Modular operating device, vehicle and method

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating device (10) for triggering a function of a vehicle (1) by a user, comprising an electronic unit (12) having a sensor unit (20) for detecting a user operating behavior (200) for triggering the function of the vehicle (1) and having an electronic device outer side (12.2) and an electronic device inner side (12.1) opposite to the electronic device outer side (12.2), wherein the user operating behavior (200) can be detected on the electronic device outer side by the sensor unit (20). The invention also relates to a vehicle (1) and a method (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an operating device, a vehicle and a method. Background Art

[0002] Operating devices in vehicles are known from the prior art, whereby a user can trigger a vehicle function by an operating action. It is known to use proximity sensors to detect an approaching user and, for example, unlock a door lock of a vehicle door so that the user can open the door comfortably. Such proximity sensors are usually integrated into door handles. Due to their geometry, door handles have the advantage that they allow a simple packaging of the sensor system to protect the sensor from moisture and other environmental influences. However, if the sensor system is to be arranged, for example, on another vehicle component, such a packaging cannot be immediately applied to the vehicle component due to the flat extension of the vehicle component. Summary of the invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to at least partially eliminate the above-mentioned disadvantages known from the prior art. In particular, the object of the present invention is to allow a sealed sensor unit for mounting on a flat vehicle part of a vehicle, preferably outside a vehicle door handle, while improving the processing possibilities and / or the operating comfort.

[0004] The above-mentioned object is achieved by an operating device having the features of claim 1, a vehicle having the features of claim 18 and a method having the features of claim 20. Further features and details of the invention are derived from the respective dependent claims, the description and the figures. Features and details described in relation to the operating device according to the invention naturally also apply to the vehicle according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention and vice versa, so that reference is always made to each other or can be made to each other with regard to the disclosure of these aspects of the invention.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an operating device for triggering a vehicle function by a user is provided. The operating device has an electronic unit having a sensor unit for detecting a user operating behavior for triggering the vehicle function. The electronic unit has an electronic device outer side, which can detect the user operating behavior by the sensor unit, and an electronic device inner side opposite to the electronic device outer side. In addition, the operating device includes a first shell part for protecting the inner side of the electronic device and a second shell part for protecting the outer side of the electronic device. In particular, in order to protect the electronic unit, the first and second shell parts, in particular, form a complete shell around the electronic unit for modular placement on a flat lining of the vehicle.

[0006] The lining preferably forms part of a preferably movable vehicle component. Vehicle functions may include, for example, unlocking door locks, opening vehicle doors and / or switching on lighting devices and / or electrical devices. Vehicle components may include, for example, exterior or interior components of the vehicle.

[0007] In particular, the electronic unit can have a plurality of printed conductors and / or electronic components, preferably in the form of semiconductor elements, for processing electrical signals. The electronic unit can also have a power supply for powering the sensor unit and / or an electrical connection for connecting to the vehicle power supply. For example, it is conceivable that the enclosure has a cable outlet, through which the cable can be guided from the electronic unit to the outside of the enclosure. In this way, the electrical connection between the electronic unit and the vehicle electronics and / or the vehicle power supply can be ensured. The electronic unit preferably has a flat extension. In particular, the long side of the electronic unit can be oriented vertically and / or horizontally with respect to the vehicle component. The inside of the electronic device and the outside of the electronic device can, for example, respectively include one side of the circuit board of the electronic unit, on which the electrical components are arranged. In particular, the inside of the electronic device is opposite to the outside of the electronic device with respect to the electronic unit. The inside of the electronic device can also be oriented with its back to the lining. The sensor unit is preferably oriented here so that operating behavior can be detected on the outside of the electronic device, especially when the user is located next to or near the vehicle on the outside of the electronic device. In particular, operating behavior can be detected on the lining outside of the lining. This may mean, in particular, that the operating action can be detected on the surface of the lining outer side of the lining and / or can be detected at a distance from the surface of the lining outer side. It is conceivable that the sensor unit is designed, for example, to detect the operating action in a capacitive, inductive and / or optical manner and / or to detect the operating action ultrasonically. The sensor unit may preferably be designed to detect an action, in particular a gesture, at a distance of, in particular, 1 cm to 20 cm, preferably 2 cm to 15 cm, particularly preferably 5 cm to 10 cm from the operating device.

[0008] The first and / or second housing part can be directly or indirectly fixable or fixed to the liner. Preferably, the housing can be arranged relative to the liner in such a way that the second housing part faces the liner and the first housing part faces away from the liner. For example, the first housing part can be formed by a shell, which is fixed to the second housing part by means of a sealant. However, it is also conceivable that the first housing part is applied to the electronic unit and the second housing part in at least partially liquid form. In particular, the housing can thus form a complete housing, which can be mounted on the liner in a modular manner. The second housing part can be closed flush with the first housing part or protrude beyond the first housing part. It is also conceivable that the first housing part protrudes beyond the second housing part.

[0009] The enclosure, in particular the first and / or second enclosure part, preferably has at least one fixing interface for fixing the enclosure to the liner. The fixing interface can be designed to thread or abut the enclosure to the liner. For example, the fixing interface can include a hole through which the screw body and / or the projection for abutment can be inserted. However, it is also conceivable that the enclosure can be riveted, bonded or otherwise fixed to the liner via the fixing interface. Preferably, a plurality of fixing interfaces can be provided.

[0010] The electronic unit with the sensor unit is thus protected by the second enclosure part, in particular on the outside of the electronic device. Thus, a single complete housing is formed for the electronic unit, which can be variably mounted on the vehicle. In addition, the operating device can be adapted to flat vehicle components of any shape in a cost-effective manner. Thus, the operating device can be provided as a separate component. The component can be mounted at different locations on the vehicle as required. In particular, better standardization for the operating device can be achieved thereby. Thus, a higher flexibility can be achieved when using the operating device.

[0011] It is also conceivable in the operating device of the present invention that the first housing part has a casting or a cover, in particular wherein the first housing part is connected to the lining in a material-bonded manner. The cover can preferably be a rigid housing part. For example, the cover can have hard parts and / or soft parts made of plastic. The casting can in particular include epoxy resin and / or acrylate to protect the electronic unit from environmental, in particular moisture. In particular, the casting can be transparent or opaque and / or opaque. The material connection between the first housing part and the second housing part can be achieved by the casting. In particular, the inside of the electronic device and / or the outside of the electronic device can be completely covered with the casting. At least the sensor unit is preferably completely covered by the casting. The sealing between the cover and the second housing part can be achieved by a sealant, in particular surrounding the cover. For example, the sealant can include silicone or a sealant. In addition, the sealant can simultaneously form a material-bonded fixation of the cover on the second housing part and / or the lining. The first housing part can be bonded, welded, in particular friction welded and / or laser welded to the second housing part.

[0012] In the operating device according to the present invention, it is preferably provided that the second housing part comprises a shell, in which the electronic unit is especially placed in a form-fitting manner. The shell may preferably be a rigid housing part. For example, the shell may have a hard part and / or a soft part made of plastic. In particular, the shell may be designed to be the same or substantially the same as the material of the cover. It is also conceivable that the shell is sleeved onto the electronic unit and / or the first housing part. The second housing part may have a locking member for fixing the electronic unit in a form-fitting manner. Preferably, the first and / or second housing part and the electronic unit are designed to be arranged between the first and second housing parts in at most two orientations, preferably only in one orientation. For this reason, the electronic unit and the first and / or second housing part may have a positioning auxiliary mechanism in the form of an asymmetric recess and / or projection. Thus, incorrect installation can be intuitively prevented.

[0013] In the operating device according to the invention, it can preferably be provided that the electronic unit is adhesively bonded or welded to the first and / or second housing part. For example, the electronic unit can be fixed to the first and / or second housing part by laser welding or friction welding. In particular, the casting compound can be distributed in such a way that the electronic unit is fixed to the first and / or second housing part by material bonding via the casting compound. Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that the electronic unit is abutted to the first and / or second housing part. By fixing the electronic unit to the first and / or second housing part, movement within the housing can also be prevented during operation of the operating device. Furthermore, further installation steps can be simplified by fixing the electronic unit.

[0014] In the operating device according to the invention, it can preferably be provided that the electronic unit has a circuit board, preferably in the form of a printed circuit board, which has at least one, in particular capacitive or inductive sensor element of a sensor unit for detecting (preferably contactless) operating behavior. The circuit board forms in particular a base for the electronic unit. The circuit board is preferably a multilayer circuit board. The sensor element can in particular be a sensor electrode. For example, the sensor element can include an electric coil or a sensor surface in the form of a conductive surface. Thus, a capacitance change or an inductance change of an electromagnetic field can be detected. Corresponding to the sensor element, a shielding element, in particular in the form of a shielding electrode, can be arranged on the inside of the electronic device, through which the electric field of the sensor element can be aligned. It is also conceivable that the sensor element is surrounded by a shielding element on the outside of the electronic device, through which the electric field of the sensor element can be aligned. It is also conceivable that the electronic unit has circuit boards on which various different electronic components are distributed.

[0015] In the operating device according to the present invention, it can be preferably provided that the sensor unit has multiple, especially similar sensor elements for detecting operating behaviors, thereby being able to identify the direction of the operating behavior. For example, the sensor element can be manufactured by a printing method and / or an etching method. The sensor element can be designed to be inductive and / or capacitive. Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the sensor element is designed for optical detection and / or ultrasonic detection. The direction of the operating behavior can be detected along the arrangement direction of the sensor element, especially outside the electronic device. Therefore, gestures can be provided as operating behaviors. If the vehicle function is the opening of the sliding door of the vehicle, for example, a gesture along the direction of opening the sliding door can be provided as an operating behavior. The sensor element is preferably arranged so that a horizontal gesture in front of the vehicle component causes the vehicle function to be triggered by means of the sensor unit.

[0016] In the operating device according to the present invention, it can be preferably provided that the sensor elements are arranged on the circuit board in a regular pattern, preferably in the form of a matrix and / or strips. By means of a regular pattern, gesture recognition for identifying operating behaviors can be simplified. A matrix-like arrangement can refer to a two-dimensional arrangement of sensor elements. For example, a 2×2 arrangement of sensor elements in a plane, especially outside an electronic device, can form a minimum matrix-like arrangement. In the case of a strip-like arrangement, the sensor elements preferably have an elongated extension range. In particular, in a strip-like arrangement, the sensor elements are arranged side by side in a strip-like pattern. The distance between the sensor elements can be constant here. In the case of a strip-like arrangement on the circuit board, the sensor elements preferably form a pattern extending only in one direction. In addition, it is conceivable that the sensor elements are arranged on the circuit board in an irregular pattern. In addition, by arranging the sensor elements in a pattern, any complex operating behavior can be detected in one plane. In addition, by arranging the sensor elements on a single circuit board, a structural unit can be realized that is easy to operate during production and provides a short signal path for detecting operating behaviors. The manufacture of sensor elements using printing or etching methods can also be simplified.

[0017] In addition, in the operating device according to the present invention, it is conceivable that the electronic unit has an indication unit, by which it is preferably possible to confirm to the user on the outside of the lining that the operating behavior has been detected and / or to send a signal indicating that the operating behavior has started, in particular, wherein the indication unit is arranged on a circuit board. Through the indication unit, the following indication in the form of a signal can be output to the user, that is, the user can start the operating behavior and / or the operating behavior has been detected by the sensor unit. Therefore, the indication unit can be used as a user interface, especially a contactless one. The indication in the form of a signal can be performed, for example, in an acoustic or optical manner. It is also conceivable that the indication in the form of a signal is performed as a radio signal, for example, for a user's smartphone or electronic key. The indication unit is preferably a one-way transmission unit. In particular, the user can input through the sensor unit. Therefore, the indication unit and the sensor unit can form a dialogue unit for bidirectional communication with the user. By arranging the indication unit on a circuit board also provided with a sensor element, the manufacture of the operating device can be simplified, and the signal path of the electronic unit can be designed to be short.

[0018] In the operating device of the present invention, it is preferably provided that the indicating unit is an optical indicating unit, and the second shell part has at least one transparent window area, whereby the optical signal can be transmitted to the user through the indicating unit. The window area preferably includes one or more transparent parts. For example, the window area may include at least one notch in the encapsulation material of the second shell part, which is closed by a light-transmitting material. Thus, the sealing of the shell can be maintained, and the indicating unit can be arranged in the shell. The first and / or second shell part can be a two-component plastic injection molding. The transparent material can preferably be injected into the opaque and / or light-proof encapsulation material of the second shell part in the window area. The second shell part can also be formed completely by the light-transmitting window area, wherein a coating and / or paint and / or film can be present to form a local area in a light-proof manner.

[0019] In addition, it can be advantageously provided in the operating device according to the present invention that the indicating unit has a plurality of light emitters for emitting light signals to the user, wherein these light emitters are separated from each other at least partially by opaque partitions. More complex information can be transmitted to the user as an indication by a plurality of light emitters. For example, the indication that can be transmitted by the indicating unit can include directions, etc. In particular, the light emitter can be dynamically controlled, so that a dynamic display process can be realized. The light emitter can be a luminous body, in particular in the form of an LED. It can also be imagined that the indicating unit includes an LED or OLED display and the light emitter is formed by a separate display element. Display symbols of different complexity can be displayed to the user by the display so that information about the expected operating behavior, the confirmed operating behavior and / or the like can be transmitted to the user. In particular, the window area can have a plurality of light-transmitting parts, which are separated from each other by partitions in the form of opaque and / or opaque material parts. The partition can be formed integrally with the second enclosure part or separately from the second enclosure part. For example, an intermediate piece in the form of an insert can be provided, which includes one of the partitions or multiple partitions. The intermediate piece can be formed, for example, by foam rubber or other flexible materials. The middle piece preferably has a closed hole. Thus, the middle piece can be designed to be non-absorbent. In addition, the middle piece can be designed as a tape or can be fixed to the liner and / or the shell with a tape. In particular, the partition can be formed by the second shell part and / or the middle piece, or can be formed by the liner. By means of the partition, the light source located behind it can be distinguished from the outside of the liner in an improved manner. The separation part can preferably extend in the form of a rib between the light emitters. The light of the light emitter can be turned in one direction by the partition, so that the user can correspond the light to one of the light emitters, thereby obtaining a clearer change process when the light emitter is dynamically activated. Preferably, an encapsulation space is formed around the light emitter separately or in groups by the partition. To this end, the partition can be formed around the light emitter and / or in sealing contact with the circuit board. Thus, for example, the outside of the electronic device can be covered by filling the gap between the electronic unit and the liner with a casting material, without covering the light emitter with an opaque and / or light-proof casting material, in particular.

[0020] In the operating device of the present invention, it can be preferably provided that the outer side of the electronic device of the electronic unit is covered with a casting compound, in particular, the electronic unit and / or the second enclosure part has at least one accommodating mechanism for a nozzle for pouring the casting compound, so that the casting compound can be sent from the inside of the electronic device to the outside of the electronic device, and the electronic unit is placed on the second enclosure part. By encapsulating the outer side of the electronic device with the casting compound, the space between the electronic unit and the second packaging part can be filled with the casting compound. This prevents moisture from accumulating in the space and thus adversely affecting the measurement of the sensor unit. After the electronic unit is placed on the liner, the sealant can be reliably applied to the outer side of the electronic device through the accommodating mechanism. The nozzle can refer to a tool or a part of a tool for distributing the casting compound. In particular, a plurality of accommodating mechanisms for the nozzle can be arranged around the circuit board of the electronic unit on the frame of the electronic unit and / or the frame of the second enclosure part. This allows the casting compound to be reliably and evenly distributed in the space. In addition or alternatively, it is conceivable that an elastic middle piece is arranged in the space between the electronic unit and the second enclosure part. The middle piece preferably includes a closed-cell material. In addition, the intermediate piece can be elastically preloaded to the second housing part by the electronic unit and / or the first housing part. Thus, a filling of the space can also be achieved by the intermediate piece, which prevents moisture from penetrating.

[0021] Furthermore, it is conceivable that in the operating device according to the invention the sensor unit, the electronic unit and / or the enclosure are designed to be at least partially or completely symmetrical about the center plane of the operating device, so that the operating device can be selectively installed on opposite sides of the vehicle. For example, for application on different vehicle sides, only the control unit of the electronic unit can be reprogrammed. It is also conceivable to provide a switch that can be switched, by which the arrangement to the left or right in the direction of travel is determined. Depending on the vehicle side, for example, the direction of the operating behavior for triggering a vehicle function and / or the display process of the indicator unit can be determined. For example, in the case of sliding doors on both sides, the two doors can be opened towards the rear of the vehicle, so that operating behaviors that are mirrored to each other in the opening direction are expected for automatically opening the respective sliding doors.

[0022] Furthermore, in the operating device according to the present invention, it is conceivable that the electronic unit has a touch sensor for detecting the pressure acting on the lining, thereby triggering another function of the vehicle, in particular wherein the touch sensor includes an LDC sensor (inductive sensor). Another operating behavior of the user can be realized by the touch sensor. Another function of the vehicle can be, for example, locking and / or unlocking of a lock. Additionally or alternatively, an emergency stop can also be realized by the touch sensor when the door is automatically opened and / or closed. For example, a conductive target element can be arranged on the second shell part and / or the lining, and its distance change can be detected by the touch sensor when the user presses the vehicle component and / or the lining. Preferably, a plurality of LDC sensors can be arranged, in particular to verify the detection of other operating behaviors and / or to allow the detection to be realized within a wider operating range on the vehicle component and / or the lining. For example, if it is stipulated that a function that can be triggered by the sensor unit is only allowed after another function is activated, the probability of false triggering can be significantly reduced.

[0023] In the operating device according to the present invention, it can be preferably provided that the electronic unit has an identification device for identifying the user, in particular, wherein the identification device has a radio element for contactless data exchange with an ID transmitter. The ID transmitter can refer to a user's smartphone and / or an electronic key, for example. The identification device can include an NFC interface (near field communication interface), a BLE interface (Bluetooth low energy interface) and / or a UWB interface (ultra-wideband interface). Thus, user identity authentication can be achieved by the identification device. In particular, the identification device for identifying the user can be placed in a communication connection with a vehicle control unit. In particular, an identity check can be performed by the vehicle control unit based on the data exchange between the identification device and the ID transmitter.

[0024] It is also conceivable that in the operating device according to the invention the electronic unit has a proximity sensor for detecting the approach of a user, in particular wherein the proximity sensor is designed for capacitive detection of approach. Therefore, in particular in addition to the sensor unit, a further capacitive sensor can be provided by the proximity sensor. For example, the sensor unit, the touch sensor and / or the recognition device can be awakened by the proximity sensor when the approach of a user is detected. As a result, energy can be saved during operation of the operating device. In addition, the indicator unit can be activated by the proximity sensor when the approach is detected. For example, a message can be sent to the user to indicate the activation state of the operating device.

[0025] Furthermore, in the operating device according to the invention it can be advantageously provided that the circuit board has a plurality of conductor layers, wherein the sensor unit is arranged on a first conductor layer and the touch sensor and / or the identification device is arranged on another conductor layer. In this case, the conductor layers can be electrically insulated from one another. In particular, a sensor layer is formed by each of the conductor layers. This allows a compact design of the circuit board and / or the electronic unit.

[0026] Furthermore, it can be advantageously provided in the operating device according to the invention that the electronic unit has a control unit for evaluating the sensor signal of the sensor unit and controlling the indicator unit as a function of the sensor signal. For example, the sensor signal of the sensor unit can be digitized and forwarded directly in the electronic unit by the control unit. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the direction of the operating behavior can be identified by the control unit as a function of the evaluation of the sensor signal. By evaluating the sensor signal in the electronic unit, a short signal path can be achieved. Furthermore, the indicator unit can be controlled as a function of the sensor signal, whereby the user can be given feedback about the direction of the measured operating behavior.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle has a vehicle component with a flat lining. The vehicle also has an operating device for triggering a vehicle function by a user, in particular an operating device according to the present invention. The operating device includes an electronic unit, which has a sensor unit for detecting a user operating behavior for triggering a vehicle function, an outer side of the electronic device for detecting the user operating behavior by the sensor unit, and an inner side of the electronic device opposite to the outer side of the electronic device. In addition, the operating device includes a first shell part for protecting the inner side of the electronic device of the electronic unit and a second shell part for protecting the outer side of the electronic device of the electronic unit. The first and second shell parts, in particular, form a complete shell around the electronic unit, and the shell is arranged on the lining in a modular manner.

[0028] The vehicle according to the invention thus brings the same advantages as those explicitly described with respect to the operating device according to the invention. The vehicle is preferably a motor vehicle. The vehicle component preferably also includes a B-pillar and / or a vehicle interior component of the vehicle. The function that can be triggered by the operating device can include an automatic movement of a vehicle component.

[0029] The flat design of the lining can in particular mean that the lining has a flat extension that is in particular shell-shaped. For example, the lining can be designed as a thin wall. The lining can in particular be a panel for a vehicle body part. For example, the outer surface of a vehicle part can be formed by the lining. The outer surface can be the interior surface or the outer surface of the vehicle. The visible surface of the vehicle part can preferably be formed by the lining. For example, the lining can be arranged behind a glass plate, especially with respect to the outer area of ​​the vehicle. In this case, the operating device is preferably arranged on a door, in particular a side door and / or a sliding door of the vehicle. Thus, light signals and / or electromagnetic signals can be transmitted to a user located in front of the vehicle part and / or can be received by the user via a sensor unit. The lining can preferably be integrated into the vehicle body surface and / or the appearance of the body surface, in particular to realize the opening of the vehicle side door as a function that can be triggered by an operating behavior. It is conceivable that the lining can be integrated into the B-pillar of the vehicle. Therefore, in this case, the operating device is optionally arranged on the B-pillar. In particular, the lining has plastic or consists of plastic. Through the sensor unit, the lining can be designed without handles and / or switches. In particular, the lining has an inner lining side and an outer lining side. In this case, with respect to the lining, the inner lining side is in particular opposite to the outer lining side. For example, the vehicle component can have a lining interior, in which electrical components can be arranged. In this case, the inner lining side can be oriented in particular toward the lining interior. The capsule can in particular be snapped or screwed onto the lining. This can provide an advantageous fixing possibility, in particular under prestressing.

[0030] The electronic unit with the sensor unit is thus protected by the lining, whereby the operating device can be mounted on the vehicle component in a cost-effective manner. Furthermore, the freedom of design of the lining can be increased when the electronic unit is mounted on the lining in a modular manner during the assembly of the vehicle component. This can result in a higher degree of flexibility in the production of the operating device overall.

[0031] In the vehicle according to the invention, it can preferably be provided that the elastic intermediate piece is arranged in the middle area between the lining and the operating device, preferably between the lining and the housing of the operating device, in particular wherein the operating device is preloaded onto the intermediate piece or wherein the operating device is fixed to the lining via the intermediate piece, preferably in a material-bonded manner. In particular, the intermediate piece is arranged on the housing on the inner side of the lining of the lining and / or on the outer side of the electronic components of the electronic unit. The emission of noise can be advantageously reduced by the intermediate piece, in particular when the operating device is preloaded onto the intermediate piece. When the operating device is preloaded onto the intermediate piece, the intermediate piece can be compressed. The intermediate piece can preferably have a closed-cell material, which is particularly designed to be non-absorbent. This can prevent moisture from accumulating in the space. In addition, the intermediate piece preferably includes a window area, through which the light signal of the indicator unit can be transmitted. The intermediate piece also preferably includes a partition in order to optically separate the light emitter of the indicator unit and / or to guide and / or conduct the emitted light along a predetermined light path. In addition, it can be provided that the intermediate area is sealed by a surrounding sealant. To preload the intermediate piece, the actuating device can be clamped or screwed onto the lining, for example. The intermediate piece is preferably arranged between the actuating device and the lining such that the sensor region of the sensor unit passes completely through the intermediate piece. For example, the intermediate piece can be arranged between the sensor element or elements of the sensor unit and the lining.

[0032] It is also conceivable that the intermediate piece comprises an adhesive tape, in particular a double-sided adhesive tape, by means of which the operating device is fixed to the lining. The effectiveness of the sensor unit can be improved in this way. In particular, the intermediate piece can be arranged on the second housing part, that is, in particular directly between the second housing part and the lining. Here, the intermediate piece can extend at least partially or completely over the outer surface of the second housing part. For example, the housing can be cuboid, that is, in particular have four side faces and two main faces. Preferably, the first and second housing parts are connected laterally and / or are sealed by a sealant. Here, the main faces can be oriented parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the inside of the electronic device, the outside of the electronic device and / or the inside of the lining. The intermediate piece can be arranged on one of the main faces here, in particular so that the intermediate piece is arranged directly between the main face and the lining.

[0033] Furthermore, it is conceivable in the vehicle according to the invention and / or the operating device according to the invention that the intermediate part is designed to be integral with the second housing part for the purpose of being arranged in the intermediate region between the lining and the housing. For example, the second housing part can be produced in a multi-component injection molding process. In particular, the intermediate part can be designed as a closed-cell flexible component. In this way, the housing can be preloaded onto the lining, in particular thereby preventing or reducing the emission of noise.

[0034] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for installing an operating device, in particular an operating device according to the invention, for triggering a function of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle according to the invention, by a user at a vehicle component of the vehicle is provided. The method comprises the following steps:

[0035] - providing an electronic unit having a sensor unit for detecting a user operating behavior that triggers a vehicle function, wherein the electronic unit has an electronic device outer side for detecting the user operating behavior by the sensor unit and an electronic device inner side opposite to the electronic device outer side,

[0036] - arranging the electronic unit between a first enclosure part for protecting the inside of the electronic device and a second enclosure part for protecting the outside of the electronic device,

[0037] - closing the first and second enclosure parts to form a complete enclosure of the operating device in particular for protecting the electronic unit,

[0038] The capsule is fastened to the lining of the vehicle component, in particular in a modular manner.

[0039] Therefore, the method according to the invention has the same advantages as those explicitly described with respect to the operating device according to the invention and / or the vehicle according to the invention. When, for example, the first housing part has a casting compound and is cast together with the second housing part and the electronic unit, the arrangement and sealing can also be carried out simultaneously. The flat lining is preferably an injection molded part, in particular a multi-component plastic injection molded part. In addition, the lining can have a non-conductive material, in particular a non-conductive plastic, so that the lining can be penetrated by the electric field of the sensor unit. When providing the electronic unit, electronic components can be mounted or printed on the circuit board. Additionally or alternatively, electronic components can be etched when providing the electronic unit. When the electronic unit is arranged between the first and second housing parts, a material bonding connection between the first housing part and the second housing part and / or the electronic unit can be achieved. In particular, when the electronic unit is arranged between the first and second housing parts, it can be provided that the electronic unit is first placed in the first housing part or the second housing part, and then the other housing part is attached.

[0040] "Fix the capsule to the lining of the vehicle component" can be carried out in particular by arranging an intermediate piece between the capsule and the lining. Here, for example, a material connection with the capsule and the lining can be produced respectively by the intermediate piece. The intermediate piece can preferably be designed as a double-sided adhesive tape.

[0041] The electronic unit with the sensor unit is thus protected by the housing independently of the lining, whereby the operating device can be mounted on the vehicle component in a cost-effective manner.

[0042] Furthermore, it can be advantageously provided in the method according to the invention that when the capsule is fastened to the lining, the capsule is preloaded, in particular mechanically, onto the lining inner side of the lining, in particular wherein the intermediate region between the lining and the capsule is sealed. In this case, the elastic intermediate piece can be arranged in the intermediate region in order to completely fill the intermediate region at least in the region of the sensor element of the sensor unit. For example, the capsule can be snapped onto the lining or screwed under preload. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Further advantages, features and details of the invention are derived from the following description of embodiments of the invention in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination, as schematically shown in the drawings:

[0044] Figure 1 A vehicle according to the present invention having an operating device according to the present invention in a first embodiment is shown.

[0045] Figure 2 An exploded schematic diagram showing the operating device,

[0046] Figure 3 and 4 Different embodiments of the operating device are shown in cross-section.

[0047] Figure 5 Another exploded schematic diagram showing the operating device,

[0048] Figure 6 The method of the present invention is shown schematically with method steps,

[0049] Figure 7 and 8 is an electronic unit of an operating device in another embodiment,

[0050] Fig. 9 and 10 is an electronic unit of an operating device in another embodiment,

[0051] Figure 11-13 The different conductor layers of a circuit board of an electronic unit are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] In the following description of some embodiments of the present invention, the same reference numerals are used for the same technical features even in different embodiments.

[0053] Figure 1The vehicle 1 of the invention is shown in a first embodiment, which has a vehicle component 2, in particular a vehicle door in the form of a sliding door. In this case, the vehicle 1 also has an operating device 10 for triggering a function of the vehicle 1. The function can be, for example, the automatic opening and / or closing of a sliding door. In this case, the function is achieved in particular depending on an operating behavior 200 of the user. For example, an operating behavior 200 in the form of a gesture in the opening direction of the vehicle component 2 can initiate the opening of the vehicle component 2, or an operating behavior 200 in the form of a gesture opposite to the opening direction can initiate the closing of the vehicle component 2. The operating device 10 can be arranged here, as shown by way of example, on a B-pillar 2.1 of the vehicle 1 and / or on a vehicle component 2 in particular in the form of a door or sliding door.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, the operating device 10 is arranged on a flat lining 11 of the vehicle component 2. The flat design of the lining 11 can, for example, extend along a part of the body of the vehicle 1 or behind a glass panel of the vehicle component 2. The lining 11 comprises a lining outer side 11.2 and a lining inner side 11.1. The lining outer side 11.2 preferably forms a part of the surface of the vehicle component 2 and / or the vehicle body surface 1.1 that can be seen outside the vehicle 1. For example, the lining 11 can be part of a lining in the region of the B-pillar 2.1 of the vehicle 1.

[0055] The operating device 10 is arranged on the lining 11, in particular directly or indirectly by means of an intermediate piece 51. The operating device 10 comprises an electronic unit 12, which has an electronic device outer side 12.2 and an electronic device inner side 12.1. The electronic device outer side 12.2 is oriented toward the lining inner side 11.1 of the lining 11. The electronic device inner side 11.1 is opposite to the electronic device outer side 11.2. In particular, the electronic device inner side 11.1 is oriented toward the vehicle interior of the vehicle 1 and / or the lining inner cavity of the vehicle component 2. However, it is also conceivable that the lining 11 is part of the interior lining of the vehicle 1. In this case, for example, the electronic device inner side 12.1 can be oriented toward the outside of the vehicle 1.

[0056] In addition, the electronic unit 12 has a sensor unit 20 for detecting user operating behavior 200. The sensor unit 20 is preferably arranged on the electronic device outer side 12.2 of the electronic unit 12. By arranging the electronic unit 12 on the lining inner side 11.1 of the lining 11, the operating device 10 can be at least partially covered by the lining 11. In order to protect the electronic unit 12, the operating device 10 also has a first and a second shell part 31, 32, which form a complete shell 30 around the electronic unit 12. The first shell part 31 is preferably arranged on the electronic device inner side 12.1 of the electronic unit 12, and the second shell part 32 is arranged on the electronic device outer side 12.2 of the electronic unit 12. Possible designs of the shell 30 are as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4 is shown as an example.

[0057] Figure 3 The encapsulation 30 is shown, wherein the first encapsulation part 31 is formed by a casting compound 31.1. The electronic unit 12 has a circuit board 13, on which the sensor unit 20 is arranged. The circuit board 13 of the electronic unit 12 is preferably embedded in a frame 14, by which the electronic unit 12 can be better handled during installation and / or can be fixed to the encapsulation 30 in a form-fitting manner. The frame 14 can also form a part of the encapsulation 30. The casting compound 31.1 is connected to the second encapsulation part 32 in a material-joined manner and preferably completely covers the inner side 12.1 of the electronic device. In addition, in particular, the outer side 12.2 of the electronic device can also be at least partially or completely covered by the casting compound 31.1, so that at least the sensor unit 20 is covered by the casting compound 31.1. The second encapsulation part 32 can include a shell 32.1, into which the electronic unit 12 is inserted. For this purpose, the electronic unit 12 can be arranged in the second encapsulation part 32 in a form-fitting manner directly or, for example, indirectly via the frame 14. Preferably, the sensor unit 20, the electronic unit 12 and / or the enclosure 30 are designed at least partially symmetrically with respect to the center plane 10.1, whereby the operating device 10 can be selectively mounted on opposite sides of the vehicle.

[0058] In addition, the electronic unit 12 has an indication unit 40, by which the detection of the operating behavior 200 can be confirmed to the user, especially on the outer side 11.2 of the lining, and / or a signal can be sent to indicate the start of the operating behavior 200. The indication unit 40 includes a plurality of light emitters 42 for emitting optical signals to the user. The light emitters 42 can be light sources in the form of LEDs in particular. The light emitters 42 are arranged in a row with each other and separated by a partition 43. For example, by arranging the light emitters 42 in a row, the direction of the operating behavior 200 detected by the sensor unit 20 can be indicated to the user by activating the light emitters 42 in series order. The partition 43 can be formed at least partially by an intermediate piece 51 arranged in an intermediate area 50 between the lining 11 and the shell 30, by the second shell part 32 and / or the lining 11. In particular, the partition 43 is designed to be opaque and / or light-proof, so that the light emitted by the light emitters 42 can be guided to the outer side 11.2 separately for each light emitter 42. Preferably, the middle piece 51 can also be designed to be elastic and pre-tightened to the enclosure 30. Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the enclosure 30 is fixed to the liner 11 via the middle piece 51, in particular in a material-bonded manner. For example, the middle piece 51 can include a double-sided adhesive tape. In particular, when the partition 43 and / or the middle piece 51 are at least partially formed by the second enclosure part 32, each light emitter 42 can be enclosed by the second enclosure part 32, in particular surrounded, so that when the electronic unit 12 is potted with the casting material 31.1, the light emitter 42 remains free of the casting material 31.1. In addition, the liner 11 and / or the second enclosure part 32 have a light-transmitting window area 41, through which the light signal of the indicator unit 40 can be transmitted to the user. For example, the window area 41 can have a transparent window material 41.1, in particular a transparent plastic. During the production of the lining 11 and / or the second shell part 32 , for example as a plastic injection-molded part, for example the transparent window material 41 . 1 can be injected onto the opaque and / or light-proof substrate of the lining 11 and / or the second shell part 32 .

[0059] Additionally or alternatively, the light emitter 42 can also be part of a display or the like. Additionally or alternatively, it is also conceivable that the indicating unit 40 can issue an audible indication or an indication in the form of a radio signal to the user. It is also conceivable that the partition 43 is formed by the lining 11. Figure 4 As shown, the partition 43 can be formed integrally with the lining 11. Here, the partition 43 preferably extends to the circuit board 13 in the form of a rib.

[0060] Figure 4Also shown is a housing 30, in which a first housing part 31 is formed by a particularly rigid cover 31.2. The cover 31.2 can, for example, consist of hard plastic and can be placed together with the electronic unit 12 on the second housing part 32 when the operating device 10 is installed. In this case, the seal between the cover 31.2 and the second housing part 32 can advantageously be achieved by a sealant 33, in particular surrounding the cover 31.2. The sealant 33 can, for example, comprise silicone. It is conceivable that the cover 31.2 is simultaneously fixed to the lining 11 and / or the intermediate part 51 by a material connection by the sealant 33.

[0061] Figure 5 Another exploded view of the operating device 10 is shown. Here, the housing 30 has a mechanical fixing interface 34 for fixing the operating device 10 to the mating fixing interface 11.3 of the lining 11. The housing 30 can preferably be screwed or abutted to the lining 11. In addition, an electrical connector 35 can be provided, by means of which the electronic unit 12 can be connected or connected to the vehicle electronics and / or the vehicle power supply. For this purpose, the electrical connector 35 can protrude from the housing 30. In particular, the electrical connector 35 can be cast with a sealant 33 and / or a casting compound 31.1.

[0062] Figure 6 A method 100 for producing an operating device 10 is shown as a schematic diagram of the method steps. It is provided that an electronic unit 12 is provided 101. In addition, the lining 11 can be provided, for example, in such a way that the lining 11 is produced by injection molding and / or is taken from a warehouse. When the electronic unit 12 is provided 101, the sensor unit 20 and / or other electrical components can be placed on the circuit board 13 of the electronic unit 12, in particular by printing and / or etching processes. The electronic unit 12 is then arranged 102 between the first and second shell parts 31, 32 and the first and second shell parts 31, 32 are closed 103 to form a complete shell 30. For example, when the first shell part 31 has a casting material 31.1 and is cast together with the second shell part 32 and the electronic unit 12, the arrangement 102 and the closing 103 can also be achieved simultaneously. Furthermore, the enclosure 30 is fixed 104 in particular by means of at least one fixing interface 34 on the lining 11, so that the electronics outer side 12.2 of the electronics unit 12 is preferably oriented toward the lining inner side 11.1 of the lining 11. Additionally or alternatively, a sealant 33 may be applied when fixing the enclosure 30 104, such as Figure 4 shown.

[0063] Figure 7 and 8An electronic unit 12 for an operating device 10 is shown in one possible embodiment. Here, a printed circuit board 13 of the electronic unit 12 is arranged in a frame 14, by means of which the fixing to the lining 11 can be simplified. For this purpose, the frame 14 has locking elements 14.1, into which the printed circuit board 13 can be clipped. In addition, the frame 14 preferably has one or more receptacles 14.2 for pouring a casting nozzle for casting a casting compound 31.1, whereby the casting compound 31.1 can be advantageously dispersed from the inside 12.1 of the electronic device to the outside 12.2 of the electronic device. Figure 7 The electronics unit 12 is shown here from the inside 12.1 of the electronics device. Figure 8 The electronic unit 12 is shown from the outside 12.2 of the electronic device, which is opposite to the inside 12.1 of the electronic device. The sensor elements 21 of the sensor unit 20 are arranged in a matrix on the circuit board 13 in a regular pattern on the outside 12.2 of the electronic device. Here, each sensor element 21 forms a capacitance area. The sensor unit 20 is therefore particularly a capacitive sensor, whereby a non-touch operating behavior 200 can be identified by the sensor unit 20. In addition, the direction of the operating behavior 200 can be identified by the matrix arrangement of the sensor elements 21. Therefore, when the user passes over the lining outside 11.2 of the lining 11, the electric field of the sensor element 21 changes successively according to the direction of the operating behavior 200. The direction of the operating behavior 200 can be inferred based on the detection sequence of the sensor elements 21. For this purpose, the electronic unit 12 preferably has a control unit 25 for evaluating the sensor signal of the sensor unit 20. In addition, the indication unit 40 can be driven by the control unit 25 to indicate to the user, for example, the detection of the operating behavior 200 and / or the direction of the operating behavior 200. Shielding elements 21.1 for shielding the sensor elements 21 are arranged in a matrix on the inner side 12.1 of the electronic device, respectively corresponding to the sensor elements 21. In particular, each sensor element 21 corresponds to an opposing shielding element 21.1.

[0064] Fig. 9 and 10 An electronic unit 12 for operating the device 10 is shown in another possible embodiment. The electronic unit 12 corresponds essentially to Figure 7 and 8 The electronic unit 12 of the embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1 , but here the sensor elements 21 of the sensor unit 20 are designed and arranged in a strip shape. In the case of a matrix-like arrangement, multiple directions of the operating behavior 200 can also be detected, while in the case of strip-shaped sensor elements 21, the direction of the operating behavior 200 can be detected along a straight line. However, the strip-shaped arrangement of the sensor elements 21 respectively generates a larger capacitive field under the same installation space, thereby reducing false detections. On the inner side 12.1 of the electronic device, corresponding to the strip-shaped design of the sensor elements 21, a shielding element 21.1 is arranged in a strip shape and corresponding to the sensor elements 21.

[0065] In addition to the sensor unit 20, the electronic unit 12 preferably also includes a touch sensor 22, a recognition device 23 and / or a proximity sensor 24, such as Figure 11-13 As shown. The identification device 23 may include in particular a radio element 23.1, in particular in the form of an electric coil, which may be printed on the circuit board 13 as a ring-shaped conductor track. Contactless data exchange may be achieved with the user's ID transmitter via the identification device 23. Therefore, the identification device 23 may preferably include an NFC interface, a BLE interface and / or a UWB interface. Thus, the identification and / or verification of the user may be achieved in particular by a vehicle electronic device that is capable of data communication connection with the identification device 23. Based on "identifying the user with the aid of the identification device 23", automatic locking and / or unlocking of the vehicle 1 may be provided. The touch sensor 22 may include, for example, an LDC sensor, by which deformation caused by touching or applying pressure to the lining 11 may be identified. Based on the "operation of the touch sensor 22", another function of the vehicle 1 may be triggered, such as an automatic opening movement and / or automatic closing movement of a vehicle component 2 or an emergency stop when the vehicle component 2 is moving. Through in particular an additional proximity sensor 24, a wake-up signal to other electronic components may be facilitated, for example, based on "identifying the user approaching". The touch sensor 22, the identification device 23 and / or the proximity sensor 24 are preferably arranged in different conductor layers 13.1, 13.2 on the circuit board 13. Fig.11 , the sensor unit 20 and the identification device 23 can be arranged together on the first conductor layer 13.1. The touch sensor 22 and the proximity sensor 24 can also be arranged on another conductor layer 13.2 of the circuit board 13. The multi-layer design of the circuit board 13 can achieve a compact design of the operating device 10, whereby the operating device 10 can be advantageously placed on the lining 11 with a small installation space. Therefore, through the touch sensor 22, the identification device 23 and / or the proximity sensor 24, the operating device 10 can provide the user with a comfortable operating possibility with a high degree of automation.

[0066] The above explanations of the embodiments describe the invention only within the scope of examples. It is obvious that the features of the embodiments can be combined freely with one another as long as it makes technical sense without going beyond the scope of the invention.

[0067] Reference numerals list

[0068] 1 Vehicle

[0069] 1.1 Body surface

[0070] 2 Vehicle Parts

[0071] 2.1 B-pillar

[0072] 3 Open the mechanism

[0073] 10 Operating device

[0074] 10.1 Center plane

[0075] 11 Lining

[0076] 11.1 Lining inner side

[0077] 11.2 Lining outer side

[0078] 11.3 Pairing fixed interface

[0079] 12 Electronic units

[0080] 12.1 Inside the electronic device

[0081] 12.2 External side of electronic device

[0082] 13 Circuit Board

[0083] 13.1 First Conductor Layer

[0084] 13.2 Second Conductor Layer

[0085] 14 Framework

[0086] 14.1 Locking elements

[0087] 14.2 Accommodation mechanism

[0088] 15 Electronic device holder

[0089] 20 sensor units

[0090] 21 Sensor element

[0091] 21.1 Shielding elements

[0092] 22 Touch Sensor

[0093] 23 Identification device

[0094] 23.1 Radio Components

[0095] 24 Proximity Sensor

[0096] 25 Control Unit

[0097] 30 Encapsulation

[0098] 31 First Enclosure

[0099] 31.1 Castables

[0100] 31.2 Cover

[0101] 32 Second capsule

[0102] 33 Sealant

[0103] 34 Fixed interface

[0104] 40 Indicator unit

[0105] 41 Window Area

[0106] 42 Light Transmitter

[0107] 43 Divider

[0108] 50 Middle Zone

[0109] 51 Middleware

[0110] 100 Methods

[0111] 101 Provision of electronic unit 12

[0112] 102 Arrangement of the electronic unit 12

[0113] 103 Closure of the first and second enclosure parts 31, 32

[0114] 104 Fixing of the Encapsulation 30

[0115] 200 Operation behavior

Claims

1. An operating device (10) for triggering a function of a vehicle (1) by a user, comprising: - an electronic unit (12) having a sensor unit (20) for detecting an operating behavior (200) of a user for triggering a function of the vehicle (1) and having an electronic device outer side (12.2) and an electronic device inner side (12.1) opposite to the electronic device outer side (12.2), on which the sensor unit (20) is able to detect the operating behavior (200) of the user, - a first enclosure part (31) for protecting the inner side (12.1) of the electronic device, and - a second enclosure part (32) for protecting the outer side (12.2) of the electronic device, in, The second housing part (32) comprises a housing (32.1), the electronic unit (12) has a printed circuit board (13), the printed circuit board (13) has at least one sensor element (21) of the sensor unit (20) for detecting the operating behavior (200), wherein the first enclosure part (31) and the second enclosure part (32) form a complete enclosure (30) surrounding the electronic unit (21) for modular arrangement on a flat lining (11) of the vehicle (1), and The enclosure (30) is configured to be arranged relative to the flat liner (11) such that the second enclosure portion (32) faces the flat liner (11) and the first enclosure portion (31) is away from the flat liner (11).

2. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first shell part (31) has a potting compound (31.1) or a cover (31.2), wherein the first shell part (31) is connected to the flat lining (11) in a materially bonded manner.

3. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) is arranged in the housing in a form-fitting manner.

4. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) is bonded or welded to the first enclosure part (31) and / or the second enclosure part (32).

5. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sensor element (21) is a capacitive or inductive sensor element.

6. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sensor unit (20) has a plurality of sensor elements (21) for detecting an operating action (200), thereby being able to identify the direction of the operating action (200).

7. The operating device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that: The sensor elements (21) are similar to one another, and the operating behavior (200) comprises a contactless operating behavior.

8. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sensor elements (21) are arranged in a regular pattern on the printed circuit board (13).

9. The operating device (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that: The sensor elements (21) are arranged in the form of a matrix and / or strips on the printed circuit board (13).

10. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) has an indication unit (40), through which the detection of the operating behavior (200) can be confirmed to the user and / or a signal can be sent to indicate the start of the operating behavior (200).

11. The operating device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that: The indicating unit (40) is mounted on the printed circuit board (13).

12. The operating device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that: The indicating unit (40) is an optical indicating unit (40), and the second enclosure portion (32) has at least one light-transmitting window area (41). Through the window area (41), the indicating unit (40) can transmit an optical signal to the user.

13. The operating device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that: The indicating unit (40) has a plurality of light emitters (42) for emitting light signals to the user, wherein the light emitters (42) are separated from one another at least in some areas by light-tight partitions (43).

14. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronics outer side (12.2) of the electronics unit (12) is covered with a casting compound (31.1).

15. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) and / or the second enclosure part (32) have at least one receiving device (14.2) for a pouring nozzle for pouring a casting material (31.1), so that the casting material (31.1) can be conveyed from the inside (12.1) of the electronic device to the outside (12.2) of the electronic device, while the electronic unit (12) is arranged at the second enclosure part (32).

16. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sensor unit (20), the electronic unit (12) and / or the enclosure (30) are designed to be at least partially symmetrical, whereby the operating device (10) can be selectively mounted on opposite sides of the vehicle.

17. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) has a touch sensor (22) for detecting pressure acting on the flat insert (11), thereby being able to trigger another function of the vehicle (1).

18. The operating device (10) according to claim 17, characterized in that The touch sensor (22) includes an LDC sensor.

19. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) has an identification device (23) for identifying the user.

20. The operating device (10) according to claim 19, characterized in that The identification device (23) has a radio element (23.1) for contactless data exchange with an ID transmitter.

21. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) has a proximity sensor (24) for detecting the approach of a user.

22. The operating device (10) according to claim 21, characterized in that The proximity sensor (24) is designed to capacitively detect the proximity.

23. The operating device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic unit (12) has a touch sensor (22) for detecting pressure acting on the flat lining (11) and an identification device (23) for identifying the user, and the printed circuit board (13) has a plurality of conductor layers (13.1, 13.2), wherein the sensor unit (20) is arranged on a first conductor layer (13.1), and the touch sensor (22) and / or the identification device are arranged on another conductor layer (13.1).

24. The operating device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that The electronic unit (12) has a control unit (25) for evaluating a sensor signal of the sensor unit (20) and for controlling the display unit (40) as a function of the sensor signal.

25. A vehicle (1) comprising: A vehicle component (2) having a flat lining (11); and An operating device (10) for triggering a function of the vehicle (1) by a user according to one of the preceding claims.

26. The vehicle (1) according to claim 25, characterized in that An elastic intermediate element (51) is arranged in an intermediate region (50) between the flat lining (11) and the actuating device (10).

27. The vehicle (1) according to claim 26, characterized in that The actuating device (10) is preloaded onto the intermediate piece (51), or the actuating device (10) is fixed to the flat insert (11) via the intermediate piece (51).

28. A method (100) for installing an operating device (10) for triggering a function of a vehicle (1) by a user at a vehicle component (2) of the vehicle (1) according to one of claims 1 to 24, comprising the following steps: - providing (101) an electronic unit (12), the electronic unit (12) having a sensor unit (20) for detecting an operating behavior (200) of the user for triggering a function of the vehicle (1) and having an electronic device outer side (12.2) and an electronic device inner side (12.1) opposite to the electronic device outer side (12.2), on the electronic device outer side (12.2), the sensor unit (20) is capable of detecting the operating behavior (200) of the user, - arranging (102) the electronic unit (12) between a first enclosure part (31) protecting the inner side (12.1) of the electronic device and a second enclosure part (32) protecting the outer side (12.2) of the electronic device, wherein the second enclosure part (32) comprises a shell (32.1), the electronic unit (12) having a printed circuit board (13), the printed circuit board (13) having at least one sensor element (21) of the sensor unit (20) for detecting the operating behavior (200), - closing (103) the first enclosure part (31) and the second enclosure part (32) to form a complete enclosure (30) of the operating device (10) surrounding the electronic unit (21), - fixing (104) the capsule (30) on a flat lining (11) of the vehicle component (2) such that the second capsule part (32) faces the flat lining (11) and the first capsule part (31) faces away from the flat lining (11).

29. The method (100) according to claim 28, characterized in that: When the capsule (30) is fastened (104) to the flat lining (11), the capsule (30) is preloaded onto the decorative inner side (11.1) of the flat lining (11).

30. The method (100) according to claim 29, characterized in that The intermediate area (50) between the flat lining (11) and the capsule (30) is sealed.

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