Control element, system, use and procedure

Abstract

Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'') for navigating through at least one menu of at least one display unit and for selecting at least one menu item of the menu, comprising: • at least one housing body (3, 3'') with at least one first housing part (5, 5'') and at least one second housing part (7, 7''), wherein the second housing part (7, 7'') is rotatable relative to the first housing part (5, 5''); • at least one finger element (17, 17', 17''), wherein the finger element (17, 17', 17'') rotates relative to the first housing part (5, 5'') when the second housing part (7, 7'') is rotated relative to the first housing part (5, 5''), wherein at least one underside of the finger element (17, 17', 17'') lies at least partially in at least one first plane; and • at least one key element with • (a) at least one button element (9) and • (b) at least one selection element (11, 11', 11''), wherein the button element (9) is operatively connected to the selection element (11, 11', 11''), whereby actuation of the button element (9) causes the selection element (11, 11', 11'') to move relative to the first housing part (5, 5'') or second housing part (7, 7'') and to approach and touch the first plane, where the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'''') comprises a plurality of key elements, wherein the offset between two adjacent key elements along a circular arc and / or in at least one cross-sectional plane is equal to the offset between the finger element (17, 17', 17'') and at least one first key element on the circular arc, which is arranged clockwise and / or counterclockwise adjacent to the finger element (17, 17', 17'').

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a control element for a display unit, a system comprising such a control element and a display unit, a use of such a control element and a method for operating a display unit in conjunction with such a control element.

[0002] Displays in vehicles, and especially in instrument clusters, are a convenience in modern vehicles. As displays increase in size, they can show a wealth of information. Furthermore, with the growing number of sources providing information to vehicle occupants, particularly the driver, the number of displays also increases. Rotating circular pushbuttons, commonly known as jog dials, have become an intuitive control element for navigating menus and selecting menu items. However, with a large amount of information and significantly increased complexity, controlling displays with conventional jog dials can be cumbersome.

[0003] US Patent 2008 / 0238879A1 describes mechanical devices for improving the input process for touchscreen devices. Fader tracks with or without fader caps, rotary and fixed knobs, and joysticks can be detachably glued to a touchscreen and used to emulate their respective functions, utilizing the software interpretation of the touch detections triggered by the devices to perform the emulations.

[0004] From US patent 2013 / 0249808A1, a system is known that includes a touch sensor system in conjunction with a host. Interaction with the touch sensor system is facilitated by an overlay of one or more actuators. Each actuator includes a touch-generating element that provides a surface for a touch sensor of the touch sensor system. A configuration module is provided in conjunction with the host, and a configuration file is supplied to the configuration module to define attributes of the touch sensor system and provide a command set. During the initialization of the touch sensing system, the attributes defined by the configuration module are applied. After the actuator is activated, the surface provided by the actuator is identified, and the instructions of the command set associated with the identified surface are executed.

[0005] US Patent 2015 / 0169080A1 discloses an electronic device comprising a display for capturing touch inputs and at least one processor for recognizing the type of auxiliary input device placed on the display.

[0006] DE 10 2011 084 812 A1 discloses a user interface with a touch-sensitive screen on which a special token is placed. The token has two discs connected by a ball bearing, allowing rotation to be registered directly by the token, similar to a rotary control.

[0007] Therefore, the invention aims to provide measures that solve the complexity of menu navigation and item selection by providing an efficient procedure for navigating through menus and / or selecting menu items for the various types of displays in vehicles, while also being easy and inexpensive to use and implement.

[0008] The invention solves the problem according to a first aspect by means of a control element for navigating through at least one menu of at least one display unit and / or for selecting at least one menu item of the menu, comprising: at least one housing body with at least one first housing part and at least one second housing part, wherein the second housing part is rotatable relative to the first housing part; at least one finger element, wherein the finger element rotates relative to the first housing part when the second housing part is rotated relative to the first housing part, wherein at least one underside of the finger element lies at least partially in at least one first plane;and at least one key element with (a) at least one button element and (b) at least one selection element, wherein the button element is operatively connected to the selection element, whereby actuation of the button element causes the selection element to move relative to the first housing part and / or the second housing part and to approach and touch the first plane.;

[0009] The control element comprises a plurality of key elements, preferably two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten and / or more than ten key elements, wherein the offset between two adjacent key elements along a circular arc and / or in at least one cross-sectional plane, preferably the plane perpendicular to the first direction, is equal to the offset between the finger element and at least one key element, in particular the first key element on the circular arc, which is arranged adjacent to the finger element in a clockwise direction and / or counterclockwise direction.

[0010] In one embodiment, a first direction is defined by at least one axial extension of the housing body, in particular in a direction parallel to a vector pointing from the bottom to the top of the control element.

[0011] In another embodiment, the control element further comprises at least one wall element that is directly or indirectly connected to the second housing element, wherein in particular (i) the wall element rotates, in particular about at least one central axis of the control element, relative to the first housing part when the second housing part is rotated relative to the first housing part, (ii) the wall element has a hollow cylindrical shape at least in certain areas, (iii) the wall element is arranged at least in certain areas within the space enclosed by the housing element, in particular by the first housing part and / or second housing part, and / or (iv) actuation of the button element further causes the selection element to move relative to the wall element.

[0012] In yet another embodiment, the control element further comprises at least one fastening element for attaching the control element to the display unit, in particular at at least one position of a screen area included in the display unit, wherein preferably (i) the fastening element is rotatably mounted in the housing body, in particular in the first housing part and / or in the second housing part, relative to the first housing part and / or second housing part, (ii) the fastening element comprises at least partially, in particular on at least one end face and / or bottom surface of the fastening element, preferably the end face and / or bottom surface facing the first plane, at least one first electrically conductive and / or magnetic material, in particular for attaching the control element, (iii) the fastening element, in particular on at least one end face and / or bottom surface of the fastening element,preferably the front and / or underside facing the first plane comprises at least one first electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, in particular for attaching the control element, (iv) the fastening element comprises at least one suction cup and / or (v) at least one underside of the fastening element lies at least partially in the first plane.

[0013] In one embodiment, the control element further comprises at least one valve element, in particular for assisting in overcoming a suction force built up by the suction cup, with at least one valve body and at least one valve member which is movable at least partially inside the valve body, wherein the valve member is fixedly connected to the second housing part, wherein the valve body extends through the plate element and / or the valve body is fixedly connected to the first housing part and / or the suction cup.

[0014] In the two aforementioned embodiments, it is also preferred that (i) a suction force built up by the suction cup can be released by pulling the second housing part away from the first housing part, in particular along the first direction, (ii) the valve element can be moved, in particular along the first direction, from at least a first position to at least a second position in order to establish a fluid connection between at least one suction element included in the suction cup and the environment of the suction cup, preferably at least one space enclosed by the housing body, particularly preferably enclosed by the first housing part and / or by the second housing part, and / or (iii) the valve element can be moved, in particular opposite to the first direction, from the second position to the first position in order to interrupt the fluid connection.

[0015] In another embodiment, the control element further comprises at least one plate element, in particular for increasing the stability of the control element, wherein in particular (i) the plate element is directly or indirectly connected to the second housing element and / or directly or indirectly connected to the wall element, (ii) the plate element rotates, in particular about the central axis of the control element, relative to the first housing part when the second housing part is rotated relative to the first housing part, (iii) the plate element is arranged at least partially within the space enclosed by the first housing part, (iv) the plate element comprises at least one means, in particular at least one hole, for guiding the button element, in particular the selection element, at least partially along and / or opposite to the first direction, and / or (v) further effects actuation of the button element.that the selection element moves relative to the plate element.

[0016] In one embodiment (i) the second housing part has a dome-like shape at least in certain areas, in particular to improve the stability and / or suitability of the control element, (ii) the first housing part, the second housing part, the plate element, the wall element, the valve element, in particular the valve member and / or the valve body, and / or the suction cup are arranged at least substantially concentrically, and / or (iii) the first housing part and the second housing part are stacked on top of each other at least in certain areas, in particular along the first direction and / or in at least one cross-sectional plane, wherein the plane is preferably perpendicular to the first direction.

[0017] In yet another embodiment (i) the first housing part has a hollow cylindrical shape at least in certain areas, in particular to allow a compact design of the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''''), (ii) the first housing part comprises at least in certain areas, in particular at at least one end of the first housing part, preferably the end that points to the first plane, at least a second electrically conductive and / or magnetic material, in particular for attaching the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''''), (iii) the first housing part comprises at least one second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, in particular for attaching the control element, at least on at least one end face and / or underside of the first housing part, preferably the end face and / or underside that points to the first plane, and / or (iv) the underside of the first housing part lies at least in certain areas in the first plane.

[0018] In another embodiment, the following applies: The finger element (i) comprises at least partially, in particular on at least one end face and / or underside of the finger element, preferably the end face and / or underside facing the first plane, at least one third electrically conductive and / or magnetic material, in particular to allow the finger element to be detected; (ii) comprises, in particular on at least one end face and / or underside of the finger element, preferably the end face and / or underside facing the first plane and / or lying in it, at least one third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, in particular to allow the finger element to be detected; (iii) is at least partially inside and / or outside the space enclosed by the housing body, in particular by the first housing part and / or by the second housing part.arranged and / or (iv) is firmly connected to the second housing part and / or the wall element.

[0019] In yet another embodiment (i) actuation of the button element comprises pressing the button element and / or is represented thereby;(ii) the key element, in particular the selection element and / or the button element, is preferably movable along and / or opposite to the first direction and / or against the preload of at least one spring element, in particular at least one helical spring, (iii) the selection element and the button element are formed integrally, (iv) at least one first end of the key element comprises the selection element and / or at least one second end, preferably opposite the first end, comprises the button element, (v) the key element, in particular the selection element and / or the button element, rotates, in particular about the central axis of the control element, relative to the first housing part when the second housing part is rotated relative to the first housing part, and / or (vi) the button element is movable at least sectionally through the second housing part, in particular in a direction parallel and / or opposite to the first direction.

[0020] In one embodiment (i) the key element, in particular the selection element, comprises at least partially, in particular at at least one end of the key element, in particular the selection element, preferably the end facing the first plane, at least one fourth electrically conductive and / or magnetic material, in particular to allow the key element to be detected, (ii) the key element, in particular the selection element, comprises at least one fourth electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, in particular on at least one front and / or bottom surface of the key element, in particular the selection element, preferably the front and / or bottom surface facing the first plane, in particular to allow the key element to be detected, (iii) the selection element extends at least partially into the space enclosed by the first housing part,(iv) the selection element is at least partially cylindrical, (v) the selection element is arranged, in particular movable, on the second housing part, the wall element and / or the plate element and / or (vi) is movable relative to the at least first housing part, second housing part, the wall element and / or the plate element, in particular along at least the first direction.

[0021] In another embodiment, the key element, in particular the selection element and / or the button element, is arranged offset, in particular to allow differentiation between different key elements, preferably by 90 degrees, 180 degrees or 270 degrees relative to the finger element, in particular along a circular arc and / or in at least one cross-sectional plane, preferably the plane that is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0022] The invention solves the problem according to a second aspect by a system comprising at least one display unit and at least one control element for navigating through at least one menu of the at least one display unit and / or for selecting at least one menu item of the menu according to at least one embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, wherein in particular the display unit is included in at least one rearview device to which the control element is preferably attached and / or attachable.

[0023] In one embodiment, the display unit comprises (i) at least partially at least a magnetic and / or ferromagnetic material behind and / or in the screen area included in the display unit, and / or (ii) at least one evaluation tool for detecting the presence and / or location of magnetic fields and / or electrical conductivity of objects approaching and / or touching the screen surface of the display unit, and / or a change in capacitance due to objects approaching and / or touching the screen surface of the display unit.

[0024] The invention solves the problem according to a third aspect by using a control element according to at least one embodiment of the first aspect of the invention for navigating through at least one menu of at least one display unit and / or for selecting at least one menu item of the menu.

[0025] The invention solves the problem according to a fourth aspect by a method for operating a display unit, in particular in conjunction with a control element according to the first aspect of the invention and / or with a system according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the method comprises the following steps: (i) detecting the presence of the control element attached to a designated area of ​​the display unit, in particular by detecting the presence of a first electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, preferably the fastening element, particularly preferably the first electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, and / or the first housing part, particularly preferably the second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, on or near the display unit;and preferably (a) displaying – on the display unit – the respective menu corresponding to the display unit, in particular the area thereof on which the control element is attached, and / or (b) adapting the displayed menu to the location of the control element; (ii) calculating a first selection location based at least on detecting the position of a second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, preferably the finger element, and particularly preferably a third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, relative to the position of the first electrically conductive and / or magnetic element on or near the display unit; and preferably updating the display of the display unit depending on the first selection;(iii) Calculating a second selection location based at least on detecting the position of the second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, preferably the finger element, and particularly preferably the third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, relative to the position of the first electrically conductive and / or magnetic element on or near the display unit, preferably in response to detecting a rotation of the control element, in particular a rotation of the second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element; and preferably updating the display of the display unit depending on the first selection;(iv) Detecting a third selection location, in particular which key element has been actuated, based at least on detecting the position of a third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, preferably the key element, more preferably the selection element, and most preferably the fourth electrically conductive and / or magnetic element, relative to the position of the second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element on or near the display unit, preferably in response to the detection of an actuated key element; and preferably updating the display of the display unit and / or triggering a predefined operation.

[0026] It was thus surprisingly found that by providing a freely positionable control element, particularly in the form of a rotary knob, the complexity of the control for menu navigation and menu item selection can be resolved. This is because the ability to position the control element at different physical locations on the display unit, especially on at least one screen included in the display unit, provides an independent source of control information and consequently an additional control layer. This, in turn, allows the number of different elements required for the control to be reduced to a manageable number, resulting in a more intuitive control. Furthermore, the elimination of the need for electronic components further reduces the complexity of the entire system.This, in turn, leads to a significant reduction in component costs and also allows for more cost-effective manufacturing of the control unit. Furthermore, the weight is reduced. Additionally, the control unit can be used independently of any power source, which increases its ease of use and reduces the likelihood of control unit failure.

[0027] In this regard, it was found that navigation through the selection menu is possible using at least one finger element, which can be tracked by a respective display unit to which the control element is attached, by the finger element comprising at least one electrically conductive and / or magnetic material and / or at least one corresponding element, in particular a corresponding third material and / or third element. This allows the display unit to evaluate a flow of electric current, a change in capacitance, and / or a magnetic field in order to detect the presence and / or position of the finger element.The detected location of the finger element can alternatively and / or additionally, preferably also in conjunction with its relative position to the position of a fastening element (described in more detail below) included in the control element for attaching it to the display unit, be evaluated to better determine the menu selection. At least one underside of the finger element lies at least partially in a first plane. The first plane could, for example, be the top surface of the display unit, in particular the surface of the screen.

[0028] Furthermore, a menu item can be selected by pressing a key element. This key element, in turn, comprises a selection element, which includes at least one electrically conductive and / or magnetic material and / or at least one corresponding element, in particular a corresponding fourth material and / or fourth element. Pressing the key element brings the fourth material and / or fourth element closer to the first layer and can even additionally and / or alternatively touch the first layer. This means that when the key element is pressed, at least the finger element and at least one key element (in particular its respective selection element) can be detected as being present in the first layer and / or approaching the first layer.This method, also used to detect the actuation of a key element, can be implemented by having the display unit (or a corresponding controller) evaluate a flow of electric current, a change in capacitance, and / or a magnetic field to detect the presence and / or position of the key element. Advantageously, it has been found that if the position of the detected key element is evaluated relative to the position of the detected finger element, it is possible to support more than one key element, since the relative position allows differentiation between the various keys. This only requires that the multiple key elements be arranged in a known relative manner to each other and / or relative to the finger element.

[0029] The control element advantageously comprises a mounting element, which has already been briefly mentioned above, that simultaneously allows the detection of the presence of the control element on the display unit and its location. This, in turn, makes it possible to control different appearances of the display unit depending on the position where the control element is attached to the display unit. In particular, if the mounting element comprises at least one first electrically conductive and / or magnetic material and / or element, this task can be accomplished in a quite simple and effective manner. The evaluation of the presence and / or position can preferably be carried out, as previously described with regard to the finger element and the key element, by evaluating a flow of electric current, a change in capacitance, and / or a magnetic field.

[0030] Preferably, the fastening element could alternatively and / or additionally comprise at least one suction cup. This allows for convenient attachment of the control element to the display unit. Furthermore, to allow easy removal of the suction cup (i.e., the control element) from the display unit, the control element can comprise a valve element. By making the valve element movable within the valve body (between at least a first and second position) and fixedly connected to the second housing part, it is possible to establish a fluid connection between the interior of the suction cup and the atmosphere when the second housing part is pulled, i.e., when the control element is removed from the display unit, thus releasing the suction force generated by the suction cup. Simultaneously, when the control element is attached to the display unit, i.e.,, when thrust is applied to the second housing part, the fluid connection is interrupted.

[0031] In order to implement a safety function of the key element(s), a plate element may be provided which may be designed to guide the key element(s), in particular by means of respective holes through which the key element(s), in particular the selection element(s), passes.

[0032] The inventors noted in particular that the control element can advantageously be used in conjunction with a display unit. The control element preferably allows the display unit to detect its position. For example, the display unit's touchscreen can detect the control element's location on the screen. Depending on the physical location of the control element on the display unit, especially the display screen, the display unit can show a location-dependent menu and / or navigation. This simplifies menu structures, as the location is an additional parameter that can be used for preselection.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, the following may be provided: 1. Placement and location detection: A touch sensor subsystem on the display detects and locates the placement of the rotary knob on the screen. This then triggers the associated menu, which is displayed around the knob based on its location on the screen. 2. Rotation detection: A conductive object rotates with the rotating object. This triggers a multitouch sensor on the screen to detect the rotation-induced displacement. 3. Selection detection: When a user presses the knob, this causes a conductive object to touch the screen. Based on the relative position of the rotating object, the multitouch subsystem then detects this action.

[0034] Furthermore, the following may be provided alternatively or additionally: 1. An attachment mechanism on the screen that not only holds the button in place but also triggers the position detection of the touch subsystem: this can be achieved through magnetism or (micro)suction with electrically conductive properties. 2. Rotation of the conductive body that follows the movement of the rotating body, such that the displacement of the conductive body results in enough of a change in capacitance for the touch sensor to detect the rotational movement: this then triggers the preselection menu on the screen based on the rotational movement. 3. A secondary movement of the conductive body so that its position relative to the surface of the touchscreen changes between contact and no contact according to the operation of the "push button": when the user presses the button, the capacitance changes, triggering a "selection" process. This system can contain numerous buttons in one system. 4.A mechanism that triggers the movement of a conductive pole in conjunction with a button movement, and also a mechanism for triggering the conductive pole(s) to touch the display surface after the button(s) are pressed. 5.

[0035] Detection of the pressed button is based on the relative placement of the "rotating conductive pole" and contacting poles when a button is pressed. 6. The outer body material and its conductivity to the inner conductive poles are considered, such that a human body model can produce enough capacitive discharge change from a projected capacitive touch subsystem to detect movement of a conductive pole and contact with a conductive pole. 7. Rotation-related information is obtained through this displacement on the touchscreen.

[0036] The following drawings illustrate aspects of the invention to improve understanding of the invention, along with some exemplary representations. They show: Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b Schematic representations of a control element; Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b, Fig. 2c Schematic representations of the interior of a control element according to a first embodiment of the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 3a, Fig. 3b Schematic representations of a control element according to a second embodiment of the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b, Fig. 4c Schematic representations of systems; Fig. 5a an interior of a vehicle with numerous display units; Fig. 5b Schematic representations of displays of a display unit in Fig. 5a; Fig. 6a a schematic representation of a screen of a display unit; Fig. 6b a schematic representation of a subpage view on a control; Fig. 6c Schematic representations of a system with actuated key elements; Fig. 7a Schematic representations of different menu selections; Fig. 7b Schematic representations of different menu item selections; Fig. 8 a flowchart; and Fig. 9 a flowchart of a method according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0037] Fig. Figure 1a shows a perspective top view of a control element 1 comprising a housing body 3 with a first housing part 5 and a second housing part 7. The second housing part 7 can be rotated relative to the first housing part 5. A first direction D is defined by the axial extension of the housing body 3 in a direction parallel to a vector pointing from the bottom to the top of the control element 1. The second housing part 7 has a dome-like shape, at least in some areas. The control element 1 further comprises a single button element with a knob element 9. The knob element is movable through the second housing part 7 in a direction parallel and / or opposite to the first direction D.

[0038] Fig. Figure 1b shows the control element 1 in a perspective view from below. The key element further comprises a selection element 11. The selection element includes at least a fourth electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 12. The control element 1 further comprises a mounting element 13 for attaching the control element 1 to a display unit. The mounting element 13 therefore comprises a first electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 15. The control element 1 further comprises a finger element 17. The finger element 17 comprises a third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 19. The underside of the finger element 17, which is shown in Fig. As shown in 1b, lies in a first level (in Fig. 1B not explicitly shown).

[0039] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1b, the first housing part 5 has a hollow cylindrical shape at least in some areas, and at least one underside 21 of the first housing part 5 also lies in the first plane. Furthermore, the underside of the fastening element 13 lies in the first plane. This preferably allows the control element 1 to be arranged on a display unit, in particular on the respective screen display, wherein the undersides of the first housing part 5, the fastening element 13, and the finger element 17 generally contact the screen surface.

[0040] The control element 1 further comprises a plate element 23 which includes at least one hole 25 for guiding the selection element 11 at least sectionally along the first direction D.

[0041] The button element 9 is operatively connected to the selection element 11 s, such that actuation of the button element 9 causes the selection element 11 to move relative to the first housing part 5, the second housing part 7, and the plate element 23, approaching and / or touching the first plane. More precisely, the selection element 11 is movable along and / or opposite to the first direction D. Obviously, by approaching and / or touching the first plane(s), another electrically conductive and / or magnetic material / element (i.e., the fourth material and / or element) can be detected in and / or near the first plane.

[0042] Thus, the control element 1 uses a key element for selection and a second housing part 7 that extends to half of the housing body 3.

[0043] The finger element 17, the key element, in particular the button element 9 and the selection element 11, and the plate element 23 rotate, in particular all together and / or about the central axis X of the control element, relative to the first housing part 5 when the second housing part 7 is rotated relative to the first housing part 5.

[0044] Since the finger element 17 rotates together with the second housing part 7, a selection of a menu can be calculated based on the position of the finger element 17, in particular the third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 19, relative to the fastening element 13.

[0045] When the button element 9 is actuated, in particular pressed, the selection element 12 moves further downwards so that it comes into contact with the screen of the display unit, in particular a touch-screen keypad surface. The subsystem of the display unit then triggers a "selection" operation based on this pressed button element 9, as will be described in more detail later.

[0046] The first housing part 5 can be made of magnetic material for an attachment mechanism, but can also be made of electrically conductive material or even electrically non-conductive material.

[0047] The material chosen for the mounting element 13 can be electrically conductive and / or magnetic. The screen-touchpad surface subsystem then detects these material properties (electrically conductive / magnetic) when the mounting element 13 is placed on the screen. Simultaneously, the mounting element 13 functions as an attachment mechanism. Therefore, the material can be magnetic.

[0048] Of course, another design may include a second housing part that is separate from the key element, which causes the key element to remain in place during a rotation of the second housing part relative to the first housing part.

[0049] The Fig. Figures 2a-2c show a schematic representation of the interior of a control element 1' according to a first embodiment of the first aspect of the invention in a partial exploded view. Elements that, in terms of function, correspond as closely as possible to those of the in Fig. 1a and Fig. The controls shown in 1b correspond to the same reference symbols, but with a line.

[0050] In Fig. 2a is a finger element 17' arranged on a wall element 27' which is directly connected to a second housing part (in Fig. 2a not shown) is connected, whereby the wall element 27', and consequently the finger element 17', is positioned relative to the first housing part (in Fig. (2a not shown) rotates when the second housing part is rotated relative to the first housing part. The wall element 27' is arranged within the space enclosed by the first housing part. Furthermore, the control element 1' comprises three button elements, the corresponding three selection elements 11' of which are in Fig. 2a. The control element 1' further comprises a fastening element 13', which in turn comprises a first electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 15'.

[0051] Fig. 2b shows the elements of Fig. 2a in its final position.

[0052] Fig. 2c shows two subpage views of the in Fig. Arrangement shown in 2b. The underside view on the left side of Fig. Figure 2c shows the control element 1' with the finger element 17' at the 12 o'clock position and the three selection elements 11' correspondingly at the 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, and 9 o'clock positions. The bottom view on the right side of Fig. Figure 2c shows the control element 1' with the finger element 17' at the 3 o'clock position and the three selection elements 11' correspondingly at the 6 o'clock, 9 o'clock, and 12 o'clock positions. This illustration shows, in particular, that the offset between two adjacent selection elements 11' along a circular arc in at least one cross-sectional plane, perpendicular to the first direction D', is equal to the offset between the finger element 17' and the first selection element 11 on the circular arc that is clockwise adjacent to the finger element 17'. In other words: The finger element 17' and the selection elements 11' are arranged with a 90° offset in a clockwise direction.

[0053] From the Fig. From 2a-2c it follows that the control element 1' comprises only passive components and consequently has low manufacturing and component costs, zero risk of power failure during operation and low weight.

[0054] The control element 1' comprises at least four electrically conductive and / or magnetic elements, at least in certain areas: one for rotation detection (i.e., of the finger element) and three for selection detection (i.e., of the selection elements). The selection elements 11' rotate with the second housing part and contact the display surface when the buttons are pressed. The finger element 17' rotates with the second housing part and is always in contact with the display surface.

[0055] The Fig. Figures 3a-3b show a schematic representation of a control element 1'' according to a second embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. Elements that, in terms of function, correspond as closely as possible to those of the in Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b shown control 1 or the one shown in the Fig. The control element 1' shown in 2a-2c corresponds to the same reference symbols, but with two lines.

[0056] In Fig. Figure 3a shows a perspective underside view of the control element 1''. The fastening element 13'' included in the control element 1'' comprises a suction cup 29'' in the form of a suction body. The suction cup 29'' preferably uses conductive material for detecting its placement on the screen. Preferably, the control element 1'' can instead comprise two finger elements 17'', and consequently, two third electrically conductive and / or magnetic elements 19'' are also present, which are always in contact with a screen of the display unit where the control element 1'' is attached.

[0057] In Fig. Figure 3b shows a perspective and partially cross-sectional side view of the control element 1". The control element 1 further comprises a valve element 31" with a valve body 33" and a valve member 35", which is movable, at least partially, inside the valve body 33". The valve member 35" is fixedly connected to the second housing part 7". The valve body 33" extends through the plate element 23" and is fixedly connected to the suction cup 29". When the upper part of the housing body 3", i.e., the second housing part 7", is pulled, the valve element 31" is released and air can flow into the suction cup 29". In other words, when pulled, the valve body 33" moves together with the second housing part 7" in a direction along the first direction D'', allowing air to flow into the suction cup 29".As a result, the pulling process then eliminates the suction force and releases the control element 1" from the display unit on which the control element 1" is located.

[0058] The Fig. Figures 4a-4c show schematic representations of a system 37''' comprising a control element 1'' according to the first aspect of the invention and a display unit 39''' to which the control element 1''' is attached and / or attachable. Elements which, in terms of function, correspond as closely as possible to those of the system described in Figure 4a-4c. Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b shown control element 1, which is in the Fig. 2a-2c shown control 1' or the one shown in the Fig. The control element shown in 3a-3b, which corresponds to 1''', has the same reference symbols, but with three lines.

[0059] Fig. Figure 4a shows the system 37''' in a perspective view.

[0060] Fig. Figure 4b shows the system 37''' with a first fastening mechanism. The first housing part of the control element 1''' includes a second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 41''', which is arranged on the underside of the first housing part. The second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 41''' can be provided as an alternative and / or additional element to a fastening element. In particular, the second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element 41''' can be used to increase the fastening force. For this embodiment, the display unit 39''' includes at least a portion of a magnetic and / or ferromagnetic material 43''' behind and / or in at least one screen area. This is a fairly simple design of the control element 1''' and does not require cleaning of the display unit 39'''.

[0061] Fig. Figure 4c shows the system 37''' with a second mounting mechanism. The control element 1''' is attached to the display unit 39''' by means of a suction cup 29'''. This eliminates the need for additional electrical and / or magnetic structures on the display, resulting in lower costs.

[0062] Fig. Figure 5a shows the interior of a vehicle with numerous display units 39''''. Fig. Figure 5b shows schematic representations of the displays of the respective display units 39'''' depending on which of the three display units 39'''' a control element according to the first aspect of the invention is attached to. Fig. As can be seen in section 5b, if the control element is located on the left display unit 39'''', a basic vehicle control navigation menu is shown on the corresponding display unit 39''''. If the control element is located on the center display unit 39'''', a navigation control navigation menu is shown on the corresponding display unit 39''''. If the control element is located on the right display unit 39'''', a multimedia control navigation menu is shown on the corresponding display unit 39''''.

[0063] Fig. Figure 6a shows a schematic representation of a screen in the form of a touch sensor grid of the display unit, to which the control element according to the first aspect of the invention can be attached, with notes regarding basic values. The figure relates to considerations regarding the design of a projected capacitive touch sensor at any distance from a conductive body. Wmin and Dmin depend on the accompanying performance specifications, which are influenced by the conductive material, the sensor grid, the thickness of the cover material, and the power of the touch control IC. For example, Wmin and Dmin can be 1.5 times the sensor pitch. This, in turn, means that for a sensor grid having, for example, a pitch of 5 mm, Wmin and Dmin must typically be greater than 7.5 mm.

[0064] Fig. Figure 6b shows a schematic representation of a bottom-side view of a control element according to the first aspect of the invention, such as that from the left side of Fig. 2c, in particular of control element 1', with notes regarding basic values ​​in connection with Fig. 6a. If dmin is the minimum finger separation distance, then: d1, d2, d3, d4, d5 >= dmin. If Wmin is the minimum metal ball diameter to be detected by the touch subsystem, then: WPol >= Wmin.

[0065] Fig. Figure 6c shows in the upper row schematic representations of underside views of a control element according to the first aspect of the invention, in particular of the control element 1', in two different rotational positions, as already shown from Fig. 2c is known. The bottom row shows Fig. 6c Schematic representations of the side views of the respective controls with different pressed button elements. In the left column (finger element 17' at the 12 o'clock position), the button element at 6 o'clock is pressed, i.e., the corresponding button element is pressed and the corresponding selection element touches the screen of a display unit 39a. In the right column (finger element 17' at the 3 o'clock position), the button element at 6 o'clock (which in the left column was the button element at the 3 o'clock position) is pressed, i.e., the corresponding button element and the corresponding selection element are pressed.

[0066] Fig. Figure 7a shows a schematic representation of different menu selections, i.e., different rotation positions of a finger element, for example finger element 17', on a display unit 39b. Or in other words: Fig. 7a represents a rotation detection of a control element placed on the screen of the display unit 39b. The touch sensor can preferably detect that the control element is placed by detecting its “pre-registered shape”. For example, this is an outer round body (first housing part), an inner round column (fastening element) and a rotating column (finger element). Fig. Figure 7a shows how the touch sensor detects rotation: 12 o'clock selection, 1 o'clock, 4 o'clock and 9 o'clock selection, in particular by comparing the relative position of the finger element, especially finger element 17', and the fastening element, especially fastening element 15'. The "screen menus" can accordingly be positioned taking into account the "minimal displacement / movement" of touch sensor properties.

[0067] Fig. Figure 7b shows a schematic representation of different key elements, which are actuated, for example, by means of the different selection elements 11'. Actuation of a key element (i.e., pressing the button element) is detected by the touch subsystem of the display unit 39b, e.g., by recognizing "(an) additional touching object(s)" within the preset "rotary knob" area and its relative position to the "rotating column" (finger element), which is always touching the surface of the touchscreen. In the left view of Fig. 7b, the key element is pressed with a 90° offset relative to the finger element. In the middle view of Fig. 7b, the key element is pressed with an offset of 270° relative to the finger element. In the right view of Fig. 7b the key element is pressed with an offset of 180° relative to the finger element.

[0068] The grid of the display unit 39a and 39b can be understood as the touch sensor grid X and Y.

[0069] Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart 100 relating to a system block diagram illustrating how a control element according to the first aspect of the invention operates in conjunction with a display unit, in particular how it changes the content of the display depending on control element operations. In step 101, a control element is rotated, i.e., a second housing part is rotated relative to the first housing part. In step 103, projected capacitive touch sensors are provided which change their capacitance when the conductive body touches the surface of the touchscreen. In step 105, a touch control IC is provided which, based on the capacitance change of the touch sensor, calculates at least one dimension of the conductive body, at least one location, and at least one displacement thereof.In a central processing unit, in step 107, the information from the touch control IC is received via touch information, and based on this content, in step 109 a change is made to a display unit and / or a predefined operation is carried out.

[0070] Fig. Figure 9 shows a flowchart 200 of a method according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0071] In step 201, the presence of a control element on the designated area of ​​a display unit is detected. When the control element is placed on the display unit, the touchscreen sensor identifies the control element based on its electrically conductive and / or magnetic properties on its underside (such as the size of the circle) to prevent false detection of a "finger touch".

[0072] In step 203, when the placement is detected, the menu surrounding the control is displayed based on the location of the button (e.g., if it is placed on the navigation area, the navigation menu is displayed, etc.).

[0073] In step 205, the selection location is then calculated by relative calculation of the placement of the rotating conductive (i.e., the finger element) to the central conductive (i.e., the fastening element).

[0074] In steps 207 to 211, if the touch sensor detects a rotation of the control element, in particular a rotation of the second housing part relative to the first housing part, the menu of the current preselection is updated.

[0075] In steps 213 to 215, when an actuated key element is detected (e.g., as a third touch in addition to the central and rotating conductive body), the system calculates the relative position of this contact to determine which button is being pressed.

[0076] In step 217, the menu is updated based on this detection.

[0077] In step 219, a predefined process is triggered.

[0078] Preferably, the steps of the processes disclosed in this application are carried out in the order mentioned. Alternatively, however, any other sequence of the individual steps is possible.

[0079] The features disclosed in the claims, the description and the drawings may be essential for different embodiments of the claimed invention, both separately and in any combination with one another. Reference sign 1, 1', 1'', 1'''' Control element 3.3" housing body 5.5'' Housing part 7.7'' Housing part 9 button element 11, 11', 11'' Selection element 12, 12'' Element 13, 13', 13'' Fastening element 15, 15' Element 17, 17', 17'' Finger element 19, 19'' Element 21, 21'' area 23, 23'' plate element 25, 25', 25'' hole 27' wall element 29'', 29''' Suction cup 31'' valve element 33'' valve body 35'' valve element 37''' System 39''', 39'''' Display unit 39a, 39b Display unit 41''' Element 43''' Material 100 Flowchart Steps 101-109 200 Flowchart Steps 201-219 D, D', D'' direction X, X'' axis

Claims

[1] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'') for navigating through at least one menu of at least one display unit and for selecting at least one menu item of the menu, comprising: • at least one housing body (3, 3'') with at least one first housing part (5, 5'') and at least one second housing part (7, 7''), wherein the second housing part (7, 7'') is rotatable relative to the first housing part (5, 5''); • at least one finger element (17, 17', 17''), wherein the finger element (17, 17', 17'') rotates relative to the first housing part (5, 5'') when the second housing part (7, 7'') is rotated relative to the first housing part (5, 5''), wherein at least one underside of the finger element (17, 17', 17'') lies at least partially in at least one first plane; and • at least one key element with • (a) at least one button element (9) and • (b) at least one selection element (11, 11', 11''), wherein the button element (9) is operatively connected to the selection element (11, 11', 11''), whereby actuation of the button element (9) causes the selection element (11, 11', 11'') to move relative to the first housing part (5, 5'') or second housing part (7, 7'') and to approach and touch the first plane, where the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'''') comprises a plurality of key elements, wherein the offset between two adjacent key elements along a circular arc and / or in at least one cross-sectional plane is equal to the offset between the finger element (17, 17', 17'') and at least one first key element on the circular arc, which is arranged clockwise and / or counterclockwise adjacent to the finger element (17, 17', 17''). [2] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to the preceding claim, characterized by, that a first direction (D, D', D'') is defined by at least one axial extension of the housing body (3, 3''). [3] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'''') further comprises at least one wall element (27') which is directly or indirectly connected to the second housing element. [4] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'''') further comprises at least one fastening element (13, 13', 13'') for fastening the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'''') to the display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39'''). [5] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'''') further comprises at least one valve element (31'') with at least one valve body (33'') and at least one valve member (35'') which is movable at least sectionally inside the valve body (33''), wherein the valve member (35'') is fixedly connected to the second housing part (7, 7''), wherein the valve body (33'') passes through the plate element (23, 23'') and / or the valve body (33'') is fixedly connected to the first housing part (5, 5'') and / or the suction cup (29', 29'', 29''''). [6] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by , that (i) a suction force built up by the suction cup (29', 29'', 29'''') can be eliminated by pulling the second housing part (7, 7'') away from the first housing part (5, 5''), (ii) the valve element (35'') can be moved from at least a first position to at least a second position to establish a fluid connection between at least one suction body included in the suction cup (29', 29'', 29'''') and the environment of the suction cup (29', 29'', 29''''), and / or (iii) the valve element (35'') can be moved from the second position to the first position to interrupt the fluid connection. [7] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the control element further comprises at least one plate element (23, 23''), wherein (i) the plate element (23, 23'') is directly or indirectly connected to the second housing element and / or directly or indirectly connected to the wall element (27'), (ii) the plate element (23, 23'') rotates relative to the first housing part (5, 5'') when the second housing part (7, 7'') is rotated relative to the first housing part (5, 5''), (iii) the plate element (23, 23'') is arranged at least partially within the space enclosed by the first housing part (5, 5''), (iv) the plate element (23, 23'') comprises at least a means for guiding the button element at least partially along and / or opposite to the first direction (D, D', D''), and / or (v) actuation of the button element (9) further causes the selection element (11, 11', 11'') moves relative to the plate element (23, 23''). [8] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that (i) the first housing part (5, 5'') has a hollow cylindrical shape at least in some areas, (ii) the first housing part (5, 5'') comprises at least in some areas at least a second electrically conductive and / or magnetic material, (iii) the first housing part (5, 5'') comprises at least a second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element (41'''), and / or (iv) the underside of the first housing part (5, 5'') lies at least in some areas in the first plane. [9] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that (i) the second housing part (7) has a dome-like shape at least in some areas, (ii) the first housing part (5, 5''), the second housing part (7, 7''), the plate element (23, 23''), the wall element (27'), the valve element (31'') and / or the suction cup (29', 29'', 29'''') are arranged at least substantially concentrically, and / or (iii) the first housing part (5, 5'') and the second housing part (7, 7'') are stacked on top of each other at least in some areas. [10] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the finger element (17, 17', 17'') (i) comprises at least a third electrically conductive and / or magnetic material at least in some areas, (ii) comprises at least a third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element (19, 19'') on at least one end face and / or the underside of the finger element (17, 17', 17''), (iii) is arranged at least partially inside and / or outside the space enclosed by the housing body (3, 3'') and / or (iv) is firmly connected to the second housing part (7, 7'') and / or the wall element (27'). [11] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that (i) actuation of the button element (9) includes and / or is represented by pressing the button element (9); (ii) the button element is movable, (iii) the selection element (11, 11', 11'') and the button element (9) are formed in one piece, (iv) at least a first end of the button element includes the selection element (11, 11', 11'') and / or at least a second end includes the button element (9), (v) the button element rotates relative to the first housing part (5, 5'') when the second housing part (7, 7'') is rotated relative to the first housing part (5, 5''), and / or (vi) the button element (9) is movable at least section by section through the second housing part (7, 7''). [12] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that (i) the key element comprises at least a fourth electrically conductive and / or magnetic material at least in certain areas, (ii) the key element comprises at least a fourth electrically conductive and / or magnetic element (12), (iii) the selection element (11, 11', 11'') extends at least in certain areas into the space enclosed by the first housing part (5, 5''), (iv) the selection element (11, 11', 11'') is cylindrical at least in certain areas, (v) the selection element (11, 11', 11'') is arranged on the second housing part (7, 7''), the wall element (27') and / or the plate element (23, 23''), and / or (vi) is movable relative to at least the first housing part (5, 5''), the second housing part (7, 7''), the wall element (27') and / or the plate element (23, 23''). [13] Control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the offset between two adjacent key elements in the plane perpendicular to the first direction (D, D', D'') is equal to the offset between the finger element (17, 17', 17'') and the first key element. [14] System (37''') comprising at least one display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39'''') and at least one control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') for navigating through at least one menu of the at least one display unit and for selecting at least one menu item of the menu according to any one of claims 1 to 13. [15] System (37''') according to claim 14, wherein the display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39'''') comprises: (i) at least partially at least one magnetic and / or ferromagnetic material (43''') behind and / or in the screen area included in the display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39''''), and (ii) at least one evaluation tool for detecting the presence and / or location of magnetic fields and / or electrical conductivity of objects approaching and / or touching the screen surface of the display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39'''), and / or a change in capacitance due to objects approaching and / or touching the screen surface of the display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39'''). [16] Use of a control element (1, 1', 1'', 1'''') according to any one of claims 1 to 13 for navigating through at least one menu of at least one display unit (39a, 39b, 39'''', 39'''') and for selecting at least one menu item of the menu. [17] Method for operating a display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39''''), in conjunction with a control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') according to any one of claims 1 to 13 or with a system (37''') according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the method comprises the following steps: (i) Detecting the presence of the control element (1, 1', 1'', 1''') attached to a designated area of ​​the display unit (39a, 39b, 39''', 39'''); (ii) Calculating a first selection location based at least on detecting the position of a second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element; (iii) Calculating a second selection location based at least on detecting the position of the second electrically conductive and / or magnetic element; and (iv) Identifying a third selection location based at least on detecting the position of a third electrically conductive and / or magnetic element.

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