Steering column switch for motor vehicle, motor vehicle and method for selecting function by means of steering column switch

Abstract

The invention relates to a steering column switch for a motor vehicle, a motor vehicle and a method for selecting a function by means of a steering column switch. The invention relates to a steering column switch (1) for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric motor vehicle, for a selection function, comprising a rigid control lever (2) and a control lever cover (3) which surrounds the control lever (2) at least in sections, the control lever cover (3) being mounted on the control lever (2) such that it can tilt movably about at least two tilt axes (4) which are arranged orthogonally or substantially orthogonally to one another, at least one sensor (5) is provided, which is designed to select a function as a result of the tilt of the joystick cover (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a steering column switch having the features of independent patent claim 1 , a steering wheel system having the features of independent patent claim 8 , a motor vehicle having the features of independent patent claim 9 and a method having the features of independent patent claim 10 . Background Art

[0002] In new concepts for motor vehicles, the steering concepts and their design are changing. Thus, the steering concepts and therefore also the steering wheel are increasingly integrated into the electrical control device. As a result, the position and design of the steering device and the steering wheel may change. Nevertheless, the driver or operator should still be offered a familiar concept to choose from. Therefore, it is necessary to adapt the steering column control lever for selecting the direction indicator or the windshield wiper system and various other functions to the new situation.

[0003] At present, steering column switches with a rigid base are already known. Here, the base is arranged on the steering column. The steering column switch is located at a height of 1.5 m and has the necessary sensor means for selecting a function. A handle body is arranged on the base body, which enables the operator to select a function and at the same time covers and thus protects the sensor means. To select a function, the handle body must be rotated about the axis of the base body or moved axially along the axis of the base body. To operate the steering column switch, the operator must let go of the steering wheel and, in case of doubt, look away in order to set the correct function. Summary of the invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is therefore to at least partially overcome at least one of the above-mentioned disadvantages in a steering device for a motor vehicle. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a steering column switch for a motor vehicle, a motor vehicle and a method for selecting a function by means of a steering column switch for a motor vehicle, which allows a simple selection of functions in a motor vehicle.

[0005] The above-mentioned object is achieved by a steering column switch for a motor vehicle having the features of independent patent claim 1, a steering wheel system having the features of independent patent claim 8, a motor vehicle having the features of independent patent claim 9 and a method for selecting a function by means of a steering column switch for a motor vehicle having the features of independent patent claim 10. Further features and details of the invention are derived from the dependent claims, the description and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the steering column switch according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the motor vehicle according to the invention and / or in connection with the method according to the invention, and vice versa, so that reference is always made to one another or can be made to one another with respect to the disclosure of the individual inventive aspects.

[0006] According to the invention, a steering column switch for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric motor vehicle, is provided for selecting a function, comprising a rigid joystick and a joystick cover which surrounds the joystick at least in sections, wherein the joystick cover is supported on the joystick so as to be tiltably movable about at least two tilt axes which are arranged orthogonally or substantially orthogonally to one another, wherein at least one sensor is provided which is designed to select a function as a result of the tilting of the joystick cover.

[0007] In the present case, the tilt axis is understood to be a first tilt axis and a second tilt axis, neither of which corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the joystick. Here, the first tilt axis and the second tilt axis are orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the joystick. Thus, the first tilt axis can correspond to the height axis of the joystick, and the second tilt axis can correspond to the transverse axis of the joystick.

[0008] In this context, the selection of a direction indicator (ie, flashing to the right or flashing to the left) or the selection of a windshield wiper is understood as a function. These enumerations are exemplary and are not to be understood as an exhaustive enumeration.

[0009] The tilting movement of the handle cover about the vertical axis and / or the transverse axis enables the desired function to be selected without releasing the steering wheel. This operation is simple on the one hand and ensures safety while driving on the other hand, since there is no need to take your eyes off the wheel. In addition, the haptics of a mechanical steering column lever (which has a lower fulcrum and is attached to the steering column) are simulated, thereby enabling intuitive operation by the operator.

[0010] It is conceivable that the movement about the tilt axis can be superimposed. This allows storing further functions and / or various intensity levels of the individual functions, or selecting a plurality of functions simultaneously.

[0011] The steering column switch according to the invention can be adapted to the conditions in a motor vehicle in a simple manner, because the operating region is located only in the region of the joystick cover. Therefore, the length of the joystick can be adapted as desired.

[0012] In the context of the invention, it may be advantageous if at least one sensor is a button per tilt axis. It is conceivable here that at least one button is an integrated spring and / or rubber pad.

[0013] Here, the button merely outputs a pulse or signal in order to activate a current circuit or process. Here, the button is activated solely by pressure and the pulse is triggered depending on the line resistance.

[0014] Here, which function is selected depends on the position of the joystick cover relative to the joystick and the storage of the function depending on the position. Here, it is particularly advantageous to assign a button to each function in order to produce the accurate selection of the function.

[0015] Furthermore, within the scope of the present invention, it is conceivable that at least one sensor is a Hall sensor, in particular a 3D Hall sensor.

[0016] Here, the Hall sensor merely outputs a pulse or signal in order to activate a current circuit or process. The selected function depends on the position of the joystick cap relative to the joystick; this position is detected by the Hall sensor, which then outputs a signal to execute the function.

[0017] If a plurality of sensors are provided in the steering column lever, it is conceivable that buttons and Hall sensors are provided in combination with each other. Thus, more functions can be stored, which provide for the superposition of the movement of the tilt axis.

[0018] It is conceivable within the scope of the invention that the actuating lever cap is designed to implement a tilting movement by means of a spring bearing between the actuating lever cap and the actuating lever and / or via the material of the actuating lever cap.

[0019] The tilting movement can be easily realized by implementing the tilting movement as a spring support and by implementing the tilting movement via the material of the joystick cover. Therefore, the tilting movement can be produced simply and with fewer components. This reduces the manufacturing costs.

[0020] If the tilting movement is generated via a spring bearing, it is advantageous if the joystick cover is made of a solid plastic. If the tilting movement is generated via a material, it is advantageous if the joystick cover is made of a flexible and compliant plastic, such as silicone.

[0021] According to the invention, it is conceivable that at least one sensor has a latching curve for the intensity of a selected function.

[0022] The intensity of the selected function can be set with the aid of the latching curve. For example, one of the functions with different intensities is a direction change indication ("flashing"). Here, the direction change indication can be activated with a first intensity to indicate a lane change, wherein the activation is shorter, for example four flashes. If the direction change indication is activated to indicate a turning process, the indication can be activated with a second intensity. Here, the second activation is designed for a longer time.

[0023] For example, in the case of a windshield wiper function, the speed of the wiper blade can be selected by means of a first intensity and a second intensity.

[0024] Here, there is the possibility of providing a different resistance for each of the latching points of the latching curve, so that the operator receives tactile feedback to know which of the latching points he has just reached. It is conceivable that the resistance is provided by means of a mechanical solution, in which the latching cam can be moved into latching openings of different depths. In this case, the latching curve can be generated via a double stroke.

[0025] The different depths of the latching openings overcome during the movement give the operator tactile feedback as to which strength the resistance is in. An electronic setting of the resistance is also conceivable, wherein tactile feedback, such as vibrations of a vibration motor, is also generated in order to provide feedback to the operator on the setting of the corresponding latching point.

[0026] Both in the mechanical solution and in the electronic solution, the setting of the intensity can be set via the force of the operator.

[0027] It is also conceivable to provide a reset function for returning the actuation lever cover to the neutral position, wherein the reset function is designed to carry out the reset mechanically or electronically.

[0028] For resetting, a spring and / or a magnet can be provided in an advantageous manner. This is particularly advantageous for setting a predeterminable end or termination of a function. Here, the duration of the execution of a function or the action for terminating the execution of a function can be stored. This duration can then be determined via the force of the magnet or the spring. Also conceivable is a signal for releasing the spring or generating a magnetic force. Here, the type of resetting can depend on the respective function and / or the selected intensity.

[0029] For example, when indicating a change of direction with a first, shorter intensity, the reset of the spring is set for a predetermined time, so that only four flashes are displayed here. When selecting a second intensity, the termination of the change of direction indication can be dependent on the signal of the steering angle sensor, wherein a calibration of the value of the steering angle sensor is performed until a preset value is reached for terminating the change of direction indication. Nevertheless, active termination by the operator is also possible here. This de-entrapment based on the steering angle is very energy-efficient, since current is only required for the de-entrapment process.

[0030] It is optionally possible within the scope of the invention to provide a control unit which is connected in data communication with the sensor, wherein the control unit is designed

[0031] - obtaining the position of the joystick cover by querying at least one sensor,

[0032] -selecting at least one function based on the acquired position, and

[0033] The selected function is communicated via the interface to a motor vehicle control device in order to execute an action corresponding to the selected function.

[0034] The control unit facilitates the communication of the function mode or the selected function to the motor vehicle control device, which in turn takes over the execution of the selected function by actuating the corresponding functional unit. The control unit can have stored data relating to the intensity or reset function of the selected function.

[0035] Furthermore, the abovementioned object is achieved by a steering wheel system according to the invention having a steering wheel, a steering wheel carrier and the at least one steering column switch, wherein an actuating lever of the at least one steering column switch is fastened to the steering wheel or the steering wheel carrier.

[0036] Such a steering wheel system is particularly advantageous for use in a steer-by-wire system. Here, the steering wheel system can be flexibly adapted to the design requirements and the needs of the operator.

[0037] The abovementioned object is also achieved by a motor vehicle according to the invention, which has a steering column switch as described above. For this motor vehicle, the abovementioned functions are advantageously obtained.

[0038] Furthermore, the above-mentioned object is achieved by a method according to the invention for selecting a function by means of the above-mentioned steering column switch in the above-mentioned motor vehicle, which method comprises the following steps:

[0039] - tilting the steering column switch about at least one tilt axis,

[0040] - the control unit detects the position of the steering column switch by querying at least one sensor,

[0041] - the control unit selects a function based on the acquired position,

[0042] The selected function is communicated by the control unit via the interface to a motor vehicle control device in order to execute an action corresponding to the selected function.

[0043] The detected position is set beforehand by the operator according to the desired function by means of a tilting process.

[0044] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention it can be provided that the control unit detects the position of the steering column switch by querying at least one button with integrated spring and / or rubber pad or by querying at least one Hall sensor or by querying at least one 3D Hall sensor.

[0045] Here, the control unit recognizes the activated button and can then recognize and communicate this position and thus the selected position. If a Hall sensor, in particular a 3D Hall sensor, is installed, the control unit can use the sensor to recognize the position of the joystick cap and the function set by the operator.

[0046] In connection with the present invention, it is conceivable to tilt the steering column switch along a detent curve, wherein the detent curve predetermines the intensity of the selected function.

[0047] The intensity of the selected function can be set with the aid of the latching curve. For example, one of the functions with different intensities is a direction change indication ("flashing"). Here, the direction change indication can be activated with a first intensity to indicate a lane change, wherein the activation is shorter, for example four flashes. If the direction change indication is activated to indicate a turning process, the indication can be activated with a second intensity. Here, the second activation is designed for a longer time.

[0048] For example, in the case of a windshield wiper function, the speed of the wiper blade can be selected by means of a first intensity and a second intensity.

[0049] Here, there is the possibility of providing a different resistance for each of the latching points of the latching curve, so that the operator receives tactile feedback to know which of the latching points he has just reached. It is conceivable that the resistance is provided by means of a mechanical solution, in which the latching cam can be moved into latching openings of different depths. In this case, the latching curve can be generated via a double stroke.

[0050] The different depths of the latching openings overcome during the movement give the operator tactile feedback as to which strength the resistance is in. An electronic setting of the resistance is also conceivable, wherein tactile feedback, such as vibrations of a vibration motor, is also generated in order to provide feedback to the operator on the setting of the corresponding latching point.

[0051] Both in the mechanical solution and in the electronic solution, the setting of the intensity can be set via the force of the operator.

[0052] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous if, after the function has been carried out, the steering column switch is reset into a neutral position by means of a reset function, wherein the reset is carried out mechanically or electronically.

[0053] For resetting, a spring and / or a magnet can be provided in an advantageous manner. This is particularly advantageous for setting a predeterminable end or termination of a function. Here, the duration of the execution of a function or the action for terminating the execution of a function can be stored. This duration can then be determined via the force of the magnet or the spring. Also conceivable is a signal for releasing the spring or generating a magnetic force. Here, the type of resetting can depend on the respective function and / or the selected intensity.

[0054] For example, when indicating a change of direction with a first, shorter intensity, the reset of the spring is set for a predetermined time, so that only four flashes occur here. When selecting a second intensity, the termination of the change of direction indication can be dependent on the signal of the steering angle sensor, wherein the value of the steering angle sensor is calibrated until a preset value is reached for terminating the change of direction indication. Nevertheless, active termination by the operator is also possible here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] Further advantages, features and details of the invention are apparent from the following description, in which a number of exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The invention is illustrated in the following figures:

[0056] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a steering column switch with a button according to the present invention is shown,

[0057] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a steering column switch with a button and a Hall sensor according to the present invention,

[0058] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing a steering column switch with a button having an inclined joystick cover according to the present invention,

[0059] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing a steering column switch having an elastic and compliant joystick cover according to the present invention,

[0060] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the steering wheel system,

[0061] Figure 6 Shows that according to Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a motor vehicle having a steering wheel system, and

[0062] Figure 7 It is shown that the Figures 1 to 4 One of the steering column switches to select the function method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] exist Figures 1 to 4 In each of the figures, a steering column switch 1 for a motor vehicle, in particular an electric motor vehicle, is shown, which is used to select a function (e.g. a windshield wiper device or a direction indicator). Here, the steering column switch 1 has a rigid joystick 2 and a joystick cover 3 which surrounds the joystick 2 at least in sections. Here, the joystick cover 3 is supported on the joystick 2 so as to be tiltable and movable about at least two tilt axes 4 arranged orthogonally or substantially orthogonally to one another. In addition, at least one sensor 5 is provided, which is designed to select a function due to the tilting of the joystick cover 3.

[0064] The tilt axis 4 is a height axis Y and a transverse axis Z, both of which are orthogonal or at least substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X of the joystick 2 .

[0065] according to Figure 1 The steering column switch 1 has three sensors 5 in the form of buttons. In this case, two of the buttons 6 can be tilted about a transverse axis Z and one button 6 can be tilted about a height axis Y. In this case, a first latching curve 10 is assigned to the two transverse axis buttons 7 and a second latching curve 11 is assigned to the height axis button 8. With the aid of the first latching curve 10 and the second latching curve 11, the operator can set a first intensity and a second intensity via a latching point 12. In this case, the lever cap 3 moves from a neutral position 15 to a first level 13 for the first intensity or to a second level 14 for the second intensity. In Figure 1 In the first latching curve 10 in the embodiment, it is particularly important that the first latching curve is associated with two buttons 6; each of the two buttons 6 has its own latching point 12 along the latching curve 9. For example, the two transverse axis buttons 7 are used to indicate the direction, where one of the buttons 6 represents "right" and the other button 6 represents "left", and the buttons can be moved from a neutral position 15 to a first level and a second level 14, respectively.

[0066] For better setting of the function and for a tactile feel during setting, integrated springs 16 and rubber pads 17 are provided in the push button 6 in the transverse axis push button 7 and in the vertical axis push button 8 .

[0067] according to Figure 2 The steering column switch 1 has a Hall sensor 18 as a sensor 5 in order to determine the position of the joystick cap 3 by means of a control unit 19, so that the selected function is communicated via the control unit 19 which is connected to the sensor in a data communication manner. In this case, the control unit 19 is designed as follows:

[0068] - acquiring the position of the joystick cover 3 by querying at least one sensor,

[0069] - selecting at least one function based on the acquired position of the joystick cover, and

[0070] The selected function is communicated via the interface to a motor vehicle control device in order to execute an action corresponding to the selected function.

[0071] Here too, a latching curve 9 is provided. In this case, a first latching curve 10 is provided for carrying out the function of a tilting movement about a transverse axis Z, and a second latching curve 11 is provided for carrying out the function of a tilting movement about a height axis Y.

[0072] In accordance with Figure 1 In the embodiments and in accordance with Figure 2 In the embodiment of the invention, an electromagnet 20 is provided in order to keep the steering column switch 1 in the desired function or to bring the steering column switch 1 back into its neutral position 15. The tilting of the lever cap 3 about the transverse axis Z and / or the height axis Y is achieved via a spring support 21.

[0073] exist Figure 3 , a steering column switch 1 is shown with an actuating lever cap 3 tilted about a transverse axis Z. It can be seen that the latching cam 22 of the latching mechanism 26 latches into the latching point of the latching curve 9. In this simplified representation, only two-stage latching curves are shown.

[0074] exist Figure 4 , a steering column switch 1 is shown, which generates a tilting movement via the material of the joystick cover 3, in particular silicone. For this purpose, the steering column switch has a 3D Hall sensor 23 so that all directions of movement can be covered. The acquisition 120 and the association of position-dependent functions are performed and communicated via the control unit 19.

[0075] The intensity is set here via the pressure or force that the operator applies to the joystick cap 3 during the tilting movement to select a function. For this purpose, a pressure receiver 24 can additionally be provided. In addition, a vibration motor 25 is provided; thus, the selected intensity is fed back to the operator via vibration.

[0076] exist Figure 5 , a steering wheel system 27 is schematically shown, which has a steering wheel 28, a steering wheel bracket 29 and the above-mentioned at least one steering column switch 1. Here, the operating lever 2 of at least one steering column switch 1 is fastened to the steering wheel 28 or the steering wheel bracket 29.

[0077] exist Figure 6 In the figure, a motor vehicle 30, in particular an electric motor vehicle 30, is schematically shown, which has a Figure 5 The steering wheel system 27 and according to Figures 1 to 4 At least one steering column switch 1.

[0078] Figure 7 A method for using a motor vehicle according to Figures 1 to 4A method 100 for selecting a function of a steering column switch 1 comprises the following steps:

[0079] - tilting 110 the steering column switch 1 about at least one tilt axis,

[0080] - the position of the steering column switch 1 is detected 120 by the control unit 19 by querying at least one sensor 5 ,

[0081] - the control unit 19 selects 130 a function according to the acquired position,

[0082] The selected function is communicated 140 by the control unit 19 via an interface to a motor vehicle control unit in order to execute an action corresponding to the selected function.

[0083] In this case, the control unit 19 detects the position of the steering column switch 1 by means of the button 6 with integrated spring 16 and / or rubber pad 17 or by means of the Hall sensor 18 or by means of the 3D Hall sensor 23 .

[0084] Furthermore, the steering column switch 1 is tilted along a latching curve 9 , but about a transverse axis Z or a height axis Y, wherein the latching curve 9 predetermines the intensity of the selected function.

[0085] After the function has been executed 150 , the steering column switch 1 is reset 160 into the neutral position 15 by means of a spring or electronically.

[0086] Reference numerals list

[0087] 1 Steering column switch

[0088] 2 Joystick

[0089] 3 Joystick cover

[0090] 4 Inclined axis

[0091] 5 Sensors

[0092] 6 Buttons

[0093] 7 Horizontal axis - button

[0094] 8 Height axis - button

[0095] 9 Locking curve

[0096] 10 First locking curve

[0097] 11 Second locking curve

[0098] 12 locking points

[0099] 13 Level 1

[0100] 14 Level 2

[0101] 15 Neutral Position

[0102] 16 Integrated spring

[0103] 17 Rubber pad

[0104] 18 Hall sensor

[0105] 19 Control Unit

[0106] 20 Electromagnet

[0107] 21 Spring support

[0108] 22 Locking tab

[0109] 23 3D Hall Sensor

[0110] 24 Pressure Receiver

[0111] 25 Vibration Motor

[0112] 26 Locking mechanism

[0113] 27 Steering wheel system

[0114] 28 Steering wheel

[0115] 29 Steering wheel bracket

[0116] 30 Motor Vehicles

[0117] 100 Methods

[0118] 110 Tilt

[0119] 120 Get

Claims

1. A steering column switch (1) for a motor vehicle (30), in particular an electric motor vehicle (30), for selecting a function, having A rigid joystick (2) and a joystick cover (3) surrounding the joystick (2) at least in sections, in, The joystick cover (3) is supported on the joystick (2) so as to be tiltable about at least two tilt axes (4) arranged orthogonally or substantially orthogonally to one another, wherein at least one sensor (5) is provided which is designed to select a function as a result of the tilting of the joystick cover (3).

2. The steering column switch (1) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The at least one sensor (5) is at least one button (6) per tilt axis.

3. The steering column switch (1) according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The at least one sensor (5) is at least one Hall sensor (18), in particular a 3D Hall sensor (23).

4. A steering column switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The joystick cover (3) is designed to implement the tilting movement by means of a spring support between the joystick cover (3) and the joystick (2) and / or via the material of the joystick cover (3).

5. Steering column switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The at least one sensor (5) has a latching curve (9) for the intensity of a selected function.

6. Steering column switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that A reset function is provided for returning the joystick cover (3) to a neutral position (15), wherein the reset function is designed to perform the reset mechanically or electronically.

7. Steering column switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that A control unit (19) is provided which is connected to the sensor (5) in a data communication manner, wherein the control unit (19) is designed to - acquiring the position of the joystick cover (3) by querying the at least one sensor (5), - selecting at least one function according to the acquired position of the joystick cover (3), and The selected function is communicated via the interface to a motor vehicle control device in order to execute an action corresponding to the selected function.

8. A steering wheel system (27) comprising a steering wheel (28), a steering wheel support (29) and at least one steering column switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The operating lever (2) of at least one steering column switch (1) is fastened to the steering wheel (28) or to the steering wheel bracket (29).

9. A motor vehicle (30), in particular an electric motor vehicle (30), having a steering wheel system (27) according to claim 8.

10. A method (100) for selecting a function by means of a steering column switch (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 in a motor vehicle according to claim 9, comprising the following steps: - tilting (110) the steering column switch (1) about at least one tilt axis, - the control unit (19) acquires (120) the position of the steering column switch (1) by querying the at least one sensor (5), - the control unit (19) selects (130) the function according to the acquired position, The control unit (19) transmits (140) the selected function to a motor vehicle control device via an interface in order to execute an action corresponding to the selected function.

11. The method (100) according to claim 10, It is characterized in that The control unit (19) acquires the position of the steering column switch (1) by querying the at least one button (6) with integrated spring (16) and / or rubber pad (17) or the at least one Hall sensor (18) or the at least one 3D Hall sensor (23).

12. The method (100) according to claim 10 or 11, It is characterized in that The steering column switch (1) is tilted along a latching curve (9), wherein the latching curve (9) predetermines the intensity of the selected function.

13. The method (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, It is characterized in that After the function has been performed, the steering column switch (1) is reset (160) into a neutral position (15) by means of a spring or electronically.

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