Operating device for household appliances with integrated touch-sensitive operating ring in the operation recess

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating device (6) for a domestic appliance (1), having an optical display unit (7) and a touch-sensitive operating ring (9) as a touch-sensitive operating area, which is configured in the surface area of the optical display unit (7), wherein the optical display unit (7) is covered by a transparent cover (10) of the operating device (6) separate from the optical display unit, wherein a recess (12) is configured on the upper side (11a) of the cover (10), which is delimited by a recess wall (13), wherein the recess (12) is configured as a continuous, crater-like depression (18) as a whole, so that the entire recess wall (13) is configured below the level of the surface area of the upper side (11a) adjoining the depression (18), wherein an annular partial surface (14) of at least one upper portion of the recess wall (13) forms a contact surface (9a) of the operating ring (9), and the recess wall (13) has a further partial surface (15) which adjoins the contact surface (9a) downward.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to an operating device for a household appliance. The operating device has an optical display unit. Furthermore, the operating device has a touch-sensitive operating ring constructed in a surface region of the optical display unit. The optical display unit is covered by a transparent cover. The upper side of the cover has a recess. This recess pre-defines or defines the geometry of the operating ring. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a household appliance having such an operating device. Background Technology

[0002] Operating devices for household appliances with touch-sensitive operating areas are known in a wide variety of forms. In this regard, a design is also known by DE 10 2005 002 952 A1, in which a fixed groove is constructed on the upper side of the cover of a light display. This groove is considered to be geometrically predefined for an operating ring. The user can lightly slide their finger through this groove to trigger the corresponding touch-sensitive operation. The groove is constructed as an elliptical ring. A touch-sensitive adjustment device is constructed in the surface area surrounded by the enclosed groove. In the diametrical cross-section of the groove, the groove has two U-shaped profiles arranged spaced apart from each other. Viewed in this cross-section, these U-shaped profiles are connected by a straight line on the inner U-shaped legs facing each other, the straight line representing the area separated from the groove. The straight line terminates at the upper end of these inner U-shaped legs. With this elliptical ring, the operational feasibility is limited. Because the groove is fixed in its geometry, users with fingers of different thicknesses can only perform the operation with limited or poor performance, as their fingers, for example, cannot fully extend into the groove using their fingertips. Therefore, misoperation may occur, or the user may experience discomfort when they have to press their fingertips into the groove.

[0003] Because the operating device should, in particular, display increasingly diverse information optically, and image display should also be possible in this regard, and on the other hand, the structure should be compact, it is necessary to avoid information overload for the user, and the information to be displayed should be intuitively perceptible and clearly presented. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The objective of this invention is to provide an operating device and a household appliance, wherein the operation of the integrated operating ring is ergonomically improved.

[0005] This task is accomplished by an operating device and a household appliance according to the present invention.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention relates to an operating device for a household appliance. The operating device has an optical display unit. Furthermore, the operating device has a touch-sensitive operating ring. This operating ring represents a touch-sensitive operating area. The operating ring is constructed in the surface area of ​​the optical display unit. This means that when viewed projected from the front towards the operating device, the operating ring is at least partially, and especially completely, arranged in the surface of the optical display unit. The optical display unit is covered on the front side by a transparent cover of the operating device, separate from the display unit. A recess is constructed on the upper or front side of the cover. This recess is defined by a recess wall. The recess, viewed as a whole, is constructed as a continuous depression. The depression is crater-shaped. Relatedly, the depression can also be described, for example, as pot-shaped, funnel-shaped, bowl-shaped, or blind-hole-shaped. The recess wall of this depression is formed, in particular, in a spherical partial surface manner. This means that the entire recess wall has, in particular, the shape of a partial spherical surface. In particular, this can be a partial surface of a spherical cap. The entire recessed wall is constructed below the horizontal plane of the surface area adjacent to the recess on the upper side. At least one annular portion of the upper surface of the recessed wall forms the contact surface of the operating ring. The operating ring is fixed. The operating ring is integrated into the cover and is therefore integrally formed therewith. The recessed wall has another portion of its surface separate from the contact surface. This other portion of its surface is downwardly adjacent to the contact surface. This should be understood visually in the direction of the recess depth. Relatedly, the recess has a recess axis perpendicular to the upper side of the cover. This design of the recess allows for an improved operating scheme. Due to the larger net width of the recess, it is easy for the user to insert their fingers into the recess. This net width is, in particular, several times the thickness of the fingertip. Collisions with the very narrow edges of the groove, as in the prior art, can be avoided. Furthermore, the finger no longer needs to press its tip into a very narrow and pre-defined groove and then move the finger within that groove. Therefore, the present invention avoids the undesirable operational feel caused by the fingers being pressed so tightly into the groove. Thus, viewed in cross-sectional geometry, only one air gap is formed between the opposing ring edge regions when viewed from the upper ring edge of the depression. Therefore, viewed over the entire diameter of the operating ring, in this cross-sectional view, only one air gap is formed between these upper ring edge points. Furthermore, this solution also achieves an improved operational and display feasibility. The recess is therefore not a surrounding channel-like groove, but rather a continuous crater-shaped depression as described above. Therefore, the entrance to the depression is not a ring, but a continuous air surface without corners. This air surface can be a circular or elliptical surface.

[0007] In particular, this design allows for improved optical display of information in the recessed area. Therefore, optical display is possible on the entire surface of the depression bounded by the recess wall. This design improves perceptibility and enables the display of continuous images. In principle, this is impossible in grooves as in the prior art.

[0008] In one embodiment, the other portion of the surface is formed flat. Therefore, in such an embodiment, the bottom of the recess is not curved, but flat. This flat other portion of the surface is recessed downwards relative to the surface area of ​​the upper side of the cover that directly adjoins the recess. This embodiment provides a nearly flat support surface, allowing fingers to be supported without being inserted too deeply into the recess.

[0009] In one embodiment, this other portion of the recessed wall has an uneven surface. This results in a variety of feasible solutions. On the one hand, this involves further insertion of a finger into the recess. On the other hand, it also enables personalized optical displays. Specific optical effects, such as magnification and reduction, can also be achieved.

[0010] In one embodiment, this other portion of the surface is concave and arched. It is particularly concave and arched over its entire extension. This is a very advantageous embodiment because the recess can thus be easily manufactured. The recess can then be manufactured in a very precise and simple manner by milling towards the upper side of the cover. For example, a ball end mill can be used for this. Therefore, the corresponding symmetrical shape of the recess can be milled into this upper side. Then, in this embodiment, the recess wall has exactly a spherical portion of its surface as its shape.

[0011] It is also possible that the surface of the second part is arched protrudingly.

[0012] In one embodiment, the annular contact surface is arched. This has advantages in the manufacturing process described above, because the entire recessed wall can then be created using a ball end mill. The associated concave arched shape of the annular contact surface is then automatically achieved. This also allows for a tactilely improved contact method for the finger on this contact surface.

[0013] In one embodiment, the radius of the arch of the annular contact surface is equal to the radius of the other portion of the surface. Therefore, a stepless transition zone is achieved between the contact surface and the other portion of the surface. Furthermore, this embodiment allows the depression to be generated particularly easily using a single ball end mill.

[0014] In one embodiment, the radius of the arch of the annular contact surface differs from the radius of the other surface portion. Specifically, the radius of the arch of the annular contact surface is larger than the radius of the other surface portion. For example, such geometry can be produced using two ball end mills of different sizes. Therefore, in such an embodiment, a tactilely perceptible transition zone between the contact surface and the other surface portion can also be achieved. Relatedly, a stepped transition zone is thus constructed. This transition zone can be produced very simply, for example, by having only slightly different radii. In particular, the optical display of information across the entire surface area of ​​the recess appears unaffected. This small, tactilely perceptible stepped transition zone does not negatively affect the optical display beyond the entire recess wall.

[0015] In one embodiment, a printed portion is formed on the lower side of the cover. This lower side is the side of the cover facing the optical display unit. In another embodiment, the face of the operating ring on the upper side is optically identified by the printed portion. Therefore, an observer of the operating device can easily identify the operating ring on the face of the operating device when observing the recess.

[0016] Therefore, in one embodiment, the printed portion is constructed as a ring on this lower side surface. Specifically, this ring has a radial ring thickness corresponding to the radial dimensional difference between the upper and lower edges of the operating ring. The upper edge of the operating ring is formed specifically by an upper ring edge. The lower edge of the operating ring is formed specifically by a lower ring edge. Thus, the size of the printed portion can be minimized, and yet the surface of the operating ring can be clearly and fully identified when the recess is viewed from the front. The printed portion can be constructed to be translucent. Therefore, comprehensive optical display of the information of the optical display unit can also be achieved on the entire surface of the recess wall.

[0017] In one embodiment, a contact sensing device of the operating mechanism is arranged between the cover and the optical display unit separate therefrom. The contact sensing device can be configured to cover the entire surface of the optical display unit. However, it can also be configured only on a portion of the surface of the optical display unit. In particular, it can be configured at least on the surface area where the recess extends during projection viewing.

[0018] In one embodiment, the upper edge or upper ring edge of the operating ring is formed by the upper edge of the recess. The upper ring edge of the operating ring is therefore formed by the upper limit edge of the recess. Relatedly, the terms "above" and "below" should refer to the corresponding positions along the recess axis. Relatedly, the recess axis is oriented perpendicular to the upper side of the cover. The upper and lower ring edges of the operating ring, and thus the upper edge of the recess, are also formed circumferentially around this recess axis.

[0019] In one embodiment, the upper edge of the operating ring has a diameter between 60 mm and 90 mm, particularly between 70 mm and 80 mm. This is the net width as observed in cross-section, which is measured between these opposing portions or points of the upper edge.

[0020] In one embodiment, the lower edge of the operating ring has a diameter between 45 mm and 60 mm, particularly between 50 mm and 60 mm. Relatedly, this is also the net width as observed in the cross-section of the operating device.

[0021] In one embodiment, the depression has a depth along its depression axis, the depth being between 1.1 mm and 1.7 mm, particularly between 1.3 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0022] Preferably, the covering has a thickness between 3 mm and 5 mm, particularly between 3.5 mm and 4.5 mm. The covering is, in particular, a glass plate. It is especially made of pure glass. It is especially completely transparent.

[0023] In one embodiment, another portion of the surface of the recessed wall is configured as a touch-sensitive operating area.

[0024] In one embodiment, the diameter profile is formed in a cross-sectional view of the depression, and the diameter profile is U-shaped over its entire width. Accordingly, a unique U-shape with the same radius can be achieved. It is also possible that a flattened or compressed portion is constructed in the middle region for this U-shape. Accordingly, different radii can also be achieved. It is also possible that this middle region has an infinitely large radius and is a straight line. Thus, this diameter profile, representing a cross-section through the center point of the depression, has only a unique U-shaped profile. The opposite ends of this diameter profile are the highest points. All other points of the diameter profile are constructed below these two opposite ends in this cross-section. Therefore, when viewed along the axial direction of the depression axis, the points of this diameter profile that are radially farthest from the depression axis are the highest points.

[0025] In particular, when viewed in the diameter cross-section of the depression, the first portion of the surface has no intermediate minimum. Therefore, there is no profile with two ends and a lower minimum in between. Starting from the upper ring edge point, the profile of this first portion of the surface is oriented downwards. The lower ring edge point represents the lowest point of this profile in the cross-section.

[0026] The operating ring is geometrically constructed within the cover and thus integrally formed with the cover by its contact surface. The operating ring is therefore fixedly formed within the cover. The outer contour of the recess, and therefore its defining edge, is particularly free of sharp angles. The basic geometry of the operating ring is predetermined and defined by the outer contour or upper edge.

[0027] The bottom of the recess can in particular have at least one optical imaging element. The optical imaging element is, in particular, an element that deflects the incident light beam. This means that the light beam does not pass through the optical imaging element in a straight line. The outer contour is, in particular, the outer upper ring edge.

[0028] The recess is thus configured such that, on the one hand, it has the operating ring, and in particular the contact surface of the operating ring, and on the other hand, it has the bottom of the recess when it is adjoining the operating ring inward. The bottom of the recess is therefore not located in the plane of the upper side region of the cover, which is formed when it is adjoining the operating ring radially outward. Therefore, the recess represents a depression or a crater.

[0029] This design allows for improved optical display of information, both fully and almost directly within the recessed area. Therefore, a specially constructed bottom is provided, particularly when directly adjacent to the operating ring, and especially when directly adjacent to the interior of the operating ring. Consequently, it is particularly possible to present optically displayed information in an improved manner at this designated location on the operating device via the optical imaging element. This improves the user's perception at this location, and consequently, enhances the understanding of the displayed optical information.

[0030] In one embodiment, the optical display unit is configured to continuously display an image over the entire surface area of ​​the recess and is therefore continuously formed over the entire recess wall. In this design, the optical display unit is thus configured not only for simple light display and therefore for activating spectral information, but also for displaying images and graphics with different objects as image content. Therefore, a wide range of optical information displays are also possible.

[0031] Furthermore, by utilizing the entire surface area of ​​the recess, a more comprehensive and, in principle, larger display of the image can be achieved. Therefore, optical display can be realized not only through the annular surface of the operating ring itself, but also on the radially inward surface area adjacent to the operating ring within the recess, i.e., the bottom.

[0032] In principle, the bottom represents the surface area of ​​the recess that is directly radially inward adjacent to the operating ring.

[0033] In particular, the optical display unit is a display, especially a full-screen display.

[0034] In one embodiment, the bottom or second portion of the surface of the recess is configured as a touch-sensitive operating area. Therefore, it can be used not only for the specified optical display of optical information of the optical display unit, particularly the display, but also for setting operating conditions. Thus, a multifunctional optical display and operation scheme can be realized in a locally designated and geometrically personalized local area of ​​the operating device, where the optical display unit is also arranged in a surface-overlapping manner.

[0035] In one embodiment, the area directly adjacent to the recess in the surface area of ​​the optical display unit, particularly the display, is configured as another touch-sensitive operation area. This is particularly advantageous because touch-sensitive manipulation and operation are achieved not only in the area of ​​the recess and especially on the operation ring and / or at the bottom of the recess, but also beyond it and outwards or adjacent to the recess. Thus, the touch-sensitive operation scheme can be implemented more flexibly and variedly. In particular, it is also possible to achieve continuous and uninterrupted touch-sensitive operation beyond the transition zone between the recess and the other directly adjacent touch-sensitive operation area. For example, such an operation scheme can be performed as follows: a touch-sensitive swipe is made on the touch-sensitive operation ring, and then this touch-sensitive operation is continued radially outwards on this other touch-sensitive operation area. This is especially true because it can be performed uninterruptedly. However, the exact opposite approach is also possible. Therefore, for example, the touch-sensitive operation can be performed on this other touch-sensitive operating area, and then, particularly uninterruptedly, on the touch-sensitive operating ring and / or on the bottom of the recess. The touch-sensitive operation is especially performed if the bottom is also configured as a touch-sensitive operating area. In particular, when the bottom of the recess is a touch-sensitive operating area, the touch-sensitive operation can also be performed on the bottom, and from there across the operating ring to another touch-sensitive operating area. The related operating scheme can be not only linear and therefore linear touch-sensitive manipulation. However, non-linear contact operations are also possible. In this respect, combinations of linear and non-linear contact operations are also possible.

[0036] In one embodiment, the touch-sensitive operating area of ​​the recess and another touch-sensitive operating area directly radially outward adjacent to the recess are associated such that uninterrupted contact operation can be performed across the two touch-sensitive areas.

[0037] In one embodiment, the touch-sensitive operating area of ​​the recess and another touch-sensitive operating area outside the recess are configured to continuously or uninterruptedly display optical information, particularly images. Therefore, optical information can also be presented using a continuous, overall image, however, the overall image extends across the recess on the surface. This image can then be perceived through the cover.

[0038] In particular, the covering element is transparent in the area of ​​the display, especially the entire area.

[0039] In one embodiment, the operating surface of the limiting recess is arranged in a conical shape. This annular wall also represents the annular surface of the operating ring. This conical arrangement allows the operating ring to be clearly defined in its geometry. Furthermore, the conical shape makes it very easy to place a finger on the annular wall and allows for easy gliding while the finger is placed on it. Additionally, the conical shape also forms a defined transition zone relative to the bottom or second part of the recess's surface, which is offset downwards or backwards. The conical arrangement, or the inclined or oblique orientation relative to the plane or upper side of the cover, achieves the advantages mentioned above regarding easy operation and gliding, as well as an improved geometric boundary relative to the bottom of the recess.

[0040] In one embodiment, the optical display unit is configured to dynamically display moving images in the region of the recess based on contact operation of at least one touch-sensitive operating area. This enables a display similar to a "picture carousel." In another embodiment, the operating device has another touch-sensitive operating area. This other touch-sensitive operating area is directly adjacent to the display. This means that no optical display using the display is provided in this other touch-sensitive operating area, and it is also impossible for such an optical display to be provided there. Only touch-sensitive interaction is then constructed there.

[0041] In one embodiment, the operating device is configured such that, according to the type of touch-sensitive operation, an optical display matching the operation type is displayed on the optical display unit, particularly in the display, at least in the area of ​​the recess. This means, for example, that if the operating ring is operated in a touch-sensitive manner, personalized optical displays of information can be made on the surface area of ​​the operating ring via the display. This could be purely light-activated, and thus only a specific light color could be displayed. However, it is also possible, as a supplementary or alternative, to display content information, such as numbers, letters, or symbols. Therefore, the display of graphics or real images containing one or more image objects is also possible. In this regard, the image objects are optical displays of actual objects that exist in reality. For example, this could be a specific image of food, etc.

[0042] It is also possible, as a supplementary or alternative, that the optical display unit performs an optical display at other locations based on the type of operation of a touch-sensitive operation on a specific area, such as the bottom of a touch-sensitive operating ring or a recess, and / or another touch-sensitive operating area adjacent to the recess, preferably present. For example, in this respect, if the touch-sensitive operating ring is touched, an optical display can be generated by the optical display unit in the area at the bottom of the recess and / or laterally adjacent to the recess. It is also possible that, when a touch-sensitive operation is performed on the bottom of the recess, an optical display is performed at other related locations, such as the surface area of ​​the touch-sensitive operating ring and / or laterally adjacent to the recess.

[0043] As a supplementary or alternative solution, it is also possible to use another touch-sensitive operating area, which is laterally adjacent to the display. Combinations of these different touch-sensitive operations and the resulting optical displays are also possible.

[0044] As described above, in one embodiment, localized touch-sensitive operations, such as light swiping on the surface area of ​​the touch-sensitive operating ring, are possible. Touch-sensitive operations may also occur only in the bottom of the recess or in the area of ​​the second portion of the surface. However, it is also possible to perform continuous touch-sensitive operations beyond these geometrically different components. This has been explained above in several examples.

[0045] This also allows for personalized optical displays by varying the amount of different areas (touch-sensitive operating ring, touch-sensitive bottom, and additional touch-sensitive operating areas) manipulated during continuous touch-sensitive operation.

[0046] With the above-described design of the operating device, the entire surface of the optical display unit, especially the display, can be fully utilized. In particular, complete optical display can still be achieved in the area of ​​the display covered by the recess in the cover member on the front side; the optical display is uninterrupted, and in particular, it can display images accordingly, and in particular, it can display dynamically changing images. Furthermore, the cover member is completely transparent in this area.

[0047] Therefore, an operating device is also provided, which has a full-width optical display unit that extends across the entire display surface, preferably beyond the surface of the recess. Especially during projected observation of the operating device, the recess is completely arranged within the surface area of ​​the optical display unit.

[0048] In this design, the recess, when viewed as a whole, represents a portion of the display area with its entire surface area. In particular, uninterrupted optical display can be achieved across the entire surface area of ​​the recess. Also in particular, the surface of the touch-sensitive operating ring is completely transparent, or the cover is completely transparent in both the surface area of ​​the touch-sensitive operating ring and the surface area at the bottom of the recess.

[0049] Another aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance having an operating device as described in the foregoing aspects or an advantageous design thereof. In particular, the household appliance is configured for cooking food. In this respect, the household appliance can be a cooking appliance having a cooking chamber in which food can be cooked. The cooking appliance can be an oven, a steam cooker, or a microwave cooker. However, it is also possible that the household appliance is also a stovetop.

[0050] The cover can also be made of pure glass or artificial glass.

[0051] The terms "above," "below," "in front," "behind," "horizontal," "vertical," "depth direction," "width direction," and "height direction" are used to describe the position and orientation resulting from the use and arrangement of the appliance in accordance with regulations.

[0052] Other features of the invention are derived from the accompanying drawings and their description. The features and combinations thereof mentioned above in the specification, as well as those mentioned below in the description of the drawings and / or shown separately in the drawings, can be used not only in the separately described combinations, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, embodiments of the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the drawings, but which can be known from the explained embodiments through separate combinations of features, are also considered to be included and disclosed. Therefore, embodiments and combinations of features that do not possess all the features of the originally formulated invention should also be considered to be disclosed. Attached Figure Description

[0053] The embodiments of the present invention will now be explained in more detail with the aid of schematic diagrams. Wherein:

[0054] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of a household appliance according to the present invention is shown, the household appliance having one embodiment of an operating device according to the present invention;

[0055] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the operating device is shown;

[0056] Figure 3 It shows according to Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the operating device;

[0057] Figure 4 It shows according to Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the operating device;

[0058] Figure 5 It shows according to Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the operating device;

[0059] Figure 6 It shows according to Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the operating device; and

[0060] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a portion of the operating device is shown.

[0061] The same or functionally identical elements in the accompanying drawings are given the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0062] exist Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a household appliance 1. This appliance 1 is configured for cooking food. It can be a cooking utensil, such as a stovetop. However, it can also be an oven, a steam cooker, or a microwave cooker. The appliance 1 has a housing 2. A receiving space 3 is constructed within this housing. This receiving space is particularly a cooking chamber. The receiving space 3 can be closed at the front via a door 4. Furthermore, the appliance 1 has an operation panel 5. In one embodiment, the appliance 1 has an operating device 6. This operating device can be particularly arranged on the operation panel 5. Figure 2 As shown in the schematic and perspective illustration, the operating device 6 has an optical display unit 7. This optical display unit is specifically configured as a display 8. Therefore, it is also possible to display images and graphics. One or more image objects can be displayed in the image, and these image objects are therefore concrete objects. For example, images of food can be displayed in this regard.

[0063] The operating device 6 has a touch-sensitive operating ring 9. This touch-sensitive operating ring is particularly well integrated into the surface area of ​​the optical display unit 7 during front-view projection.

[0064] Furthermore, the operating device 6 has a cover 10. The cover 10 is a cover plate. It covers the optical display unit 7 from the front. The cover 10 is particularly integrally formed. It is particularly transparent, preferably completely transparent. In particular, the cover 10 is a glass plate. The cover 10 is a component separate from the optical display unit 7. The plate-shaped cover 10 has a front or upper side 11a. The cover 10 has a rear or lower side 11b.

[0065] The upper side 11a faces away from the optical display unit 7. The upper side 11a is the front visible side and therefore the accessible side.

[0066] Such an external Figure 1 As can be seen, the cover 10 has a recess 12. In this respect, the recess 12 is constructed as a depression. The recess 12 is defined by a recess wall 13. The recess 12 as a whole is constructed as a continuous depression. This depression is crater-shaped. It can also be described as pot-shaped, funnel-shaped, or bowl-shaped. The recess wall 13 has the shape of a spherical surface or a partially flattened spherical surface.

[0067] The recessed portion 12 is configured such that the entire recessed wall 13 is below the horizontal plane of the surface area of ​​the upper side surface 11a that is directly adjacent to the recessed portion 12.

[0068] The recessed wall 13 has at least one upper annular partial surface 14. This annular partial surface 14 is the contact surface 9a of the operating ring 9.

[0069] The operating ring 9 is a fixed assembly integrally formed with the cover 10. Therefore, the contact surface 9a is fixed. Thus, when a finger is placed on the contact surface 9a and when the finger is slid along the contact surface, the contact surface 9a does not move.

[0070] The recessed wall 13 has another partial surface 15 that is directly adjacent to the contact surface 9a downwards.

[0071] The upper surface 14 has an upper ring edge 14a. In one embodiment, the upper ring edge also forms the upper edge of the recess 12. The upper surface 14 also has a lower ring edge 14b. This lower ring edge 14b also represents the boundary relative to the lower second surface 15.

[0072] Furthermore, the operating device 6 has a contact sensing device 16. This contact sensing device is arranged between the cover 10 and the optical display unit 7. The contact sensing device 16 is a sensor unit for sensing contact with the contact surface 9a. The contact sensing device 16 is arranged on the rear side or the lower side 11b. The contact sensing device can be arranged entirely on the lower side 11b or only partially there. For example, only the operating ring 9 can be configured to be touch-sensitive with its contact surface 9a, while the second partial surface 15 can be configured non-touch-sensitive. However, in an advantageous embodiment, the second partial surface 15 can also be configured to be touch-sensitive. Thus, the second partial surface 15 also has an operating area 17. In particular, the second partial surface is entirely configured as a touch-sensitive operating area 17.

[0073] In particular, the contact surface 9a and / or the second portion of the surface 15 can also be configured as display surfaces for the optical output of the optical display unit 7. Specifically, these surfaces can be individually and comprehensively constructed as display surfaces. They can be combined into a continuous display surface.

[0074] This recess 12 has a cornerless shape in its outer contour. This shape means that the upper ring edge 14a is formed without corners. The upper ring edge can be formed in a circular shape. However, it can also be formed in an elliptical shape. In particular, the lower ring edge 14b is also formed without corners. It can be specified that the transition area between the contact surface 9a and the second part surface 15 is formed without steps. However, it is also possible to construct a stepped transition area.

[0075] exist Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along section line III-III of one embodiment of the arrangement structure.

[0076] Figure 3The cross-sectional view in the figure shows the recess 12 as the explained depression 18. This cross-sectional view, showing the diameter profile of the depression 18, shows the net width at the upper ring edge 14a. Relatedly, the diameter d1 is shown. Viewed along this diameter d1, only an air gap is formed between the opposing ring edge points of the upper ring edge 14a. The diameter profile further drawn in this cross-section, and thus other points in the recess wall 13, along the axial direction relative to the depression axis A, do not have a position or horizontal plane at the same height as these opposing portions or points of the upper ring edge 14a. Therefore, in this cross-section, all points of the profile of the recess wall 13 are constructed below the horizontal plane of the two ring edge points of the upper ring edge 14a. In this embodiment, this upper ring edge 14a also represents the upper edge of the operating ring 9. Relatedly, the upper edge of the depression 18 in this embodiment is also associated with it. Therefore, in this embodiment, the upper end of the recess 18 is formed by the upper ring edge 14a, and the entrance of the recess 18 is also defined accordingly. Relatedly, the entrance of the recess 18 is a circular or elliptical surface, which is a continuous surface. Relatedly, the geometry of the air gap is marked at the entrance of this recess 18.

[0077] In addition, Figure 3 As can also be seen, a stepped transition zone 19 is constructed between the contact surface 9a and the downwardly following second portion surface 15 of the recessed wall 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion surface 15 is convexly arched here.

[0078] As in Figure 3 As can also be seen in the cross-sectional view, the diameter profile with the second diameter d2 is realized, which is formed at the lower ring edge 14b of the operating ring 9. This diameter d2 is smaller than the diameter d1.

[0079] In one embodiment, the contact surface 9a is recessed and arched.

[0080] exist Figure 4 Another embodiment of the operating device 6 is shown in the figure. The cross-sectional view here corresponds to Figure 3 Therefore, the diameter profile of the recessed wall 13 is also shown here.

[0081] Like in Figure 3 Just like in the middle, also Figure 4 In particular, in the embodiments explained thereafter, a printed portion 20 is constructed on the lower side 11b of the cover member 11. This printed portion 20 is formed as a ring in this embodiment. It can also be... Figure 3As can be seen, the printing portion 20 extends circumferentially around the recess axis A. The printing portion 20 is formed radially and therefore perpendicularly to the recess axis A at locations extending between the radial positions of the upper ring edge 14a and the lower ring edge 14b. The printing portion 20 is not constructed beyond this point. Figure 4 In one embodiment, the second portion surface 15 is not convexly curved. Instead, it is concavely curved. In one embodiment, the second portion surface can have the same radius as the first portion surface 14 or the contact surface 9a. In this respect, the entire recess 18 can be created using a ball end mill.

[0082] In accordance with Figure 5 In another embodiment, the radius of the second portion surface 15 of the concave arch may be smaller than the radius of the first portion surface 14 and therefore smaller than the radius of the contact surface 9a. Unlike the case of a uniform radius, where a transition zone between the contact surface 9a and the second portion surface 15 is formed without steps, a stepped transition zone 19 is achieved in the case of these different radii.

[0083] exist Figure 6 The cross-sectional diagram also shows... Figure 3 and Figure 4 Another embodiment of the same operating device 6 shown is also illustrated here. Therefore, the diameter profile of the recessed wall 13 is also shown here. In this embodiment, the second partial surface 15 is not arched. Instead, the second partial surface is formed flat here.

[0084] The diameters d1 and d2 are no longer in Figure 5 and Figure 6 It is drawn in the middle, but it is also like this here regarding... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The same interpretation applies accordingly.

[0085] In another embodiment, the area directly adjacent to the recess 12 in the surface area of ​​the display 8, which is also included when projecting observation of the operating device 6, is configured as another touch-sensitive operating area 21. Figure 2 , 7 ).

[0086] In particular, the touch-sensitive operating area in the form of a touch-sensitive operating ring 9 and / or the touch-sensitive operating area of ​​the second part of the surface 15 are directly associated with the other touch-sensitive operating area 21, thereby enabling uninterrupted contact operation movements beyond the two touch-sensitive operating areas. This contact operation movement, in particular, allows for personalized operating condition settings.

[0087] It is also possible that, on the one hand, the touch-sensitive operating area in the form of a touch-sensitive operating ring 9 and / or the touch-sensitive second portion of the surface 15, along with the other touch-sensitive operating area 21, are configured to continuously display optical information, particularly images, which are generated by the optical display unit 7, particularly the display 8. Therefore, these images can also be continuously displayed beyond the surface of the recess 12 and, correspondingly, can be perceived through the surface when observing the cover 10.

[0088] Preferably, the optical display unit 7 is configured to perform dynamic motion image display in the region of the recess 12 based on contact operation with at least one touch-sensitive operating area, particularly the touch-sensitive second partial surface 15. For example, in this respect, such dynamic motion image display can be achieved through linear contact operation movement at the second partial surface 15. The linear contact operation movement can, for example, be performed only at the second partial surface 15. However, it can also be performed in combination at the second partial surface 15 and leading to the operating ring 9. Similarly, it is possible to perform such linear contact operation movement from the second partial surface 15 through the operating ring 9 to another touch-sensitive operating area 21. Such linear contact operation movement can be performed horizontally, vertically, or even tilted.

[0089] As also Figure 2 and Figure 7 As can be seen from the previous embodiment, in another embodiment, additional touch-sensitive operating areas 22 and / or 23 of the operating device 6 can be adjacent to the optical display unit 7. These additional touch-sensitive operating areas 22 and / or 23 are preferably covered on the front side by the cover member 10. Therefore, optical display cannot be realized in the surface area of ​​the cover member 10, which covers these touch-sensitive operating areas 22 and / or 23. This is because the optical display unit 7 does not extend there or is not always constructed there.

[0090] In this embodiment, it is also possible that contact operations are performed at least proportionally on the upper side 11a in the surface region where the additional touch-sensitive operation areas 22 and / or 23 are constructed.

[0091] It is possible that individual surface areas, such as a single touch-sensitive operating area, such as the operating ring 9, and in an advantageous embodiment, the second portion of the surface 15 and / or the operating areas 21 and / or 22 and / or 23, may be individually optically marked if necessary. For example, here, the corresponding surface geometry or the linear boundaries of the geometric range can be displayed by the optical display unit 7. This can be persistent or dynamically changing. For example, it may also depend on the type of operation. For example, it is also possible that a proximity sensor of the operating device 6 is present here, which identifies proximity to a specific surface area and thus proximity to the operating area. Based on this, such geometric optical recognition can then be performed.

[0092] Furthermore, it is also possible to optically identify a light swipe and thus the contacted operational path during operation and, consequently, upon contact with such a specific operational area. This could be achieved, for example, through simple color depiction. However, as a supplementary or alternative approach, it is also possible to display content information such as letters and / or numbers and / or symbols.

[0093] exist Figure 7 The diagram shows a front view of the operating device 6. Line I represents the entire surface of the cover 10. Another dashed line II represents the surface area of ​​the optical display unit 7. As can be seen, in this projected view, the surface of the optical display unit 7 is completely within the surface area of ​​the cover 10. It can also be seen that the surface areas of the operating ring 9 and the second partial surface 15 are completely within the surface area of ​​the optical display unit 7. Through the transparent design of the contact surface 9a in the area of ​​the cover 10 and the transparent design of the surface of the second partial surface 15, the image can also be displayed through the entire surface area of ​​this recess 12 by the optical display unit 7 and can be perceived through the cover 10.

[0094] List of reference numerals

[0095] 1. Home appliances

[0096] 2. Shell

[0097] 3. Acceptance Space

[0098] 4 doors

[0099] 5. Operation Panel

[0100] 6. Operating device

[0101] 7 Display Units

[0102] 8 monitors

[0103] 9. Operating ring

[0104] 9a Contact surface

[0105] 10 Covering parts

[0106] 11a Upper side

[0107] 11b Lower side

[0108] 12. Depression

[0109] 13. Concave wall

[0110] 14 First part of the surface

[0111] 14a Upper ring edge

[0112] 14b Lower ring edge

[0113] 15 Part Two Surface

[0114] 16. Contact sensing device

[0115] 17 Operating Area

[0116] 18 depression

[0117] 19 Stepped transition zones

[0118] 20 Printing Department

[0119] 21 Operating Area

[0120] 22 Operating Area

[0121] 23 Operating Area

[0122] d1 Diameter

[0123] d2 is the diameter.

Claims

1. Operating device for a domestic appliance, having an optical display unit (7) and a touch-sensitive operating ring (9) as a touch-sensitive operating area, which is constructed in the surface area of the optical display unit (7), wherein the optical display unit (7) is covered by a transparent cover (10) of the operating device (6) separate from the optical display unit, wherein a recess (12) is constructed on the upper side (11a) of the cover (10), which is delimited by a recess wall (13), characterized in that, The recess (12) is configured as a continuous, crater-like depression (18) as a whole, such that the entire recess wall (13) is configured below the level of the surface area of the upper side (11a) adjoining the depression (18), wherein at least an upper, annular first part surface (14) of the recess wall (13) forms the contact surface (9a) of the operating ring (9), and the recess wall (13) has a second part surface (15) which adjoins the contact surface (9a) downward, wherein a print (20) is configured on the lower side (11b) of the cover (10), the face of the operating ring (9) at the upper side (11a) being optically identified by the print, the print (20) being configured as a ring on the lower side (11b) and being configured with a radial ring thickness corresponding to the radial dimension difference between the upper ring edge (14a) of the operating ring (9) and the lower ring edge (14b) of the operating ring (9).

2. The operating device according to claim 1, characterized in that The second part surface (15) is flat.

3. The operating device according to claim 1, characterized in that The second part surface (15) is not flat.

4. The operating device according to claim 3, characterized in that The second part surface (15) is concavely curved.

5. Operating device according to the preceding claim 4, characterized in that The annular contact surface (9a) is curved.

6. The operating device according to claim 5, characterized in that The curvature of the annular contact surface (9a) is concave.

7. The operating device according to claim 6, characterized in that The radius of the curvature of the annular contact surface (9a) is equal to the radius of the second part surface (15).

8. The operating device according to claim 6, characterized in that The radius of the curvature of the annular contact surface (9a) is different from the radius of the second part surface (15).

9. The operating device according to claim 8, characterized in that The radius of the curvature of the annular contact surface (9a) is greater than the radius of the second part surface (15).

10. Operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that A contact sensor device (16) is arranged between the cover (10) and an optically display unit (7) separate therefrom.

11. Operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that The upper ring edge (14a) of the operating ring (9) is formed by an upper edge of the depression (18).

12. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that The upper ring edge (14a) of the operating ring (9) has a diameter (d1) of between 60 mm and 90 mm.

13. The operating device according to claim 12, characterized in that The upper ring edge (14a) of the operating ring (9) has a diameter (d1) of between 70 mm and 80 mm.

14. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that The lower ring edge (14b) of the operating ring (9) has a diameter (d2) of between 45 mm and 60 mm.

15. The operating device according to claim 14, characterized in that The lower ring edge (14b) of the operating ring (9) has a diameter (d2) of between 50 mm and 60 mm.

16. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by The second part surface (15) of the recess wall (13) is configured as a touch-sensitive operating area (17).

Images