Actuating device for at least one functional device, system having actuating device, and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating device (100) for at least one functional device (200), comprising a printed circuit board (10) for supporting an electronics unit (20), the electronics unit (20) for providing an operating function (F) in the operating device (100), a connecting element (30) for covering the electronics unit (20) and supporting a sensor unit (40), a sensor unit (40) having a sensor element (41) for detecting an actuation action (B) of a user for a corresponding operating function (F) in the operating device (100), and an operating element (50) for covering the sensor unit (40) and recording the actuation action (B) of the user, the operating device (100) having at least one communication interface with the user, which communication interface is designed to communicate with the operating function (F) in the operating device (100). Feedback, in particular tactile and / or auditory feedback, is provided to the user when the actuation action (B) is recorded by the actuation element (50) and / or when the actuation action (B) is detected by the sensor unit (40) and / or after the actuation action (B).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an operating device for at least one functional device, in particular at least one functional device in a vehicle and / or an intelligent device. The present invention also relates to a corresponding system for a vehicle with a corresponding operating device. In addition, the present invention relates to a corresponding vehicle with a corresponding system. In addition, the present invention relates to a corresponding system for an intelligent device with a corresponding operating device. Background Art

[0002] Modern vehicles have an increasing number of functional devices that can be used to guide the vehicle, entertain the user and / or for other purposes. This includes functional devices for navigating the vehicle, functional devices for supporting the user's perception of the surroundings (so-called augmented reality devices), infotainment devices, radio stations, music and / or image playback devices, telecommunication devices, various computer devices, etc. In addition, modern vehicles are being implemented with an increasing degree of automation, which enables new concepts for the vehicle interior. This has the result that the operating devices in some functional devices are no longer arranged in the vicinity of the user, which can make their operation difficult. Summary of the invention

[0003] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved operating device for at least one functional device, in particular at least one functional device in a vehicle and / or an intelligent device. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide an operating device for at least one functional device, in particular at least one functional device in a vehicle and / or an intelligent device, which is simply constructed, which enables simplified production, which can be easily and intuitively operated, which can be used flexibly in combination with different functional devices, which can be operated independently of direction and / or independently of position, and which improves user comfort and safety during operation of the vehicle in an advantageous manner. The object of the present invention is also to provide a corresponding system for a vehicle with a corresponding operating device. In addition, the object of the present invention is to provide a corresponding vehicle with a corresponding system. In addition, the object of the present invention is to provide a corresponding system for an intelligent device with a corresponding operating device.

[0004] The object according to the invention is achieved by an operating device for at least one functional device, in particular at least one functional device in a vehicle and / or an intelligent device, having the features of an independent device claim. The object according to the invention is also achieved by a corresponding system for a vehicle with a corresponding operating device having the features of an independent system claim. In addition, the object according to the invention is achieved by a corresponding vehicle with a corresponding system having the features of a parallel device claim. In addition, the object according to the invention is achieved by a corresponding system for an intelligent device with a corresponding operating device having the features of a parallel system claim. Further features, advantages and details of the invention are derived from the dependent claims, the description and the drawings. Here, the features and details described in conjunction with the various aspects of the invention naturally also apply in conjunction with the other aspects of the invention, and vice versa accordingly, so that the disclosures for the various aspects of the invention are always referred to or can be referred to one another.

[0005] The present invention provides: an operating device for at least one functional device, in particular for at least one functional device in a vehicle and / or an intelligent device, wherein the operating device is implemented as a remote control device for at least one functional device, in particular a mobile remote control device, wherein the operating device is implemented as a ring, which can be worn on the index finger or other fingers of a user and / or operated with a thumb,

[0006] The operating device has:

[0007] - circuit boards for supporting electronic units,

[0008] - an electronic unit for providing operating functions in the operating device,

[0009] - a connecting element for covering the electronic unit and supporting the sensor unit,

[0010] a sensor unit having a sensor element for detecting an operating action of a user for a corresponding operating function in the operating device, and

[0011] An operating element for covering the sensor unit and registering an operating action of a user.

[0012] The operating device has at least one communication interface with a user (or feedback device or feedback device), which is designed to provide feedback to the user, in particular tactile and / or acoustic feedback (for example by vibration and / or noise), wherein:

[0013] - when (or during) the recording of an operating action by the operating element, and / or

[0014] can be output when and / or after an operator control action is detected by the sensor unit (or when and / or after a corresponding operating function in the operator control device is started, controlled or triggered).

[0015] For example, the functional device can be a functional device for navigating a vehicle, a functional device for supporting a user in perceiving the surroundings, a so-called augmented reality device (Augmented-Reality stands for augmented reality and can be abbreviated to AR), an infotainment device, an entertainment device, a radio station, a music and / or image playback device, a telecommunication device (e.g. a telephone), a mobile device (e.g. a smartphone, a laptop, a tablet computer, a notebook computer, etc.).

[0016] For example, the vehicle may be implemented as an electric vehicle. The vehicle may have multiple degrees of automation from semi-automatic to fully automatic. The vehicle may further be implemented as an autonomous driving vehicle.

[0017] For example, smart devices can be implemented as smart homes, smart offices, etc.

[0018] For example, the operating action of the user may have the following movements with respect to the operating device, in particular with respect to the operating element: axial and / or tangential operating and / or radial touching / pressing, etc.

[0019] The user's operating actions can be used to trigger specific operating functions in the operating device, such as scrolling a list, increasing / decreasing the volume, flipping between lists / topics / views, etc., rotating a map / view, etc., moving / deleting entries in a list, selecting an element in a list, selecting an element in a list and starting a help menu for the element, etc.

[0020] The circuit board can also be called a conductor board, a conductor card or a printed circuit ("printed circuitboard" or PCB for short). The circuit board can preferably be used as a carrier for all components of the electronic unit. The circuit board can preferably be implemented as an inner ring (or inner sleeve) of the operating device. The inner ring can be stably implemented and / or can be directly placed on the user's finger. However, a flexible circuit board is also conceivable, which can be placed on an additional stable inner ring. In addition, the circuit board can be implemented (stably or flexibly) to accommodate different insertion rings (or insertion sleeves) with different diameters in order to achieve different wearing sizes in the operating device or ring.

[0021] The electronic unit may have all electrical, electromotive, communication, control and / or electronic components which can be used to provide operating functions in the operating device and to operate or control the functional device. The electronic unit may have a plurality of, for example, symmetrical structural assemblies in which the components of the electronic unit can be combined. For example, the electronic unit may have a vibration unit for providing feedback, in particular tactile feedback (for example by vibration), a charging unit, a battery, a display element for the charging state, at least one or two charging contacts, a control and / or evaluation unit, a communication unit with a corresponding communication unit of the functional device (for example based on wireless technologies such as Bluetooth, WLAN, UWB, mobile radio, etc.), an acoustic communication unit (for example for voice control, etc.).

[0022] The connecting element can be designed on the one hand to cover the electronics unit and on the other hand to support the sensor unit. The connecting element can also be used for mechanical connection to a printed circuit board and / or an operating element.

[0023] The sensor unit can be provided by means of different technologies and be based on, for example, inductive, electromagnetic, electromechanical, capacitive and / or UWB technology.

[0024] The printed circuit board can point toward the user's fingers and the actuating element can point outward, so that the actuating element can be actuated with the user's thumb of the same hand and / or other fingers of the same or other hand.

[0025] For example, the operating element can be implemented as an outer ring and preferably serves as an outer housing for all components of the operating device. The operating element can be movably supported relative to the connecting element. The operating element can be movably supported in the axial, radial and / or tangential direction with respect to the connecting element.

[0026] Advantageously, the components of the handling device may be arranged concentrically one above the other and / or coaxially to one another. Advantageously, the components of the handling device may have a substantially cylindrical peripheral shape.

[0027] Within the scope of the invention, at least one communication interface with a user is provided, which is designed to provide feedback, in particular tactile and / or acoustic feedback, to the user:

[0028] 1) when (or during) the recording of an operating action by an operating element,

[0029] and / or

[0030] 2) upon and / or after the detection of an operator control action by the sensor unit, or 2a) upon and / or after the activation of a corresponding operating function in the functional device.

[0031] Advantageously, the communication interface with the user can be used to output the following confirmation by means of feedback, in particular tactile and / or acoustic feedback:

[0032] 1) The manipulation actions are recorded as expected,

[0033] 2) The manipulation was detected / was detected as expected, and / or

[0034] 2a) The control action leads to / has led to the desired operating function in the control device as expected.

[0035] Can also be provided with other and the communication interface of the user, this communication interface can be implemented as, provide feedback, especially visual feedback to the user.Other communication interface can be for example a part of charging unit, and for example has LED small lamp, so that display battery / accumulator charging state.

[0036] Therefore, with the aid of the present invention, an improved operating device for at least one functional device, in particular at least one functional device in a vehicle and / or an intelligent device, can be provided, which has a simple construction, enables simplified manufacturing, can be easily and intuitively operated, can be flexibly used in combination with different functional devices, can operate independently of direction and / or independently of position, and which improves user comfort and safety during operation of the vehicle in an advantageous manner.

[0037] It can also be provided that at least one communication interface with the user is provided at least partially via the operating element. In this way, feedback, in particular tactile and, if appropriate, acoustic feedback, can be provided when (or during) the recording of an operating action, which can preferably be performed without energy consumption. In this way, the functionality of the operating element can also be expanded.

[0038] Furthermore, it can be provided that the actuating element has a bearing surface for a sensor element of the sensor unit. Advantageously, the bearing surface can be designed to enable an interaction, preferably a mechanical interaction, preferably an exclusively mechanical interaction, with the sensor element and to generate feedback, in particular a tactile and, if appropriate, an audible feedback, to the user when an actuating action is recorded. For this purpose, the bearing surface can have a running surface for the sensor element, which can be provided with grooves and / or projections with corresponding recesses. Thus, the sensor element can be at least partially entrained when the actuating element moves relative to the connecting element in the direction of the actuating movement and when the rear part of the projection latches into the corresponding recess on the running surface, a characteristic latching noise is generated, which can be accompanied by a perceptible vibration.

[0039] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one communication interface with the user is provided at least partially by the electronic unit. In this way, feedback, in particular haptic and / or acoustic feedback, can be provided when and / or preferably after the detection of an operating action by the operating device (or when and / or preferably after the activation of a corresponding operating function in the functional device), which feedback can be generated, for example, electrically and / or electromechanically.

[0040] Furthermore, it can be provided that the electronic unit has at least one vibration unit. Advantageously, targeted automatic feedback can be generated thereby. For example, the at least one vibration unit can be implemented electrically and / or electromechanically drivable in order to generate feedback, in particular tactile feedback, to the user when an operating action is detected. For example, the at least one vibration unit can have a vibration motor, a piezoelectric actuator, etc.

[0041] Furthermore, it can be provided that the sensor element of the sensor unit is designed to detect an operating action of the user on the operating device in the tangential direction and / or in the axial direction (e.g. in the form of a rolling motion, a swiping motion and / or a rotating motion on the operating element). In this way, operating functions in the operating device can be activated or controlled, such as: scrolling a list (e.g. from bottom to top or from top to bottom), searching for a song / phonebook entry, increasing / decreasing the volume, fast forward / rewinding in a song / movie, scrolling between lists / topics / views, etc. (e.g. from right to left or from left to right), rotating a map / view, etc., moving / deleting entries in a list, etc.

[0042] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one sensor element or a plurality of sensor elements or all sensor elements of the sensor unit are designed to detect a user's operating action on the operating device in a radial direction (e.g. in the form of a touch, a press operation, a single click, a double click, etc. on the operating element). In this way, operating functions in the operating device can be started or controlled, such as: selecting an element in a list, selecting an element in a list and starting a help menu for the element, etc. The help menu can provide further subordinate operating functions, such as starting / ending playback, deleting an entry, calling a selected number, starting / ending navigation, etc., which can also be controlled by means of the operating device.

[0043] It is also conceivable that the sensor unit can be implemented with the aid of inductive, electromagnetic, electromechanical, capacitive and / or UWB technology. However, a combination of technologies is also conceivable. In this way, a flexible design of the sensor unit can be provided. In addition, a sensor unit with improved and / or extended functionality can be provided. With the aid of UWB technology, information can be transmitted, such as access codes, identification codes, music files, calendar data, etc.

[0044] According to a particular advantage of the invention, the operating device can implement an ID transmitter function for providing a security system for the vehicle. In this way, the operating device can be used to operate the security system of the vehicle.

[0045] Furthermore, it can be provided that the sensor element of the sensor unit is designed so that the sensor unit is movably supported on the bearing surface of the actuating element, in particular by means of a sensor transmitter designed specifically for this purpose, preferably in the form of a rolling bearing. In this way, a movable support of the actuating element on the connecting element can be achieved. In this way, it is also possible to record an actuating action by the actuating element through a relative movement of the actuating element relative to the connecting element. In this way, it is also possible to directly register the movement of the actuating element in the sensor element of the sensor unit. The functionality of the actuating element can thus also be expanded.

[0046] Furthermore, it can be provided that the sensor element of the sensor unit is designed to interact, preferably mechanically, preferably exclusively mechanically, with a bearing surface of the operating element, in particular by means of a sensor transmitter designed specifically for this purpose (preferably in the form of a rolling bearing), and to generate, in particular haptic and, if necessary, audible feedback when an operating action is detected. In this way, feedback, in particular haptic and, if necessary, audible feedback, can be achieved when (or during) the recording of an operating action by the operating element, which feedback can preferably be performed without energy consumption.

[0047] Furthermore, it can be provided that the actuating device is rotationally symmetrical and / or axisymmetric. In this way, the placement and operation of the ring in any orientation can be achieved.

[0048] Furthermore, it can be provided that the circuit board, the electronic unit, the connecting element, the sensor unit and / or the operating element are at least partially cylindrically shaped. Furthermore, it can be provided that the circuit board, the electronic unit, the connecting element, the sensor unit and / or the operating element are arranged concentrically and / or coaxially with respect to one another. In this way, the assembly of the operating device can be facilitated.

[0049] Furthermore, it can be provided that the circuit board, the electronic unit, the connecting element, the sensor unit and / or the operating element are connected to one another in a materially bonded manner, in particular by means of an adhesive or a casting compound. In this way, a simple assembly and sealing of the components of the operating device can be achieved. Advantageously, the adhesive or the casting compound can be selected such that after hardening, the adhesive or the casting compound allows a relative movement of the operating element relative to the connecting element.

[0050] However, it is also conceivable that the circuit board, the electronic unit, the connecting element, the sensor unit and / or the operating element can be connected to one another at least partially in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. In this way, a flexible assembly of the operating device can be achieved.

[0051] Advantageously, the circuit board can have a carrier plate. Advantageously, the carrier plate can be embodied as an inner ring (eg sleeve-shaped). Thus, the circuit board can be oriented toward the user's finger.

[0052] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the handling device is modularly designed in order to achieve a matching shape for different sizes. For this purpose, at least one carrier ring can be provided as an inner ring (e.g. sleeve-shaped) in order to achieve a matching shape for different sizes. Preferably, at least one carrier ring can be designed to be fastened on the inside to a carrier plate of a circuit board.

[0053] Furthermore, it can be provided that the operating element is designed in one piece and / or in two pieces. A one-piece embodiment can facilitate assembly. A two-piece embodiment can facilitate acoustic feedback to the user.

[0054] Advantageously, the actuating element can be designed as an outer ring. Thus, the actuating element can serve as a housing for the actuating device.

[0055] Furthermore, it can be provided that the electronic unit for providing an operating function in the operating device has at least one of the following components, in particular electronic components:

[0056] - at least one vibration unit,

[0057] at least one charging unit, which has, for example, a battery, a display element for the charging state (for example a small LED), at least one charging contact, etc.,

[0058] - at least one control and / or evaluation unit,

[0059] at least one communication unit with a corresponding electronic unit of the functional device, which is based on wireless technology (such as Bluetooth, WLAN, UWB, mobile radio, etc.), for example, in order to send a control signal as a function of a detected operating action, according to which a desired operating function in the functional device can be actuated,

[0060] At least one acoustic communication unit with the operating device (eg for voice control etc.).

[0061] In this way, an operating device with improved functionality can be provided.

[0062] Furthermore, it can be provided that the electronic unit has at least three, preferably four, associated structural assemblies on the (especially electronic) component. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the structural assemblies can be designed symmetrically and arranged symmetrically along the cylindrical outer circumference of the connecting element. In this way, the positioning and operation of the operating device in any position and / or orientation can be achieved.

[0063] It can also be provided that the connecting element can have an inner face for covering the electronic unit and an outer face for supporting the sensor unit. In this way, the connecting element can be used as an intermediate carrier.

[0064] Furthermore, it can be provided that the connecting element has a receiving cavity, in particular on the inner surface, which is designed to receive at least three, preferably four associated structural assemblies on a (in particular electronic) component of the electronic unit in a form-fitting manner. In this way, a protective receiving of the electronic unit can be achieved.

[0065] Furthermore, it can be provided that the connecting element has, in particular on the outside, a support receptacle for a sensor element of the sensor unit, in particular for a detection element of the sensor element. In this way, a reliable support of the sensor unit can be achieved.

[0066] Advantageously, the support receptacle can form a partition wall for the receiving chamber. In this way, a space-saving construction and an improved design of the connecting element with an extended function can be achieved.

[0067] Advantageously, the connecting element can have at least one, preferably two, collar elements oriented inwardly, in particular viewed radially, in order to delimit the receiving space, in particular viewed axially. In this way, axial displacement of components of the electronics unit can be prevented.

[0068] The present invention also provides: a system for a vehicle, comprising:

[0069] - at least one manipulator, which may be implemented as described above, and

[0070] At least one functional device of the vehicle which can be controlled or operated by means of the control device.

[0071] By means of the system according to the invention, the same advantages as explained above in connection with the operating device can be achieved. Reference is now made explicitly to these advantages.

[0072] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one eye tracking device is provided in order to automatically select at least one functional device to be operated by means of the operating device. In this way, it can be achieved that the functional device can be operated remotely. It can thus also be achieved that a plurality of functional devices can be operated by means of the operating device.

[0073] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first charging device is provided in order to charge the operating device. In this way, the operating device can be charged directly in the vehicle.

[0074] Advantageously, the first charging device may be designed to accommodate operating devices of different sizes for charging.

[0075] Furthermore, the invention provides: a vehicle having a system which can be implemented as described above. With the vehicle, the same advantages explained above in connection with the operating device and / or the system can be achieved. At this point, explicit reference is made to these advantages.

[0076] In addition, the present invention provides: a system for smart devices, especially smart homes, smart offices, etc., which has:

[0077] - at least one manipulator, which may be implemented as described above, and

[0078] At least one functional device of the smart device, which can be controlled by means of the operating device.

[0079] By means of the system according to the invention, the same advantages as explained above in connection with the operating device can be achieved. Reference is now made explicitly to these advantages.

[0080] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one second charging device is provided for charging the operating device. In this way, flexible charging of the operating device can be achieved. Advantageously, the at least one second charging device can be designed to accommodate operating devices of different sizes for charging.

[0081] The system for the vehicle and the system for the smart device can advantageously form a connected system which enables different functional devices to be controlled / operated at different locations using the same operating device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] Advantageously, the features mentioned in the claims and the description can be combined individually or in any combination. Further advantages and details are obtained from the following description, in which an embodiment of the invention is described in detail with reference to the drawings. Among them:

[0083] Figure 1 An exploded view of the manipulator is shown;

[0084] Figure 2 A diagram showing the operating device in an assembled state;

[0085] Figure 3 A diagram showing an operating device without an operating element is shown;

[0086] Figure 4shows a representation of the actuating device without an actuating element and at least partially in a section through the actuating device;

[0087] Figure 5 A diagram showing a connecting element, a structural assembly of an electronics unit, a sensor unit and an operating element;

[0088] Figure 6 Schematic diagrams showing the manipulator in different sizes;

[0089] Figure 7 An exemplary manipulation action is shown;

[0090] Figure 8 An exemplary operating action in the tangential direction is shown;

[0091] Fig. 9 An exemplary operating motion in a substantially axial direction is shown;

[0092] Fig.10 An exemplary operating action in the radial direction is shown;

[0093] Fig.11 shows different examples of running functions; and

[0094] Fig.12 Different examples of charging devices are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] Figure 1-12 A device for at least one functional device 200, in particular a vehicle 101 (see Fig.11 and Fig.12 ) and / or smart device 102 (see Fig.12 ) of at least one functional device 200.

[0096] As from Figure 1-12 As is clear from the drawing, the operating device 100 is designed as a remote control device, in particular a mobile remote control device, for at least one functional device 200 . Figure 1-12 It is also shown that the operating device 100 is designed as a ring, which can be worn on the index finger or other fingers of the user and / or operated with the thumb (see Figure 7-10 ).

[0097] like Figure 1 As explained, the operating device 100 has the following components:

[0098] - a circuit board 10 for supporting an electronic unit 20,

[0099] - an electronic unit 20 for providing an operating function F in the operating device 100 (see Fig.11 ),

[0100] - a connecting element 30 for covering the electronic unit 20 and supporting the sensor unit 40 (see Figure 5 ),

[0101] a sensor unit 40 having a sensor element 41 for detecting an operating action B of a user for a corresponding operating function F in the operating device 100 (see Figure 5 and Figure 7-10 ),as well as

[0102] - an operating element 50 for covering the sensor unit 40 and recording the user's operating action (see Figure 5 ).

[0103] The operating device 100 has at least one communication interface with a user (or feedback device or feedback device), which is designed to provide feedback to the user, in particular tactile and / or acoustic feedback (for example by vibration and / or noise):

[0104] - when (or during) the recording of an operating action B by the operating element 50 , and / or

[0105] Upon and / or after detection of an operator control action B by the sensor unit 40 (or upon and / or preferably after the start or control or triggering of a corresponding operating function F in the operator control device 100 ).

[0106] like Fig.11 As indicated, the functional device 200 can be, for example, a functional device for navigating a vehicle, a functional device for supporting a user in perceiving the surroundings, a so-called augmented reality device, an infotainment device, an entertainment device, a radio station, a music and / or image playback device, a telecommunications device (e.g. a telephone), a mobile device (e.g. a smartphone, a laptop, a tablet computer, etc.).

[0107] For example, the vehicle 101 may be implemented as an electric vehicle. The vehicle 101 may have multiple degrees of automation from semi-automatic to fully automatic or may be implemented as an autonomous vehicle 101 .

[0108] The smart device 102 may be implemented as, for example, a smart home, a smart office, etc.

[0109] like Figure 7-10 As shown, the user's operating action B can, for example, have the following movements with respect to the operating device 100, in particular with respect to the operating element 50: in the axial direction Ra and / or in the tangential direction Rt (e.g. swiping / rolling) and / or in the radial direction Rr (e.g. touching / pressing), etc.

[0110] The user's manipulation action B can be used to trigger a specific operating function F in the manipulation device 100, for example, selecting an application ( Fig.11 ), adjust the volume ( Fig.11 ), scrolling lists, such as a music list ( Fig.11 in the upper right corner), fast forward ( Fig.11 ), select Playback Settings ( Fig.11 ), select an element in the list, such as the next song to play ( Fig.11 in the lower right corner).

[0111] The circuit board 10 or the conductor board, conductor card or printed circuit can preferably be used as a carrier for all components of the electronic unit 20. The circuit board can preferably be implemented as an inner ring (or inner sleeve) of the operating device 100. The inner ring can be implemented stably and / or can be placed directly on the user's finger. However, a flexible circuit board is also conceivable, which can be placed on an additional stable inner ring. In addition, the circuit board 10 can be implemented (stably or flexibly) to accommodate insert rings (or insert sleeves) with different diameters in order to realize different wearing sizes in the operating device or ring.

[0112] Figure 6 Furthermore, it is shown that the actuation device 100 itself can be provided in different sizes G1 , G2 , G3 (eg S, M, L).

[0113] The electronics unit 20 may have a plurality of electrical, electric, communication, control and / or electronic components which can be used to provide an operating function F in the operator control device 100 and to operate or control the functional device 200 .

[0114] like Figure 1 As shown, the electronic unit 20 can have a plurality of preferably symmetrically designed and arranged components 21 in which the components of the electronic unit 20 can be combined.

[0115] The electronic unit 20 may have different components, for example:

[0116] - at least one vibration unit,

[0117] at least one charging unit, which comprises, for example, a battery, a display element 22 for the charge state, at least one charging contact 23 (see Figure 5 )wait,

[0118] - at least one control and / or evaluation unit,

[0119] at least one communication unit with a corresponding electronic unit of the functional device 200 , for example based on wireless technology (such as Bluetooth, WLAN, UWB, mobile radio, etc.),

[0120] At least one acoustic communication unit with the operating device 100 (eg for voice control etc.).

[0121] like Figure 1 It is furthermore indicated that the electronics unit 20 can have at least three, preferably four associated assemblies 21 on a component, in particular an electronic component.

[0122] like Figure 5 As shown, the connecting element 30 can be used, on the one hand, to cover the electronic unit 20 and, on the other hand, to support the sensor unit 40 . The connecting element 30 can also be used for a mechanical connection to the printed circuit board 10 and / or the actuating element 50 .

[0123] Figure 5 It is also shown that the connecting element 30 can have an inner face 31 for covering the electronic unit 20 and an outer face 32 for supporting the sensor unit 40 .

[0124] also, Figure 5 It is shown that the connecting element 30 has, in particular on the inner surface 31 , a receiving space 31K which is designed to receive at least three, preferably four associated components 21 of components, in particular electronic components, of the electronics unit 20 in an at least form-fitting manner.

[0125] also, Figure 5 It is shown that the connecting element 30 has, in particular on the outer surface 32, a support receptacle 32A for a sensor element 41 of the sensor unit 40, in particular in the form of an opening 33 for a detection element 43 of the sensor element 41. In this way, a reliable support of the sensor unit 40 can be achieved.

[0126] Advantageously, the support housing 32A may form a partition wall for the housing cavity 31K.

[0127] also, Figure 5 It is shown that the connecting element 30 can have at least one, preferably two, collar elements 30K which are oriented, in particular when viewed radially inwards, in order to delimit a receiving space 31K, in particular when viewed axially.

[0128] from Figure 7-10 and Fig.11 As can be seen in the figure, the circuit board 10 can be oriented toward the user's fingers and the operating element 50 can be oriented outward, so that the operating element can be operated with the thumb of the same hand. However, it is also possible in principle to operate the operating element 50 with other fingers of the same hand or the other hand of the user.

[0129] from Figure 1 and Figure 5As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the operating element 50 can be designed as an outer ring. Thus, the operating element 50 can be used as an outer housing for all components of the operating device 100 .

[0130] The actuating element 50 may be mounted movably relative to the connecting element 30 in order to enable an actuating action B with respect to the connecting element 30 or the actuating device 100 in the axial direction Ra, in the radial direction Rr and / or in the tangential direction Rt.

[0131] from Figure 1 It can also be seen that the components of the manipulation device 100 can be arranged concentrically one above the other and / or coaxially with respect to one another. For example, the components of the manipulation device 100 can have a substantially cylindrical peripheral shape.

[0132] In the operating device 100 , at least one communication interface with a user is provided, which is designed to provide feedback, in particular haptic and / or acoustic feedback, to the user:

[0133] 1) When (or during) the recording of an operating action B by the operating element 50,

[0134] and / or

[0135] 2) When and / or after the detection of the operating action B by the sensor unit 40, or

[0136] 2a) When and / or after starting the corresponding operating function in the functional device 200 .

[0137] Advantageously, the communication interface with the user can be used to output the following confirmation by means of feedback, in particular tactile and / or acoustic feedback:

[0138] 1) Action B is recorded as expected,

[0139] 2) Manipulation B is detected / has been detected as expected, and / or

[0140] 2a) The operator control action B leads / has led to the desired operating function F in the operator control device 100 as expected.

[0141] A further communication interface with the user may also be provided, which may be implemented to provide feedback, in particular visual feedback, to the user, for example to display the charge state of the battery / accumulator. For this purpose, a display element 22, such as a small LED light (see Figure 5 ).

[0142] At least one communication interface with a user for generating feedback to the user, in particular haptic and / or acoustic feedback, can be provided at least partially via operating element 50 .

[0143] like Figure 5 As shown, the operating element 50 can have a bearing surface 51 for the sensor element 41 of the sensor unit 40. Advantageously, the bearing surface 51 can be used to achieve an interaction, preferably a mechanical interaction, preferably an exclusively mechanical interaction, with the sensor element 41 and to generate feedback, in particular a tactile and, if appropriate, an audible feedback, to the user when the operating action B is recorded. For this purpose, the bearing surface can have a running surface for the sensor element 41, which can be provided with grooves 52 and / or projections with corresponding recesses 53. Thus, the sensor element 41 can be at least partially entrained when the operating element 50 moves relative to the connecting element 30 in the direction of the operating movement and when the groove 52 latches behind in the corresponding recess 53 on the bearing surface 51, a characteristic latching noise is generated, which can be accompanied by a perceptible vibration.

[0144] Furthermore, at least one communication interface with the user may be provided at least partially by the electronic device 20. To this end, the electronic unit 20 may have at least one vibration unit. For example, the at least one vibration unit may be driven electrically and / or electromechanically to generate feedback, in particular tactile feedback, to the user when the manipulation action B is detected. For example, the at least one vibration unit may have a vibration motor, a piezoelectric actuator, etc.

[0145] like Figure 7-10 As shown, the sensor element 41 of the sensor unit 40 can be designed to detect a user's operating actions B on the operating device 100 in the tangential direction Rt and / or in the axial direction Ra (for example in the form of a rolling movement, a swiping movement and / or a rotational movement on the operating element 50).

[0146] like Figure 7-10 As shown, at least one sensor element 41 of the sensor unit 40 (the at least one sensor element 41 can be oriented in a radial direction Rr, such as Figure 5 Only shown as an example) or a plurality of sensor elements 41 or all sensor elements 41 can be implemented to detect a user's operating action B on the operating device 100 in the radial direction Rr (for example, in the form of touching, pressing, single-clicking, double-clicking, etc. on the operating element 50).

[0147] The sensor unit 40 can be implemented with the aid of inductive, electromagnetic, electromechanical, capacitive and / or UWB technology. Combinations of technologies are also possible. In this way, a flexible design of the sensor unit 40 can be achieved. With the aid of UWB technology, information such as access codes, identification codes, music files, calendar data, etc. can be transmitted. Thus, the operating device 100 can implement an ID transmitter function for providing a security system for the vehicle 101, for example in the form of an access system to the vehicle 101.

[0148] like Figure 5 and Figure 7-10 , it can be seen that the sensor element 41 of the sensor unit 40 has a corresponding sensor transmitter 42, for example in the form of a rolling bearing, in order to movably support the sensor unit 40 on the bearing surface 51 of the operating element 50. Therefore, the sensor element 41 of the sensor unit 40 can interact, preferably mechanically, preferably only mechanically, with the bearing surface 51 of the operating element 50, in particular by means of the sensor transmitter 42, for example in the form of a rolling bearing, and generate feedback, in particular tactile and optionally audible feedback, to the user when an operating action B is detected.

[0149] like Figure 1-12 As indicated, the operating device 100 can be designed rotationally and / or axisymmetrically. This can achieve the advantage that the operating device 100 can be mounted and operated in any position and / or orientation.

[0150] The circuit board 10, the electronic unit 20, the connecting element 30, the sensor unit 40 and / or the operating element 50 can be connected to each other in a materially bonded manner (for example, by means of an adhesive) after the operating device 100 is assembled. In this way, a simple assembly and sealing of the components can be achieved. In this case, an adhesive can be selected that allows a relative movement of the operating element 50 relative to the connecting element 30 after hardening.

[0151] In principle, however, it is also conceivable that the printed circuit board 10 , the electronic unit 20 , the connecting element 30 , the sensor unit 40 and / or the operating element 50 can be connected to one another at least partially in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

[0152] In addition, from Figure 2-5 As can be seen in the figure, the operating element 50 can be constructed in one piece and / or in two pieces. A one-piece embodiment can facilitate assembly. A two-piece embodiment can facilitate auditory feedback to the user.

[0153] A corresponding system S1 for the vehicle 101 is also an aspect of the present invention, and has:

[0154] at least one manipulator 100, which may be implemented as described above, and

[0155] At least one functional device 200 of vehicle 101 , which can be controlled or operated by means of operating device 100 .

[0156] In the system S1, at least one eye tracking device may be provided in order to automatically select at least one functional device 200 to be operated by means of the operating device 100. In this way, it is possible to operate the functional device 200 from a distance. It is thus also possible to operate a plurality of functional devices 200 by means of the same operating device 100.

[0157] In the system S1 , a first charging device L1 may be provided in order to charge the operating device 100 . In this way, the operating device 100 may be charged directly in the vehicle 101 .

[0158] The first charging device L1 can be implemented to accommodate operating devices 100 of different sizes for charging.

[0159] A corresponding vehicle 101 with the system S1 is also an aspect of the present invention, which system may be implemented as described above.

[0160] A corresponding system S2 for a smart device 102, in particular a smart home, a smart office, etc., is also an aspect of the present invention, and has:

[0161] at least one manipulator 100, which may be implemented as described above, and

[0162] At least one functional device 200 of the smart device 102 , which can be controlled by means of the operating device 100 .

[0163] In the system S2, at least one second charging device L2 may be provided to charge the operating device 100. In this way, flexible charging of the operating device 100 may be achieved. Advantageously, the at least one second charging device L2 may be implemented to accommodate operating devices 100 of different sizes for charging.

[0164] exist Fig.12 Detailed descriptions of the first charging device L1 and / or the second charging device L2 are shown in FIG.

[0165] The system S1 for the vehicle 101 and the system S2 for the smart device 102 can advantageously form a connected smart system which enables different functional devices 200 to be controlled / operated at different locations using the same operating device 100 .

[0166] The above explanations of the embodiments describe the invention only within the scope of examples. Of course, the individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another as long as it makes technical sense, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0167] List of reference numerals:

[0168] 100 control devices

[0169] 10 Circuit Board

[0170] 11 Carrier board

[0171] 20 electronic units

[0172] 21 Structural components

[0173] 22 Display components

[0174] 23 Charging contact part

[0175] 30 connection elements

[0176] 30K Collar Components

[0177] 31 inner surface

[0178] 31K Accommodation Chamber

[0179] 32 Outside

[0180] 32A support accommodating portion

[0181] 33 Opening

[0182] 40 sensor units

[0183] 41 sensor elements

[0184] 42 sensor transmitter

[0185] 43 Detection element

[0186] 50 operating elements

[0187] 51 bearing surface

[0188] 52 Grooves

[0189] 53 concavity

[0190] B Manipulation action

[0191] RaAxial direction

[0192] Rt tangential direction

[0193] Rr radial direction

[0194] FRunning function

[0195] 200 functional devices

[0196] S1 System

[0197] 101 Vehicles

[0198] L1 charging device

[0199] S2 System

[0200] 102 Smart devices

[0201] L2 charging device

Claims

1. An operating device (100) for at least one functional device (200), in particular at least one functional device (200) in a vehicle (101) and / or an intelligent device (102), in, The operating device (100) is implemented as a remote control device for the at least one functional device (200), wherein the manipulator (100) is implemented as a ring, The operating device comprises: - a circuit board (10) for supporting an electronic unit (20), - an electronic unit (20) for providing an operating function (F) in the operating device (100), - a connecting element (30) for covering the electronic unit (20) and supporting the sensor unit (40), a sensor unit (40) having a sensor element (41) for detecting an operating action (B) of a user for a corresponding operating function (F) in the operating device (100), and - an operating element (50) for covering the sensor unit (40) and recording the user's operating action (B), The operating device (100) has at least one communication interface with the user, wherein the communication interface is designed to: When an operating action (B) is registered by the operating element (50) and / or when an operating action (B) is detected by the sensor unit (40) and / or thereafter, feedback, in particular tactile and / or acoustic feedback, is provided to the user.

2. The operating device (100) according to claim 1, in, The at least one communication interface with the user is provided at least in part by the operating element (50), and / or wherein the actuating element (50) has a bearing surface (51) for a sensor element (41) of the sensor unit (40), In particular, the bearing surface (51) is designed as follows: achieving an interaction, preferably a mechanical interaction, preferably an exclusively mechanical interaction, with the sensor element (41), When an operating action (B) is detected, feedback, in particular haptic and, if appropriate, acoustic feedback, is generated to the user.

3. The operating device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The at least one communication interface with the user is provided at least in part by the electronic unit (20), and / or wherein the electronic unit (20) has at least one vibration unit, In particular, the at least one vibration unit is designed to be electrically and / or electromechanically drivable, In order to generate feedback, in particular tactile feedback, to the user when an operating action (B) is detected.

4. The operating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The sensor element (41) of the sensor unit (40) is designed to detect an operating action (B) of the user with respect to the operating device (100) in a tangential direction (Rt) and / or in an axial direction (Ra), for example in the form of a rolling movement, a swiping movement or a rotational movement at the operating element (50). And / or wherein at least one sensor element (41) or a plurality of sensor elements (41) or all sensor elements (41) of the sensor unit (40) are implemented to detect the user's operating action (B) on the operating device (100) in the radial direction (Rr), for example in the form of touching, pressing, single-clicking, double-clicking, etc. on the operating element (50), and / or wherein the sensor unit (40) is implemented by means of inductive, electromagnetic, electromechanical, capacitive and / or UWB technology, And / or wherein the operating device (100) implements an ID transmitter function for providing a security system for the vehicle (101).

5. The operating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The sensor element (41) of the sensor unit (40) is embodied, in particular, by means of a sensor transmitter (42) specially designed for this purpose, preferably in the form of a rolling bearing. The sensor unit (40) is movably supported on a bearing surface (51) of the actuating element (50), and / or wherein the sensor element (41) of the sensor unit (40) is embodied, in particular by means of a sensor transmitter (42) designed specifically for this purpose, preferably in the form of a rolling bearing. realizing an interaction, preferably a mechanical interaction, preferably an exclusively mechanical interaction, with a bearing surface (51) of the actuating element (50), When an operating action (B) is detected, a feedback, in particular a haptic and, if appropriate, an acoustic feedback, is generated.

6. The operating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The operating device (100) is designed rotationally and / or axisymmetrically. and / or wherein the printed circuit board (10), the electronic unit (20), the connecting element (30), the sensor unit (40) and / or the operating element (50) are at least partially cylindrical in shape, and / or wherein the circuit board (10), the electronic unit (20), the connecting element (30), the sensor unit (40) and / or the operating element (50) are arranged concentrically and / or coaxially with respect to one another, and / or wherein the circuit board (10), the electronic unit (20), the connecting element (30), the sensor unit (40) and / or the operating element (50) are connected to one another in a materially bonded manner, in particular by means of an adhesive or a casting compound, And / or wherein the circuit board (10), the electronic unit (20), the connecting element (30), the sensor unit (40) and / or the operating element (50) are at least partially connected to one another in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

7. The operating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The circuit board (10) comprises a carrier board (11). In particular, the carrier plate (11) is designed as an inner ring. and / or where The operating device (100) is modularly constructed so as to realize matching shapes for different sizes. and / or wherein at least one carrier ring is arranged as an inner ring in order to achieve a matching shape for different sizes, In particular, the at least one carrier ring is designed to be fastened on the inside to a carrier plate (11) of the printed circuit board (10).

8. The operating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The actuating element (50) is constructed in one piece and / or in two pieces. and / or wherein the actuating element (50) is embodied as an outer ring, And / or wherein the operating element (50) is embodied as a housing for the operating device (100).

9. The operating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The electronic unit (20) for providing an operating function (F) in the operating device (100) comprises at least one of the following components, in particular electronic components: - at least one vibration unit, at least one charging unit, which has, for example, a battery, a display element (22) for the charging state, at least one charging contact (23), etc., - at least one control and / or evaluation unit, - at least one communication unit with a corresponding electronic unit of the functional device (200), which is based on wireless technology such as Bluetooth, WLAN, UWB, mobile radio, etc., for example, - at least one acoustic communication unit with the operating device (100), for example for voice control, etc., and / or wherein the electronic unit (20) has at least three, preferably four, associated structural assemblies (21) on a component, in particular an electronic component, In particular, the assembly (21) is symmetrically designed and arranged symmetrically along the cylindrical outer circumference of the connecting element (30).

10. The operating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The connecting element (30) has an inner surface (31) for covering the electronic unit (20) and an outer surface (32) for supporting the sensor unit (40). and / or where The connecting element (30) has, in particular on its inner surface (31), a receiving cavity (31K), which is designed to receive at least three, preferably four associated structural components (21) of a component, in particular an electronic component, of the electronic unit (20) in a form-fitting manner. and / or wherein the connecting element (30) has, in particular on the outer side (32), a support receptacle (32A) for a sensor element (41) of the sensor unit (40), In particular, the support receiving portion (32A) forms a partition wall for the receiving cavity (31K), And / or wherein the connecting element (30) has at least one, preferably two, collar elements (30K) oriented inwardly, in particular when viewed radially, in order to delimit the receiving space (31K), in particular when viewed axially.

11. A system (S1) for a vehicle (101), comprising: - at least one manipulator (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, and - at least one functional device (200) of the vehicle (101) which can be controlled by means of the operating device (100).

12. System (S1) according to the preceding claim, in, At least one eye tracking device is provided to automatically select at least one functional device (200) to be operated by means of the operating device (100), and / or wherein a first charging device (L1) is provided to charge the operating device (100), In particular, the first charging device (L1) is designed to accommodate operating devices (100) of different sizes for charging.

13. A vehicle (101) having a system (S1) according to any of the preceding claims.

14. A system (S2) for a smart device (102), in particular a smart home, a smart office, etc., comprising: - at least one manipulator (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, and - at least one functional device (200) of the smart device (102), which can be controlled by means of the operating device (100).

15. System (S2) according to the preceding claim, in, At least one second charging device (L2) is provided to charge the operating device (100), In particular, the at least one second charging device (L2) is designed to accommodate operating devices (100) of different sizes for charging.

Images