to adjust the parameter value according to the corresponding assigned sub-area; wherein, The control unit (3) is further configured to determine the approach to a sub-area of ​​the detection area that is not configured accordingly based on the sensor signal and detect the approach speed, and output the determined approach, wherein the spatial relationship between the operation position and other sub-areas of the detection area is determined when determining the approach.

2. The device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The sensor elements (Sa, Sb, Sc) include capacitive sensors.

3. The device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The detection area is arranged on a surface, and the operation comprises touching the surface with an operating element.

4. The device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The operation includes inputting a gesture; and The control unit (3) is further configured to assign an input gesture to a gesture type and output the approach according to the assigned gesture type.

5. The device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The operation includes a start time point and an end time point; and The control unit (3) is also configured to generate a control signal at the start time point and / or the end time point to adjust the parameter value.

6. The device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The detected operation includes direction information.

7. The device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that At least one light emitting element is arranged in the detection area; wherein, The control unit (3) is further configured to output the determined approach by means of the lighting state of the light-emitting element.

8. The device according to claim 6, It is characterized in that A plurality of light emitting elements are arranged side by side; and The control unit (3) is further configured to output the parameter value by means of a light-emitting element.

9. The device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that A surface structuring is provided in the first and / or second partial region.

10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that In the first and / or second partial region, a recess or a projection is formed.

11. A method for adjusting a parameter value in a vehicle (1), in which method: An operation performed at an operating position is detected in a detection area; wherein, The detection area has a first and a second sub-area corresponding to different parameter values; The operating position corresponds to the first or second sub-area assigned to the detection area; and Adjust the parameter value according to the corresponding assigned sub-area; Approach to a sub-area of ​​the detection area that is not configured accordingly is also determined and approach speed is detected, and the determined approach is output, wherein the spatial relationship between the operation position and the other sub-area of ​​the detection area is determined when determining the approach.

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