Control device and method for controlling an active haptic operating element for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device (14) for actuating an active haptic operating element (12) for a motor vehicle (700). The control device (14) is designed to ascertain (202) whether an actuation of the operating element (12) is present; ascertaining (204) whether an available function is assigned to the operating element (12) if the actuation of the operating element (12) is ascertained; and actuating (206) the operating element (12) to output an active haptic positive feedback (502) if it is ascertained that there is an actuation of the operating element (12) and that an implementable function is assigned to the operating element (12). The control device (14) is designed to actuate (208) the operating element (12) to output an active haptic negative feedback (504) if it is ascertained that there is an actuation of the operating element (12) and it is ascertained that an implementable function is not assigned to the operating element (12), the active haptic positive feedback (502) and the active haptic negative feedback (504) being different from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device for controlling an active tactile operating element for a motor vehicle, an active tactile operating unit comprising the control device, a motor vehicle comprising the control device, and / or a method for controlling an active tactile operating element for a motor vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, a computer program is provided, which includes instructions that, when the program is implemented by a computer, cause the computer to at least partially implement the method. Additionally or alternatively, a computer-readable medium is provided, which includes instructions that, when the instructions are implemented by a computer, cause the computer to at least partially implement the method. Therefore, the present invention is in the field of operating elements for motor vehicles. Background Art

[0002] Traditionally, the distinctive feature of operating elements is a single suspended and guided key. The operating feedback is realized purely mechanically and depends on the mechanical elements used, such as springs and silicone domes. Therefore, even when the function assigned to the key is not available, for example in the case of a non-functional "telephone" key, which can also be installed in a car without a telephone connection for the sake of minimizing variations, pressing the key always causes a tactile operating feedback. In addition, operating units with a pressable suspended plate are known in the prior art, which accommodate a plurality of buttons. Here, the position of the finger on the plate is evaluated and the corresponding function stored at the selected position is triggered. In this case, the operating feedback is also realized purely mechanically and is therefore independent of whether the function can be implemented. Therefore, even when the function is not available, the same, unchanged operating feedback (also called Feedback) is output. Therefore, the user may not be able to recognize whether the desired function is actually implemented, or the user may guess that the desired function is actually implemented, although this may not be the case.

[0003] Furthermore, multifunctional operating devices with active haptics are also known in the prior art and are described, for example, in DE 10 2017 127 231 A1. Summary of the invention

[0004] In the context of this prior art, the object of the present disclosure is to provide a device and / or method, which are respectively suitable for enriching the prior art, such as providing an improved operating unit and / or providing improved tactile feedback for an operating element. The specific design of the present disclosure can solve the task of providing design space for the tactile feedback of an operating element.

[0005] This object is achieved by the features of the independent claim. The content of the dependent claims is respectively an optional development of the disclosure.

[0006] Accordingly, the object is achieved by a control device for actuating an active haptic operating element for a motor vehicle.

[0007] The control device is designed to detect whether an operating element has been manipulated.

[0008] If an actuation of the operating element is detected, the control device is designed to determine whether an available function is assigned to the operating element.

[0009] If an actuation of the operating element is detected and an executable function is assigned to the operating element, the control device is designed to output an active haptic positive feedback to the operating element.

[0010] If it is detected that the operating element has been actuated and that no executable function is assigned to the operating element, the control device is designed to actuate the operating element to output an active haptic negative feedback. Active haptic positive feedback and active haptic negative feedback differ from one another.

[0011] The prefixes "positive" and "negative" are only used to distinguish between two defined active tactile feedbacks. In other words, active tactile positive feedback and active tactile negative feedback are active tactile feedbacks that are different from each other.

[0012] "Active haptics" can be understood to mean that the haptic feedback is not or at least not exclusively provided by passive mechanical elements, such as return springs and / or silicone domes, but by active actuators that can be controlled accordingly. In other words, in order to provide active haptic feedback, it may be necessary to provide an actuator in the operating element and to control the actuator appropriately. For example, the actuator may include a piezoelectric actuator or may be configured as a piezoelectric actuator. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator may have other common actuator types, such as a solenoid and / or a voice coil.

[0013] The tactile feedback can be an event that can be perceived by touch and output to the user. In particular, when an operating element is actuated, a tactile feedback can be output, by means of which a successful actuation of the operating element can be detected. The tactile feedback can optionally include a vibration, a pulse, a vibration pattern, a pulse intensity, a vibration intensity and / or a deflection. The tactile feedback can optionally be accompanied by an acoustic feedback, although this is not absolutely necessary.

[0014] Positive and negative feedback may be distinguished, for example, by different vibrations, pulses, vibration patterns, pulse intensities, vibration intensities and / or deflections.

[0015] The actuation of the operating element can be the prescribed implementation of a switching process with the operating element. If the operating element is designed as a key, the actuation can consist in pressing the key beyond a possible predetermined pressure point. If the operating element is designed as a toggle switch, the actuation can optionally consist in a toggle movement exceeding a possible predetermined threshold.

[0016] Ascertaining the manipulation of the operating element may optionally include ascertaining the touching of the operating element. This may be particularly advantageous, for example, in operating elements with a touch operating surface. Here, ascertaining the manipulation of the operating element may optionally include ascertaining the position where the operating element was touched. Then, based on the position of the touch, it is possible to evaluate whether the operating element has been manipulated. Thus, for example, it is possible to ascertain whether the operating element has been touched at a predetermined position, whether a function is assigned or has been assigned to the operating element at the time of the touch, and whether a predetermined force threshold is exceeded during the touch in order to be regarded as a manipulation of the operating element.

[0017] The fact that a function can be assigned to an operating element means that actuation of the operating element signals a user input with a request to execute a function connected to the operating element, if the function is executable. It is also possible that no function is assigned to the operating element or that the assigned function cannot be executed. Alternatively or additionally, a function can be assigned to an operating element only temporarily, or different functions can be assigned to an operating element at different times.

[0018] The operating element and / or the operating unit may be optionally configured in a steering wheel of a motor vehicle. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, but may be used in, for example, any form of screen direct operation and screen remote operation.

[0019] The function can be executable in the sense that the manipulation of the operating element causes the function to be implemented, for example in a motor vehicle. It is conceivable that, in addition to the manipulation of the operating element, one or more conditions, such as technical conditions, must be met, wherein, for example, the manipulation of the operating element triggers a check of these conditions. One of these conditions can be, or can be checked in addition to these conditions, that the function can be implemented without error, that is, for example, there are no technical errors in the system responsible for implementing the function. It is therefore possible that a function (or multiple functions) is assigned to an operating element, but the function cannot be implemented. Conversely, if no function is assigned, or a function is assigned but cannot be implemented, then it can be that the executable function is not assigned.

[0020] Outputting active tactile feedback (ie positive or negative feedback) here means causing an event that the user can tactilely perceive at the operating element. This can optionally include outputting a control signal to an actuator of the operating element so that the actuator causes a tactilely perceptible movement of the operating element.

[0021] The control device described above offers a number of advantages. In addition, an improved technique is provided, which enables active tactile feedback to be provided according to the specific situation. Depending on the different active tactile feedback, when operating the operating element, the user, for example the driver of a motor vehicle, receives the following information, namely, whether the operation of the operating element also leads to the triggering of the function connected to the operating element or the non-execution of the function, without the user's line of sight to check. In addition, by outputting feedback in both possible situations (the existence of an executable function or the absence of an executable function), the user additionally receives the information that the operating element has been correctly operated.

[0022] The present disclosure therefore offers the advantage that blind operability of operating elements is improved, since the user receives reliable information about the acceptance or non-acceptance of input commands by means of different active tactile feedback and thereby acquires knowledge about the current state of the system, wherein the user does not have to focus his or her gaze on any possible screen connected thereto in order to perform a sight check. In this way, distraction of the user, for example the driver of a motor vehicle, is minimized, since no shifting of the gaze, for example from the road to the display screen (or indicator), is required. In addition, it is possible, for example, to "test" the usability of a function without having to take the gaze away from the road.

[0023] Therefore, the user's attention is avoided by the present disclosure. In addition, a so-called dead zone can be defined by stopping the output of active tactile positive feedback or negative feedback, thereby avoiding erroneous operation. Therefore, the safety during the operation of the motor vehicle and thus the safety in road traffic can be improved by the present disclosure. Similarly, positive feedback or negative feedback depending on the situation can be output. In this way, for example, in different situations, such as depending on the driving state, different feedback can be output to the user for the same symbol or user input, and these feedbacks are divided into positive feedback and negative feedback.

[0024] In addition, the present disclosure provides the advantage that an operating unit with one or more operating elements having an integral and / or seamless design can be provided, and tactile feedback can still be provided and output to the user through the operating element, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in the design of the operating unit.

[0025] Possible developments of the control device described above are explained in more detail below.

[0026] The control device can be configured to differentiate in order to determine that no executable function is assigned, if the function is permanently or temporarily not assigned, and / or the assigned function cannot be executed because (at least) one condition is not met, and / or the assigned function cannot be executed due to a (e.g. technical) error. The (at least) one condition can, for example, include a minimum actuation duration of the operating element (when the operating element is actuated) and / or a technical condition under which a system of the motor vehicle can execute the function.

[0027] The control device can be designed to additionally actuate an indicator of the motor vehicle to display a visual warning if an actuation of the operating element is detected and if no executable function is assigned to the operating element.

[0028] The control device can be designed to additionally control at least one loudspeaker of the motor vehicle to output an acoustic warning if an actuation of the operating element is detected and no executable function is assigned to the operating element. The additional visual and / or acoustic warning can advantageously provide redundant feedback that there is no executable function.

[0029] The control device can be designed to also determine the functional properties assigned to the operating element if it is determined that an executable function is assigned to the operating element. The active haptic positive feedback can depend on the determined assigned functional properties. In other words, the control device can be designed to control the operating element to output active haptic positive feedback according to the determined assigned functional properties (in order to control the operating element). This can be achieved in particular when different functions can be assigned to the operating element at different times.

[0030] This offers the advantage that the user can recognize, optionally based on active haptic feedback, without checking his line of sight, which function was implemented by actuating the operating element. The functional characteristics can be, for example, a type of function. Different types of functions can, for example, be functions for driving operations such as speed control and / or lane guidance, as well as functions for controlling media playback and / or functions for controlling communication connections such as telephone connections. This can increase safety when operating a motor vehicle, since the user can recognize, optionally based on haptic feedback, early and without checking his line of sight, whether a desired or undesired type of function has been actuated.

[0031] The operating element can be actuatable in a first switching position and in a second switching position.

[0032] The control device can be designed to differentiate whether an actuation of the operating element is present in the first switch position or in the second switch position if an actuation of the operating element is detected.

[0033] If the operating element is operated in the first switching position, the active tactile positive feedback may include a first active tactile positive feedback, and if the operating element is operated in the second switching position, the active tactile positive feedback may include a second active tactile positive feedback. In other words, the control device may be designed (in order to operate the operating element to output active tactile positive feedback) to operate the operating element to output the first active tactile positive feedback if it is determined that the operating element is operated in the first switching position and that an executable function is assigned to the operating element, and the control device may be designed to operate the operating element to output the second active tactile positive feedback if it is determined that the operating element is operated in the second switching position and that an executable function is assigned to the operating element.

[0034] If the operating element is operated in the first switching position, the active tactile negative feedback may include a first active tactile negative feedback, and if the operating element is operated in the second switching position, the active tactile negative feedback may include a second active tactile negative feedback. In other words, the control device may be designed to operate the operating element to output the first active tactile negative feedback (in order to operate the operating element to output the active tactile negative feedback) if it is determined that the operating element is operated in the first switching position and that no executable function is assigned to the operating element, and the control device may be designed to operate the operating element to output the second active tactile negative feedback if it is determined that the operating element is operated in the second switching position and that no executable function is assigned to the operating element.

[0035] This offers the advantage that a plurality of different functions can be selected by gradually actuating the operating element, and active haptic positive or negative feedback confirms to the user each time that the associated switching state has been reached. Alternatively, more than two different switching positions and optionally more than two different active haptic positive or negative feedbacks connected thereto can be provided.

[0036] In the first switching position, the manipulation of the operating element may exist due to exceeding the first switching threshold, while in the second switching position, the manipulation of the operating element may exist due to exceeding the second switching threshold. Exceeding the second switching threshold may exist during the following operating movement, which may be in the same direction as the operating movement for exceeding the first switching threshold and has a greater characteristic performance compared to the operating movement for exceeding the first switching threshold. As a result, multiple functions can be assigned to a single operating element in a simple and intuitively operable manner. The greater characteristic performance of the operating movement may be greater operating force or include greater operating force. For example, in the operating element in the design of a button, the first switching threshold can be reached by pressing with a first button pressure, and the second switching threshold can be reached by pressing with a second button pressure greater than the first button pressure. This provides the advantage that the user can distinguish the first and second switching positions in a simple manner.

[0037] A greater characteristic feature of the operating movement can be a greater operating force or include a greater operating force.

[0038] The control device may be designed to distinguish (whether the actuation of the operating element is present in the first switching position or in the second switching position) so that after exceeding the first return threshold, it is detected that the operating element is actuated in the first switching position if the first switching threshold is exceeded. In other words, in order to recognize that the operating element is actuated in the first switching position, it may be necessary to first exceed the first return threshold located below it, thereby identifying the exceeding of the first switching threshold as an actuation process. This can be achieved in the following way, that is, when the operating element is actuated, the first return threshold and the first switching threshold are exceeded at once, or in the meantime, the actuation of the operating element is reduced or weakened to such an extent that the actuation falls below the first return threshold again without completely interrupting the actuation.

[0039] The control device can be designed to distinguish (whether the actuation of the operating element is present in the first switching position or in the second switching position) so that after exceeding the second return threshold, it is detected that the operating element is actuated in the second switching position if the second switching threshold is exceeded. In other words, in order to recognize the actuation of the operating element in the second switching position, it may be necessary to first exceed the second return threshold located below it, thereby identifying the exceeding of the first switching threshold as an actuation process. This can be achieved in the following way, that is, when the operating element is actuated, the second return threshold and the second switching threshold are exceeded once, or in the meantime, the actuation of the operating element is reduced or weakened to such an extent that the actuation falls below the second return threshold again, without completely interrupting the actuation and the actuation does not fall below the first return threshold again.

[0040] The first return threshold can be configured below the second return threshold, and the second return threshold can be configured below the first switching threshold. In this context, "below" means that actuation with a smaller characteristic is to be achieved, or in other words, the actuation force required to reach the corresponding threshold is less than the actuation force required to reach the switching threshold located above the threshold.

[0041] By repeatedly exceeding the second switching threshold and repeatedly falling below the second return threshold, the operating element can be repeatedly switched between the first switching position and the second switching position without completely interrupting the operation of the operating element. This provides the advantage of switching or converting between the first and second switching states. This enables intuitive and simple repeated operation of the operating element in different switching states without interrupting the operation. In this way, for example, it is possible to scroll through a list by means of the first switching position and to click or activate a list element selected when the operating element is operated in the second switching position by means of the second switching position.

[0042] The first active haptic positive feedback, the second active haptic positive feedback, the first active haptic negative feedback, and the second active haptic negative feedback can optionally be different from one another. This has the advantage that the user receives information based on the haptic feedback and without checking his line of sight about which switch position of the operating element has been actuated and, if necessary, which function is thereby executed or available.

[0043] The contents described above can be expressed in other words and summarized as possible more specific design solutions of the present disclosure described below, wherein the following description should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure.

[0044] According to the present disclosure, when a function is unavailable, active tactile feedback or active tactile feedback different from that when the function is available may be output.

[0045] Output can also be realized in the case of negative feedback. In addition, negative feedback may be helpful to the user in the following cases, but not exclusively: the stored function is permanently or temporarily unavailable; the expected stored function cannot be implemented because the basic conditions necessary for this are not met; the expected stored function may not be implemented because there is an error that makes it unavailable.

[0046] Negative feedback can be implemented by an active tactile element that outputs an active tactile signal that can be distinguished from positive feedback. Negative feedback can redundantly repeat or replace visual indications or auditory feedback in a display screen. Negative feedback can implement new functionality for non-functional indicators.

[0047] For use in motor vehicles, driver distraction must be minimized as much as possible. Through the present disclosure, it is possible to further minimize the diversion of sight (e.g. from the road to the display screen). It is possible to "test" the function on its usability (i.e. simply check whether the function is working) without taking the eyes off the road. This can bring great benefits to "situation awareness", i.e., knowledge of the current status of the system, which is particularly important in motor vehicles.

[0048] Furthermore, an active haptic operating unit for a motor vehicle is provided, wherein the active haptic operating unit comprises an active haptic operating element and the control device described above.

[0049] It is conceivable that the active haptic operating unit comprises a plurality of active haptic operating elements which can be actuated by means of the control device.

[0050] The active haptic operating unit (or the plurality of active haptic operating units) and the control device can be connected via signal technology.

[0051] What was described above with respect to the control device also applies analogously to the active haptic operating unit, and vice versa.

[0052] Furthermore, a motor vehicle is provided, wherein the motor vehicle comprises the above-described active haptic operating unit (and / or the above-described control device).

[0053] The motor vehicle may be a passenger vehicle, in particular a car, or a commercial vehicle, for example a truck.

[0054] What has been described above with regard to the control device and the active haptic operating unit also applies analogously to the motor vehicle, and vice versa.

[0055] Furthermore, a method for actuating an active haptic operating element for a motor vehicle is provided.

[0056] The method includes determining whether an operating element has been manipulated.

[0057] The method includes determining whether a usable function is assigned to the operating element if an actuation of the operating element is determined.

[0058] The method includes actuating the operating element to output an active haptic positive feedback if an actuation of the operating element is detected and an executable function is assigned to the operating element.

[0059] The method includes actuating the operating element to output an active haptic negative feedback if an actuation of the operating element is detected and it is detected that no executable function is assigned to the operating element. The active haptic positive feedback and the active haptic negative feedback are different from each other.

[0060] The (control) method may be a computer-implemented method, ie one, several or all steps of the method may be at least partially executed by a computer or a device for data processing, optionally by a control device.

[0061] What was described above with respect to the control device, the active haptic operating unit and the motor vehicle also applies analogously to the method, and vice versa.

[0062] Furthermore, a computer program is provided, which comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to at least partially implement or execute the method described above.

[0063] The program code of the computer program may be in any desired code form, in particular in a code form suitable for controlling a motor vehicle.

[0064] What has been described above with respect to the control device, the active haptic operating unit, the motor vehicle and the method also applies analogously to the computer program and vice versa.

[0065] In addition, a computer-readable medium, in particular a computer-readable storage medium, is provided. The computer-readable medium includes instructions, which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to at least partially implement or execute the method described above.

[0066] That is, a computer readable medium including the computer program defined above may be provided. The computer readable medium may be any digital data storage device, such as, for example, a USB flash drive, a hard drive, a CD-ROM, an SD card or an SSD card (or an SSD disk drive / SSD hard drive).

[0067] The computer program does not necessarily have to be stored on such a computer-readable storage medium in order to be provided to the motor vehicle, but can also be obtained via the Internet or other external sources.

[0068] What was described above with regard to the method, the control device, the active haptic operating unit, the computer program and the motor vehicle also applies analogously to the computer-readable medium and vice versa.

[0069] It goes without saying that the features and embodiments mentioned above and explained below are to be regarded as disclosed not only in the respectively explicitly mentioned combination, but that the present disclosure also includes other technically significant combinations and embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] Alternative embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0071] Figure 1A schematic diagram shows an active haptic operating unit for a motor vehicle according to an alternative embodiment;

[0072] Figure 2 A method for actuating an active haptic operating element according to an optional embodiment is shown;

[0073] Figure 3A and 3B shows a conventional mechanical key with passive tactile ( Figure 3A ) and an active tactile operating element according to an optional embodiment ( Figure 3B ) Comparison of the return force (vertical axis) over the stroke (horizontal axis);

[0074] Figure 4A and 4B The conventional mechanical key is shown as an example after multiple manipulations. Figure 4A ) and an active tactile operating unit according to an optional embodiment ( Figure 4B ) when the finger travel and finger force change over time;

[0075] Figure 5A schematically illustrates the relative arrangement of first and second shift thresholds and first and second return thresholds in a graph showing finger force on the vertical axis;

[0076] Figure 5B A situation is shown in which a first switching position and a second switching position of an active haptic operating element are distinguished by separate active haptic feedback;

[0077] Figure 6 shows a curve of finger force variation for multiple manipulations of an operating element;

[0078] Figure 7 A motor vehicle according to an alternative specific embodiment is shown by way of example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] In the figures, the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar elements. In the description of the figures, reference numerals are given partly even if corresponding elements may only be identified in other figures.

[0080] Figure 1 An active haptic operating unit 10 for a motor vehicle according to an alternative specific embodiment is shown in a schematic diagram.

[0081] The active haptic operating unit 10 comprises (at least) one active haptic operating element 12 and a control device 14 for controlling the (at least one) active haptic operating element 12 .

[0082] Here, the active tactile operating unit 10 can have an actuator 16 and a force sensor 18. The actuator 16 can be optionally configured as a vibrating ring actuator or include a vibrating ring actuator, and the actuator is designed to mechanically affect the operating element 12 in order to generate active tactile feedback, that is, active tactile positive feedback or negative feedback. Arrow 100 shows the direction of action of the actuator 16 by way of example. The force sensor 18 can be optionally configured as a piezoresistive force sensor or include a piezoresistive force sensor, and the force sensor is designed to recognize user input to the operating element 12, for example, by key pressure, and generate corresponding sensor signals. Arrow 102 shows the direction of the force when the user input is performed by way of example. Optionally, both the actuator 16 and the force sensor 18 are connected to the control device 14, so that the control device 14 can receive the sensor signal from the force sensor 18, and the control device can control and / or adjust the actuator 16 in order to generate active tactile feedback. Arrow 20 indicates the support position of the operating element 12. According to other embodiments, the operating element 12 can be designed in different ways and allow other manipulations. In particular, according to optional embodiments, the action direction of the actuator can be realized in multiple directions, for example in two spatial directions or in three spatial directions (including the direction in the plane of the operating surface of the operating element 12).

[0083] In order to actuate the active haptic operating element 12, the control device 14 is designed to execute the following also with reference to Figure 2 The method 200 is described in detail.

[0084] In a first method step 202 , it is determined whether operating element 12 has been actuated.

[0085] If an actuation of operating element 12 is detected, it is determined in a second method step 204 whether an available function is assigned to operating element 12 .

[0086] If a function is permanently or temporarily not assigned; an assigned function cannot be executed because a condition is not met; and / or an assigned function cannot be executed due to an error, then it can be determined that no executable function is assigned.

[0087] If it is detected that operating element 12 has been actuated and that an executable function is assigned to operating element 12 , in a third method step 206 operating element 12 is actuated to output an active haptic positive feedback 502 .

[0088] It is conceivable here that a functional property assigned to the operating element 12 can also be ascertained, wherein an output of an active haptic positive feedback can be implemented as a function of the ascertained assigned functional property.

[0089] If an actuation of operating element 12 is detected and no executable function is assigned to operating element 12 , in fourth method step 208 operating element 12 is actuated to output active haptic negative feedback 504 , wherein active haptic positive feedback 502 and active haptic negative feedback 504 differ from one another.

[0090] The two method steps 206 and 208 can be performed simultaneously or sequentially in any order. It is conceivable that the third method step 206 is performed first and then, for example, if the condition in the third method step 206 is not met, the fourth method step 208 is performed. The reverse order is also conceivable.

[0091] In fourth method step 208 , it is conceivable to additionally actuate an indicator of motor vehicle 700 to display a visual warning that no executable function is assigned to operating element 12 and / or to additionally actuate at least one loudspeaker of motor vehicle 700 to output an acoustic warning that no executable function is assigned to the operating element.

[0092] To explain the technical background, Figure 3A and Figure 3B shows a traditional mechanical key with passive tactile ( Figure 3A ) and a comparison of the restoring force (vertical axis) of an active haptic operating element 12 over the stroke (horizontal axis) according to an alternative embodiment.

[0093] Here, the drawn horizontal auxiliary lines indicate the preload 302, the return threshold 304, the snap 306, the return snap 308, the switching threshold 310 and the stop 312 for the case of a conventional mechanical key. The thresholds S1, S2 and S3 indicate the reaching of the switching threshold 310, the snap 306 and the stop 312. The snap can include an engagement or locking movement. When operating a conventional key with passive tactile sensation, the finger "falls into" the switching point (indicated by arrow 314) when crossing the switching threshold 310. When the key is released or released by reducing the pressure applied to the key, the finger is pressed back, as indicated by arrow 316. Thus, when pressing and releasing or releasing the key, tactile feedback is provided in a passive manner.

[0094] In contrast to conventional mechanical buttons, in the case of an active tactile operating element 12 the restoring force (vertical axis) may optionally extend linearly with the travel (horizontal axis), as in Figure 3B. In order to facilitate orientation, auxiliary lines are drawn here for the preload force 302 and the stop 312 as well as for the switching threshold (i.e. positive or negative feedback) and the return threshold 320 for the active tactile feedback 318, which is used to provide optional active tactile feedback for indicating the return threshold 320. The linear variation curve makes it possible to perceive the force exerted for actuating the operating element 12 as linearly elastic.

[0095] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The conventional mechanical key is shown as an example after multiple manipulations. Figure 4A ) and an active tactile operating unit 12 according to an optional embodiment ( Figure 4B ), the time course of the finger travel 400 and the finger force 402 is compared. Auxiliary lines indicate the switching threshold, the return threshold and the switching process. It can be seen here that the active tactile operating element 12 can be used to realize multiple actuations of the active tactile operating element 12 with a significantly smaller finger travel or finger deflection than in the case of conventional mechanical keys.

[0096] exist Figure 1 The operating element 12 shown in the figure can optionally be operated in the first switching position and in the second switching position. If this is the case, then ( Figure 2 In optional method step 203 of method 200 , a distinction is made as to whether an actuation of operating element 12 is present in the first switching position or in the second switching position, provided that an actuation of operating element 12 is detected.

[0097] In order to distinguish the two switching positions, if the operation of the operating element 12 exists in the first switching position, the active tactile positive feedback 502 may include the first active tactile positive feedback 502a, and if the operation of the operating element 12 exists in the second switching position, the active tactile positive feedback may include the second active tactile positive feedback 502b. Therefore, if it is found that the operation of the operating element 12 exists in the first switching position, the operating element 12 can be controlled to output the first active tactile positive feedback 502a in the third method step 206, or if it is found that the operation of the operating element 12 exists in the second switching position, the operating element can be controlled to output the second active tactile positive feedback 502b in the third method step.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, if the operating element 12 is operated in the first switching position, the active tactile negative feedback 504 may include the first active tactile negative feedback 504a, and if the operating element 12 is operated in the second switching position, the active tactile negative feedback includes the second active tactile negative feedback 504b. Therefore, if it is found that the operating element 12 is operated in the first switching position, the operating element 12 can be controlled to output the first active tactile negative feedback 504a in the fourth method step 208, or if it is found that the operating element 12 is operated in the second switching position, the operating element can be controlled to output the second active tactile negative feedback 504b in the fourth method step.

[0099] The actuation of the operating element 12 in the first switching position may be due to exceeding the first switching threshold 318a, while the actuation of the operating element in the second switching position may be due to exceeding the second switching threshold 318b, wherein the exceeding of the second switching threshold 318b occurs during an actuation movement which has the same direction as the actuation movement for exceeding the first switching threshold 318a and has a greater characteristic feature than the actuation movement for exceeding the first switching threshold. The greater characteristic feature of the actuation movement may be or include a greater actuation force.

[0100] The actuation of the operating element 12 in the first switching position or in the second switching position can be distinguished in that after exceeding the first return threshold 320a, if the first switching threshold 318a is exceeded, it can be determined that the operating element 12 is actuated in the first switching position, and after exceeding the second return threshold 320b, if the second switching threshold 318b is exceeded, it can be determined that the operating element 12 is actuated in the second switching position. The first return threshold 320a can be configured below the second return threshold 320b, and the second return threshold 320b can be configured below the first switching threshold 318a.

[0101] Figure 5A The relative arrangement of the first and second switching thresholds 318a, 318b and the first and second return thresholds 320a and 320b in a graph showing the finger force 402 on the vertical axis is schematically shown. Figure 5A , the output of active haptic positive feedback 502 or active haptic negative feedback 504 when exceeding a first switching threshold 318a, and the output of optional positive feedback 506 or optional negative feedback 508 when falling below a return threshold 320a are indicated on the right.

[0102] Figure 5BA situation is shown in which the first switching position and the second switching position of the active tactile operating element 12 are distinguished by separate active tactile feedback. Here, when the first switching threshold 318a is exceeded, the first active tactile positive feedback 502a or the first active tactile negative feedback 504a is output, when the first return threshold 320a is below, the first positive feedback 506a or the first negative feedback 508a is output, when the second switching threshold 318b is exceeded, the second active tactile positive feedback 502b or the second active tactile negative feedback 504b is output, and when the second return threshold 320b is below, the second positive feedback 506b or the second negative feedback 508b is output. The first active tactile positive feedback 502a, the second active tactile positive feedback 502b, the first active tactile negative feedback 504a and the second active tactile negative feedback 506b can be different from each other here. Optionally, the first positive feedback 506a, the first negative feedback 508a, the second positive feedback 506b and the second negative feedback 508b can also be different from each other.

[0103] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the active haptic operating element 12 can be repeatedly switched between the first switching position and the second switching position by repeatedly exceeding the second switching threshold 318b and repeatedly falling below the second return threshold 320b, without completely interrupting the actuation of the operating element 12. This can be achieved in particular by not falling below the first return threshold 320a.

[0104] This is Figure 6 , which is shown by way of example in a graph 600, wherein the graph shows the finger force (vertical axis) relative to time (horizontal axis). In this case, vertical auxiliary lines indicate the individual switching processes. Graph 602 shows a situation in which the operating element 12 is repeatedly brought into the first switching position 31 without having to operate the operating element 12 in the second switching position 32 during this period. This makes it possible to operate the operating element 12 simply and intuitively with a plurality of different switching positions without requiring a significant finger travel for this purpose. More precisely, by targeted changes in the finger force or pressure acting on the operating element 12, frequent and selective operation of the operating element 12 can be achieved.

[0105] Figure 7 By way of example, a motor vehicle 700 is shown having a steering wheel 702 , wherein steering wheel 702 has an operating unit 10 according to the disclosure having (at least one) operating element 12 .

[0106] Reference numerals list

[0107] 10 operation units

[0108] 12 Active tactile operating elements

[0109] 14 Control Device

[0110] 16 Actuator

[0111] 18 Force Sensor

[0112] 20 support positions

[0113] 100Actuator action direction

[0114] 102 User input force direction

[0115] 200 Method for controlling an active tactile operating element

[0116] 202–208 Methods and Steps

[0117] 302 preload

[0118] 304 Return Threshold

[0119] 306 buckle

[0120] 308 return buckle

[0121] 310 Switching Threshold

[0122] 312 stop

[0123] 314 falls into the switching point

[0124] 316 Finger back pressure

[0125] 318 Switching threshold for active tactile feedback

[0126] 318a First switching threshold

[0127] 318b Second switching threshold

[0128] 320 Return Threshold

[0129] 320a First return threshold

[0130] 320b Second return threshold

[0131] 400 finger stroke

[0132] 402 finger strength

[0133] 502 Active tactile positive feedback

[0134] 502a First active tactile positive feedback

[0135] 502b Second active tactile positive feedback

[0136] 504 Active tactile positive feedback

[0137] 504a First active tactile positive feedback

[0138] 504b Second active tactile positive feedback

[0139] 506 Feedback

[0140] 506a First positive feedback

[0141] 506b Second positive feedback

[0142] 508a First negative feedback

[0143] 506b Second negative feedback

[0144] 600, 602 curve graph

[0145] 700 Motor Vehicles

[0146] 702 Steering Wheel

Claims

1. A control device (14) for actuating an active haptic operating element (12) for a motor vehicle (700), wherein: The control device (14) is designed to: - determining (202) whether an operating element (12) has been manipulated; - if an actuation of the operating element (12) is detected, determining (204) whether an available function is assigned to the operating element (12); as well as - if it is detected that the operating element (12) has been actuated and it is detected that an executable function is assigned to the operating element (12), actuating (206) the operating element (12) to output an active haptic positive feedback (502), It is characterized in that the control device (14) is designed to: If it is detected that the operating element (12) has been actuated and it is detected that no executable function is assigned to the operating element (12), actuating (208) the operating element (12) to output an active haptic negative feedback (504), wherein the active haptic positive feedback (502) and the active haptic negative feedback (504) are different from one another.

2. The control device (14) according to claim 1, characterized in that In order to determine (204) whether an available function is assigned to the operating element (12), the control device (14) is designed to: if - Permanently or temporarily without the allocation function; - the assigned function cannot be performed because the conditions are not met; and / or - the assigned function cannot be performed due to an error, It is determined that no functions are allocated that can be implemented.

3. The control device (14) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control device (14) is designed to: - if it is detected that the operating element (12) has been actuated and it is detected that no executable function is assigned to the operating element (12), additionally actuating an indicator of the motor vehicle (700) to display a visual warning; and / or If it is detected that the operating element (12) has been actuated and it is detected that no executable function is assigned to the operating element (12), at least one loudspeaker of the motor vehicle (700) is additionally activated to output an acoustic warning.

4. The control device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The operating element (12) can be actuated in a first switching position and in a second switching position, wherein the control device (14) is designed to: - if an actuation of the operating element (12) is detected, distinguishing (203) whether the actuation of the operating element (12) is present in the first switching position or in the second switching position, in, - if the manipulation of the operating element (12) is in the first switching position, the active tactile positive feedback (502) comprises a first active tactile positive feedback (502a), and if the manipulation of the operating element (12) is in the second switching position, the active tactile positive feedback comprises a second active tactile positive feedback (502b), and / or If the operating element (12) is actuated in the first switching position, the active haptic negative feedback (504) comprises a first active haptic negative feedback (504a), and if the operating element (12) is actuated in the second switching position, the active haptic negative feedback comprises a second active haptic negative feedback (504b).

5. The control device (14) according to claim 4, characterized in that In the first switching position, the actuation of the operating element (12) occurs due to exceeding a first switching threshold (318a), while in the second switching position, the actuation of the operating element (12) occurs due to exceeding a second switching threshold (318b), wherein exceeding the second switching threshold (318b) occurs in the case of an actuation movement that has the same direction as an actuation movement for exceeding the first switching threshold (318a) and has a greater characteristic feature than the actuation movement for exceeding the first switching threshold.

6. The control device (14) according to claim 5, characterized in that A greater characteristic of the actuating movement is manifested in or includes a greater actuating force.

7. The control device (14) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that In order to distinguish (203), the control device (14) is designed to: - after exceeding the first return threshold (320a), if the first switching threshold (318a) is exceeded, it is determined that the operating element (12) is actuated in the first switching position; as well as - after exceeding the second return threshold (320b), if the second switching threshold (318b) is exceeded, it is determined that the operating element (12) is actuated in the second switching position, In this case, the first return threshold (320a) is configured below the second return threshold (320b), and the second return threshold (320b) is configured below the first switching threshold (318a).

8. An active tactile operating unit (10) for a motor vehicle (700), characterized in that The active tactile operating unit (10) comprises: - a control device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and - Active tactile operating element (12).

9. A motor vehicle (700), characterized in that A motor vehicle (700) comprises an active haptic operating unit (10) according to claim 8.

10. A method (200) for controlling an active haptic operating element (12) for a motor vehicle (700), wherein: The method (200) comprises: - determining (202) whether an operating element (12) has been manipulated; - if an actuation of the operating element (12) is detected, determining (204) whether an available function is assigned to the operating element (12); and - if it is detected that the operating element (12) has been actuated and it is detected that an executable function is assigned to the operating element (12), actuating (206) the operating element (12) to output an active haptic positive feedback (502), Characterized in that the method (200) comprises: If it is detected that the operating element (12) has been actuated and it is detected that no executable function is assigned to the operating element (12), actuating (208) the operating element (12) to output an active haptic negative feedback (504), wherein the active haptic positive feedback (502) and the active haptic negative feedback (504) are different from one another.

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