Apparatus and method for controlling key unit

Abstract

An apparatus (100) and method wherein the apparatus (100) comprises a control device (20) and a storage unit (60) and an input unit (10). A plurality of key units (11) for generating signals (14) are accommodated on the input unit (10). The push-button unit (11) can be moved between at least two positions (12, 13) and triggers a signal (14) when moved from the first position (12) to the second position (13). An electrically controllable braking device (1) is associated with the push-button unit (11) in order to brake the movement of the push-button unit (11) in a controlled manner. The brake device (1) comprises two brake parts (2, 3) which can be moved relative to each other and between which an electrically controllable braking action can be set. The control device (20) is configured and designed to preset an actuation sequence (70) of the push-button units (11) and to set a braking action for at least one push-button unit (11) depending on the actuation sequence (70).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for controlling a key unit. Here, such a device can for example be configured as a component of a musical instrument or a musical instrument or as an operating device or for example a keyboard for a computer or a computer having an integrated keyboard, etc. Generally, such a device includes a plurality of adjacent key units for generating signals or sounds. For example, the key units are accommodated at a common carrier. Here, the key units can generally move between at least two positions and generate at least one signal at least when moving from a first position to a second position (directly or indirectly). Background Art

[0002] Various musical instruments, game controllers, computers, and keyboards for computers are known, which in a corresponding manner have a plurality of or a large number of key units. Skilled users can play musical works on musical instruments for their own entertainment and the entertainment of others, and for computer users, short or long texts can be input simply and quickly. However, disadvantageously, operating a keyboard for a computer and especially playing a musical instrument requires some practice. In any case, the input of text should be fast and error-free or the musical experience when playing an instrument should be pleasant. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a device and a method that support the operation of a keyboard for a computer or other operating device or the playing of musical works on a musical instrument and can be learned more simply in particular.

[0004] This object is solved by a device having the features of claim 1 and a method having the features of claim 22. Preferred refinements of the present invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the present invention result from the general description and the description of the embodiments.

[0005] The device according to the present invention includes at least one control device, a storage unit, and an input unit, at which at least a large number of key units for generating signals are accommodated. Here, the key units can each move between at least two positions on a manipulation stroke (at least). The key units trigger at least one signal at least when moving from a first position to a second position. At least some of the key units are associated with at least one (electrically) controllable braking device in order to (especially individually) brake the movement of the key units in a controlled manner. The control device is set up and configured to preset the manipulation sequence of the key units. The braking effect of at least one of the key units can be set depending on the manipulation sequence (especially using the control device).

[0006] The device according to the invention has many advantages. A significant advantage of the device according to the invention is that a control device can be used to preset the operating sequence of the key unit, and in a corresponding manner, a particularly (individual) control of the braking action of the key unit can be generated accordingly. This makes it easy for the user to operate such a device.

[0007] For example, if the device is constructed as a musical instrument or forms a musical instrument part of a musical instrument, the process of a musical work can be preset, and the user or player of the device can feel the corresponding braking action when operating the key unit. The user directly obtains the following feedback as to whether the key unit he is currently operating is the correct one or the wrong one. The same applies when entering text or other characters in a computer using, for example, a keyboard. In this case, the operator also directly obtains the following feedback as to whether he is operating the keyboard correctly or operating the key unit in the wrong arrangement order or at the wrong time point.

[0008] In particular, the control device is set up and configured to set a separate braking action (indirectly or directly) at the key unit depending on the operating sequence.

[0009] In all design solutions, the operating sequence can be, for example, or represent the keyboard order or the process of a musical work or the game process of, for example, a computer game. Thus, in the keyboard order, the character order can represent a meaningful text or also a specific or random character order.

[0010] Basically, after operating the current key unit, depending on the operating sequence, the next key unit to be operated becomes the current key unit. But it is also possible that the control is carried out rhythmically, where the "current key unit" then corresponds accordingly to the key unit that is just due at the current time in the time flow. Then this has nothing to do with whether the key unit was operated correctly or at all before. Thus, for example, in a musical work, accidentally omitted notes can be skipped. Then, the user can continue at the current correct position and, for example, pay attention to the omitted notes during the next cycle.

[0011] In a preferred improvement, the braking device includes at least two braking components that can move relative to each other, and a controllable braking action can be set between the braking components. Such a braking action can represent or include a braking force, or can also represent or include a braking torque. Correspondingly, the braking action can also include a braking force and a braking torque.

[0012] The controllable braking device can work in different ways. For example, a motor brake or a magnetic brake, a hydraulic brake or a pneumatic brake can be provided. It is also possible to generate or overcome a spring force via electrical activation so that two friction linings come into contact with each other or separate from each other.

[0013] Preferably, the braking device includes at least one magnetorheological medium and can be loaded with a controllable magnetic field of at least one magnetic field generating device in order to set an electrically controllable braking effect. The braking effect can in particular also vary and / or be controlled in terms of time.

[0014] In an advantageous refinement, at least one braking device includes at least one braking gap section which is (at least partially) provided with a magnetorheological medium. Preferably, the braking gap section is configured to be bent around the pivot axis of the braking device. It is also possible for the braking gap section to completely surround the pivot axis.

[0015] In a preferred refinement, the control device is set up and configured to set a freely definable profile of the braking effect over the actuation stroke.

[0016] In this regard, it should be noted that the term "actuation stroke" can be understood both as a stroke section to be traversed and as an angular movement or angular section. This means that the term "actuation stroke" is understood both as a linear movement and as a "rotational movement" or "pivoting movement".

[0017] In all designs, the strength of the braking and the profile of the braking effect are preferably variable and / or can be set individually differently. This results in a variable braking effect over the actuation stroke. In particular, the control device is configured and set up to load the key unit with a variable braking effect over the actuation stroke.

[0018] Preferably, the control device is set up and configured to set the profile of the braking effect over the actuation stroke in the currently to-be-actuated key unit and a different profile of the braking effect in the other key units. This means that the currently to-be-actuated key unit feels different during actuation compared to at least one other key unit. For this, the user can directly and immediately feel whether they are just actuating the correct key unit. It is also possible for two or more key units to be the currently actuated key unit simultaneously or with a slight time offset. For example, when playing chords or generating special characters on a keyboard.

[0019] The different key units can have different profiles of the braking effect (braking force, braking torque) over the travel or actuation stroke. Thus, for example, the to-be-actuated key unit can have a first profile and the non-to-be-actuated key units can have a second profile. For example, it is possible to associate a rectangular profile or a ripple with an alternating strength of the braking effect with a key unit, while associating an increasing or decreasing profile of the braking effect with other key units. Other profiles such as a sawtooth profile or a sine profile are also possible. The "braking effect" can also be understood as the "average" magnitude or the minimum or maximum value over the travel.

[0020] In all design solutions, it is also possible that the resistance in the key unit to be currently actuated is not less than, but greater than, the resistance in other key units that should not be actuated at present. In this way, the distinction between the key unit to be currently actuated and the key units that should not be actuated at present is also achieved.

[0021] Preferably, the control device is configured and set up such that the key unit to be currently actuated according to the actuation sequence is loaded with a smaller braking effect, and at least one other (currently not to be actuated) key unit is loaded with a greater braking effect. Here, it is conceivable that the key units (directly or, if necessary, indirectly) arranged in the surroundings of the key unit to be actuated are loaded with a braking effect different from that of the key unit to be currently actuated. In this regard, it is preferred that the control device is configured and set up such that the following key units are loaded with a different (and in particular greater) braking effect, the key units being arranged directly adjacent to or at a specific distance around the key unit to be currently actuated according to the actuation sequence.

[0022] In this way, for example, it is possible that only the key units close to the key unit to be currently actuated are loaded with a (different) braking effect, while the more distant key units remain unaffected. For example, the (one or two) key units connected in each direction adjacent to the current key unit can be loaded with a braking effect different from that of the current key unit. This can help reduce energy consumption.

[0023] In all design solutions, it is preferred that at least some or all of the key units can be illuminated in a controlled manner by means of at least one lighting device. For example, an external lighting device can be provided for selectively illuminating at least some or all of the key units.

[0024] Particularly preferably, at least some key units or almost all or all key units each include at least one (self - contained and independent) lighting unit. Such a lighting unit can in particular be integrated into at least some key units. By means of the integrated or internal lighting unit, the next or current key unit can be indicated simply and reliably. Thereby, the user is also visually indicated which key unit should be actuated next. The subsequent key units can be illuminated in a different color rhythm and / or hue.

[0025] In all design solutions, it is preferred that at least one display is included. For example, such a display can present an image of a large number of key units. Then, the control device is preferably configured and set up to visually highlight the key units according to the actuation sequence. This can be done additionally or instead of illuminating the key unit to be actuated.

[0026] The display can also be configured as a virtual reality display or can additionally include such a virtual reality display. It is also possible to configure the display at the glasses. The glasses and / or the display can be configured to be partially transparent. Via such a display, the key unit can be selectively visually highlighted according to the manipulation sequence. Then, the control device is in particular set up and configured to highlight the display area aligned with the next or currently to-be-manipulated key unit accordingly.

[0027] In all designs, it is preferred that the control device is set up and configured to acquire the manipulation of the key unit using the sensor device. This can be done via a sensor device associated with the key unit. However, it is also possible that, for example, a camera acquires the movement of the manipulation of the key unit. Then, the corresponding separate sensor device at the key unit can be omitted if necessary.

[0028] Preferably, a plurality of sensor devices are provided for a large number of key units in order to acquire the individual manipulations of the key units. It is also possible here that, if the manipulation or the sensor signal can be reliably associated with the key unit (regularly), only a common sensor device is provided for two or three corresponding individual key units.

[0029] In all designs, it is particularly preferred that the control device is set up and configured to detect the time interval of the manipulation of the key unit and store it in the storage unit in order to enable direct and / or subsequent evaluation. It is also possible that not only the time interval of the manipulation itself is acquired and stored, but also the temporal course of the manipulation of the (corresponding) current key unit is stored in the storage unit. For example, the evaluation can be carried out directly via the time points of the signals of the sensor device or the key unit and / or via the measured values of the sensor device.

[0030] The method according to the invention is in particular carried out using a device, wherein the device includes at least one control device, a storage unit, and an input unit. At the input unit, preferably at least a large number of key units for generating signals are accommodated. Preferably, at least some of the key units are associated with at least one electrically controllable braking device. The key units can each move between at least two positions and trigger at least one signal at least when moving from the first position to the second position. Here, a manipulation sequence of the key units is preset, and depending on the manipulation sequence, the (in particular individual) braking action of at least one of the key units is controlled. Such control is in particular carried out by means of the control device. The control device sets the (in particular individual) braking action of the currently to-be-manipulated key unit depending on the manipulation sequence. In a simple case, the braking action of the key unit (constant for the manipulation time period) is set. It is also possible to control the braking action of the key unit in terms of time.

[0031] The method according to the invention also has many advantages. With this method, the operation and manipulation of such a device become significantly easier to learn.

[0032] In particular, the operating sequence of the preset key unit is defined, and depending on the operating sequence, the controllable braking device is controlled in order to specifically control the braking of at least one of the key units.

[0033] In an advantageous refinement, the key units are braked differently and in particular more strongly than the key unit that is currently to be manipulated (depending on the operating sequence).

[0034] Preferably, all key units are braked differently and in particular more strongly (or more weakly) than the key unit that is currently to be manipulated according to the operating sequence.

[0035] In an advantageous design, the key unit that is currently to be manipulated is illuminated. The illumination can be carried out via a central lighting device or a lighting device integrated into the respective key unit.

[0036] In all designs, it is particularly preferred that measured values regarding the manipulation are stored in a storage unit. The acquisition can be carried out via a separate sensor device. However, it is also possible to directly or indirectly determine the time point of the signal acquisition.

[0037] In a preferred refinement, the measured values regarding the manipulation of the key units are compared with preset values from the operating sequence. This is a preferred aspect of the control. In simple cases, the measured value can be, for example, the correct manipulation of a key. This can be a quasi-numerical value, for example in a computer keyboard. In this way, it is possible to correctly or incorrectly manipulate the key units. However, it is also possible to make inferences based on the course of the manipulation in terms of the manipulation travel or the manipulation angle. For example, the manipulation speed or volume of the played note can be analyzed.

[0038] In an advantageous design, the measured values of different operating processes are compared with each other, and at least one analysis value is determined and stored. For example, when writing a text or playing a musical composition, a comparison can be made with previous processes. In this way, improvements or changes over time can also be acquired and recorded.

[0039] In particular, the method is carried out using the previously described device. The method can be used in particular for learning or improving the operation of the device. It is also possible to practice the operation or playing of the device.

[0040] A particularly preferred method is used for learning to operate the above-described device. Here, the operating sequence of the preset or adjustable key units is defined. Depending on the operating sequence, at least one braking device is controlled, and thus the braking effect (braking or braking degree or braking strength) of at least one of the key units is set in a time-controlled manner.

[0041] The applicant reserves the right to claim protection for storage media containing programs with method steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Further advantages and features of the present invention are described in the embodiments explained below with reference to the drawings.

[0043] Wherein:

[0044] Figure 1a -c shows different design variants of the device according to the invention as a component of a musical instrument;

[0045] Figs. 1d - e show various embodiments of the device according to the invention, which include a keyboard;

[0046] Figure 2a 、 Figure 2b shows a highly schematic view of the device according to the invention;

[0047] Figure 3a -c shows a perspective view and two sectional views of a braking device for the device according to the invention;

[0048] Figure 4 shows a schematic overview of the device according to the invention; and

[0049] Figure 5a -b shows different courses of the braking action during the operating stroke. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] Figure 1a 、 Figure 1b and Figure 1c show three different design variants of the musical instrument component 100b according to the invention as the device 100. Here, Figure 1a shows a concert grand piano 101 as a musical instrument or musical instrument component 100b. The concert grand piano 101 has a piano keyboard (input unit 10), which has a large number of key units 11, which are jointly accommodated at the carrier 10a here. The concert grand piano has a resonator 105. When the key unit 11 is actuated, a sound 16 is output as a signal 14.

[0051] Figure 1b Here, a piano 102 is shown as a musical instrument component 100b, at which the key unit 11 is again arranged at the piano keyboard as the input unit 10. Here, the key unit 11 is also accommodated at the common carrier 10a. A resonator 105 is also provided. The pedals, which can be actuated as required to change the sound characteristics, are not drawn in Figure 1a and Figure 1b .

[0052] Figure 1c shows a piano keyboard 103 or a music-electronic keyboard, which also has a large number of key units 11, which are arranged in two layers here. The corresponding key units 11 are movable and are pivotably accommodated at the carrier 10a here. The control device 20 (and, if necessary, the electronic control unit 50) can be accommodated in the base body 10a or the housing, which is provided for controlling the magnetorheological braking device and for further processing the generated signals.

[0053] A selection switch 25 is also provided for setting the desired characteristics or for switching on or off. The display unit 29 can be used for checking. At the connection part 22, the signal 14 or the sound signal 17 generated by means of the control device 20 can be output and forwarded.

[0054] Via the lighting units 46 integrated into the key units 11 (only some lighting units are drawn schematically), one (or in particular each) key unit 11 can be illuminated here from the inside (or, if necessary, also from the outside), so that the user can directly identify the key unit 11 that should be manipulated now and, if necessary, subsequently.

[0055] Via the magnetorheological braking device 1 arranged inside the housing (see FIG. 2), the characteristics when operating the key unit 11 can be set and changed specifically and individually for each key. Figure 1d Shows a workplace with a table, on which a computer with a control device 20 and a screen as a display 80 and a keyboard 104 are depicted. Additionally, a virtual reality display (VR display) 81 and glasses 82 with an integrated (for example, partially transparent) display 80 are also depicted on the table.

[0056] The control device 20 or the computer includes a storage unit 60 in which a program for the method flow is stored. Here, the (central) lighting device 45 and the camera 47 can be identified above on the display 80. The lighting device 45 can be used to selectively illuminate the individual key units 11 of the input unit 10. Thereby, the user is visually indicated which key unit should be manipulated next or currently.

[0057] Via the camera 47, it is possible to acquire the key unit 11 that is manipulated accordingly. This can be achieved by acquiring which key unit 11 the user's finger is placed on. But particularly preferably, the movement of the user's finger when operating the key unit 11 is acquired using the camera 47 and image analysis, and then the correlation and acquisition of measurement values are achieved for this.

[0058] Figure 1eFig. 0 shows a schematic top view of a keyboard 104 that can be used with a computer or alone. In this regard, the keyboard 104 can also form the device 100 or the appliance 100a. The keyboard 104 has a large number of key units 11, and the key units can be respectively equipped with lighting units 46 drawn in dotted lines either all or individually. Through the lighting unit 46, the key units 11 can be illuminated from the inside or, if necessary, from the outside, so that the user can directly identify the key units 11 to be manipulated.

[0059] Exemplarily, the key unit 11a to be manipulated currently or next is drawn, and its left and right sides are surrounded by the key units 11b, 11c. Upward, the key unit 11d is adjacent to the current key unit 11a, and downward, two key units 11e are adjacent to the current key unit 11a. The key units 11b to 11e form key units arranged directly adjacent to each other.

[0060] When performing the method according to the present application, preferably, the current key unit 11a is provided with a separately set braking effect via the associated braking device 1 (see Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 3a-3c ), while other braking effects are set or controlled in the adjacent key units 11b to 11e. This is preferably carried out correspondingly in other embodiments and also, for example, in the embodiments according to Figure 1c .

[0061] Generally, the adjacent key units 11b to 11e are provided with a larger braking effect (braking force and / or braking torque), while the key unit 11a is loaded with a smaller braking effect. The exact trend of the braking effect on the corresponding operating stroke and / or in time depends on the corresponding individual situation. The currently to-be-manipulated key unit can be loaded stronger and weaker.

[0062] Figure 2a A possible embodiment of the key unit 11 at the highly schematic and only partially presented musical instrument component 100b or the device 100 is shown in a schematic cross-section. The key unit 11 is accommodated at the base or carrier 10a. The key unit 11 is pivotally accommodated in the magnetorheological braking device 1 about the axis 1a here. The key unit 11 is pivotally accommodated in the end region about the pivot axis 1a here. The first position 12, which is the rest position or the starting position, is presented in solid lines. The pivoted second position 13 is drawn in dotted lines.

[0063] To reset the key unit 11 to the first position (which is the rest position), a reset device 40 is provided, which here includes a spring device 42 embodied as a helical spring. When the key unit 11 is actuated, the helical spring of the spring device 42 is compressed such that the key unit automatically returns to the first position 12 after releasing the key unit 11.

[0064] A sensor device 21 having a first sensor part 21a and a second sensor part 21b is used to obtain a measure of the position or orientation of the key unit 11. By evaluating the current position of the key unit 11 as well as the change rates of the movement speed and acceleration, the signal 14 can already be determined directly if necessary. In addition, the intensity of the braking or the intensity of the brake 1 is set via the respective current position of the key 11.

[0065] The magnetorheological brake device 1 here includes a fixed internal brake part 2 and an external brake part 3 pivotable relative to the fixed internal brake part, which is pivotably arranged about a pivot axis 1a and connected to the key unit 11. However, it is also possible that the key unit is fastened to the pivotable internal brake part 2, which is pivotably received in the fixed external brake part 3.

[0066] Figure 2b A schematic cross-section through a part of the keyboard 104 etc. is shown, where at least three adjacent key units 11 can be recognized at least partially at the device 100 here. Each key unit 11 is respectively associated with a brake device 1, which here respectively has a pivot axis 1a. The course of the pivot axis 1a is aligned here transversely and in particular perpendicular to the actuation direction of the key unit 11.

[0067] Via the toothing 31 at the projection of the key unit 11, the actuation is transmitted to the toothing 32 at the brake device 1. Thereby, the linear movement of the key unit 11 is converted into a rotational or pivoting movement at the brake device 1. Here, the schematically drawn reset device 40 is responsible for the required reset force, which generates a mechanical, magnetic or other reset force.

[0068] The key unit 11 is received in a common carrier 10a. Exemplarily, the key unit 11 drawn on the right is embodied as the current key unit 11a and is schematically presented here in the pressed state.

[0069] In Figure 3a , Figure 3b and Figure 3c preferred design variants of the magnetorheological brake device 1 are presented. Here, Figure 3a a schematic perspective view is shown. The internal brake part 2 and the external brake part 3 are drawn here. The two brake parts 2, 3 are pivotably received relative to one another.

[0070] Figure 3b A longitudinal section is shown. Here, the internal brake component 2 can be fixedly configured, for example. For example, in the hollow configured portion of the internal brake component 2, cables for current supply (not drawn) and cables to sensors that may be present can be guided through. Here, the internal brake component also configures a core 26, and the electric coil unit 24 is wound around this core in a surrounding groove or the like.

[0071] Here, the magnetic field generation device 9 includes the electric coil unit 24 and the core 26, and may also optionally include a permanent magnet, which provides a basic torque even, for example, in a state without current. During operation, then, the magnetic field of the permanent magnet (not drawn here) can be enhanced or weakened by energizing the electric coil unit 24 in order to generate a magnetic field and thus a braking torque that depends on time or on the stroke.

[0072] Exemplarily, in Figure 3b the direction of the magnetic field 8 is drawn, which here respectively substantially radially passes through the brake gap sections 5 and 6 of the brake gap 4 adjacent to the electric coil unit 24. Thereby, a (variable) braking torque is respectively generated in the brake gap sections 5 and 6, which depends on the strength of the magnetic field.

[0073] The brake gap 4 of a part of the accommodation space is at least partially filled with a magnetorheological medium, such that magnetorheological particles are respectively present in the brake gap sections 5 and 6, which are affected by the magnetic field 8.

[0074] The brake component 3 that radially surrounds the brake component 2 here includes a housing having a front component 3a, an outer component 3b, and a rear component 3c. Overall, the outer component 3b and the core 26 are composed of a material with good magnetic permeability, so that an effective magnetic field 8 can be generated. The other components 3a, 3c are preferably composed of materials with a magnetic permeability (significantly) lower than that of the outer component 3b (preferably a multiple > 10). Sealing devices 28 (such as housing seals made of elastomer) are respectively arranged between the front component 3a and the outer component 3b and between the outer component 3b and the rear component 3c.

[0075] At least one rotary bearing 15 can be provided or configured between the two brake components 2 and 3. It is also possible that no separate bearing is provided, but rather the magnetorheological brake device 1 provides the rotary bearing 15.

[0076] Figure 3c Shows a cross - section through according to Figure 3bCross-section of a magnetorheological braking device, in which the structure of the braking gap section 5a can be recognized here. Here, the inner braking part 2 has an outwardly protruding star-shaped profile or teeth in the region of the braking gap section 5, while the outer braking part 3 has a cylindrical inner wall here. Thereby, a variably sized gap height 5a is obtained circumferentially between the two braking parts 2, 3, which has periodically alternating minimum gap height 5b and maximum gap height 5c. Here, the two braking parts 2, 3 are each constructed invariantly in the axial gap direction 5d over the braking gap section 5 or 6.

[0077] The braking gap section 5 or 6 each has a variably sized gap height 5a, which can vary by up to 1%, 2% or 5% of the diameter of the braking gap section 5. Larger or smaller gap heights are also possible. Magnetorheological particles are preferably included in the braking gap, the particle diameters of which are each significantly smaller than the minimum gap height. Preferably, the maximum particle size of the magnetorheological particles 7a is less than 1 / 5 or 1 / 10 or 1 / 100 of the minimum gap height 5b. However, other sizes of the magnetorheological particles 7a are also possible. The magnetorheological particles 7a are surrounded by a filling medium 7b, which can be a gas, such that dry magnetorheological particles 7a are present in the braking gap 5 or 6. However, it is also possible to use oil or other fluids as the carrier medium.

[0078] The electric coil unit 24 is controlled according to the desired braking effect. The intensity of the braking effect can be increased or decreased significantly within a few milliseconds.

[0079] Figure 4 A highly schematic illustration is shown, in which the control device 20 is drawn in dashed lines in the upper part and includes, for example, a control unit 50 and a storage unit 60.

[0080] A comparison device 51 is included in the control device 20. For example, an operating sequence 70 in the form of a keyboard sequence 71 or as a musical composition 72 or as a game sequence 73 of a computer game, for example, is input into the input terminal 22a of the control device 20 and stored in the storage unit 60. The analysis data 76 can be output via the output terminal 22b and displayed, for example, on a screen or monitor 80, in order to also allow for a visually simple analysis.

[0081] Corresponding to the operating sequence 70, the key unit 11a to be currently operated is preset, each of which is associated with a braking device 1. The desired braking effect is set or controlled in terms of time at the key unit 11a, and the corresponding other braking effects are set or controlled in terms of time at all other key units or the surrounding key units 11b to 11e.

[0082] The sensor device 21 acquires the operation of the key unit and transmits it back to the control device 20, where a comparison is performed in the comparison device 51 in it. The result flows into the analysis data 76.

[0083] Figure 5a shows the course 106 of different settings or presettings of the braking action 112 over the operating stroke 111. The corresponding course 106 can be set individually and depends, for example, on the appliance 100a or the musical instrument 100b. For example, the operating force over the stroke or pivot angle is different in different musical instruments.

[0084] In the case of a key press of the key unit 11, different forces must be applied in different instruments, but in the same instrument, the force course also depends on the speed of the key press. In addition, an adapted control is implemented.

[0085] The curve 106b shows the force course of a harpsichord, the curve 107 shows the force course of the concert grand piano 101, and the curve 109 shows the force course of a music-electric keyboard. Here, the curve 107 shows the force course at a lower first speed of the key unit 11.

[0086] In a concert grand piano, the horizontal hammer must be accelerated in the direction of the strings. Since this is a rotational movement here, the necessary force initially still increases until the hammer is released from the mechanism (so-called release), and it then strikes the strings only with its momentum. From the release point onwards, the force requirement for further movement decreases, and the user only feels (in a "real" concert grand piano and simulated here) the friction of the mechanism until the key unit hits the stop (final position). There, the movement (real - and virtually here) is braked or damped by felt or the like so that there is no hard impact of the key unit. A real piano (upright piano, as opposed to a grand piano) has a slightly different force course because the hammer is not horizontal but vertical. This can also be simulated as desired.

[0087] In contrast, a harpsichord "plucks" the strings with a plectrum. For this, a greater force must be applied at the start in order to move the plectrum past or pull it across the string. Once the string has been plucked by the plectrum, the force almost completely decreases so that the remaining stroke of the key unit moves without force. Here too, the corresponding course can be set.

[0088] A music-electric keyboard or keyboard 104 usually only has springs and a key unit (usually made of plastic) as a return element, and the key unit has only a small mass and thus a small inertia. Therefore, the force required to move the keys is preset by the spring characteristic curve of the return spring device, which can also be simulated.

[0089] Basically, the different curves 106 show the possible force trends for different input units or musical instruments. The force trend for the key unit 11a to be currently manipulated may also depend on the type and intensity of the sound to be played. Curve 107 may be the force trend of the reference curve, while curve 108 shows the trend when, for example, the stop is too strong.

[0090] Depending on whether the "correct" current key unit 11a or the "wrong" (i.e., adjacent) key unit 11b is manipulated, the force trend is set differently. For the currently operable key unit 11a of the keyboard 104, the force trend 109 can be set, for example, to the current force trend 106a, while for the adjacent key unit 11b, a different force trend 106b is set, which requires a significantly higher operating force so that the user obtains direct feedback.

[0091] Figure 5b Again purely by way of example, the force trend 110 when the keyboard 104 is manipulated is shown. Two trends 106a and 106b are additionally plotted, where curve 106a is, for example, the current trend of the key unit 11a to be currently manipulated, and the trend 106b is set for the key unit 11 that should not be currently manipulated. It is directly recognizable that in any case, at the beginning of the manipulation, the braking effect in the currently operable key unit 11a is significantly lower than the braking effect in the other trends 106b for the key units that should not be currently manipulated. Thus, the user directly recognizes during the manipulation whether they have manipulated the correct key unit.

[0092] The setting of the trend of the braking effect can additionally also be carried out according to which device type exists or is simulated. Thus, in a musical instrument, the force trend corresponding to a real instrument can be used to simulate the key unit to be currently played. For the key units that should not be currently manipulated, the corresponding other trend 106b can be selected. If the musical work is played completely correctly, the performer will not notice anything. If the performer plays the wrong key unit, the performer will immediately realize that they are playing incorrectly due to the changed braking effect.

[0093] Overall, the invention can be used in different devices and within the scope of different methods. For example, it is possible that only certain key units of the device 100 can be pressed depending on where in the song or in the text or in the manipulation sequence 70 to be input. It is possible, for example, to combine such a learning program with virtual reality. Then, via VR glasses or via glasses with a built-in display, the user can directly see which key unit they should next manipulate or play. Additional visual aids can also be arranged at the key units, or the key units can be illuminated accordingly. For example, an LED can be integrated, which lights up if the corresponding key unit should be currently manipulated.

[0094] In all design solutions, it is possible that teaching staff convey to students or users the works or tasks they should practice. The transmission can be carried out via a storage medium or by email as a file or directly via a network connection or in other ways. Then the user or student can play them via the input interface. The analysis data collected when manipulating or playing or completing the task can be stored and evaluated or read out for analysis. In this way, the teaching staff can see what the user or student has practiced and where there are still weaknesses or improvement possibilities.

[0095] In all design solutions, the key unit can be set differently hard or differently sluggish for each finger and individually. For example, when manipulating with the little finger, a smaller force is meaningful or required compared to when manipulating with the thumb or index finger. Accordingly, a distinction can also be made between the left and right hands in the case of different users.

[0096] Then, the operating force or operating torque of the key unit can be set corresponding to the fingering of the song or according to the distance of the fingers from the starting positions "asdf" or "hjkl" on the entire computer keyboard. Via an additional sensor device (such as a camera with image recognition, etc.), it can be determined which finger presses the key unit.

[0097] List of reference numerals

[0098] 1 Braking device

[0099] 1a Pivot axis

[0100] 2 First braking member

[0101] 3 Second braking member

[0102] 3a Front member

[0103] 3b Outer member

[0104] 3c Rear member

[0105] 4 Receiving cavity, gap

[0106] 5 Braking gap section

[0107] 5a Gap height

[0108] 5b Minimum height of 5

[0109] 5c Maximum height of 5

[0110] 5d Axial gap direction (5)

[0111] 6 Braking gap section

[0112] 7 Magnetorheological medium

[0113] 7a particles

[0114] 7b filling medium

[0115] 8 magnetic field

[0116] 9 magnetic field generating device

[0117] 10 input unit

[0118] 10a carrier

[0119] 11 key unit

[0120] 11a-f key unit

[0121] 12 first position

[0122] 13 second position

[0123] 14 signal

[0124] 15 rotating bearing

[0125] 16 sound

[0126] 17 sound signal

[0127] 20 control device

[0128] 21 sensor device

[0129] 21a sensor component

[0130] 21b sensor component

[0131] 22 connecting part

[0132] 22a input end

[0133] 22b output end

[0134] 24 electric coil unit

[0135] 25 switch

[0136] 26 core part

[0137] 27 sealing device

[0138] 28 sealing component

[0139] 29 display part

[0140] 31 tooth part at 11

[0141] 32 tooth part at 1

[0142] 40 reset device

[0143] 45 lighting device

[0144] 46 Lighting unit

[0145] 47 Camera

[0146] 50 Control unit

[0147] 51 Comparison device

[0148] 60 Storage unit

[0149] 70 Manipulation sequence

[0150] 71 Keyboard sequence

[0151] 72 Musical composition

[0152] 73 Game process

[0153] 76 Analysis data

[0154] 80 Monitor

[0155] 81 VR monitor

[0156] 82 Glasses

[0157] 100 Device

[0158] 100a Appliance

[0159] 100b Musical instrument

[0160] 101 Concert grand piano

[0161] 102 Piano

[0162] 103 Piano keyboard, musical - electronic keyboard

[0163] 104 Keyboard

[0164] 105 Resonator

[0165] 106 Direction of braking action

[0166] 106a Current direction

[0167] 106b Other direction

[0168] 107 Force direction of 101

[0169] 108 Force direction of 101

[0170] 109 Force direction of musical - electronic keyboard

[0171] 110 Force direction (keyboard)

[0172] 111 Manipulation stroke (stroke, angle)

[0173] 112 Manipulating action (force, moment)

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) comprising at least one control device (20), a storage unit (60) and an input unit (10), at which input unit a plurality of key units (11) for generating a signal (14) are accommodated, wherein, the key units (11) are each capable of moving between at least two positions (12, 13) on a manipulation stroke (111) and trigger at least one signal (14) at least when moving from a first position (12) to a second position (13), characterized in that, at least some of the key units (11) are associated with at least one electrically controllable braking device (1) for braking the movement of the key units (11) in a controlled manner, and the control device (20) is set up and configured to preset a manipulation sequence (70) of the key units (11), and the braking effect of at least one of the key units can be set depending on the manipulation sequence.

2. The apparatus (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein, at least one braking device (1) comprises a magnetorheological medium (7) and can be loaded with a controllable magnetic field (8) of at least one magnetic field generating device (9) in order to set an electrically controllable braking effect.

3. The apparatus (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein, at least one braking device (1) comprises at least one braking gap section (5, 6) which is provided with a magnetorheological medium (7).

4. The apparatus (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein, the braking gap section (5, 6) is configured to be curved around a pivot axis (1a) of the braking device (1).

5. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the control device (20) is set up and configured to set a freely definable course (106) of the braking effect (112) on the manipulation stroke (111).

6. The apparatus (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein, the control device (20) is set up and configured to set a course (106a) of the braking effect (112) on the manipulation stroke (111) in the currently to-be-manipulated key unit (11a) and a different other course (106b) of the braking effect in the other key units (11).

7. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the control device (20) is configured and set up to load the currently to-be-manipulated key unit (11a) according to the manipulation sequence (70) with a smaller braking effect and to load at least one other key unit (11b - 11d) with a larger braking effect.

8. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the control device (20) is configured and set up to load the key units (11b - 11d) arranged adjacent to the currently to-be-manipulated key unit (11a) according to the manipulation sequence (70) with a different other course (106b) of the braking effect.

9. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, Wherein, the control device (20) is configured and arranged to load all key units (11b - 11e) that should not be manipulated currently according to the manipulation sequence (70) with the other direction (106b) of the braking effect.

10. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, at least some of the key units (11) can be illuminated in a controlled manner by at least one lighting device (45).

11. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, at least some of the key units (11) each include at least one lighting unit (46).

12. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding two claims, wherein, the control device (50) is arranged and configured to illuminate the key unit (11a) that should be manipulated currently according to the manipulation sequence (70).

13. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, it includes at least one display (80).

14. The device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein, images of a large number of key units (11) can be presented on the display (80), and wherein the control device (50) is arranged and configured to visually highlight the key units (11) according to the manipulation sequence (70).

15. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding two claims, wherein, a VR display (81) or a display (82) on glasses is configured, and the key units (11) are selectively visually highlighted according to the manipulation sequence (70).

16. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, it includes at least one sensor device (21).

17. The device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein, the control device (20) is arranged and configured to obtain the manipulation of the key unit (11) by using the sensor device (21).

18. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding two claims, wherein, a plurality of sensor devices (21) for the large number of key units (11) are provided to obtain the individual manipulations of the key units (11).

19. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding three claims, wherein, the control device (20) is arranged and configured to obtain the speed of the manipulation of at least one key unit (11) by using the sensor device (21).

20. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding four claims, wherein, the control device (20) is arranged and configured to store the measured values of the sensor device (21) in the storage unit (60) for subsequent evaluation.

21. The device (100) according to any one of the preceding five claims, wherein, the control device (20) is arranged and configured to detect the time interval of the manipulation of the key unit (11) and store it in the storage unit (60) for subsequent evaluation.

22. A method of using a device (100) comprising at least one control device (20), a storage unit (60) and an input unit (10), at which input unit there is accommodated at least a large number of key units (11) for generating a signal (14), wherein, the key units (11) are each able to move between at least two positions (12, 13) and trigger at least one signal (14) at least when moving from a first position (12) to a second position (13), and wherein at least some of the key units (11) are associated with at least one electrically controllable braking device (1), characterized in that, a manipulation sequence (70) of the key units (11) is preset and, depending on the manipulation sequence, the controllable braking device (1) is controlled in order to purposefully control the braking of at least one of the key units.

23. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein, the key units (11b, 11c) are braked differently compared to the key unit (11a) to be currently manipulated.

24. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding two claims, wherein, all key units (11b - 11f) are braked compared to the key unit (11a) to be currently manipulated.

25. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding three claims, wherein, the key unit (11a) to be currently manipulated is illuminated.

26. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding four claims, wherein, measurement values regarding the manipulation of the key unit (11a) are stored.

27. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding five claims, wherein, the measurement values regarding the manipulation of the key unit (11a) are compared with preset values from the manipulation sequence (70).

28. The method (100) according to any one of the preceding six claims, wherein, the measurement values of different operating processes are compared with each other and analysis values are determined and stored.

29. A method for learning to operate a device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, a manipulation sequence (70) of the key units (11) is preset and, wherein, depending on the manipulation sequence, at least one braking device is controlled and thus the braking effect of at least one of the key units is set in a time - controlled manner.

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