Method for achieving a desired comfort setting in a motor vehicle and device for carrying out the method

DE102013009603B4Active Publication Date: 2026-07-09VOLKSWAGEN AG

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
VOLKSWAGEN AG
Filing Date
2013-06-06
Publication Date
2026-07-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing methods for setting comfort settings in vehicles, particularly climate settings, are not intuitive and require detailed adjustments, leading to potential driver distraction and inefficiency.

Method used

A method and device that utilize a touch-sensitive display and input interface to allow users to set comfort parameters through relative adjustments based on a standard preset, with intuitive gestures and feedback, enabling easy selection of comfort levels and user profiles.

Benefits of technology

Enhances user experience by providing intuitive operation, reducing driver distraction, and ensuring accurate comfort settings through visual feedback and adaptable user profiles.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

Method for achieving a desired comfort setting, in particular climate setting, in a motor vehicle (K), wherein at least one parameter of a desired comfort setting is set or adjustable by an input or inputs of an operator (B) via at least one input interface (1, INF), wherein selectable settings (KS-3 to KS+3) of the at least one parameter are displayed on at least one operating and display surface (100) for the input of a desired comfort setting, wherein, starting from a standard preset or presettable setting (KS0) of the parameter, the display of the selectable settings (KS-3 to KS+3) in relation to this (KS0) is as an adjustable increase (KS+1 to KS+3) and an adjustable decrease (KS-1 to KS-3), characterized in thatthat a horizontal swipe gesture or a special touch function on the operating and display surface (100) brings about a change from a user-specific, default preset setting (e.g. KS+2) of the at least one parameter to a user-specific, default preset setting (e.g. KS-1) of the at least one parameter.
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Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for achieving a desired comfort setting according to the features of the preamble of claim 1. It also relates to a device for carrying out the method according to the features of the preamble of claim 9.

[0002] Such a method and device are known from DE 10 2010 042 376 A1. Specifically, this document discloses a combined display and input device for a vehicle, comprising a first input unit designed as a touchscreen for operating several functions and displaying information. Additionally, a second, physical input unit is provided, which includes a rotary control combined with a push button and / or pull switch. Various functions for achieving a desired comfort setting, in particular for achieving a specific climate setting, can be displayed, selected, and chosen using the input units. Setpoints for adjustable climate functions are displayed on the touchscreen by means of the respective virtual input unit.For example, a temperature to be set is displayed as an absolute temperature value on a virtual dial.

[0003] The invention is based on the objective of improving the known method or operating device in such a way that even more intuitive operation is possible.

[0004] This problem is solved with regard to the method according to the invention with the characterizing features of claim 1 and with regard to the device with the characterizing features of claim 9.

[0005] Advantageous further developments of the invention can be found in the respective dependent claims.

[0006] Regarding the method, the invention relates to a method for achieving a desired comfort setting, in particular climate setting, in a motor vehicle, wherein at least one parameter of a desired comfort setting is set or adjustable by an input or inputs from a user via at least one input interface.

[0007] Such a comfort parameter can be, for example, an air temperature, an air velocity, or, in particular, a higher-level parameter of a comfort setting to which other parameters are subordinate in terms of control technology.

[0008] Such a higher-level parameter is highly advantageously user-oriented, or in other words, effect-oriented rather than function-oriented. This can appropriately be an interior temperature "felt" by the operator, the achievement of which typically involves several subordinate parameters, such as air temperature, air volume, air distribution, and possibly also the radiation intensity of infrared emitters located in the vehicle.

[0009] According to the invention, it is proposed that, for the input of a desired comfort setting, selectable settings of the at least one parameter are displayed on at least one display device, wherein, starting from a standard preset or presettable setting of the parameter, the display of the selectable settings in relative relation to this (standard preset or presettable setting) is as an adjustable increase and an adjustable decrease.

[0010] This allows, for example, the setting of a temperature preset with a specific temperature value, such as in degrees Celsius, or the specification of a particular ventilation level, to be replaced. The user therefore always starts with a "perceived" reference value and decides whether to deviate upwards or downwards from a standard comfort setting.

[0011] A further development of the invention provides that the selectable settings are displayed, or can be displayed, as comfort levels on the display device. The display of relative comfort levels, which the operator can select, is extremely easy for him to understand and use.

[0012] For example, seven comfort levels can be displayed on the display device, whereby, starting from a standard preset comfort level, the user can select three comfort levels that feel "colder" and three comfort levels that feel "warmer" than a standard setting.

[0013] Each comfort level can represent a specific (automatic) control of the intensity of available thermal media or thermal transmission paths, so that their combination always results in optimal, perceived comfort for the operator.

[0014] It is highly advantageous if the customer can deactivate individual thermal media or thermal transmission paths that they find personally uncomfortable. The vehicle's comfort system then effectively compensates for the resulting loss of comfort by increasing the use of other thermal transmission paths.

[0015] Thermal transfer pathways include heat convection, heat conduction and heat radiation, which in motor vehicles can be implemented in particular by fans, contact-based components (e.g. seat or steering wheel heating) and infrared emitters.

[0016] Instead of making a step-by-step adjustment, it is also conceivable to allow a stepless adjustment.

[0017] It has proven very advantageous if, when a desired comfort target setting is entered, the comfort target setting and a comfort actual setting are displayed on the display device until the comfort actual setting matches the comfort target setting.

[0018] This gives the user excellent feedback on the current comfort status and provides certainty as to whether a desired comfort setting has actually been achieved or not.

[0019] The procedure can be refined by providing a virtual representation of the operator on the display device, divided into body areas, for the purpose of setting a desired comfort setting in a body area-specific manner, whereby after touching a body area on the display device by an operator, a comfort setting related to the body area thus marked is made possible.

[0020] A refinement of the procedure and a very intuitive operation can also be achieved if, for the body area-related setting of a desired comfort setting, a virtual, enlarged representation of a body area is displayed on the display device, whereby a comfort setting related to the enlarged body area is then made possible.

[0021] An intuitive operating method can be achieved if, after an enlarged display of one body area, a vertical swipe gesture by the operator triggers a switch to the display of another, enlarged body area.

[0022] It is conceivable that an operator might prefer different comfort settings depending on the season, or that several users of a vehicle might prefer different comfort settings. In this case, it can be very useful if a horizontal swipe gesture or a special touch function on the display allows switching from a user-specific, preset setting of at least one parameter to a user-specific, preset setting of at least one parameter.

[0023] This makes it very easy to access different "user profiles". Of course, the user profiles must be entered and saved beforehand.

[0024] If a change to selected comfort settings is brought about, or can be brought about, by a user's sliding gesture on a display unit similar to a slider control, this contributes to an extremely intuitive operation of the procedure.

[0025] As already mentioned, the invention also relates to a device for carrying out the method according to the invention with at least one touch-sensitive operating and display surface.

[0026] According to the invention, the touch-sensitive operating and display surface can be controlled in such a way that selectable settings of at least one parameter of a desired comfort setting, in particular climate setting, are displayed in such a way that, starting from a standard preset or presettable setting of the parameter, the display of the selectable settings in relation to this is as an adjustable increase and an adjustable decrease.

[0027] Thus, the device is designed to carry out the method according to the invention and allows inputs to be made very intuitively via the touch-sensitive operating and display surface to achieve a desired comfort setting, in particular climate setting.

[0028] According to a further development of the invention, the touch-sensitive operating and display surface is part of a rotary or rotary push-button controller.

[0029] In this way, the device can be designed to be extremely space-saving and compact, and is particularly advantageous for use in small vehicles.

[0030] It is very practical to arrange the selectable settings on the touch-sensitive control and display surface in a semicircle and close to the outer circumference of the touch-sensitive control and display surface.

[0031] In this way, space is very elegantly created within the selectable settings for the display of further selectable settings, thus increasing the functionality of the rotary or rotary push-button controller. For example, a virtual image of an operator can be easily integrated into a climate control system, enabling the previously described control of individual body parts to be climate-controlled.

[0032] For more extensive or in-depth settings, especially in larger vehicles, it can be very useful to have at least one additional touch-sensitive input surface on which selected comfort settings can be changed by a user's sliding gesture, a pivoting gesture, or a vertical shifting gesture.

[0033] Such at least one additional touch-sensitive input surface can, for example, be part of a so-called infotainment touchscreen, which allows not only comfort settings but also settings for an audio and / or navigation system.

[0034] It has proven very advantageous if the intensity of the air flowing from the vents and / or the intensity of the radiation from infrared radiators and / or the temperature of heating surfaces close to the body can be changed by means of the sliding gesture as selected comfort settings.

[0035] In this way, the user can adjust a comfort or climate system very flexibly.

[0036] A further development of the invention offers comparable advantages in which the direction of the air flowing from the outlets can be changed by means of a pivoting gesture or a vertical sliding gesture as a selected comfort setting.

[0037] Overall, this contributes to a highly intuitive operation of an air conditioning system.

[0038] The invention also relates to a motor vehicle with at least one device according to the invention, with which the implementation of the method according to the invention is possible.

[0039] In this way, vehicle occupants are provided with a motor vehicle that is easy and intuitive to operate, at least with regard to its comfort features and climate control. This also reduces driver distraction when making necessary adjustments, thus increasing overall driving safety.

[0040] Preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description. Reference numerals refer to identical, comparable, or functionally equivalent components, achieving corresponding or comparable properties and advantages, even if a repeated description is omitted.

[0041] They show, each schematically

[0042] Fig. 1 a motor vehicle with a device according to the invention for carrying out the method according to the invention in a top view,

[0043] Fig. 2 a device according to the invention for carrying out the method according to a first embodiment,

[0044] Fig. 3a and b a partial representation of the device according to the invention Fig. 1 to explain an operating operation,

[0045] Fig. 4 also a partial representation of the device according to the invention to explain a further operating operation,

[0046] Fig. 5 also a partial representation of the device according to the invention to explain a further operating operation,

[0047] Fig. 6 a device according to the invention for carrying out the method according to a second embodiment,

[0048] Fig. 7 a control element of the device according to Fig. 6,

[0049] Fig. 8. The illustration of a further touch-sensitive operating and display surface to explain an operating operation according to the second embodiment of the device and

[0050] Fig. 9 the representation of the touch-sensitive operating and display area according to Fig. 8, with yet another operating operation.

[0051] First, attention will be drawn to the Fig. 1 referenced.

[0052] The image shows a motor vehicle K, which is equipped with a climate control system. 1 It is equipped in the area of ​​a center console M. The climate control unit 1 is equipped with a central climate control system 3connected in a manner not shown in detail, which is connected in a similarly unspecified manner to various climate control components in terms of control and signaling technology.

[0053] Climate control can thus be used 3 The following climate control components can be controlled: – a central air conditioning system (e.g. with a refrigeration circuit, not shown), which also includes climate control, – the actuators of multiple diffusers 7 , which are located in the area of ​​an IT instrument panel, – Infrared heater 4 , which are located in the area of ​​the driver and front passenger footwell, in the area of ​​the headliner above the driver and front passenger seats, and in the area of ​​the headrests, – Resistance or contact heaters, which are used as seat or backrest heaters 5 as well as a steering wheel heater 6 are trained – fans that act close to the body 8 , which are located in the headliner to cool the head area of ​​an operator (not shown).

[0054] Existing air ducts and via the climate control system 3 For the sake of clarity, controllable air flaps are also not shown.

[0055] In Fig. 2 is the climate control unit 1 depicted, with which an operator can enter corresponding operating commands, which are then transmitted via the climate control system. 3 are converted into appropriate control signals for the aforementioned climate control components.

[0056] The climate control unit indicates 1 a centrally located rotary push button 10 a dial by which a desired climate setting can be selected by turning and confirmed or activated by pressing.

[0057] Instead of a rotary push-button, the use of a simple rotary switch is also conceivable, whereby confirmation of a selected climate setting is activated after a preferably adjustable waiting period.

[0058] The rotary push button 10 features a touch-sensitive input and display area 100 which is comparable to that of a touchscreen.

[0059] To the rotary push button 10 There are four control buttons around it. 11 until 14 arranged.

[0060] The control button 11 It is used to activate a central ventilation system, whereby the intensity of the ventilation can be changed by pressing the button several times.

[0061] The key 12 It is used to activate infrared radiation that is effective for the driver; the button 13 to activate infrared radiation effective for the passenger.

[0062] The key 14Another function can be assigned, which is not active in this embodiment. However, it will be explained in more detail in connection with another embodiment.

[0063] On the keys 11 until 13 Furthermore, there are indicator lights (LEDs) 110 It is evident which indicate to the operator the activation of the corresponding function.

[0064] The following section will describe the structure, operation, and functionality of the rotary push-button controller. 10 will be explained in more detail.

[0065] Thus, the touch-sensitive input and display surface 100 The display shows settings for a climate-related parameter that can be selected by both a driver (symbol F) and a passenger BF (symbol BF).

[0066] Specifically, the input and display area 100Selectable settings of the climate-related parameter are represented as comfort levels KS, with seven comfort levels KS selectable for both driver F and front passenger.

[0067] The comfort levels KS are each semicircular and close to an outer circumference. 101 the input and display area 100 arranged.

[0068] Each operator can now select between seven comfort levels, from KS-3 to KS+3. Each comfort level corresponds to a "perceived" temperature for the respective operator.

[0069] The comfort levels KS have the following meaning: KS – 3: three levels colder than a specified standard value KS – 2: two levels colder than a specified standard KS – 1: one step colder than a specified standard KS 0: predefined standard – the climate control system regulates to this value of a “comfortable climate”. 3, if no deviation (i.e., more or less) is set by the operator KS + 1: one level warmer than a specified standard KS + 2: two levels warmer than a specified standard KS + 3: three levels warmer than a specified standard

[0070] In the display, the comfort level KS – 1 is active for the front passenger.

[0071] However, the driver has selected and activated a comfort target setting, which corresponds to comfort level KS + 2.

[0072] Starting from a previously set comfort actual setting, which corresponded to comfort level KS – 1, the system is now adjusted up to the comfort target setting.

[0073] In particular, when a desired comfort setpoint is entered, the setpoint is displayed on the display device. 100as long as the comfort target setting (Sort) and a comfort actual setting (Ist) are displayed, until the (now constantly changing) comfort actual setting (Ist) matches the comfort target setting (Sort).

[0074] This results in a kind of "progress indicator" that clearly informs the user about the current state of the system.

[0075] In the display, the comfort target setting (Sort) is assigned a flashing function (BL). As soon as the actual comfort setting (Ist) and the comfort target setting (Sort) match, the flashing function (BL) stops and only a static display is shown, just as is already the case for the passenger's (BF) adjusted comfort level (KS-1).

[0076] In contrast to the illustration in the exemplary embodiment, it is also conceivable to design the progress indicator as a "progress bar", which, for example, runs horizontally on the display surface. 100The KS comfort level is displayed between the displayed comfort levels.

[0077] For automatic driver / passenger recognition, the rotary push-button controller 10 and the keys surrounding it 11 until 14 a corresponding sensor system is present (not shown in detail) which, based on a capacitive signal originating from the skin surface of an operator, detects whether the climate control system 1 operated from the side of a driver F or from the side of a passenger BF.

[0078] The progress indicator displayed after entering a desired change disappears when the comfort target setting is reached, so that the display on the input and display area 100 returns to a "reduced mode".

[0079] It should be pointed out again that the parameter adjustable in comfort levels KS is a “perceived” temperature or “perceived” climate of an operator, the setting of which is effect-oriented and not function-oriented.

[0080] Such a perceived temperature is due to the climate control system. 3 This is achieved by appropriately controlled climate control components, whereby the operator generally does not need to make detailed adjustments to the individual climate control components or consider the relationship between a set function and a desired effect. This is handled by the central climate control system. 3 for him.

[0081] The operator has access to the control buttons 11 until 13 (and if necessary) 14) merely a very limited and clear way to determine how a comfort level KS (perceived temperature) selected by him is achieved.

[0082] The user can use the keys 12 and 13 Simply specify that existing infrared heaters should also be activated to achieve the desired comfort level KS. No further settings are necessary.

[0083] However, it may be possible to regulate the climate according to body zones. This is done using the Fig. 3 explained in more detail.

[0084] This occurs after a single touch of the control and display surface. 100A virtual representation of an operator, divided into the body parts head P1, torso P2, and legs P3. Additionally, depending on whether the operator is the driver or the passenger, the corresponding symbol (F or BF, see below) is highlighted or displayed. Fig. 2).

[0085] Based on this “overall view”, the operator can select one of the body parts P1 to P3 by touch and make the selection and confirmation of a desired comfort level in the manner already described.

[0086] In the Fig. 3a. For the operator (driver), comfort level KS 0 (standard) is active, and the operator has selected fuselage P2 by touching it. For the passenger, comfort level KS – 1 is active.

[0087] By turning and then pressing the rotary push button 10 The operator, as in Fig. 3b shows that the comfort level KS + 3 has now been selected and activated, whereby this comfort setting is now only valid for the hull P2.

[0088] Accordingly, the climate control system 3 the aforementioned climate-related components (see Fig. 1) targeted, which can contribute to achieving the desired climate for the selected body part.

[0089] If the operator makes comfort settings based on the aforementioned "overall view", i.e., without selecting a body part, these settings will then apply to the entire body.

[0090] As an alternative to the display and operation method described in the previous figure, it is also conceivable that instead of a “complete view”, a “magnified view” is chosen in which the body parts P1 to P3 are shown individually.

[0091] This is in Fig. 4 shown.

[0092] For the driver, this was initially achieved by touching the control and display surface. 100 an enlarged view of the head P1 ( Fig. 4a).

[0093] A vertical swipe gesture now allows the head P1 to be moved upwards out of the input and display area. 100 moved out (compare Fig. 4b) and the display can be changed to another body part, for example the torso P2. Pressing this button confirms the selected body part, and then turning and pressing the rotary push button further. 10 A desired comfort level KS can then be selected. This could be, for example, starting from comfort level KS 0, comfort level KS + 3 (see below). Fig. 4c).

[0094] It may also be possible to save comfort preferences for different users, which can be recalled by the respective user at any time.

[0095] This shows Fig. 5, that different comfort or climate profiles can be selected by a horizontal swipe gesture on the rotary push button. 10 are possible.

[0096] Starting from a user profile where the comfort level KS + 2 is active for the driver, a horizontal swipe gesture creates another user profile where the comfort level KS – 1 is preset (compare Fig. 5b). A further swipe gesture by operator B results in the setting of a user profile in which the comfort level KS + 3 is active as the default setting (compare Fig. 5c).

[0097] Each user profile can also be assigned a corresponding (enterable and savable) preset of the buttons. 11 – 13 be assigned to selectable settings.

[0098] In this context, it may be advisable to give the different user profiles meaningful names that can be displayed in a suitable location, for example on the user interface and display area. 100 , depicted (not shown).

[0099] In Fig. Figure 6 now shows an alternative climate control unit INF, with which the motor vehicle K (compare Fig. 1) may be equipped alternatively.

[0100] The INF climate control unit, in addition to the climate control unit already described, also features... 1 , a touchscreen 2 on, which is also used as a touchscreen for an infotainment and / or navigation system.

[0101] The touchscreen serves this purpose 2 for entering further, more detailed climate settings via an accessible climate menu, while the climate control unit 1 as in Fig. 7 is shown, it is structured.

[0102] Unlike the climate control unit 1 out of Fig. 2 is the key 14 In this embodiment, it is assigned a menu function, i.e., when the button is pressed, 14 will be displayed on the touchscreen 2 A corresponding, graphically oriented climate menu opens, allowing the operator to make further settings. This is located in Fig. 8 is visible.

[0103] On the touchscreen 2 , specifically horizontally on a touch-sensitive input and display surface 20 the touchscreen 2 Arranged are virtual control buttons 21 until 26 .

[0104] By pressing the key 21 Settings for infrared radiation for the driver can be adjusted using the button. 23 Infrared settings for the passenger, with the button 22 Ventilation settings can be adjusted using the button. 24Heating surface settings for the driver can be adjusted using the button. 25 Heating surface settings for the passenger can be adjusted. The button 26 Used to set an automatic recirculation function.

[0105] In the illustration, the button was pressed by an operator B. 22 touched, after which several additional virtual control buttons 27 until 30 The ventilation settings will be displayed.

[0106] The operator B also pressed the buttons 28 and 30 activated. These buttons allow you to preselect the air outlet direction from the existing vents. 7 (compare Fig. 1) escaping air possible.

[0107] Then, using a virtual slider SR, starting from a zero position SR0 of the slider SR, the operator B can move it towards a virtual representation P of an operator.

[0108] The closer the slider SR is moved towards the operator P, the stronger the intensity I of one of the air outlets becomes. 7 incoming airflow.

[0109] In the figure, this adjustment is made for the airflow acting on the torso area of ​​the operator.

[0110] Alternatively or additionally to direction selection via the buttons 27 , 28 and 30 The operator B also has the option of changing the direction R of the airflow (fine adjustment) by means of a pivoting gesture performed around the zero position SR0 of the slider SR as the imaginary center point, or by means of a vertical shifting gesture.

[0111] Via the button 29 A representation can be generated to adjust the air turbulence between the different airflows directed at the body areas (not shown). In Fig. Figure 9 shows that after touching one of the buttons 21 or 23 the operator B arrives at such a representation in which the intensity I of a radiation from the infrared emitters 4 (cf.) Fig. 1) is also possible by means of a sliding gesture using a slider SR.

[0112] Similarly, an operator can, after pressing one of the buttons 24 or 25 an adjustment of the intensity of the heating provided by a seat or backrest heater 5 and / or through a steering wheel heater 6 influence the resulting contact heat.

[0113] After making such advanced settings, user B can press the menu button. 14 (compare Fig. 7) Exit the climate menu.

[0114] Alternatively, it is also possible for the climate menu to be automatically exited after a certain, preferably adjustable, time has elapsed.

[0115] It is understandable that the climate control system 1 Due to space constraints, it is preferably used in standalone mode for smaller vehicles, while the INF climate control unit with additional touchscreen 2 It will primarily be used in larger vehicles.

[0116] The invention is not limited to the embodiment(s) described above. These were only used to generally illustrate the core concept of the invention. Within the scope of its protection, the invention may also include embodiments or configurations other than those described above. In particular, it may also include features that represent a combination of individual features of the respective claims. Reference symbol list 1 Climate control unit 2 Infotainment touchscreen 3 central climate control 4 infrared heaters 5 Seat or backrest heating 6 Steering wheel heating 7 air vents 8 body-hugging fans 10 rotary push-button switches 11. Ventilation button 12 Button for infrared emitter driver 13 Button for infrared heater passenger 14 Key for other function assignment 20 touch-sensitive input and display areas 21 Button for setting infrared radiation driver 22 Button for ventilation setting 23 Button for setting infrared radiation passenger 24 Button for adjusting heating surfaces driver 25 Button for adjusting heating surfaces driver 26 Button for setting automatic recirculation 27 Button for selecting specific air vents 28 Button for selecting specific air vents 29 Button for adjusting turbulence 30 Button for selecting specific air vents 100 touch-sensitive input and display areas 101 Scope of the touch-sensitive input and display area 110 indicator lights (LEDs) B Operator BF passenger symbol BL flashing function F Driver symbol I Change in the intensity of the outflow INF climate control system with infotainment touchscreen Is comfort actual setting IT instrument panel K motor vehicle M center console R Change in the direction of the outflow SR slider SR0 Zero position of the slider KS + 3 Comfort level +3 KS + 2 Comfort level +2 KS + 1 Comfort level +1 KS0 Comfort Level Standard KS – 1 Comfort Level – 1 KS – 2 Comfort Level –2 KS – 3 Comfort Level –3 P virtual representation of an operator P1 Head P2 fuselage P3 Legs Target comfort setting QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0117] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0118] DE 102010042376 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Method for achieving a desired comfort setting, in particular climate setting, in a motor vehicle (K), wherein by an input or inputs of a user (B) via at least one input interface ( 1 , INF) at least one parameter of a desired comfort setting is set or adjustable, characterized by that to enter a desired comfort setting on at least one display device ( 100 ) selectable settings (KS – 3 to KS + 3) of the at least one parameter are displayed, wherein, starting from a default preset or presettable setting (KS 0) of the parameter, the display of the selectable settings (KS – 3 to KS + 3) in relative relation to this (KS0) is as an adjustable more (KS + 1 to KS + 3) and an adjustable less (KS – 1 to KS – 3). [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized bythat the selectable settings are displayed as comfort levels (KS - 3 to KS + 3) on the display device ( 100 ) are displayed or can be displayed. [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that when a desired comfort setpoint (setpoint) is entered on the display device ( 100 ) as long as the comfort target setting (Target) and a comfort actual setting (Actual) are displayed, until the comfort actual setting (Actual) matches the comfort target setting (Target). [4] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that for the body area-specific setting of a desired comfort setting on the display device ( 100 ) a virtual representation of an operator is divided according to body areas (P1–P3), whereby after touching a body area (P1 or P2 or P3) on the display device ( 100) by an operator (B) a comfort setting related to the body area marked in this way (P1 or P2 or P3) is made possible. [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, characterized by that for the body area-specific setting of a desired comfort setting on the display device ( 100 ) a virtual, enlarged representation of a body area (P1 or P2 or P3) is performed, after which a comfort setting related to the enlarged body area (P1 or P2 or P3) is enabled. [6] Method according to claim 5, characterized by that after an enlarged display of one body area (P1 or P2 or P3), a vertical swipe gesture by an operator (B) triggers a switch to the display of another enlarged body area (P1 or P2 or P3). [7] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat by a horizontal swipe gesture or a special touch function on the display device ( 100 ) a change is made from a default setting of at least one parameter that is related to a specific user (e.g. KS + 2) to a default setting of at least one parameter that is related to another user (e.g. KS – 1). [8] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a change in selected comfort settings ( 22 , 28 , 30 ; I) by a user's swipe gesture (B) on a display unit ( 20 ) is brought about or can be brought about in the manner of a slider (SR). [9] Device for carrying out the method according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one touch-sensitive operating and display surface ( 100 , 20 ), characterized bythat the touch-sensitive operating and display surface ( 100 ) is controllable in such a way that selectable settings (KS – 3 to KS + 3) of at least one parameter of a desired comfort setting, in particular climate setting, are displayed in such a way that, starting from a standard preset or presettable setting (KS0) of the parameter, the display of the selectable settings (KS – 3 to KS + 3) in relative relation to this (KS0) is as an adjustable increase (KS + 1 to KS + 3) and an adjustable decrease (KS – 1 to KS – 3). [10] Device according to claim 9, characterized by that the touch-sensitive operating and display surface ( 100 ) Component of a rotary or rotary push-button switch ( 10 ) is. [11] Device according to claim 10, characterized by that the selectable settings (KS – 3 to KS + 3) on the touch-sensitive control and display surface ( 100) semicircular and close to its outer circumference ( 101 are arranged. [12] Device according to any one of the preceding claims 9 to 11, characterized by that at least one additional touch-sensitive input surface ( 20 ) is available, on which a change of selected comfort settings ( 22 , 28 , 30 , I) can be brought about by a user's (B) sliding gesture in the manner of a slider (SR), by a pivoting gesture or by a vertical sliding gesture. [13] Device according to claim 12, characterized by that the intensity (I) of the air vents ( 7 ) flowing air and / or the intensity (I) of the radiation from infrared emitters ( 4 ) and / or the temperature of heating surfaces close to the body ( 5 , 6 ) is changeable. [14] Device according to claim 12, characterized bythat the direction (R) of the air coming from the air outlets is determined by the swivel gesture or the vertical sliding gesture as the selected comfort setting ( 7 ) is changeable by flowing air. [15] Motor vehicle (K) with at least one device according to any one of claims 9 to 14. [16] Motor vehicle (K) according to claim 15, characterized by that a comfort facility, in particular an air conditioning system, is present, which also includes components that act close to the body, in particular infrared radiators ( 4 ), heated areas ( 5 , 6 ) as well as body-mounted fans ( 8 ) includes.