Operation input device and steering input device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an operation input device (10) and a steering input device (100) for a vehicle, wherein the operation input device (10) comprises: an upper portion (12) including an operation input surface (11) having at least one input area (11A, 11B) associated with or potentially associated with at least one operation function, and a lower portion (13) serving as a support structure for the upper portion, wherein the upper portion (12) is movable relative to the lower portion (13) by an operation input force (F) applied to the operation input surface (11) along an operation input direction (R) extending at least substantially perpendicular to the operation input surface (11), wherein, in order to generate tactile feedback, the upper portion (12) and the lower portion (13) are movably coupled relative to each other, such that by A feedback actuation mechanism (15) that can be coupled to an operation input device (10) has an upper portion (12) movable relative to a lower portion (13) in a first tactile feedback generating direction (H) extending at least substantially parallel to the operation input surface (11), wherein the operation input device (10) further includes at least one damping element (16) arranged and configured to dampen the relative movement between the upper portion (12) and the lower portion (13) in the operation input direction (R) and / or in the first tactile feedback generating direction (H), and wherein at least one damping element (16) is axially immovably arranged in the operation input device (10) in a non-damped direction (L) different from the operation input direction (R) and the first tactile feedback generating direction (H).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an operating input device for a vehicle, wherein the operating input device is preferably configured for arrangement within the interior of the vehicle, particularly for arrangement within a vehicle's steering input device. The operating input device includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion including an operating input surface having at least one input area associated with or potentially associated with at least one operating function, and the lower portion serving as a support structure for the upper portion. The upper portion is movable relative to the lower portion by an operating input force applied to the operating input surface along an operating input direction extending at least substantially perpendicular to the operating input surface, wherein, for generating tactile feedback, the upper and lower portions are movably coupled relative to each other, such that, by a feedback actuation mechanism coupled to the operating input device, the upper portion is movable relative to the lower portion at least in a first tactile feedback generating direction extending at least substantially parallel to the operating input surface. The operating input device also includes at least one damping element arranged and configured to dampen the relative movement between the upper and lower portions in the operating input direction and / or the first tactile feedback generating direction.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a steering input device including at least one operation input device. Background Technology

[0003] The operation input device described above and the steering input device including at least one such operation input device are generally known from the prior art, for example from WO2018 / 108398A1. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In this context, an object of the present invention is to provide an alternative operation input device, particularly an improved operation input device, preferably allowing for more precise haptic feedback, and an alternative, particularly improved, steering input device.

[0005] These objectives are achieved by the operation input device and the steering input device according to the respective independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0006] The operation input device according to the invention is preferably configured for use in a vehicle, preferably for arrangement inside the vehicle, particularly for use in the vehicle's steering input device, and includes an upper part and a lower part. The upper part includes an operation input surface having at least one input area associated with at least one operation function, and the lower part serves as a support structure for the upper part. The upper part can be moved relative to the lower part by an operation input force applied to the operation input surface along an operation input direction extending at least substantially perpendicular to the operation input surface. For generating haptic feedback, the upper and lower parts are movably coupled relative to each other, such that the upper part can be moved relative to the lower part at least in a first haptic feedback generating direction extending at least substantially parallel to the operation input surface via a feedback actuation mechanism coupling to the operation input device. The operation input device according to the invention also includes at least one damping element arranged and configured to dampen the relative movement between the upper and lower parts in the operation input direction and / or the first haptic feedback generating direction.

[0007] The operation input device according to the invention is characterized in that at least one damping element is axially immovably arranged in the operation input device in a non-damping direction different from the operation input direction and the first tactile feedback generation direction.

[0008] The axial fixation of the damping element in the third undamped direction enables the provision of an easy-to-manufacture and easy-to-assemble operating input device that can advantageously dampen the operating input force and the resulting feedback force, thereby producing tactile feedback that is pleasant to the operator.

[0009] The operating input device according to the invention enables a simple design for mounting the damping element, particularly without axial fixation by one or more additional components, but rather by fixation of the upper and / or lower portion itself. Using the operating input device designed according to the invention, in particular, no other components, such as one or more screws, are required to fix the damping element within the operating input device. Axial fixation of the damping element can be achieved, for example, simply by a simple protrusion in the upper and / or lower portion.

[0010] By using damping elements, the risk of further noise and / or damage caused by the relative motion of the upper part to the lower part during feedback generation can be reduced.

[0011] By fixing the damping element in the non-damped direction, damping and clearance in other (damped) directions can be well controlled, especially without reducing noise performance. Damping characteristics can be adjusted very simply by modifying the characteristics of the damping element, such as material properties and the element's dimensions, with little or no need to adjust other parts or components of the operating input device.

[0012] The damping element preferably comprises a rubber material and / or an elastic material, or is made of such materials or a combination thereof. The damping element may be made entirely of one material, or of at least two or more materials, depending on the desired damping characteristics.

[0013] By adapting the cross-section to the geometry and size of the damping element, such as from a circle to an ellipse or rectangle, damping characteristics can be designed / adapted very easily to meet existing user / customer tactile requirements. Therefore, very pleasant tactile input sensations and pleasing tactile feedback can be easily and flexibly achieved.

[0014] Damping elements can be designed in a very simple way, especially without any undercut. This allows for the availability of very inexpensive damping elements. In many cases, a simple rubber element is sufficient as a damping element, especially one without an undercut.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the damping element is arranged immovably in an axial direction in a non-damped direction, which extends particularly perpendicular to the operation input direction and / or perpendicular to the first feedback generation direction. Therefore, an operation input device can be provided that can be designed and manufactured, and especially assembled, in a very easy manner.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, a damping element is arranged in the operation input device such that it is axially fixed in a non-damped direction extending at least substantially parallel to the operation input surface, wherein the non-damped direction is particularly horizontal relative to the operating state of the operation input device.

[0017] The input device, in particular, allows for easy and flexible adaptation of damping characteristics in different directions. For example, greater stiffness in the direction of the input force can be achieved by increasing the cross-section of the damping element in that direction. Less stiffness in the first tactile feedback direction, for example to reduce the necessary feedback force, can be achieved by reducing the cross-section in that direction and / or by using a damping material, for example, with a lower Shore hardness.

[0018] Furthermore, the operating input device according to the invention is suitable for use with various feedback actuation mechanisms, particularly all types of actuators. However, the operating input device or damping element configured to dampen in at least two directions, particularly in the direction of the operating input force and the direction of the first tactile feedback generation, is particularly suitable for pairing with ERM actuators, which are eccentric rotary mass motors arranged such that they induce motion in both damping directions (the direction of the operating input force and the direction of the first tactile feedback generation).

[0019] The operating input device according to the invention also allows the damping elements to be arranged without any pre-tension or pre-load in the damping direction. Therefore, the risk of reduced preload / preload and changes in damping characteristics throughout the lifespan can be reduced or even completely eliminated. Furthermore, a smaller force is sufficient to generate haptic feedback because there is no need to overcome preload.

[0020] The "operation input device" according to the invention is a device configured to detect operator input. Therefore, the operation input device preferably includes at least one sensor element and is particularly configured to evaluate at least one sensor signal generated by said at least one sensor element. Preferably, the operation input device according to the invention is also configured to output at least one control signal, for example, to control at least one operating function. For this purpose, the operation input device according to the invention may further include at least one control unit.

[0021] The operation input device according to the invention is preferably configured to detect operator input applied to an input surface, preferably based on operator input based on input force, particularly based on input force applied at least partially in a direction perpendicular to the input surface.

[0022] Therefore, the operation input device may also include a force sensor element for detecting the operation input force applied to the operation input surface.

[0023] The "force sensor element" according to the invention is a sensor element or sensor assembly configured to detect, in particular measure, an applied force.

[0024] The operating input device according to the invention may include one or more force sensor elements, wherein at least one force sensor element is preferably arranged to detect, in particular measure, at least a portion of the input force applied to the operating input surface, especially a portion of the input force acting in a direction perpendicular to the input surface and / or perpendicular to the feedback generation direction. Force sensor elements are generally well known from the prior art, and further information and details regarding their function and design are herein referenced.

[0025] In order to transmit the operating input force applied to the operating input surface of the operating input device to the force sensor element, the operating input device may also include an operating input force transmission element.

[0026] The "operation input force transmission element" according to the invention is an element configured to transmit input force. Therefore, the operation input force transmission element of the operation input device according to the invention is preferably designed such that the applied input force is transmitted particularly without loss as required by the corresponding usage, and particularly, preferably substantially without loss, according to the requirements of the measurement accuracy of the operation input force applied to the input surface. This can be achieved, for example, by a substantially rigid operation input force transmission element.

[0027] Alternatively, the operation input device may include one or more other sensor devices, such as capacitive sensor devices, for detecting operation inputs applied to the operation input surface.

[0028] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, particularly in a preferred embodiment, the operation input device can be configured to detect touch of the input surface via a capacitive actuation device, such as a human finger or hand. The operation input device therefore preferably includes at least one capacitive sensor unit having at least one capacitive sensor element, wherein the at least one capacitive sensor element is preferably arranged below the input surface. This makes it possible to provide an operation input device having one or more input areas, wherein each input area can be associated with at least one operational function. This makes it possible to provide an advantageous, multi-functional operation input device in a very easy manner.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the operation input device may include more than one input area, wherein preferably, each input area is associated with at least one operation function. This makes it possible to provide an advantageous multi-functional operation input device in a very easy manner.

[0030] If the operation input device according to the invention includes more than one input area, the operation input device is specifically configured to locate touches on the input surface. Thus, it is possible to detect which input area on the input surface has been touched and which operation function should be triggered.

[0031] The upper part of the operation input device according to the invention can be made as a single piece or can be a component, meaning that it is assembled from multiple individual parts, wherein at least one part is preferably made of plastic material, especially rigid plastic material, by injection molding.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the upper part of the operation input device according to the invention is assembled from at least one portion including an operation input surface and a portion for coupling with the lower part. The operation input surface may be made of, for example, glass or another transparent material or another material. However, the operation input surface is preferably made of at least a translucent material, particularly so that the input surface can be illuminated by a background light source.

[0033] The lower part of the operation input device according to the invention serves as a support structure for the upper part. The lower part can be made as a single piece or can be a component, meaning that it is assembled from multiple individual parts, wherein at least one part is preferably made of plastic material, especially rigid plastic material, by injection molding.

[0034] In this invention, "rigid material" refers to a material that is substantially incompressible under temperature conditions during use. For some applications, portions or components of the operating input device according to the invention made of a "rigid material" may be made of, for example, thermoplastic materials or may contain thermoplastic materials such as polyamide, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), or polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or combinations thereof. For other applications, particularly at higher temperatures, thermosetting plastics appear more suitable as "rigid materials," such as polyurethane, polyester, or epoxy resins or combinations thereof.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the lower part of the operation input device according to the invention is assembled from at least one support structure and a bottom, the support structure being a support frame and forming the top of the lower part, the bottom being specifically used as a rear cover of the operation input device.

[0036] The input device may also include a circuit board, particularly a printed circuit board, on which, for example, a force sensor element or a capacitance sensor element may be mounted. In a preferred embodiment, the circuit board may be arranged at least partially within the input device, particularly at least partially within the gap formed by the upper and lower portions during assembly.

[0037] In the context of this invention, the term "movably coupled" in relation to the coupling between the upper and lower parts means a coupling that allows relative movement between the upper and lower parts, which is perceived by the operator as tactile feedback and produces a pleasant tactile input feel. In some applications, "movably coupled" can be achieved simply by providing a defined gap between the upper and lower parts (which can be achieved through a clearance fit). In other applications, the necessary movement may require more relative movement, which cannot be achieved simply by providing a defined gap between the upper and lower parts through a clearance fit, but requires a special design that allows sufficient relative movement between the upper and lower parts.

[0038] The “feedback actuator” in the sense of the present invention preferably includes at least one feedback actuator, such as an electric motor, which can be coupled to at least one of the upper and lower parts and can cause at least one of these parts to move relative to the other.

[0039] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, at least one damping element may be axially fixed in the operation input device in the non-damping direction by means of a first end stop and a second end stop arranged opposite to each other in the axial direction, wherein the damping element is arranged between these end stops in the axial direction.

[0040] This axial fixation of the damping element in the third undamped direction makes it possible to provide an operating input device that is very easy to manufacture and very easy to assemble, which can advantageously dampen the operating input force and the resulting feedback force, thereby producing tactile feedback that is pleasant to the operator.

[0041] This allows for a very simple design for the installation of the damping element, particularly without axial fixation by one or more additional components, but rather by fixation itself via the upper and / or lower portion. Utilizing the operating input device designed according to the invention, in particular, no other components, such as one or more screws, are required to secure the damping element within the operating input device. Axial fixation of the damping element can be achieved, for example, simply by a simple protrusion at the upper and / or lower portion.

[0042] By securing the damping element in the non-damped direction using end stops, damping and clearance in the other (damped) direction can be controlled very easily. In a preferred embodiment according to the invention, the damping element is specifically inserted into the operating input device only by insertion, particularly during assembly in both the axial and non-damped directions. This means that complex fastening steps are not required to secure the damping element; it is simply inserted into a predetermined position. This allows for the provision of an operating input device that can be assembled quickly and easily, and is therefore cost-effective.

[0043] In one embodiment of the operating input device according to the invention, at least one damping element is designed to resemble a plug, particularly a cap plug, comprising at least a cap portion having a larger outer diameter and a body portion having a smaller outer diameter compared to the cap portion. This design allows for the provision of a very advantageous damping element that is easy to design, particularly requiring no undercut, has advantageous damping characteristics, can be easily and cost-effectively manufactured, and allows for easy assembly and easy and flexible adjustment of the damping characteristics.

[0044] Instead of having two different outer diameters, a damping element with a constant outer diameter can be used.

[0045] However, in particular, the difference in outer diameter between adjacent cover and body portions forms a shoulder, which allows for easy fixation of the axial position of the damping element in the operating input device, especially if the shoulder is configured to contact the contact surface of at least one end stop.

[0046] Typically, damping elements can be at least partially or completely solid or hollow, or both (partially solid and partially hollow), wherein the design of the damping element is preferably based on the desired damping characteristics.

[0047] The damping element may have at least a partially circular cross-section or an elliptical or rectangular cross-section, which may also vary along the length of the damping element, particularly in the non-damped direction.

[0048] Preferably, the top surface of the cover is configured to contact the other end stop.

[0049] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, a damping element is arranged in the operation input device between the upper and lower parts, wherein the damping element is preferably supported by the lower and / or upper parts in the direction of the operation input force, particularly through its body. This allows for an operation input device that is very easy to assemble and allows for good relative movement between the upper and lower parts and favorable damping of such movement, thus producing pleasant tactile feedback.

[0050] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, at least one damping element has no undercut. Therefore, a damping element can be provided that can be manufactured very cost-effectively.

[0051] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, a first end stop or a second end stop is formed by a contact surface, particularly by a contact area adjacent to a recess, wherein the recess is in particular a drilled hole or through hole, and wherein the contact surface forming the end stop preferably extends perpendicular to the axially immovable non-damping direction of the damping element. This allows the axial position of the damping element in the operation input device to be fixed very easily in one of the non-damping directions, and allows for precise arrangement in the operation input device, especially if the damping element is a plug configured to be at least partially inserted into the recess, and allows for easy assembly of the operation input device.

[0052] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the second end stop or the first end stop, particularly the other of the two end stops, is formed by a protrusion extending in the non-damping direction perpendicular to the axially immovable direction of the damping element, wherein the protrusion extends at least partially parallel to the contact area and is preferably arranged on the side of the other end stop opposite to the contact area. This allows the axial position of the damping element in the operation input device to be fixed very easily in another axial direction, particularly after the damping element has been inserted into the groove, if the protrusion is arranged on the side of the other end stop opposite to the contact area.

[0053] Instead of forming the contact area for the end stops, first and second end stops can also be formed, with two oppositely arranged protrusions used to position the damping element between them in the undamped direction.

[0054] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the lower and / or upper portion comprises or is composed of a plurality of parts, wherein the component includes at least a top and a bottom, wherein preferably, one of the two axial end stops is part of the top, and wherein the other of the two axial end stops is particularly part of the bottom. This allows for a very simple design of the operation input device and simple assembly and arrangement of the damping elements within the operation input device, particularly between the upper and lower portions. With such an operation input device, the damping elements can be fixed in the non-damped direction simply by assembly, particularly if the end stops are positioned relative to the damping elements in their respective "locked positions" by assembly.

[0055] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the contact area is a portion of the top or bottom of the component, while the protrusion is a portion of the corresponding mating portion of the component, i.e., a portion of the bottom or top. Using this operation input device, if the end stops are assembled to their respective “locked positions” relative to the damping elements, the damping elements can be secured in the non-damped direction simply by assembling the top and bottom.

[0056] Preferably, at least one of the two end stops is formed by the lower portion, and in particular, both are formed by the lower portion, wherein, specifically, the first end stop is part of the top of the lower portion, and the second end stop is part of the bottom of the lower portion of the operation input device. With this operation input device, if the end stops are in their respective “locked positions” relative to the damping element through the assembly of the lower portion, the damping element can be fixed in the non-damped direction solely by the assembly of the lower portion.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the operation input device is designed such that at least one damping element can be arranged between the two end stops by axial insertion into the recess until its shoulder abuts against the adjacent contact surface before the top and bottom have been assembled to the respective upper or lower parts.

[0058] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the operation input device includes more than one damping element, wherein, in particular, at least two damping elements are arranged opposite each other, preferably extending parallel to each other in their undamped directions. In some cases, it may appear advantageous to arrange one damping element in each corner region. This means that an operation input device, for example, a basic rectangle with four corner regions, may include four damping elements arranged in these corner regions.

[0059] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, particularly in a very preferred embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the operation input device is configured to generate tactile feedback to the operator's input, wherein the operation input device therefore also includes a feedback actuation mechanism, which is preferably at least partially arranged in the gap between the upper and lower parts of the operation input device.

[0060] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, particularly in a preferred embodiment, the feedback actuation mechanism includes either an eccentric rotating mass vibrating motor (ERM) or a linear resonant actuator (LRA).

[0061] ERM and LRA are generally known from the prior art, with further details herein referred to. The ERM (also known as a pager motor) is preferably a DC motor with an offset (asymmetric) mass attached to a shaft. As the ERM rotates, the centripetal force of the offset mass is asymmetric, resulting in a net centrifugal force, which causes displacement of the motor. Due to the high revolutions per minute, the motor is constantly displaced and moved by these asymmetric forces. It is this repetitive displacement that is perceived as vibration.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the operation input device, the feedback actuation mechanism, particularly when it is an ERM, is configured and arranged to generate a feedback force at least in the direction of the first tactile feedback generation, particularly in the direction of the operation input force, preferably in a plane spanned by the direction of the first tactile feedback generation and the direction of the operation input force.

[0063] LRAs are an alternative to eccentric rotating mass vibration motors and offer several distinct advantages. They are becoming increasingly popular in haptic applications. For example, they offer better haptic performance characteristics and are more efficient. For these reasons, they are used in many handheld and touchscreen devices, as well as other applications. LRAs must be arranged relative to the direction in which haptic feedback should be generated. In a preferred embodiment of an operating input device with an LRA, the LRA is configured to generate feedback force at least in the first haptic feedback generation direction.

[0064] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, the operation input device is configured to trigger at least one operation function, particularly at least one operation function in a vehicle. Pleasant input control of at least one operation function can be achieved, particularly with a pleasant tactile input feel, due to the pleasant tactile feedback that can be generated by the operation input device according to the invention.

[0065] In one embodiment of the operation input device according to the invention, and particularly in another, but also preferred, embodiment, the operation input device is configured to trigger at least one operation function, particularly at least one operation function in a vehicle, wherein triggering at least one operation function by the operation input device preferably requires a minimum operating force applied to the input surface of the operation input device in the input direction, and preferably a minimum operating force in the direction perpendicular to the input surface. Therefore, a very advantageous operation input device can be provided, in particular, that allows, for example, gripping a steering wheel and touching at least one input area associated with an operation function, without erroneously triggering the associated operation function when the input force applied to the input surface is below a predetermined operation input force threshold. Thus, operational errors or unintentional input can be reduced or even completely avoided.

[0066] The steering input device according to the invention includes at least one operation input device, and is characterized in that the operation input device is an operation input device according to the invention.

[0067] The steering input device according to the invention can be, for example, a steering input device, particularly a steering wheel, preferably having at least one spoke, wherein the operation input device according to the invention can be arranged, for example, particularly integrated in the spoke or in the central region, preferably such that the operation input surface is flush with the adjacent steering wheel surface.

[0068] The preferred embodiments and advantages presented relative to the operation input device according to the invention are correspondingly applicable to the steering input device according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0069] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the drawings, and the description of the drawings. All features and combinations of features mentioned in the foregoing description, as well as features and combinations of features mentioned in and / or shown separately in the following description of the drawings, can be used not only in the separately indicated combinations, but also in other combinations or individually, thus enabling the final combination to be achieved. Attached Figure Description

[0070] The invention will now be described with reference to preferred, but not limiting, embodiments thereof and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0071] Figure 1 This is an embodiment of a steering input device in the form of a steering wheel according to the invention, comprising two operation input devices according to the invention.

[0072] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of another embodiment of the operation input device according to the present invention.

[0073] Figure 3 yes Figure 2A first cross-sectional view of the operation input device in its assembled state.

[0074] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second cross-sectional view of the operation input device in the assembled state. Detailed Implementation

[0075] exist Figure 1 The image shows an embodiment of a steering input device 100 in the form of a steering wheel 100 for a vehicle according to the invention, wherein the steering wheel 100 includes two operation input devices 10 according to the invention. The steering wheel 100 includes a steering wheel rim 104, which is connected to a steering wheel center (not shown further) by three spokes 101, 102 and 103.

[0076] According to the invention, the operation input device 10 is integrated into each spoke 101 and 102, particularly into the left spoke 100 and the right spoke 102, wherein each operation input device 10 is arranged in the spokes 101, 102 such that the operation input surface 11 is flush with the steering wheel surface. Each operation input device 10, particularly each operation input surface 11, includes two input areas 11A and 11B or 11C and 11D, each input area being associated with an operation function, such as volume increase or decrease or up / down programming, for controlling the vehicle's entertainment system. Each input area 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D can be illuminated by a backlight.

[0077] Figure 2 It shows how to use such Figure 1 An exploded view of the steering wheel 100 shown according to another embodiment of the operation input device 10 of the present invention. Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A first cross-sectional view of the operation input device 10 in its assembled state. Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second cross-sectional view of the operation input device 10, which will be explained in detail below.

[0078] According to the present invention and as described above, the operation input device 10 includes an upper portion 12 having an operation input surface 11 having two input areas 11A and 11B or 11C and 11D respectively associated with at least one operation function. The operation input device 10 also includes a lower portion 13, which serves as a support structure for the upper portion 12.

[0079] The upper part 12 can be moved relative to the lower part 13 in an operation input direction R that extends at least substantially perpendicular to the operation input surface 11 by an operation input force F applied to the operation input surface 11.

[0080] In this embodiment, the upper part 12 and the lower part 13 are each components consisting of multiple individual parts, wherein Figure 2 The lower part 13 is shown in an exploded view, with each part in its exploded state. The upper part 12 is shown only as a component.

[0081] In this embodiment of the operation input device 10, the lower part 13 includes a frame 13A serving as the top 13A of the lower part 13 and a bottom 13B forming the rear cover 13B of the operation input device 10, wherein the frame 13A and the rear cover 13B can be connected and mounted together by a plurality of unnamed snap fasteners.

[0082] The upper part 12 and the lower part 13, especially the frame 13A and the back cover 13B, are preferably made of rigid plastic material, such as polyamide (PA) or PMMA.

[0083] Each operation input device 10 of the steering wheel 100 is configured to trigger at least one operation function, and the steering wheel 100 is installed in a vehicle. Since triggering at least one operation function by the operation input device 10 requires a minimum operating force F applied to the input surface 11 of the operation input device 10, the operation input device 10 is also configured to detect the amount of the applied operation input force F, and in particular the amount of the force in the operation input direction R.

[0084] In order to detect the applied operating input force F, particularly in the direction perpendicular to the input surface 11, this embodiment of the operating input device 10 includes an operating input force transmission element 14 (see...). Figure 3 ) and force sensor element 19 (see also) Figure 3 By applying a sufficient input force F, the input force transmission element 14 will be pressed downwards to the force sensor element 19. This generates a sensor signal characterizing the applied input force F, which is then sent to a control unit (not shown) for further processing.

[0085] Force sensor element 19 is mounted on printed circuit board 26, which engages with center pin 25, which serves as positioning element 25 (see...). Figure 3 The printed circuit board 26 can be connected to a corresponding control unit and / or a corresponding power supply for signal and power supply via the female connector 24. The operation input device 10 can be connected to a control unit for controlling at least one operational function via this connector 24.

[0086] The input device 10 is also configured to provide tactile feedback to the user. Therefore, the upper part 12 and the lower part 13 are movably coupled relative to each other, particularly through the feedback actuation mechanism 15 (see...). Figure 2 The upper part 12 may move relative to the lower part 13 at least in a first tactile feedback generating direction H that extends at least substantially parallel to the operation input surface 11.

[0087] The feedback actuation mechanism 15 is an ERM (eccentric rotating mass vibration motor), which in this embodiment is configured to generate vibration in a plane spanned by the first tactile feedback generation direction H and the operation input force direction R, thereby generating a feedback force.

[0088] In this embodiment of the operation input device 10 according to the present invention, in the assembled state, the feedback actuation mechanism 15 is arranged in the internal gap between the upper part 12 and the lower part 13 of the operation input device 10.

[0089] To provide pleasant tactile feedback, i.e., pleasant tactile feedback force, and for a pleasant input feel, the operation input device 10 also includes four damping elements 16 arranged in the corner regions of the operation input device 10. Each damping element 16 is configured to dampen the relative movement between the upper portion 12 and the lower portion 13 in the operation input direction R and the first tactile feedback generation direction H, wherein two damping elements 16 are arranged opposite or adjacent to each other, and their undamped directions L extend parallel to each other (see...). Figures 2 to 4 ).

[0090] Each damping element 16 is integrally made of rubber material without any undercut. In this embodiment, all damping elements 16 are designed to resemble plugs, with a large cover portion 16A having a circular cross-section and a large outer diameter, and a longitudinal large body portion 16B having a smaller outer diameter compared to the cover portion 16A, but also having a circular cross-section.

[0091] A damping element 16 is arranged in the operation input device 10 between the upper part 12 and the lower part 13, wherein the upper part 12 and the lower part 13 are connected in particular by the damping element 16.

[0092] According to the present invention, at least one damping element 16 is axially immovably arranged in the operation input device 10 in a non-damping direction L, which is different from the operation input direction R and the first tactile feedback generating direction H. In this embodiment, in the assembled state of the operation input device 10, all damping elements 16 are axially immovably arranged along a horizontally extending non-damping direction L perpendicular to the first tactile feedback generating direction H and the operation input force direction R (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3 and 4 ).

[0093] Therefore, in the assembled state of the operation input device 10, all the damping elements 16 are axially fixed in the non-damping direction L by first end stops 17 and second end stops 18 arranged opposite to each other in the axial direction L, wherein the damping elements 16 are arranged in the axial direction L between these end stops 17, 18 (see...). Figure 3 ).

[0094] The first end stop 17 is formed by a contact area 20 arranged adjacent to or surrounding the through hole 21, wherein the damping element 16 is configured such that a shoulder formed by the diameter transition between the body portion 16B and the cover portion 16A contacts the contact area 20 to restrict axial movement to one side along the undamped direction L. The contact surfaces 20 forming the end stop 17 each extend perpendicular to the undamped direction L, in which the damping element 16 is axially immovable.

[0095] The axial movement of the damping element 16 in another non-damping direction L is restricted by the second end stop 18, which is a protrusion 18 that also extends perpendicular to the non-damping direction L.

[0096] Each of the first end stops 17, which includes a through hole 21 and a surrounding contact area 20, is part of the top 13A of the lower assembly 13. The protrusion 18 forming the second end stop 18 is part of the rear cover 13B (bottom 13B) of the lower assembly 13.

[0097] This design allows for very easy and quick assembly of the operation input device 10 without the need for additional components to lock the damping elements 16 in their axial position in the undamped direction L.

[0098] In order to assemble the operation input device 10 after providing multiple parts 12, 13A, 13B, 16, the damping elements 16 must be inserted into the through holes 21 with their main bodies 16B until their shoulders contact the corresponding contact areas 20 of the corresponding first end stops 17.

[0099] To connect the upper part 12 and the lower part 13, the main body 16B also uses the protrusion 23 of the upper part 12 (see Figure 3 The upper part 12 and the lower part 13 are inserted. Therefore, a simple and damped movable connection can be provided between the upper part 12 and the lower part 13.

[0100] After the damping element 16 has been fully inserted into the through hole 21, the bottom 13B, i.e., the rear cover 13B of the operating input device 10, can be placed together with the top 13A (frame 13A) of the lower part 13, particularly in the direction perpendicular to the non-damped direction l. Therefore, the protrusions 18 will enter a locked position, where they form a second end stop 18 and prevent axial movement of the damping element 16.

[0101] To avoid damage to the damping element 16, especially shearing of the damping element 16 due to excessive input force F, each damping element 16 is also supported by another protrusion 22 extending perpendicularly to the non-damping direction L, on which the damping element rests its main body 16B, wherein the supporting protrusion 22 is preferably part of the bottom 13B of the lower part 13.

[0102] Apart from the exemplary embodiments described herein, which should not be construed as limiting, various further embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of protection defined by the patent claims.

[0103] List of reference numerals

[0104] 100 Steering input device according to the present invention

[0105] 10. Operation input device according to the present invention

[0106] 11 Operation Input Surface

[0107] Input areas 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D

[0108] 12 upper part

[0109] 13 lower part

[0110] 13A lower top

[0111] 13B Bottom of the lower part

[0112] 14. Operation input force transmission element

[0113] 15 Feedback Actuation Mechanism

[0114] 16 Damping elements

[0115] Cover of 16A damping element

[0116] 16B Damping element body

[0117] 17 First end stop

[0118] 18. Second end stop (protrusion)

[0119] 19 Force sensor elements

[0120] 20 Contact Area

[0121] 21 recess

[0122] 22, 23 protrusions

[0123] 24 female plugs

[0124] 25 Positioning elements

[0125] 26 Circuit Boards

[0126] 101, 102, 103 Steering wheel spokes

[0127] 104 Steering wheel rim

[0128] F Input Force

[0129] H - Direction of first tactile feedback

[0130] L Undamped direction

[0131] R Operation Input Direction

Claims

1. An operation input device (10) for a vehicle, comprising: - Upper part (12), which includes an operation input surface (11) having at least one input area (11A, 11B, 11C, 11D) related to or potentially related to at least one operation function, and - The lower part (13) serves as the supporting structure for the upper part (12). The upper part (12) can move relative to the lower part (13) by an operating input force (F) applied to the operating input surface (11) along an operating input direction (R) that extends at least substantially perpendicular to the operating input surface (11). In order to generate tactile feedback, the upper part (12) and the lower part (13) are movably coupled relative to each other, such that the upper part (12) can be moved relative to the lower part (13) at least in a first tactile feedback generating direction (H) extending at least substantially parallel to the operation input surface (11) via a feedback actuation mechanism (15) that can be coupled to the operation input device (10), and The operation input device (10) further includes at least one damping element (16) arranged and configured to dampen the relative movement between the upper part (12) and the lower part (13) in the operation input direction (R) and / or in the first tactile feedback generating direction (H). The feature is that at least one damping element (16) is axially immovably arranged in the operation input device (10) in a non-damped direction (L) different from the operation input direction (R) and the first tactile feedback generation direction (H), and The at least one damping element (16) is designed to resemble a plug, comprising at least a cover portion (16A) having a larger outer diameter and a body portion (16B) having a smaller outer diameter compared to the cover portion (16A).

2. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one damping element (16) is axially fixed in the operation input device (10) in the non-damping direction (L) by a first end stop (17) and a second end stop (18) arranged opposite to each other in the axial direction (L), wherein the damping element (16) is arranged between these end stops (17, 18) in the axial direction (L).

3. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The damping element (16) is arranged in the operation input device (10) between the upper part (12) and the lower part (13), wherein the damping element (16) is supported by the lower part (13) in the operation input direction (R).

4. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one damping element (16) has no undercut.

5. The operation input device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, One of the first end stop (17) and the second end stop (18) is formed by a contact surface (20) adjacent to the recess (21), wherein the contact surface (20) forming the end stop (17) extends perpendicular to the axially immovable non-damped direction (L) of the damping element (16).

6. The operation input device (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The other of the second end stop (18) and the first end stop (17) is formed by a protrusion (18) extending in the non-damping direction (L) that is axially immovable from the damping element (16).

7. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lower part (13) and / or the upper part (12) includes or is composed of a plurality of parts, wherein the component includes at least a top (13A) and a bottom (13B), wherein one of the two axial end stops (17, 18) is part of the top (13A), and wherein the other of the two axial ends is part of the bottom (13B), wherein the damping element (16) is arranged between the two axial end stops (17, 18).

8. The operation input device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The lower part (13) and / or the upper part (12) includes or is composed of a component consisting of multiple parts, wherein the component includes at least a top (13A) and a bottom (13B), the contact surface (20) is part of the top (13A) or bottom (13B) of the component, and the protrusion (18) is part of the corresponding part of the component.

9. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The operation input device (10) includes one or more damping elements (16), wherein at least two damping elements (16) are arranged opposite each other and their undamped directions (L) extend in parallel.

10. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The operation input device (10) is configured to provide tactile feedback to the operator’s input, wherein the operation input device (10) therefore also includes a feedback actuation mechanism (15), which is at least partially arranged in the gap between the upper (12) and lower (13) of the operation input device (10).

11. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The feedback actuation mechanism (15) may include either an eccentric rotating mass vibration motor or a linear resonant actuator.

12. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The operation input device (10) is configured to trigger at least one operation function in the vehicle.

13. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The operation input device (10) is located inside the vehicle.

14. The operation input device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The operation input device (10) is arranged in the vehicle's steering input device (100).

15. A steering input device (100) comprising at least one operation input device (10), characterized in that, The operation input device (10) is the operation input device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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