Operating device for controlling the function of a machine

Abstract

An operating device for controlling a function of a machine, such as a function of an agricultural or construction vehicle, is provided. The operating device (2) comprises an energy generating unit (4) configured to generate electrical energy upon actuation by a user of the operating device (2), wherein the energy generating unit (2) is actuatable in a first direction and actuatable in a second direction, and configured to generate electrical energy when actuated in the first direction and / or in the second direction; and a controller (6) configured to transmit a first control signal (8) indicative of actuation in the first direction when the energy generating unit (2) is actuated in the first direction, and configured to transmit a second control signal (10) different from the first control signal and indicative of actuation in the second direction when the energy generating unit is actuated in the second direction. The controller (6) is operated at least partially by electrical energy generated by the energy generating unit (4).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an operating device for controlling machine functions, the operating device comprising an energy generation unit and a controller. The invention also relates to a method for operating the operating device for controlling machine functions. A corresponding machine may also be provided. Background Technology

[0002] Operating elements such as joysticks or knobs are commonly used to control the functions of machines, such as construction vehicles or agricultural vehicles. These operating elements are typically wired, making it difficult to integrate additional operating elements into existing machines afterward. Specifically, this requires installing new cables, which is often impossible or only feasible with considerable effort due to poor accessibility. Wireless communication control elements exist. However, such systems suffer from the problem of requiring power, as there is no power source connected to the machine. Furthermore, the actuation status of the control elements cannot be reliably detected.

[0003] EP4174815A1A discloses a wireless control device including a housing, a movable actuating element, an electronic control circuit including a wireless transmitter, and an energy harvesting device. The wireless transmitter is capable of transmitting control signals to an electronic device, and the energy harvesting device is configured to supply power to the electronic control circuit.

[0004] US5844516A relates to a method for wireless handheld remote control, wherein the power required by a transmitter that wirelessly provides control signals to a remotely controlled device is generated by a generator that converts mechanical power into electrical power.

[0005] WO2012 / 025335A1 discloses a device for detecting and signaling changes in the state of a button. The device includes: an energy generator capable of interacting with a control head of the button to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy; and a wireless transmitter for transmitting messages to a remote receiver.

[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to reliably detect the actuation of an operating device (such as an operating element like a knob) without any corresponding drawbacks. Specifically, it is desirable to be able to fully realize the functions of a wired operating element. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, it is necessary to mitigate at least some of the disadvantages mentioned above and to provide improved detection of the actuation of operating elements, especially self-contained operating elements.

[0008] This requirement is met by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims describe embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an operating device for controlling machine functions is provided. The operating device includes: an energy generation unit configured to generate electrical energy when a user actuates the operating device, wherein the energy generation unit is actuated in a first direction (e.g., pressed) and in a second direction (e.g., released); and a controller (e.g., a microcontroller) configured to transmit a first control signal indicating actuation in the first direction when the energy generation unit is actuated in the first direction, and to transmit a second control signal, different from the first control signal and indicating actuation in the second direction, when the energy generation unit is actuated in the second direction. The controller is operated at least partially by the electrical energy generated by the energy generation unit.

[0010] By transmitting a first control signal when the energy generating unit is actuated in a first direction and a second control signal when the energy generating unit is actuated in a second direction, the actuation state of the energy generating unit, especially the actuation of an operating element (e.g., a knob) coupled to the energy generating unit, can be reliably detected. Therefore, different states, namely the state of "pressed" knob and the state of "released" knob, can be detected and transmitted. In other embodiments, the operating element can be a left-right rotatable element or a back-and-forth moving or sliding element.

[0011] In an optional example, the controller may be configured to transmit a third control signal, distinct from the first and second control signals, wherein the third control signal indicates an error state of the operating device. The operating device may be configured to detect the corresponding error state. For example, the operating device may be configured to detect one or more of the following error states: a (electrical) component of the operating device malfunctions; a first actuation signal generated and / or stored when the energy generation unit actuates in the first and second directions overlaps with the second actuation signal; electrical connection is lost; and other types of malfunctions of the operating device.

[0012] Preferably, the first control signal is received by the receiver unit of the receiving device, wherein the controller of the receiver unit is configured to activate a first functional state of the machine when the controller of the receiver unit receives the first control signal, and to maintain the first functional state or activate a second functional state different from the first functional state when the controller of the receiver unit receives a second control signal.

[0013] The energy generating unit preferably generates energy when the operating device is actuated in a first and / or second direction. When the energy generating unit is actuated in the first direction, electrical power, specifically a voltage signal, is provided at a first terminal of the energy generating unit (or between the first terminal and a second terminal of the energy generating unit); and / or when the energy generating unit is actuated in the second direction, electrical power, specifically a voltage, is provided at a second terminal of the energy generating unit (or between the second terminal and the first terminal of the energy generating unit). In this way, the operating device can detect actuation in different directions. Specifically, the pressing and releasing of an operating element (e.g., a knob) coupled to the energy generating unit can be detected. Preferably, when the energy generating unit is actuated in the first direction, a reset member (e.g., a spring element) is pre-tensioned, and when the actuation of the energy generating unit in the first direction stops, the energy generating unit moves in the second direction under the action of the reset member.

[0014] Preferably, the energy generation unit is an energy harvester that converts mechanical energy applied by the user into electrical energy. The energy harvester preferably has a double coil with an iron core and a magnet block. Mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy through the generated electromagnetic effect by moving the magnet block in a first or second direction in response to the actuation of the operating device (specifically, by pressing a knob on the operating device (explained below)). When the magnet block moves in the first direction, a voltage signal is induced at a first terminal of the energy harvester, and when the magnet block moves in the second direction, a voltage signal is induced at a second terminal of the energy harvester when the magnetic field polarity reverses. The voltage induced at the first or second terminal is used to power the controller. Other types of energy generation units may also be used.

[0015] The operating device can be used to control the functions of a machine (preferably an agricultural or construction vehicle). For example, the operating device is used to control a horn, lights, a power take-off shaft (specifically, a drive shaft for driving attachments), a lifting mechanism, or hydraulic devices, for example, for coupling or disengaging attachments. Preferably, the operating device includes or is associated with a specific function ID, wherein the specific function ID is assigned to the machine function to be controlled. Preferably, the function ID is transmitted along with a first or second control signal. In this way, the receiver unit knows which function of the machine will be controlled by the received first or second control signal transmitted by the controller of the operating device.

[0016] Preferably, the energy generation unit provides a power supply voltage U_BAT to the controller. This can be achieved via a rectifier that rectifies the voltage generated by the energy generation unit and / or via a regulator or other voltage-stabilizing element that provides a stable power supply voltage. Preferably, the controller's power supply voltage is provided as U_BAT by a linear voltage regulator. Therefore, by operating on the power supply voltage, the controller can read and process the actuation signal from the energy generation unit and generate and transmit the first and / or second control signals.

[0017] Preferably, the operating device is a self-contained operating device without any cable connections for receiving electrical power or transmitting control signals. The energy generation unit may be the sole power source for the operating device, or the operating device may include one or more additional self-contained power sources that supply electrical power to the controller.

[0018] The controller may include a transmitter unit configured to wirelessly transmit first and / or second control signals (optionally a third control signal) generated by the controller to a receiver unit. Preferably, the transmitter unit is a Bluetooth transmitter configured to transmit the first and / or second control signals via Bluetooth, specifically via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). BLE requires very little power and is therefore suitable for transmitting signals from operating devices that have only a small amount of available electrical energy, i.e., the power supplied by the energy generation unit. Alternatively, the transmitter unit may be configured to transmit control signals using other communication standards such as ZigBee, Wi-Fi, RFID, EnOcean, etc.

[0019] Preferably, signal transmission includes only the transmission of signals from the transmitter unit to the receiver unit.

[0020] The transmitting unit of the operating device may be a transceiver, or the operating device may include a receiving unit configured to receive signals from the receiving unit. Preferably, the receiving unit may be a transceiver, or may include a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals to the operating device. In some alternative embodiments, after receiving a first or second control signal from the controller of the operating device at the receiving unit, the receiving unit, as a transceiver (or including a transmitting unit), may be configured to transmit an acknowledgment signal back to the controller of the operating device as feedback for successful reception of the first and / or second control signals. The acknowledgment signal may be received by the receiving unit (or transceiver) of the operating device. More preferably, after receiving the acknowledgment signal at the operating device, no further data packets of the first or second control signals are transmitted from the transmitting unit of the operating device to the receiving unit, in order to conserve the remaining energy of the operating device. For example, the operating device may have an additional storage device, such as a battery, in which the remaining energy can be stored.

[0021] Wireless operating devices offer the advantage of eliminating the need for cables to be installed on the machine. Specifically, they can be integrated into existing systems via software by logging into an existing wireless receiver, eliminating the need for physical wiring. Therefore, compared to wired operating devices, this saves on difficult-to-install cables and wiring harnesses, especially on hard-to-access machine parts. Furthermore, the operating device can be easily installed on the machine in any desired location. The operating device and / or the controller coupled to the receiver can be programmed to control specific functions of the machine. When needed, the operating device and / or the controller can be reprogrammed to control different functions of the machine. This makes the use of the operating device highly flexible. The operating device can be mounted or held in the operator's hand, allowing for more ergonomic operation of the machine. For example, the operating device can be used as a remote control for controlling accessories. This means that even larger systems can be easily, quickly, and with low error risk expanded.

[0022] Furthermore, due to the energy generation unit, the operating device is self-sufficient and requires no additional power source, thus eliminating the need for batteries or rechargeable batteries. This avoids the need for maintenance of the operating device and has a positive environmental impact.

[0023] Preferably, the operating device includes an operating element, such as a knob (preferably coupled to the energy generation unit), and the energy generation unit is actuated in a first direction by pressing the knob, and actuated in a second direction by releasing the pressed knob. Alternatively, the operating element may be a button or switch capable of presenting a first state and a second state, wherein the energy generation unit is actuated in the first direction when the button or switch is set to or presents the first state, and actuated in the second direction when the button or switch is set to or presents the second state.

[0024] Preferably, when the knob is pressed and the energy generating unit is actuated in the first direction, the reset member (e.g., a spring) is pre-tensioned. When the knob is released, the reset member (e.g., the spring) is released and the knob returns to its original position, thereby actuating the energy generating unit in the second direction.

[0025] Preferably, the energy generating unit is configured to generate a first actuation signal when actuated in a first direction and a second actuation signal when actuated in a second direction, wherein the operating device includes a signal storage unit configured to store the first actuation signal (e.g., temporarily) when the first actuation signal is generated and to store the second actuation signal (e.g., temporarily) when the second actuation signal is generated. The first actuation signal is preferably a voltage signal provided at a first terminal of the energy generating unit, and the second actuation signal is preferably a voltage signal provided at a second terminal of the energy generating unit. For example, a voltage (first actuation signal) can be generated between the first and second terminals of the energy generating unit, and a voltage (second actuation signal) of opposite polarity can be generated between the first and second terminals of the energy generating unit.

[0026] The time required for the controller to start and read its inputs may be longer than the duration of the first / second actuation signal or the voltage signal provided at the terminals of the energy generation unit. Therefore, the voltage at the energy generation unit may have dropped before the controller is ready to operate, making the first / second actuation signal undetectable. The storage unit enables the storage of the first and / or second actuation signals in a distinguishable manner, at least until the controller has started and its input terminals are ready to read the stored first and / or second actuation signals.

[0027] Preferably, the controller is configured to generate and transmit a read-time control signal when reading a stored first actuation signal from the signal storage unit, and is also configured to generate and transmit a read-time control signal when reading a stored second actuation signal from the signal storage unit. The controller may include a first input terminal configured to read the stored first actuation signal from the signal storage unit, and a second input terminal configured to read the stored second actuation signal from the signal storage unit.

[0028] Preferably, the controller queries the system status, particularly the first and / or second actuation signals read from the controller input terminals. Specifically, the controller can be configured to generate and transmit the first or second control signal in the form of a message.

[0029] Preferably, the first control signal or the second control signal is transmitted as a message containing an "actuation state," wherein the first actuation state is transmitted when a first actuation signal is read at a first input terminal of the controller, and the second actuation state is transmitted when a second actuation signal is read at a second input terminal of the controller. Specifically, the first actuation state may indicate the pressing of a knob on the operating device, and the second actuation state may indicate the releasing of a knob on the operating device. Specifically, when no first or second actuation state is read at the first or second input terminal of the controller, and no previously transmitted actuation state indicating the first or second control signal is stored, a third control signal indicating an undefined state may be generated, and a third state may be transmitted based on the third control signal.

[0030] Preferably, the controller is configured to store previously transmitted actuation states (e.g., in the controller's memory) and transmit messages containing or indicating the previously transmitted actuation states without reading the first and / or second control signals from the signal storage unit. This can be done, for example, when the state at the input of the first and / or second control signals is undefined, and / or when the energy stored in the signal storage unit (e.g., a capacitor unit) drops below a predetermined threshold.

[0031] Storing previously transmitted actuation states in the controller allows for the identification of "undefined" states in the signal storage unit. Furthermore, if the energy in the signal storage unit drops below a predetermined threshold (i.e., when the controller's input terminals cannot read signals from the signal storage unit) but the controller has sufficient energy to transmit messages, the controller can continue transmitting messages indicating previously transmitted actuation states. Therefore, multiple messages can be transmitted, which improves the robustness of the operating device. Specifically, it reduces the probability that the receiving device will not receive a message.

[0032] Preferably, the controller is configured to transmit a second control signal when the energy generating unit is actuated in the second direction, independent of the first control signal and the previously transmitted actuation state. For example, even if the controller generates the first and second control signals and / or stores the previously transmitted actuation state, the controller is configured to transmit only the second control signal when the energy generating unit is actuated in the second direction. This improves the safety of the operating device because the second control signal (e.g., indicating the release of a knob) is prioritized.

[0033] Preferably, in addition to the "actuation state," the message also includes further information, such as a specific function ID of the operating device and / or the transmitter address of the operating device. Therefore, when the first and / or second control signals (or messages generated based on the first or second control signals) are transmitted, the controller coupled to the receiver unit can read the transmitted function ID and actuation state, and control the machine function associated with the transmitted function ID according to the transmitted actuation state.

[0034] Preferably, the signal storage unit includes electronic storage circuits (such as capacitor-based storage circuits) or logic storage circuits (such as bistable logic circuits, for example, RS flip-flops).

[0035] The logic storage circuit may include a first input terminal and a second input terminal, as well as a first output terminal and a second output terminal, wherein the first input terminal is connected to a first terminal of the energy generation unit, the second input terminal is connected to a second terminal of the energy generation unit, and wherein the first output terminal is connected to a second input terminal of the controller, and the second output terminal is connected to a first input terminal of the controller.

[0036] When a first actuation signal is provided at the first terminal of the energy generation unit, a "high" or "1" signal can be applied to the first input terminal of the logic storage circuit, and a "low" or "0" signal can be applied to the second input terminal of the logic storage circuit. Then, a "high" or "1" signal can be applied to the second output terminal, and a "low" or "0" signal can be applied to the first output terminal. In this case, a voltage signal is read at the first input terminal of the controller connected to the second output terminal of the logic storage circuit, and the controller transmits a first control signal.

[0037] When a second actuation signal is provided at the second terminal of the energy generation unit, a "low" or "0" signal can be applied to the first input terminal, and a "high" or "1" signal can be applied to the second input terminal. Then, a "low" or "0" signal can be applied to the second output terminal, and a "high" or "1" signal can be applied to the first output terminal. In this case, a voltage signal is read at the second input terminal of the controller connected to the first output terminal of the logic storage circuit, and the controller transmits a second control signal. The signal at the first or second output terminal of the logic storage circuit is preferably stored until the voltage of the operating device drops below a certain value, or until another signal appears at the input terminal of the logic storage circuit.

[0038] It should be clear that the input terminals and / or output terminals are interchangeable, and any input terminal of the controller can be considered as the first or second input terminal. Specifically, the inputs to the controller can be configurable such that any controller terminal can receive a first or second output from the logic storage circuitry. This designation is only selected such that if a voltage signal is provided at the first output terminal of the energy generation unit, the logic storage circuitry provides a logic high level at the first input terminal of the controller (and correspondingly for the second output / input terminal).

[0039] Bistable logic storage circuits can be implemented using a pair of cross-coupled NOR gates.

[0040] The electronic storage circuit may include a first capacitor unit coupled to a first terminal of an energy generation unit (which provides a first actuation signal), and a second capacitor unit coupled to a second terminal of the energy generation unit (which provides a second actuation signal), wherein each of the first and second capacitor units has at least one capacitor. The first capacitor unit may be configured to store (e.g., temporarily) the first actuation signal by charging the first capacitor unit with electrical power provided by the first actuation signal at the first terminal, and the second capacitor unit may be configured to store (e.g., temporarily) the second actuation signal by charging the second capacitor unit with electrical power provided by the second actuation signal at the second terminal. The electronic storage circuit is capable of rapid charging due to the virtually non-existent charging resistance.

[0041] Preferably, the operating device, specifically the electronic storage circuit, is configured such that the first or second capacitor unit is charged or discharged with a selected time constant, such that the charge of the first or second capacitor unit is sufficient to activate the controller (and to generate and transmit corresponding control signals), and the discharge of the first or second capacitor unit is fast enough that its duration does not exceed the shortest possible time between (manual) actuation of the energy generation unit in the first and second directions, e.g., between pressing and releasing a button, and / or between actuation of the energy generation unit in the second and first directions. This prevents the first and second control signals from overlapping. Therefore, it may not be necessary to actively delete the signal storage unit in the middle. It should be noted that the corresponding operating element typically has a well-defined mechanical response time, which determines the speed at which the operating element can be actuated and return to its initial position.

[0042] Preferably, another terminal of the first capacitor unit and the second capacitor unit (i.e., the terminal other than the terminal connected to the first or second terminal of the energy generation unit) is electrically connected or coupled to a common neutral point or ground.

[0043] Preferably, the electronic storage circuit includes a first diode connected in series between a first terminal of the energy generation unit and a first capacitor unit, and / or a second diode connected in series between a second terminal of the energy generation unit and a second capacitor unit, wherein the first and / or second diodes are configured to prevent the first and / or second capacitor units from discharging in the direction toward the energy generation unit. Specifically, when the input voltage decreases, the diodes reverse their orientation to prevent discharge in the opposite direction (i.e., toward the energy generation unit). Preferably, the first and / or second diodes are Schottky diodes.

[0044] Preferably, the electronic storage circuit includes a first resistor unit having at least one resistor connected in series between a first capacitor unit and a controller (specifically, a first input terminal of the controller), and a second resistor unit having at least one resistor connected in series between the second capacitor unit and the controller (specifically, a second input terminal of the controller). A first actuation signal can be read by discharging the first capacitor unit via the first resistor unit, and a second actuation signal can be read by discharging the second capacitor unit via the second resistor unit.

[0045] Preferably, the operating device includes an overvoltage protection unit configured to limit the voltage supplied to the controller, specifically, to a maximum value at the controller's first and / or second input terminals. Specifically, the overvoltage protection unit includes a first diode configured to limit the voltage supplied to the controller's first input terminal, and a second diode configured to limit the voltage supplied to the second input terminal.

[0046] For example, a first diode can be connected between the first input terminal and the reference terminal, and a second diode can be connected between the second input terminal and the reference terminal. The reference terminal can be a power supply terminal of the controller, which can be powered by the energy generation unit via a voltage regulator. The diode can be connected downstream of a resistor used to discharge the signal storage unit. Thus, short circuits via the diode can be avoided when charging at a higher voltage.

[0047] The first and / or second diodes are preferably Schottky diodes. Preferably, the diodes used in the electronic storage circuit and overvoltage protection unit are of the same type or have the same configuration. This results in fewer different components and therefore lower component costs.

[0048] Preferably, if the input voltage at the controller input terminal is greater than or reaches a predetermined value (preferably at least 0.2V higher than the power supply voltage U_BAT at the reference terminal, for example, 2.5V (depending on the type of diode)), the corresponding diode is turned on or off. As a result, the voltage at the controller input terminal is limited by the overvoltage protection unit. For example, the voltage applied to the controller input terminal does not exceed a voltage value 0.3V higher than the power supply voltage U_BAT. Damage to the controller, specifically the controller input terminal, can be prevented due to the overvoltage protection unit.

[0049] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a system for controlling machine functions is provided. The system includes an operating device having any of the configurations disclosed herein, and a receiving device having a receiver unit configured to wirelessly receive a first control signal and / or a second control signal transmitted by a controller of the operating device.

[0050] Preferably, the receiver unit is coupled to a controller (specifically, the machine's controller), wherein the controller is configured to activate a first functional state of the machine's functions upon receiving a first control signal, and to maintain the first functional state or activate a second functional state different from the first functional state upon receiving a second control signal. Specifically, the receiving device includes a controller comprising the receiver unit, wherein the controller of the receiving device is coupled to the machine's controller for controlling the machine's functions.

[0051] The system may include at least two operating devices having any configuration disclosed herein, and a receiving device, wherein the receiving device is configured to receive a first control signal or a second control signal transmitted by a controller of the first and / or second operating devices. The first operating device may be configured to control a first function of the machine (e.g., a light on the machine), and the second operating device may be configured to control a second function of the machine that is different from the first function (e.g., a horn on the machine).

[0052] Preferably, as described above, the controller of the operating device generates a message based on a first or second control signal. This message may include further information, such as a specific function ID and / or transmitter address. The controller is preferably configured to: upon receiving (indicating) the first control signal (message), activate a first functional state of the function associated with the function ID; and upon receiving (indicating) the second control signal (message), maintain the first functional state or activate a second functional state of the function associated with the function ID that is different from the first functional state.

[0053] For example, the first control signal indicates that the knob is "pressed", the second control signal indicates that the knob is "released", and the function ID is assigned to the control of the machine's horn. "Pressing" the knob turns on the horn (first function state), and "releasing" the knob turns off the horn (second function state).

[0054] In another example, a first control signal represents "pressing" the knob, a second control signal represents "releasing" the knob, and a function ID is assigned to control a specific light on the machine. "Pressing" the knob turns the light on (first functional state), and "releasing" the knob keeps the light on (maintaining the first functional state). Because the operating device can send several messages to the receiver unit when the knob is pressed, the light will repeatedly switch between on and off, and may eventually end up in an undefined state. Preferably, the switching of the light can only be re-enabled when a "releasing" signal from the knob is received (i.e., the light will only turn off if the knob is pressed again after receiving the "releasing" signal).

[0055] Alternatively or additionally, when the receiver unit receives the first and / or second control signals, the controller can be configured to activate or deactivate the timer.

[0056] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the detection of the first and second actuation signals and the transmission of the first or second control signal based on the first or second detection signal can be used on the receiver unit side to control various functions of the machine.

[0057] For example, this signal can be used to activate the machine's power take-off shaft to drive the drive shaft of an auxiliary device. Specifically, the power take-off shaft can be activated by pressing the knob of the operating device twice and then holding the knob down for a predetermined time period. Releasing the knob or pressing it again before the time limit expires will deactivate the power take-off shaft.

[0058] In another example, the first or second control signal can be used to control the machine's lifting mechanism or hydraulic system. Specifically, two knobs (i.e., the first knob of the first operating device and the second knob of the second operating device) can be pressed simultaneously for a predetermined time to activate the lifting mechanism function, wherein after the predetermined time has elapsed, pressing the first knob raises the lifting mechanism, and pressing the second knob lowers the lifting mechanism.

[0059] According to another embodiment of the invention, a machine, specifically a vehicle, is provided, comprising an operating device having any of the configurations disclosed herein. The operating device is configured and arranged to control one or more functions of the machine by actuation of an energy generation unit by a user, and specifically by actuation of knobs included in the operating device. Such a machine may be, for example, an agricultural vehicle, a construction vehicle, an industrial vehicle, or the like.

[0060] Specifically, the machine may include the operating means and receiver unit disclosed herein.

[0061] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating an operating device to control machine functions is provided, specifically, an operating device having any of the configurations disclosed herein. The operating device includes: An energy generation unit is configured to generate electrical energy when a user actuates an operating device, wherein the energy generation unit can be actuated in a first direction (pressing) and a second direction (releasing); and a controller is operated at least partially by the electrical energy generated by the energy generation unit. The method includes: when the energy generation unit is actuated in the first direction, the controller transmits a first control signal indicating actuation in the first direction; and when the energy generation unit is actuated in the second direction, the controller transmits a second control signal indicating actuation in the second direction.

[0062] This machine or method can achieve the advantages corresponding to those outlined above for the operating device.

[0063] It should be understood that the features mentioned above and those described below can be used not only in the indicated combinations, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention. Specifically, unless otherwise stated, features of different aspects and embodiments of the invention can be combined with each other. Attached Figure Description

[0064] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in a detailed description. In the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a schematic drawing illustrating the elements of an operating device according to one embodiment.

[0066] Figure 2 It shows a device with electronic storage circuitry. Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the operating device.

[0067] Figure 3 It shows a circuit with logic storage. Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the operating device.

[0068] Figure 4 This is a transmitter state diagram representing the function of a controller according to one embodiment.

[0069] Figure 5 This is a transmitter state diagram representing a message transmission process according to one embodiment.

[0070] Figure 6 This is a receiver state diagram representing a scanning mode according to one embodiment.

[0071] Figure 7 This is a state diagram showing the control of the lights in a machine according to one embodiment.

[0072] Figure 8 This is a transmitter state diagram showing the control of the horn of a machine according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0073] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description of the embodiments is given for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered as limiting. It should be noted that the drawings should be considered as schematic representations only, and the elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Rather, the representation of various elements has been chosen to make their function and overall use clear to those skilled in the art. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” should be interpreted as open-ended terms (i.e., unless otherwise stated, they mean “including but not limited to”).

[0074] Figure 1 This is a schematic drawing showing the elements of an operating device 2 for controlling machine functions according to one embodiment.

[0075] The operating device 2 includes an energy generation unit 4 (e.g., an energy harvester) configured to generate electrical energy upon user actuation of the operating device 2, and specifically, upon user actuation of an operating element such as a knob 16 coupled to the energy generation unit 4. The energy generation unit 4 is actuated in a first direction by pressing the knob 16, and actuated in a second direction by releasing the pressed knob 16. The operating device 2 is preferably a self-contained operating device, without any cable connections for receiving electrical power or transmitting control signals.

[0076] The energy generation unit 4 can be configured to generate a first actuation signal 18 when actuated in a first direction and a second actuation signal 20 when actuated in a second direction. The operating device 2 includes a signal storage unit 22 configured to store the first actuation signal 18 when it is generated and the second actuation signal 20 when it is generated. The time required for the controller 6 to start and read its input can be longer than the duration of the first or second actuation signal or the voltage signal provided at the terminals of the energy generation unit 4. As a result, the voltage provided at the energy generation unit 4 may drop before the controller 6 is ready to operate, making it impossible to detect the first or second actuation signals 18, 20. The storage unit 22 enables the storage of the first and / or second actuation signals 18, 20 in a distinguishable manner, at least until the controller 6 has started and its input terminals are ready to read the stored first and / or second actuation signals.

[0077] Specifically, the energy generating unit 4 includes a first terminal 40 and a second terminal 42. When actuated in a first direction, a first actuation signal 18 is applied to the first terminal 40, and when actuated in a second direction, a second actuation signal 20 is applied to the second terminal 42. For example, when actuated in the corresponding direction, a voltage (first actuation signal 18) can be generated between the first terminal and the second terminals 40, 42 of the energy generating unit, and a reverse polarity voltage (second actuation signal 20) can be generated between the first terminal and the second terminals 40, 42 of the energy generating unit.

[0078] The operating device 2 also includes a controller 6, configured to: transmit a first control signal 8 indicating actuation in the first direction when the energy generating unit 4 is actuated in the first direction; and transmit a second control signal 10 indicating actuation in the second direction when the energy generating unit is actuated in the second direction. Preferably, the first or second control signals 8, 10 are transmitted as a message indicating the actuation direction and including further information, such as a function ID associated with the function to be controlled by the operating device and / or a transmitter address associated with the operating device 2. (See below) Figure 5 As shown, the message may include an actuation state "ADV". When the first control signal 8 is generated, the actuation state may be "ADV = 1" corresponding to the "press" of knob 16 (i.e., generating the first actuation signal 18 at energy generation unit 4). When the second control signal 10 is generated, the actuation state may be "ADV = 2" corresponding to the "release" of knob 16 (i.e., generating the second actuation signal 20 at energy generation unit 4)—see [link to documentation]. Figure 5 .

[0079] The controller 6 can also be configured to detect erroneous states of the operating device 2, such as if the signals generated by the energy generation unit 4 overlap. For example, corresponding first and second actuation signals can be stored as described in more detail below, and if the storage times of the first and second actuation signals overlap (making it impossible to reliably determine the state of the operating device), the corresponding erroneous state can be detected. As another example, an erroneous state can be detected if electronic components of the operating device malfunction, if electrical connections of the operating device lose contact (e.g., a broken wire), and / or similar conditions. The controller 6 can also be configured to transmit a third control signal upon detecting an erroneous state. The third control signal could, for example, be an error message.

[0080] The controller 6 may include a transmitter unit 12 configured to wirelessly transmit first and / or second control signals 8, 10 (or messages) (and optionally a third control signal or error message) generated by the controller 6 to a receiver unit 15 of the receiving device 14. The transmitter unit 12 is preferably a Bluetooth transmitter configured to transmit control signals via Bluetooth, specifically via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or by means of any other suitable communication standard such as ZigBee, Wi-Fi, RFID, or EnOcean.

[0081] The receiving device 14 may include a controller 60 (the receiver unit 15 is preferably included in the controller 60, such as...). Figure 1 (As shown). The controller 60 of the receiving device 14 is preferably coupled to a controller (specifically, the machine's controller; not shown). The machine's controller is preferably configured to: activate a first functional state of the machine's functions when a first control signal 8 is received; and maintain the first functional state or activate a second functional state different from the first functional state when a second control signal 10 is received.

[0082] The controller 6 is configured to generate and transmit a first control signal 8 when reading a stored first actuation signal 18 from the signal storage unit 22, and is configured to generate and transmit a second control signal 10 when reading a stored second actuation signal 20 from the signal storage unit 22. The controller 6 may include a first input terminal 24 configured to read the stored first actuation signal 18 from the signal storage unit 22; and a second input terminal 26 configured to read the stored second actuation signal 20 from the signal storage unit 22.

[0083] Operating device 2 may include an overvoltage protection unit 58 configured to limit the voltage supplied to controller 6, and specifically to the first and / or second input terminals 24, 26 of controller, to a maximum value. Specifically, overvoltage protection unit 58 is configured to limit the voltage supplied to signal storage unit 22. The maximum value is preferably lower than the maximum permissible value at the input terminals 24, 26 of controller.

[0084] The controller 6 is operated at least in part by the electrical energy generated by the energy generation unit 4, and specifically by the power supply voltage U_BAT provided at input 59 of the controller 6. Preferably, the power supply voltage of the controller 6 is provided as U_BAT by a voltage regulator (not shown), for example by a low-dropout regulator (LDO). The regulator may be coupled to the output terminal of the energy generation unit 4 via a rectifier (not shown). Since the energy available for operating the device 2 is limited (e.g., only the energy provided by the energy generation unit), the voltage in the signal storage unit 22 and the power supply voltage U_BAT of the controller 6 decrease over time. Specifically, the most energy is initially consumed to start the controller 6 and prepare the input terminals 24, 26 for reading signals. After the transmitter unit 12 sends the first or second control signal 8, 10, the controller switches to a sleep mode, in which almost no energy is consumed, and it is only awakened again shortly before sending another message. Preferably, the message (i.e., the first or second control signal 8, 10) is repeatedly transmitted by the transmitter unit 12 at predefined intervals until the power supply voltage U_BAT of the controller 6 drops below a minimum value. This increases the probability that messages are received without being lost.

[0085] The following text Figure 2 and Figure 3 Two different implementations of the signal storage unit 22 are described. Figure 2 The electronic storage circuit 28 is shown. Figure 3 The logic storage circuit 30 is shown.

[0086] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a circuit with electronic storage 28. Figure 1 The operating device. The electronic storage circuit 28 may include a first capacitor unit 32, which has at least one capacitor 33-35 and is coupled to a first terminal 40 of the energy generation unit for transmitting a first actuation signal 18. The electronic storage circuit 28 may also include a second capacitor unit 36, which has at least one capacitor 37-39 and is coupled to a second terminal 42 of the energy generation unit for transmitting a second actuation signal 20. For example... Figure 2 As shown, each capacitor unit 32, 36 includes three capacitors 33-35, 37-39, which are connected in parallel between the corresponding terminals 40, 42 and the ground wire 44. However, any other number (e.g., one, two, or four capacitors) is also applicable.

[0087] The first capacitor unit 32 is preferably configured to store a first actuation signal 18 by charging the first capacitor unit 32 with electrical power disposed on the first terminal 40, specifically, power from a voltage signal. The second capacitor unit 36 ​​is preferably configured to store a second actuation signal 20 by charging the second capacitor unit 36 ​​with electrical power disposed on the second terminal 42, specifically, power from a voltage signal. The other side of each capacitor 33-35, 37-39 may be electrically connected to a common ground wire 44.

[0088] The electronic storage circuit 28 may include a first diode 45 and a second diode 46. The first diode 45 is connected in series between the first terminal 40 of the energy generation unit and the first capacitor unit 32, and the second diode 46 is connected in series between the second terminal 42 of the energy generation unit and the second capacitor unit 36. The first and second diodes 45 and 46 may be configured to prevent the first and second capacitor units 32 and 36 from discharging in the direction of the energy generation unit 4. The first and second diodes 45 and 46 may be Schottky diodes.

[0089] The electronic storage circuit 28 may include a first resistor 50 and a second resistor 51. The first resistor 50 is connected in series between the first capacitor cell 32 and the controller 6, and the second resistor 51 is connected in series between the second capacitor cell 36 and the controller 6. A first actuation signal 18 is read by discharging the first capacitor cell 32 through the first resistor 50, and a second actuation signal 20 is read by discharging the second capacitor cell 36 through the second resistor 51. This allows control over the rate at which capacitor cells 32 and 36 discharge toward input terminals 24 and 26. The first and / or second resistors may, for example, have a resistance of approximately 100 kΩ.

[0090] The electronic storage circuit 28 may also include a third resistor 52 and a fourth resistor 53. The third resistor 52 is connected in series between the capacitor unit 33 and the diode 45, and the fourth resistor 53 is connected in series between the capacitor unit 36 ​​and the diode 46.

[0091] Furthermore, a fifth resistor 54 may be electrically connected in parallel with the first capacitor cell 32, specifically between terminal 40 and ground 44, and / or a sixth resistor 55 may be electrically connected in parallel with the second capacitor cell 36, specifically between terminal 42 and ground 44. Resistors 54 and 55 may function as pull-down resistors to define a clear "low" signal at the respective terminals until an actuation signal is provided at the respective terminals. The fifth and / or sixth resistors 54 and 55 may have a resistance of 750 kΩ.

[0092] The seventh resistor 56 can be electrically connected between the overvoltage protection unit 58 and the input terminal 59 of the controller.

[0093] The eighth resistor 71 can be electrically connected between the overvoltage protection unit 58 and the first input terminal 24, and / or the ninth resistor 72 can be electrically connected between the overvoltage protection unit 58 and the second input terminal 26. Resistors 71 and 72 can limit the current flowing to input terminals 24 and 26.

[0094] The overvoltage protection unit 58 may include a third diode 47 and a fourth diode 48, wherein the third diode 47 is configured to limit the voltage supplied to the first input terminal 24 of the controller 6, and the fourth diode 48 is configured to limit the voltage supplied to the second input terminal 26 of the controller 6. The first and / or second diodes are preferably Schottky diodes. Preferably, the diodes 45, 46, 47, and 48 used in the electronic storage circuit 28 and the overvoltage protection unit 20 are of the same type or have the same configuration. This results in fewer different components and therefore lower component costs. The third and fourth diodes 47 and 48 may be referenced to the power supply voltage U_BAT at the power supply terminal 59 of the controller 6, where a regulator (e.g., an LDO regulator; not shown) can provide a constant voltage. For example, the third diode 47 may be connected between the first input terminal 24 and the power supply terminal 59, and the fourth diode 48 may be connected between the second input terminal 26 and the power supply terminal 59.

[0095] Figure 3 The accompanying drawing is schematic, showing an implementation as logic storage circuit 30 (replacing...). Figure 2 The electronic storage circuit 28 shown in the figure Figure 1 Operating device 2. In this case, logic storage circuit 30 is an RS flip-flop. RS flip-flop 30 includes first and second input terminals E1, E2 and first and second output terminals A1, A2, wherein the first input terminal E1 is electrically connected to or coupled to the first terminal 40 of energy generation unit 4, and the second input terminal E2 is electrically connected to or coupled to the second terminal 42 of energy generation unit 4. The first output terminal A1 of RS flip-flop 30 is electrically connected to or coupled to the second input terminal 26 of controller 6, and the second output terminal A2 of RS flip-flop 30 is electrically connected to or coupled to the first input terminal 24 of controller 6.

[0096] When a first actuation signal 18 is provided at the first terminal 40 of the energy generation unit 4 (specifically, when no signal is provided at the second terminal 42), a "high" or "1" signal is applied to the first input terminal E1 of the RS flip-flop 30, and a "low" or "0" signal is applied to the second input terminal E2 of the RS flip-flop 30. Due to the logic circuitry, a "high" or "1" signal is subsequently applied to the second output terminal A2, and a "low" or "0" signal is applied to the first output terminal A1. In this case, a voltage signal is read at the first input terminal 24 of the controller 6 connected to the second output terminal A2 of the RS flip-flop 30, and the controller 6 transmits a first control signal 8 (see...). Figure 1 ).

[0097] When a second actuation signal 20 is provided at the second terminal 42 of the energy generation unit (specifically, when no signal is provided at the first terminal 40), a "low" or "0" signal is applied to the first input terminal E1, and a "high" or "1" signal is applied to the second input terminal E2. Due to the logic circuitry, a "low" or "0" signal is subsequently applied to the second output terminal A2, and a "high" or "1" signal is applied to the first output terminal A1. In this case, a voltage signal is read at the second input terminal 26 of the controller 6, which is connected to the first output terminal A1 of the RS flip-flop 30, and the controller 6 transmits a second control signal 10 (see...). Figure 1 ).

[0098] Preferably, the RS flip-flop 30 includes two NOR gates 61 and 62, wherein the input of the first NOR gate 61 is connected to the first terminal 40 of the energy generation unit 4, and the input of the second NOR gate 62 is connected to the second terminal 42 of the energy generation unit 4. Specifically, the NOR gates 61 and 62 are connected to each other via cross-coupling. Preferably, the output of the first NOR gate 61 is connected to the input of the second NOR gate 62, and the output of the second NOR gate 62 is connected to the input of the first NOR gate 61. Preferably, the output of the first NOR gate 61 is connected to the first output terminal A1 connected to the second input terminal 26, and the output of the second NOR gate 62 is connected to the second output terminal A2 connected to the first input terminal 24.

[0099] Therefore, the signal at output terminal A1 or output terminal A2 of RS flip-flop 30 is preferably stored until the power supply voltage U_BAT drops below that of flip-flop 30, specifically below the power supply voltage (i.e., U_BAT) of NOR gates 61 and 62, or until the signal applied to input terminals E1 and E2 of RS flip-flop 30 changes. Preferably, NOR gates 61 and 62 are operated at least partially by the electrical power provided by the energy generation unit 4.

[0100] Figure 4This is a transmitter state diagram 66 representing the function of controller 6 according to one embodiment. The power supply voltage U_BAT of controller 6 must have or exceed a minimum value for controller 6 to be able to turn on and operate. As long as U_BAT is below a threshold, for example below 1.5 V, controller 6 remains in an "inactive" state. If the power supply voltage U_BAT at controller 6 is equal to or exceeds the threshold, for example, U_BAT is greater than or equal to 1.5 V, when the first or second actuation signal 18, 20 is generated, controller 6 switches to an "on" state. The "on" state may include, for example, turning on the controller, preparing the inputs of the controller to be ready to read signals such as the first and / or second actuation signals, and / or preparing for data transmission (i.e., transmitting the first or second control signal).

[0101] If startup is complete and U_BAT remains above a threshold, for example, above 1.5 V, then controller 6 switches to the "message transmission" state. Preferably, when controller 6 starts, the previously stored actuation state Z is set to the value Z=0, where Z=0 corresponds to an undefined state.

[0102] If U_BAT drops below a threshold, for example, below 1.5 V, after a message is sent, controller 6 switches back to the "inactive" state. If U_BAT is above a threshold, for example, above 1.5 V, after a message is sent to receiving unit 15, a timer is preferably started and controller 6 is set to "sleep mode" to save energy. When the timer expires and U_BAT is still above the threshold, for example, above 1.5 V, controller 6 switches back to the "message transmission" state and sends a message to receiving unit 15. Thus, messages are transmitted at predetermined intervals, specifically, always after the timer expires. This is preferably repeated until the voltage U_BAT drops below the threshold. The "message transmission" state may include not only wireless communication but also complete logic for signal processing of the output signal of the signal storage unit. The "message transmission" state is described below. Figure 5 A more detailed description is provided below.

[0103] Figure 5 This is a transmitter state diagram 67 representing a message transmission process according to one embodiment. Preferably, the controller 6 of the operating device generates a message indicating the first and / or second control signals 8, 10. In addition to the actuation states described below, the message may also include other information, such as a specific function ID of the function of the machine to be controlled and / or the transmitter address.

[0104] First, retrieve the system status in the "Query System Status" section. "l1=1" corresponds to the detection of a first actuation signal 18 at the first terminal 24 of the controller 6 (e.g., due to pressing the knob 16 of the operating device), and "l2=1" corresponds to the detection of a second actuation signal 20 at the second terminal 26 of the controller (e.g., due to releasing the knob 16). "l1=0" indicates that the first actuation signal 18 was not detected at the first terminal 24 of the controller 6, and "l2=0" indicates that the second actuation signal 20 was not detected at the second terminal 26 of the controller.

[0105] "Z" corresponds to a previously stored state, where "Z=0" is an undefined state, "Z=1" corresponds to "pressing" knob 16, and "Z=2" corresponds to "releasing" knob 16. "ADV" is the transmitted actuation state, wherein preferably, "ADV=0" is an undefined state, "ADV=1" corresponds to the actuation state of "pressing" knob 16, and "ADV=2" corresponds to the actuation state of "releasing" knob 16.

[0106] When "l1=1" and "l2=0" (and Z has any value), or when "l1=0" and "l2=0" and "Z=1", the "ready message (press)" state is reached, in which a message is prepared to instruct the press knob 16, and the actuation state Z is set to Z=1 (press knob).

[0107] When "l2=1" (and Z has any value), or when "l1=0" and "l2=0" and "Z=2", the "ready message (release)" state is reached, in which a message is prepared to indicate the release of knob 16 and the actuation state Z is set to Z=2 (release knob).

[0108] When "l1=0" and "l2=0" and "Z=0", the "Preparation Message (Undefined)" state is reached, in which a message is prepared to indicate the undefined actuation state of knob 16, and the actuation state Z is set to Z=0 (undefined).

[0109] Finally, the message is transmitted from the operating device 2 to the receiving unit 15 (see...). Figure 1 The transmitted actuation state ADV=Z. Preferably, "ADV=1" corresponds to the first control signal 8 described herein, and "ADV=2" corresponds to the second control signal 10 described herein.

[0110] In the following text, the focus is on the receiving side, which receives messages transmitted by the transmitter unit 12 and communicates with the machine's controller.

[0111] Figure 6 This is a receiver state diagram 68 representing a scanning mode according to one embodiment. After the receiving unit 15 is started and the "startup" process is completed, it remains in "scanning mode," which... Figure 6 As shown in the diagram. Specifically, in the "waiting mode", the receiving unit 15 continuously waits for incoming messages from the transmitting unit 12.

[0112] Upon receiving a message, the system reaches the "Transmitter Verification" state, where the transmission address is verified. The message is processed further only if it originates from a valid transmitter address. If the message originates from a valid transmitter address, the function ID of the function to be controlled is verified in the "Function Verification" state. The message is processed further only if it contains a valid function ID. If the function ID is valid, further data, such as the transmitted actuation state, is analyzed in the "Data Analysis" state. The message is processed further only if it includes valid data such as the actuation state ADV. The received actuation state ADV is interpreted, and the machine's controller is configured to control the machine's function associated with the function ID of the received message based on the transmitted actuation state ADV.

[0113] The following describes two examples of controlling machine functions based on the received actuation state of the operating device. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The examples shown are merely illustrative of machine functions. Those skilled in the art will fully appreciate that the operating device 2 can also be used to control other functions of the machine, and that the invention is not limited to the examples described herein.

[0114] Figure 7 This is a transmitter state diagram 69 representing the control of a machine's light, according to one embodiment. After the receiver unit 15 has been started and completed the "start-up" process, it remains in a "light-off scan mode," in which the receiver unit 15 continuously waits for incoming messages from the transmitter unit 12. When a message is received containing a function ID associated with the machine's light and "ADV = 1" indicating that the knob 16 has been pressed, the light is turned on, and preferably a timer is started.

[0115] The receiver unit 15 then remains in a "scanning mode with light on (and timer)," in which it continuously waits for incoming messages from the transmitter unit 12. When a message with a function ID associated with the machine's light and "ADV = 2" indicating that the knob 16 has been released is received, the light remains on. Since the operating device 2 sends multiple messages to the receiver unit 15 when the knob 16 is pressed, the light continuously switches between on and off. Preferably, the switching of the light is only re-enabled when a message with "ADV = 2" indicating that the knob 16 has been released is received, or when the timer expires (i.e., the light will only be turned off when the knob 16 is pressed again after receiving the "release" message (ADV = 2) or after the timer expires).

[0116] Without a timer, the loss of all release messages (ADV = 2) would result in a blocked state, meaning the light would no longer be controllable. The timer allows the light to switch back after the timer expires, even if all release messages are lost.

[0117] When a message with a function ID associated with the machine's light and "ADV = 2" is received, or when a timer expires, the receiver unit 15 remains in the "light-on scan mode," in which the receiver unit 15 continuously waits for incoming messages from the transmitter unit 12.

[0118] When a message is received containing a function ID associated with the machine's light and "ADV = 1" indicating that knob 16 is pressed (or ADV = 0 indicating an undefined actuation state), the light is turned off, and preferably a timer is started. Receiver unit 15 then remains in a "light off and timer-enabled scan mode," in which it continuously waits for incoming messages from transmitter unit 12. When a message containing a function ID associated with the machine's light and "ADV = 2" is received, or when the timer expires, receiver unit 15 remains in the "light off scan mode" until a new message for controlling the machine's light is received.

[0119] Because the timer is automatically deactivated when a message with "ADV = 2" (releasing knob 16) is received, the light can still be turned on and off quickly despite the timer being active.

[0120] Figure 8 This is a transmitter state diagram 70 representing the horn of a control machine according to one embodiment. After the receiver unit 15 has been started and completed the "start-up" process, it remains in a "speaker-off scan mode" in which the receiver unit 15 continuously waits for incoming messages from the transmitter unit 12. When a message is received containing a function ID associated with the machine's horn and "ADV = 1" indicating that the knob 16 has been pressed, the horn is turned on.

[0121] Receiver unit 15 then remains in "speaker-on scan mode," in which it continuously waits for incoming messages from transmitter unit 12. When a message is received containing a function ID associated with the machine's speaker and "ADV=2" indicating that knob 16 has been released, the speaker is turned off. Receiver unit 15 then returns to "speaker-off scan mode" until a new message for controlling the machine's speaker is received.

[0122] The implementation of the scheme disclosed herein allows for more reliable detection of the actuation state of the operating device. As described above, the first and / or second actuation signals generated by the energy generation unit and provided at its terminals can be read at different inputs of the controller, enabling the controller to distinguish, for example, pressing and releasing a knob of the operating element, and to transmit a first control signal when the knob is pressed, or a second control signal when the knob is released. Therefore, different functional states of the machine can be activated by pressing and releasing the knob. Furthermore, no cabling is required for the operating device, nor is an additional energy source needed (the energy provided by the energy generation unit is sufficient to operate the operating device).

[0123] While specific embodiments have been disclosed herein, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects, and all modifications are intended to be incorporated herein by reference in the sense and within the scope of the appended claims.

[0124] List of reference numerals

[0125] 2. Operating device

[0126] 4. Energy generation unit (e.g., energy harvester)

[0127] 6. Controller of the operating device

[0128] 8 First control signal

[0129] 10 Second control signal

[0130] 12 transmitter units

[0131] 14 Receiving device

[0132] 15 Receiver Units

[0133] 16 knobs

[0134] 18 First Motion Signal

[0135] 20 Second Actuation Signal

[0136] 22 signal storage units

[0137] 24. The first input terminal of the controller

[0138] 26. The second input terminal of the controller

[0139] 28 Electronic storage circuits

[0140] 30. Logic storage circuits (e.g., RS flip-flops)

[0141] 32 First Capacitor Unit

[0142] 33-35 First / Second / Third Capacitor of First Capacitor Unit

[0143] 36 Second capacitor unit

[0144] 37-39 First / Second / Third Capacitors of the Second Capacitor Unit

[0145] 40 First terminal of the energy generation unit

[0146] 42. Second terminal of the energy generation unit

[0147] 44 Ground wire

[0148] 45-48 First / Second / Third / Fourth Diodes (e.g., Schottky Diodes)

[0149] 50-56 First / Second / Third / Fourth / Fifth / Sixth / Seventh Resistors

[0150] 58 Overvoltage Protection Unit

[0151] 59 Power Input

[0152] 60 Controller of the receiving device

[0153] 61-62 First / Second NOR Gate

[0154] Transmitter Status Diagram (66-67)

[0155] Receiver Status Diagram 68-70

[0156] 71, 72 Eighth / Ninth Resistors

[0157] The first / second inputs of E1, E2 RS flip-flops

[0158] The first / second outputs of the A1 and A2 RS flip-flops

[0159] The power supply voltage of the U_BAT controller

[0160] Z-operation device previously stored actuation state

[0161] ADV operating device transmission actuation state

[0162] l1 indicates the parameter at which the first actuation signal is detected at the first input terminal of the controller.

[0163] l2 indicates the parameter at which a second actuation signal is detected at the second input terminal of the controller.

Claims

1. An operating device (2) for controlling the functions of a machine, wherein, The operating device (2) includes: An energy generation unit (4) is configured to generate electrical energy when actuated by a user of the operating device (2), wherein the energy generation unit (4) is actuable in a first direction and in a second direction, and is configured to generate the electrical energy when actuated in the first direction and / or the second direction; and The controller (6) is configured to transmit a first control signal (8) indicating actuation in the first direction when the energy generating unit (4) is actuated in the first direction, and to transmit a second control signal (10) different from the first control signal and indicating actuation in the second direction when the energy generating unit (4) is actuated in the second direction. The controller (6) operates at least partially using the electrical energy generated by the energy generation unit (4), and The controller (6) is configured to transmit a third control signal that is different from the first control signal (8) and the second control signal (10), wherein the third control signal indicates the error state of the operating device (2).

2. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein, The operating device (2) is a self-contained operating device without any cable connection for receiving electrical power or transmitting control signals.

3. The operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The controller (6) includes a transmitter unit (12) configured to wirelessly transmit the first control signal (8) and / or the second control signal (10) generated by the controller (6) to a receiver unit (15), and Preferably, the transmitter unit (12) is a Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wifi, RFID or EnOcean transmitter, specifically a Bluetooth Low Energy or BLE transmitter.

4. The operating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The operating device (2) includes a knob (16), and The energy generating unit (4) is actuated in the first direction by pressing the knob (16), and in the second direction by releasing the pressed knob (16).

5. The operating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The energy generation unit (4) is configured to generate a first actuation signal (18) when actuated in the first direction and to generate a second actuation signal (20) when actuated in the second direction. The operating device (2) includes a signal storage unit (22) configured to store the first actuation signal (18) when the first actuation signal (18) is generated and to store the second actuation signal (20) when the second actuation signal (20) is generated.

6. The operating device according to claim 5, wherein, The controller (6) is configured to generate and transmit the first control signal (8) when reading the first actuation signal (18) stored from the signal storage unit (22), and the controller (6) is configured to generate and transmit the second control signal (10) when reading the second actuation signal (20) stored from the signal storage unit (22).

7. The operating device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, The controller (6) includes: a first input terminal (24) configured to read a stored first actuation signal (18) from the signal storage unit (22); and a second input terminal (26) configured to read a stored second actuation signal (20) from the signal storage unit (22).

8. The operating device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, The signal storage unit (22) includes an electronic storage circuit (28) or a logic storage circuit (30).

9. The operating device according to claim 8, wherein, The electronic storage circuit (28) includes: a first capacitor unit (32) coupled to a first terminal (40) of the energy generation unit that provides a first actuation signal (18); and a second capacitor unit (36) coupled to a second terminal (42) of the energy generation unit that provides a second actuation signal (20), wherein each of the first capacitor unit (32) and the second capacitor unit (36) has at least one capacitor (33-35, 37-39), and The first capacitor unit (32) is configured to store the first actuation signal (18) by charging the first capacitor unit (32) with the electrical power provided by the first actuation signal on the first terminal (40), and the second capacitor unit (36) is configured to store the second actuation signal (20) by charging the second capacitor unit (36) with the electrical power provided by the second actuation signal on the second terminal (42).

10. The operating device according to claim 9, wherein, The electronic storage circuit (28) includes: a first diode (45), connected in series between the first terminal (40) of the energy generation unit and the first capacitor unit (32); and / or a second diode (46), connected in series between the second terminal (42) of the energy generation unit and the second capacitor unit (36). The first diode (45) and / or the second diode (46) are configured to prevent the first capacitor unit (32) and / or the second capacitor unit (36) from discharging in the direction toward the energy generation unit (4). Preferably, the first diode (45) and / or the second diode (46) are Schottky diodes.

11. The operating device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The electronic storage circuit (28) includes: a first resistor unit having at least one resistor (50) connected in series between the first capacitor unit (32) and the controller (6); and a second resistor unit having at least one resistor (51) connected in series between the second capacitor unit (36) and the controller (6). The first actuation signal (18) is read by discharging the first capacitor unit (32) via the first resistor unit, and the second actuation signal (20) is read by discharging the second capacitor unit (36) via the second resistor unit.

12. The operating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The operating device (2) includes an overvoltage protection unit (58) configured to limit the voltage supplied to the controller (6), specifically, to a first input terminal (24) and / or a second input terminal (26) of the controller, to a maximum value.

13. Systems for controlling machine functions, including: The operating device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, and The receiving device (14) has a receiver unit (15) configured to wirelessly receive the first control signal (8) and / or the second control signal (10) transmitted by the controller (6) of the operating device (2).

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein, The receiver unit (15) is coupled to the controller (60), wherein the controller is configured to activate a first functional state of the machine function when the first control signal (8) is received, and to maintain the first functional state or activate a second functional state different from the first functional state when the second control signal (10) is received.

15. A method for operating the operating device (2) to control the functions of a machine, specifically, the operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The operating device (2) includes: an energy generation unit (4) configured to generate electrical energy when actuated by a user of the operating device, wherein the energy generation unit (4) is actuable in a first direction and in a second direction, and configured to generate the electrical energy when actuated in the first direction and / or the second direction; and a controller (6) that operates at least partially using the electrical energy generated by the energy generation unit (4). The method includes: - The controller (6) transmits a first control signal (8) indicating actuation in the first direction when the energy generation unit (4) is actuated in the first direction. - The controller (6) transmits a second control signal (10) indicating actuation in the second direction when the energy generation unit (4) is actuated in the second direction, and - A third control signal, different from the first control signal (8) and the second control signal (10), is transmitted by the controller (6), wherein the third control signal indicates the error state of the operating device (2).

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