Electronic laboratory and testing equipment and method for operating such equipment

Abstract

Electronic laboratory and testing equipment (10), especially for an electronics laboratory, wherein the device (10) can be controlled by contactless gestures (112, 114, 116), wherein the device (10) comprises a gesture sensor (90) for detecting non-contact gestures (112, 114, 116) for controlling the device (10), wherein the device (10) comprises a touch-sensitive control element (36), wherein the control element (36) includes a guide aid, and wherein the gesture sensor (90) is also designed to detect a touch of the control element (36) for controlling the device (10).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic laboratory and testing device, hereinafter also referred to as "device," particularly for an electronics laboratory. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a device.

[0002] The following documents represent the state of the art:

[0003] Microchip Technology Inc.: MGC3030 / 3130 3D Tracking and Gesture Controller Data Sheet. 2019 (DS40001667F) - ISBN: 978-1-5224-4380-3. URL: http: / / ww1.microchip.com / downloads / en / DeviceDoc / MGC3030-3130-3D-Tracking-and-Gesture-Controller-40001667F.pdf [accessed March 3, 2021].

[0004] HEINZ, M. [et al.]: TouchScope: a hybrid multitouch oscilloscope interface. In: Proceedings of the 19th ACM International Conference on Multimodal Interaction. 2017. pp. 269-273. - ISBN 978-1-4503-5543-8 / 17 / 11.

[0005] Devices of the type mentioned above are used, for example, at workstations in laboratories or classrooms, or at other measurement and development workstations. They can also be used in test bays and / or assembly workstations. These devices can provide a wide range of functionalities required at these workstations.

[0006] Particularly in classrooms and workplaces with changing users, there is often a certain risk of transmitting germs, such as viruses, when different users touch the device to operate it. Use by multiple users therefore carries a risk of infection. The object of the invention is to improve the use and operation of an electronic laboratory and testing device with regard to hygiene and / or to reduce the risk of infection when used by different users.

[0007] It is a further object of the invention to make the operation of an electronic laboratory and testing device of the type mentioned above particularly simple and, in particular, to thereby make the operator's work processes more efficient.

[0008] These objects are achieved by an electronic laboratory and testing device having the features according to claim 1, namely by an electronic laboratory and testing device, in particular for an electronics laboratory, wherein the device is controllable by contactless gestures, wherein the device comprises a gesture sensor for detecting contactless gestures for controlling the device, wherein the device comprises a touch-sensitive operating element, wherein the operating element comprises a guidance aid, and wherein the gesture sensor is also configured to detect a touch of the operating element for controlling the device.

[0009] Since touchless gesture control does not require touching the device, the risk of infection is reduced for the respective control action. This also applies if the device can be controlled by touching the device in addition to touchless control, since avoiding touch contributes to reducing the overall risk.

[0010] The invention makes controlling and operating the device particularly simple and convenient. Furthermore, it allows for particularly flexible operation. For example, in addition to the touch-sensitive control element, the device can also have a touch-sensitive screen, which can also be used to control the device. Touchless gesture control allows for additional control options in a simple and convenient way.

[0011] In particular, the device can be configured to recognize several predetermined, contactless gestures. The predetermined gestures can be designed in a variety of ways and can generally be permanently assigned to the control of a specific function and / or a specific functional module of the device, or they can be selectively assigned to different functions. An assignment can, for example, also be defined or definable on a user-dependent or profile-dependent basis. For example, for a specific user whose work processes are frequently repeated, at least one specific contactless gesture can be programmed to control a specific function, so that the user can always control this function as desired using a contactless gesture, regardless of the operating state of the device and / or what information is currently displayed on a screen of the device. For example, it is conceivable that a specific gesture, e.g.Circling the hand always, or at least depending on the user or profile, causes a control of a voltage output of a power supply of the device.

[0012] According to an advantageous embodiment, a contactless gesture by which the device can be controlled is a translation gesture, in particular a swipe gesture. Such a gesture can typically be performed relatively easily by an operator with a relatively high degree of precision, thus enabling targeted control. A translation gesture can, for example, be oriented vertically and / or horizontally.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally, a contactless gesture that can be used to control the device can be, for example, a rotational gesture, particularly a circular gesture. This can also be easily performed with a relatively high degree of precision, allowing for targeted control. A circular gesture is a circular movement of the operator's hand.

[0014] It is generally understood that an operator cannot typically move their hand exactly along a mathematically predefined path when executing a control gesture, for example, exactly vertically, horizontally, in a specific plane, or on a circular path. Consequently, such specifications in this application refer to a degree of accuracy that can be reliably achievable for hand movements. Typically, a device controller or a gesture sensor itself is configured to assess inaccuracies in the movement and, within certain limits, still recognize a control gesture as such. A gesture can, for example, also be defined in the form of a corridor. In principle, a specific reference point on the operator's hand can be decisive, for example a fingertip and / or the end of the hand closest to the device.

[0015] A further development provides that the device has an at least partially planar outer part and that a contactless gesture for controlling the device comprises a movement parallel to the plane of extension of the outer part. Thus, a spatial reference system is provided for the operator, allowing them to easily align the gesture with the outer part or its plane of extension. In particular, the gesture can comprise a translational path and / or a rotational path parallel to the plane of extension. Here, as in the entire application, the parallel movement is not to be understood as a mathematically exact parallel movement, but rather as an approximately parallel movement, with a degree of accuracy that can be reliably achieved with hand movements.

[0016] The external part can, for example, be a front panel of the device, on which a screen, one or more control elements, and / or various connections can be located. The front panel can preferably be made of glass, but can also be made of metal or plastic, for example.

[0017] The device can preferably be configured to recognize gestures in two or even three spatial directions. When only two spatial directions are recognized, these preferably extend parallel to the plane of extension of the outer part. When three spatial directions are recognized, two spatial directions preferably extend parallel to the plane of extension of the outer part, and the third spatial direction perpendicular to this plane. In this context, a respective contactless gesture itself can, for example, be only one-dimensional; this is the case, for example, with an exactly straight translation gesture in exactly one spatial direction. Multiple one-dimensional gestures can also be defined for different spatial directions.

[0018] Particularly advantageously, it can also be provided that the device can be controlled by two-dimensional and / or three-dimensional contactless gestures. Two-dimensional gestures are understood to be those that occur in a single plane. This plane can preferably be aligned parallel to the plane of extension of the outer part. A circular gesture occurring in this plane, for example, is a two-dimensional gesture. Three-dimensional gestures, on the other hand, encompass movements in all three spatial dimensions. For example, it is conceivable that the operator's hand describes a helical path.

[0019] According to a further advantageous example, it can be provided that at least one pair of gestures is defined that run on the same path but are opposite in direction. The gestures can preferably be defined such that their control functions are also opposite to each other. For example, a first gesture of the pair in a first direction can be configured to activate a function, while a second gesture of the pair in a second direction, opposite to the first, can be configured to deactivate the function.

[0020] In principle, gesture control can also be set up to control a gradually adjustable function, i.e. the function can be set between more than two states or values, in particular over a range of values. Typically, the function covers an interval of possible values ​​for a specific variable, and the value can be set within this interval using the gesture. In principle, the value can be set gradually or quasi-continuously - "quasi" because digital systems typically have a smallest possible resolution, meaning that values ​​cannot typically be set continuously. In the context of quasi-continuous adjustability, it may therefore be possible, for example, for a numerical value, such as a voltage, to be set with many decimal places.

[0021] The function that can be set using gesture control can, for example, be a current and / or voltage output, where, for example, the level of current and / or voltage can be set using a gesture. The function can, for example, also be a graphical function, where, for example, a size and / or a scaling factor of the graphical function can be set using a gesture. In a further example, the function comprises a selection in a menu, in particular where the menu can be scrolled through using the gesture. Such functions can alternatively or additionally also be set using a touch-sensitive control element and / or a conventional control element, e.g. a slider or rotary control.

[0022] For example, at least one pair of gestures can be defined which follow the same path but are opposite in direction, and which have opposite settings assigned to a gradually adjustable function. For example, it can be implemented that a first gesture of the pair in a first direction leads to an increase in a physical parameter provided by the device, such as a voltage, whereas a second gesture of the pair in a second direction leads to a decrease in the physical parameter. If the path of the gestures of the pair is, for example, translational or circular, a slider or rotary control can be simulated contactlessly or "in the air". This advantageously combines a familiar operating concept with convenient contactless control.In principle, any functions of the device, especially those that can be adjusted gradually, can be adjusted using a controller simulated in this way.

[0023] For example, a graphical function of the device and / or a functional module of the device can be controlled by at least one contactless gesture. For example, a table, list, and / or row displayed on a screen can be scrollable, a diagram displayed on a screen can be adjustable in its axis resolution, in particular zoomable, and / or can be selected between several selectable views of a display and / or control interface of the device. These measures allow for a particularly flexible presentation of information on the screen in a simple manner, whereby the operator can easily adapt the presentation to their needs.

[0024] In principle, the device can, for example, have a screen, in particular a touch-sensitive one, which is configured to provide a graphical display and / or control interface. Advantageously, the display and / or control interface can be controlled by contactless gestures.

[0025] According to claim 1, the device has a touch-sensitive control element. This control element can be used to control a function of the device and / or a function module of the device. Control by means of a gesture and that by means of the control element can also be combined to control a specific function. For example, the control element can be used to position a curve of a diagram relative to a displayed area of ​​the diagram. This makes it easy to select the area of ​​the curve to be displayed. For example, a contactless gesture can be provided by means of which the resolution of the diagram display can be changed in one or more dimensions, i.e. by means of which the diagram can be zoomed.This allows the operator to quickly and easily adjust the display of the diagram according to their preferences, and in particular, to quickly zoom in on a specific section of the diagram. Alternatively, different gestures can also be combined for this purpose, e.g., even without a control element.

[0026] According to claim 1, the device comprises a gesture sensor for detecting contactless gestures for controlling the device. This allows the gestures to be detected directly by the device. Alternatively, or in principle also additionally, a gesture sensor can be provided on a separate operating module, for example. In principle, the device can preferably comprise a connection for a separate operating module, whereby the connection can generally be configured for an operating module with a gesture sensor and / or for an operating module without a gesture sensor.

[0027] According to the invention, the gesture sensor is also designed to detect a touch for controlling the device or the operating module. Specifically, it is provided that the device or the operating module comprises a touch-sensitive operating element, wherein the gesture sensor is also configured to detect a touch of the operating element for controlling the device. The gesture sensor thus has a dual function, namely both the contactless detection of gestures and the detection of touches, in particular touch gestures. The gesture sensor can fundamentally operate, for example, based on an electric field. In this case, the field can, for example, protrude from an outer surface of the device, for example an outer surface of an external part, in order to detect contactless gestures.Furthermore, a field area that protrudes only minimally or not at all from the outer surface, but is active within the outer surface itself, can be used to detect a touch of the outer surface to control the device. Thus, both a contactless gesture and a touch can be detected with one and the same sensor or one and the same field, depending on the distance of the hand from the respective outer surface.

[0028] In principle, the gesture sensor can be configured, for example, to detect the hand of an operator in a range from 0 cm to 30 cm from a reference surface of the device. In principle, gestures can also be defined, in particular only, in a range from 0 cm to 30 cm from a reference surface of the device. The reference surface is formed, in particular, by an outer surface of the device or an outer part, in particular an outer surface of a front panel. Insofar as the gesture sensor is also configured to detect a touch, a distance of 0 cm corresponds to a touch. Particularly preferably, the range is only from 0 cm to 20 cm from the reference surface.

[0029] According to a further embodiment, the gesture sensor is configured to generate an electric field, detect a change in the electric field caused by a user's hand, and, depending on the change, determine a contactless gesture and / or touch for controlling the device. This constitutes a technically particularly simple sensor principle, which also allows precise control. The electric field can in particular be an electric near field. The electric field preferably extends beyond the physical boundaries of the device, in particular in front of an operating element and / or a front panel. Sensory detection based on an electric field is particularly simple and cost-effective to implement, particularly compared to gesture detection by video cameras. The gesture sensor can thus advantageously be designed as a camera-free or optics-free sensor.

[0030] For example, the gesture sensor can be arranged behind the control element from the operator's perspective. This allows for particularly intuitive gesture control, as the operator can align their gesture with the control element.

[0031] The device can, for example, have a touch-sensitive screen, which can preferably be based on capacitive operation. Particularly preferably, the screen can be based on projective capacitance touch technology (PCT). The gesture sensor and / or the control element can preferably be arranged on a screen-free surface of the device.

[0032] The electronic laboratory and testing device can, for example, have several functional modules, e.g. DC power supply, AC power supply, arbitrary generator, data logger, multimeter, function generator, power meter, high-voltage tester, insulation tester, protective conductor tester, leakage current tester and / or function tester.

[0033] The object of the invention is also achieved by a system according to the independent claim directed thereto, namely a system comprising an electronic laboratory and testing device, in particular for an electronics laboratory, wherein the device can be controlled by contactless gestures, wherein the system comprises a gesture sensor for detecting contactless gestures for controlling the device and a touch-sensitive operating element, wherein the operating element comprises a guidance aid, wherein the gesture sensor and the operating element are arranged on the device and / or on an operating module for the device that is separate from the device and connected to it, wherein the gesture sensor is also configured to detect a touch of the operating element for controlling the device.

[0034] The object of the invention is further achieved by a method according to the independent claim directed thereto. This method serves to operate an electronic laboratory and testing device, in particular for an electronics laboratory, of the type described above or a system of the type described above, wherein a hand gesture of an operator of the device is detected contactlessly and wherein the device is controlled based on the gesture.

[0035] The invention is explained below merely by way of example with reference to the schematic drawings. Fig. 1 shows an example laboratory and testing device in a front view. Fig. 2 shows the laboratory and testing equipment from Fig. 1 in a sectional view along the line AA. Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the interior of a laboratory and testing device. Fig. 4 shows a front unit of a laboratory and testing device. Fig. 5 shows a front view of a laboratory and testing device. Fig. 6 shows an exploded perspective view of a laboratory and testing device. Fig. Figure 7 shows another exploded view of the device of Fig. 6. Fig. Figure 8 shows another exemplary laboratory and testing device in a front view. Fig. 9 shows a front panel of the laboratory and testing device of Fig. 7 in a sectional view along the line BB. Fig. 10 shows a laboratory and test equipment system with a separate operating module. Fig. 11 illustrates various contactless gestures for controlling a laboratory and testing device.

[0036] Fig. Figure 1 shows a laboratory and testing device 10, hereinafter abbreviated to "device," with a front panel 12 and a screen 14 arranged thereon. The device 10 contains electronic components and assemblies. For example, the laboratory and testing device 10 can include a DC power supply, AC power supply, arbitrary waveform generator, data logger, multimeter, function generator, power meter, high-voltage tester, insulation tester, protective conductor tester, leakage current tester, and / or function tester. For example, it is possible to provide two multimeters to directly measure the electrical power consumed by a device under test by determining the voltage and current.Alternatively or additionally, for example, a multimeter and a power supply can be provided in the device 10, wherein an inrush current of an electrical device can be measured by connecting the power supply to the electrical device and switching it on, and measuring the current with the multimeter, in particular with high temporal resolution. The power supply is in particular a control power supply and serves as a direct voltage / direct current source and / or alternating voltage / alternating current source, i.e., as a DC and / or AC power supply.

[0037] The device 10 comprises an on / off switch 16 with which the device 10 can be put into operation. The device 10 also has a series of connections 18 with which the device 10 can be connected to components to be checked or tested. The device 10 can, for example, receive input signals via the connections 18 and / or act on other external electronic components with the help of output signals. For example, at least one BNC socket 20 and / or at least one socket 22 for so-called "banana plugs" can be provided as connections 18. In this example, four BNC sockets 20 and six sockets 22 are provided. It is understood that the type, number and / or arrangement of the connections 18 can vary as required. Preferably, two to eight sockets 22 can be provided. With eight sockets 22, for example, two sockets 22 can be provided for a first power supply, two sockets 22 for a second power supply and four sockets 22 for a multimeter.This allows for a particularly high degree of flexibility in using the device 10 without additional modules.

[0038] A control panel 24, which here forms part of the front panel 12, is provided for controlling the device 10. The control panel 24 is designed to be touch-sensitive, for example, using a capacitive operating principle. A line 26 marks the boundary between the control panel 24 and a connection panel 28, which, although it can also be touch-sensitive in principle, is preferably not touch-sensitive.

[0039] The front panel 12 preferably forms the side of the device 10 facing a user. Depending on requirements and the environment of use, it can be made from various materials, preferably from a material that forms a dielectric, i.e. a material that is non-conductive or weakly conductive. The front panel is preferably made from glass, but can also be made from plastic, in particular PMMA, for example. A front panel 12 is particularly preferably made from tempered glass and / or safety glass, in particular as single-pane safety glass. The front panel 12, in particular a front panel made from glass, can preferably have a thickness of at least 2 mm and / or preferably at most 4 mm, in particular approximately 3 mm. Generally preferably, a front panel 12 can be designed as a single and / or continuous glass plate at least in the connection panel 28 and in front of the screen 14.Furthermore, the front panel 12 can be enclosed by a frame not shown here, if this is desired or necessary.

[0040] The control panel 24 may have various sections that serve to control the device 10. For example, sections of the control panel 24 may act as switches, buttons, sliders, and / or dials when touched, or generally as control elements that can be used to switch between different functionalities of the device 10 and / or to make a setting for different functionalities, for example, to set a value.

[0041] To simplify the assembly of the front panel 12, it can be fastened, for example, by means of a locking mechanism or by means of a magnetic fastening device to a housing component of the device 10 or a frame of a plug-in system. The front panel 12 is preferably only inserted at the intended location until the locking mechanism snaps into place or the magnetic forces generated by the fastening device are strong enough to securely fix the front panel 12. Therefore, a largely tool-free assembly of the front panel 12 is possible. On the front panel 12, in particular on its Fig. 1, further components can be attached, which are attached to the housing component or frame with the front panel 12, such as a screen 14 and / or a control unit for the screen and / or for functional modules of the device 10. To dismantle the front panel 12, a suction device can be provided, for example, which can be temporarily attached to the front panel 12 and with which the front panel 12 can be removed again.

[0042] The function of device 10 can be monitored and controlled using screen 14. For example, screen 14 can be configured to display an operating status and / or recorded measurement or test values. The design of screen 14 is fundamentally arbitrary and can be adapted to the specific requirements.

[0043] To facilitate the operation of the device 10, at least one connection, in particular the sockets 20 and / or 22, can have a light element 30 associated with it, which can be designed, for example, as an LED unit and / or ring-shaped. In particular, the light element 30 can enclose the respective socket 20, 22, e.g., as shown in Fig. 1 in the form of a circular ring. For reasons of clarity, ring-shaped light elements 30 are indicated by dashed lines only for two sockets 22. The sockets 20, 22, which are active depending on a selected operating state, can be marked by activating the corresponding light elements 30, so that the user immediately knows where to connect which cable. This marking can be made even more visually appealing by a disappearing effect. A disappearing effect is characterized by the fact that the light element is at least substantially not visible in the inactive state and / or is only visible when the light element is illuminated. The designation therefore refers to the fact that the light element "disappears" from the viewer's perspective when transitioning to the inactive state. This can, for example,This can be achieved by appropriate colouring or coating of the front panel so that it is translucent at least in the area of ​​the lighting element.

[0044] The lighting elements 30 each comprise, for example, four LEDs evenly distributed circumferentially. The light from the LEDs is distributed, for example, by a diffuser, so that the user perceives a substantially evenly illuminated ring when the corresponding LEDs are activated. A sleeve between the corresponding socket 20, 22 and the associated LEDs reliably shields unwanted stray light.

[0045] The screen 14 is integrated into the device 10. It can, for example, be a screen of conventional design arranged behind the front panel 12, which can be transparent at least in the area outlined in dashed lines. The front panel 12 preferably comprises the control panel 24 as an integral component. The control panel 24 preferably comprises the entire area of ​​the front panel 12 to the right of the vertical line 26. In other words, the control panel 24 is a touch-sensitive section of the front panel 12. The transparent area of ​​the front panel 12 is also touch-sensitive, thus creating a touch-sensitive screen 14 for the device 10. In principle, a touch-sensitive screen 14 can also be provided, for example, independently of a touch-sensitive control panel.

[0046] Since the screen 14 is touch-sensitive, the displayed fields can be used as "virtual switches or controls" to operate the device 10 and, for example, connected auxiliary devices not shown here. For example, menu navigation is provided, with the help of which the desired functions of the device 10 and / or the individual auxiliary devices can be selected and controlled.

[0047] The control panel 24 can generally also be touch-sensitive in areas other than in front of the screen 14. Preferably, however, only touches in certain areas of the control panel 24 are considered operating inputs, namely preferably only in front of the screen and on one or more control elements separate from the screen. One area of ​​the front panel 12 or the control panel 24, here in the lower right corner of the front panel 12, is provided as an on / off switch 16. Another marked area 32 serves, for example, as another switch, for example, as a menu button for displaying a menu.

[0048] In general, one or more control elements for the device 10 can be provided by a touch-sensitive control panel 24. More generally, one or more touch-sensitive control elements can be provided on the front panel 12.

[0049] A control element can, for example, be displayed alternatively or additionally on a screen 14. In Fig. 1, for example, a control element 34 is displayed on the screen 14, forming a virtual slider. Alternatively or additionally, a control element can be arranged, for example, on a screen-free area, in particular next to a screen 14. The control elements or switches 16 and 32 are arranged, for example, on a screen-free area. Another, ring-shaped control element 36 is arranged next to the screen 14. This preferably forms a virtual rotary control.

[0050] An operating element, in particular one which is arranged on a screen-free surface, advantageously comprises a guide aid. This can be formed by a design of a surface on which it is arranged, wherein this design differs in particular from a design of the remaining surface. For example, the guide aid can comprise at least one depression, preferably an annular groove. Alternatively or additionally, the guide aid can comprise, for example, an elevation, for example a bulge. For example, a guide aid can also be formed by a roughened and / or otherwise structured surface. A guide aid can, for example, be straight, partially annular or annular.

[0051] In general, an operating element can have a predetermined movement path for an operator's finger to gradually adjust a function of the device. The movement path can be, for example, straight, partially circular, or circular. The movement path can be predetermined, for example, by a guide, preferably on the operating element 36, or simply be visibly marked on the operating element. A visible marking can, for example, be displayed on a screen, as in the case of the operating element 34, or, particularly if the operating element is not arranged on a screen, can be permanently drawn.

[0052] The operating element 36 preferably comprises an annular groove and assumes the function of a rotary switch or control. A user moves their finger along the groove, for example to set certain functional parameters, e.g., the voltage of a power supply, and / or to navigate within an operating menu. The groove is a depression that can be milled into the front panel. When the operating panel 24 is touched in this area, the user feels the groove of the operating element 36. It guides the movement of the finger intuitively along a circular path, thus providing guidance. In addition to optional visual orientation, which can be achieved, for example, by a conventional surface marking, the groove also represents haptic orientation that simplifies the operation of the device 10. Additionally or alternatively, the surface in the area of ​​the groove of the operating element 36 can be roughened.In addition, the control element 36, like the control elements 16, 32, can be backed by a lighting element to indicate an operating state or a "position" of the respective control element 16, 32, 36. Since only touch-sensitive control elements have been described above, it is understood that the device 10 can alternatively or additionally also have conventional control elements, such as switches and / or potentiometers, for operating the device.

[0053] An operating element for the device 10 can, for example, alternatively or additionally be arranged on an operating module separate from the device 10. Such an operating element can, for example, be designed in the manner of the operating element 36 or as a conventional rotary or slide control.

[0054] By integrating the control panel 24 into the front panel 12 and arranging the screen 14 behind a transparent area of ​​the front panel 12, a particularly compact design of the device 10 is achieved. If the touch-sensitive control elements 16, 32, and 36, as well as control elements displayed on the screen 14, such as the control element 34, replace the aforementioned conventional mechanical control elements, the susceptibility to failure of the device 10 is particularly low. Joints and slots associated with conventional control elements are also eliminated, so that little dirt penetrates the device 10. Furthermore, the front panel 12 can be made of a suitable material, in particular glass, with a suitable material thickness in order to provide the required robustness.In addition to these practical advantages regarding robustness and compactness, the essentially planar design of the front of the device 10 gives it a particularly clear layout. Furthermore, the front of the device is easy to clean.

[0055] Fig. 2 shows the laboratory and testing device 10 from Fig. 1 in a sectional view along line AA. The device 10 is integrated into laboratory furniture, for example, into a cockpit bar of a workstation or teaching station. For this purpose, the laboratory furniture has profile elements 38 that form a frame-shaped structure that accommodates the device 10. The device 10 is inserted into this structure so that only the front or front panel 12 of the device 10 is visible. The device 10 is particularly compatible with the 19" rack technology used in many laboratory devices. As an alternative to integration into laboratory furniture, the device 10 can also have its own housing and be designed as a standalone device.

[0056] The device 10 comprises a base body 40, which contains, for example, several functional modules, and a removable front unit 42. The base body 40 forms a “cassette” which is supported by rails 44 (in Fig. 2 (only one of them is visible) with an L-shaped cross-section. The rails 44 allow the base body 40 to be inserted. When fully inserted, the base body 40 abuts against shoulders of the rear profile elements 38. To secure the base body 40 in this position, a locking piece 46 is provided.

[0057] After the base body 40 has been assembled, the front unit 42 is attached. It is held in this position, for example, by magnets 48 provided on the rear of the front unit 42 and / or on the front of the base body 40. It is understood that the magnets 48 can also be provided on only one of the two aforementioned components if the other component has a magnetizable surface. For additional security of the front unit 42, a locking mechanism (not shown) is provided, with which the front unit 42 can be secured to the laboratory furniture - for example, to the front profile elements 38 - and / or to the base body 40. In general, the front unit 42 and / or the front panel 12 can also be attached directly and / or only to the front profile elements 38, for example by magnets and / or a locking device.

[0058] The transmission of data between the front unit 42 and the base body 40 is ensured by an interface 50, which comprises, for example, a plug connection.

[0059] Fig. 2 makes it clear that the base body 40 cannot be manipulated in the installed position, since the front unit 42 completely covers its front side. The front unit 42, in turn, has a planar front side, which, for example, is flush with a panel 52 of the laboratory furniture. In other words, the base body 40 is only accessible when the front unit 42 is removed. The weight of the base body 40 is completely absorbed by the corresponding profile elements 38 in the installed position, so that the front unit 42, in particular, does not have a load-bearing function. Therefore, no screws need to be provided to secure the device 10, which penetrate the front unit 42 from the front, as is the case with many known plug-in systems.Since the front unit 42 does not have any protruding components suitable for removal, a gripping device with suction cups is provided for its removal, which can be fastened to the substantially smooth front side of the front unit 42 or the front plate 12.

[0060] Fig. 3 shows the internal structure of a base body 40 of a laboratory and testing device, for example that of Fig. 1 and / or 2, whereby the illustration of structural elements—such as a frame—has been omitted for reasons of clarity. The base body 40 has a base plate 54, on which mounting bases 56 are provided for attaching modules, in particular functional modules 58. The functional modules 58 can also be screwed directly to the base plate 54.

[0061] The functional modules 58 are designed here as plug-in cards that are plugged into the mounting bases. In principle, additional functional modules can also be provided that are not designed as plug-in cards. For example, an AC power supply can be arranged in a separate slot and / or a multimeter can be arranged behind the sockets 20, 22. In both cases, however, communication can also take place via the bus 62. As plug-in cards according to the illustration of the Fig. 3 In particular, one or two DC power supplies, a multimeter and / or a function generator can be provided.

[0062] The functional modules 58 each provide a specific function. The functional modules 58 can, for example, each be a DC power supply, AC power supply, arbitrary waveform generator, data logger, multimeter, function generator, power meter, high-voltage tester, insulation tester, protective conductor tester, leakage current tester, and / or functional tester. In other words, the device 10 can be individually adapted to customer requirements through a suitable combination of functional modules 58 without requiring complex structural changes to the device 10. In particular, two or more functional modules 58 of the same type can be provided, for example, two power supplies and / or two multimeters.

[0063] The functional modules 58 are connected via interfaces 60 to a bus 62, which is provided on a circuit board 64 arranged in the front area of ​​the base body 40. The Fig. 2 visible interface 50 is in Fig. 3 is covered by the circuit board 64. At the front, the base body 40 is closed by a cover plate 66, to which the front unit 42 can be attached by means of the magnets 48.

[0064] It is understood that further electronic and electrical components, power components, connectors, interfaces, network adapters or the like may be provided on the base plate 54 and / or the circuit board 64.

[0065] Fig. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a front unit 42 with a front panel 12, which is preferably made of glass, and a body 68, which includes, for example, at least one control unit for controlling the screen 14 and / or the control panel 24 as well as a front unit-side component of the interface 50. This component is, due to the chosen perspective, in Fig. 4 is not visible. The control unit—or an additional, separate control unit—can also serve to control the functional modules 58. Thus, the body 68 preferably contains the "core" or "control center" of the device 10, which can be adapted to customer requirements by means of an individualized selection of the functional modules 58.

[0066] A touch-sensitive control panel 24 covers a control element 36, which simulates, for example, a rotary switch, and the screen 14. For example, objects displayed on the screen 14 can be selected and moved by swiping. The control panel 24 is preferably multi-touch capable, at least in the area of ​​the screen 14. Preferably, the device 10 can also be controlled by touch gesture control. Fig. 4 shows two further control elements, which can, for example, correspond to control elements 16 and 32.

[0067] Arranged on the upper side of the body 68 is a slot 70 which accommodates a storage medium. In this way, for example, new or customer-specific software modules can be loaded onto the device 10. It is also possible, for example, to store measured data, usage data or error logs on the storage medium in order to be able to evaluate them externally at a later time. Resource files, for example different language files for displaying the device's menu navigation or corresponding help pages in different languages, can also be stored on the storage medium. Alternatively or additionally, an interface not shown here - e.g. a USB slot - can be provided in order to be able to connect the front unit 42 to an external device - such as a diagnostic unit.

[0068] The location of the slot 70 ensures that it cannot be used by unauthorized persons, since this would require the front unit 42 to be removed. However, this is only possible if the locking mechanism mentioned above is unlocked. This locking mechanism is accessible and operable only from the front through a small hole 72, so its operation requires a special tool that is available only to authorized persons.

[0069] In principle, and alternatively or in addition to the slot 70, the device 10 can also have a communications interface, such as an RJ45 interface and / or a USB interface, in particular for installing updates. The device 10 can also have a network interface, for example, for connecting to an Internet connection.

[0070] For example, the device 10 can provide different languages ​​for a display and control interface shown on the screen 14. These languages ​​can be stored, for example, in the operating system of the device 10 or can be downloaded via a communication interface, in particular via the Internet.

[0071] The number, arrangement, design, and selection of connections 18, e.g., the sockets 20, 22 described above, can be freely selected. The same applies to the design and arrangement of the operating elements provided by the control panel 24 and any lighting elements provided for operating guidance and / or status display.

[0072] Fig. 5 shows a front view or a front panel 12 of a laboratory and testing device 10. A screen 14 is visible, on which a display and control interface - or "interface" for short - is provided. In addition to the screen 14, an operating element 36 is provided, which can, for example, be designed corresponding to the operating element 36 described above, in particular can form a virtual rotary control. Preferably, a further operating element 74 can be provided within the ring-shaped guide aid of the operating element 36, by means of which, for example, a selection made by the operating element 36 can be confirmed. Furthermore, an on / off switch 16 is provided. An operating element corresponding to the operating element 32 is not provided in this example. The screen 14 and the operating elements 16, 36 and 74 are preferably all designed to be touch-sensitive. However, for exampleConventional switches and slide and / or rotary controls may also be provided, for example on a separate control module.

[0073] The device 10 of the Fig. 5 also includes several connections 18, for example, BNC sockets 20 and / or sockets 22 for banana plugs. Associated light elements 30 are provided for the connections 18 or sockets 20, 22. In accordance with the above explanations, a socket illumination is provided to indicate a status and / or a function of the respective sockets. The light elements 30 surround the respective sockets 20, 22. Their shape here is - in contrast to the circular ring shape of the light elements 30 of the Fig. 1 - exemplified by a square with rounded corners.

[0074] As described above, the device 10 may include multiple functional modules 58, each providing different functionalities. For example, the device 10 of the Fig. 5 at least one DC power supply, an arbitrary generator, a data logger and a multimeter and preferably further functional modules 58.

[0075] The 14 on the screen of the Fig. The interface provided in Figure 5 has a plurality of module areas 76, which are assigned and / or assignable to different functional modules 58. In the view shown here, which is preferably one of several selectable views, four module areas 76 are provided, namely a primary module area 76.1 and three secondary module areas 76.2, 76.3, and 76.4.

[0076] In each module area 76, the name of the associated functional module 58 is displayed, namely "DC Power Supply 2" in module area 76.1, "Arbitrary Generator 1" in module area 76.2, "Data Logger" in module area 76.3, and "Multimeter 1" in module area 76.4. Alternatively or additionally, the module areas 76 can be highlighted in different colors. Information from the associated functional module 58, such as operating parameters and / or measurement data, is also displayed in each module area 76. The module area 76.1 also has, for example, two control elements 34, which can preferably be configured as virtual sliders, corresponding to the control element 34 described above. In the example shown here, the voltage or current provided by the "DC Power Supply 2" at the connections 18, in particular the sockets 22, can be adjusted using one of the control elements 34.

[0077] In the secondary module areas 76.2, 76.3, 76.4, the function modules 58 assigned to them are displayed with a reduced information content. In order to assign one of the function modules 58 assigned to the secondary module areas to the primary module area 76.1, a touch gesture is implemented, for example, so that the operator can "drag" the respective function module 58 into the primary module area 76.1 with a swipe movement. This movement is Fig. 5 is indicated by an arrow 78. The functional module 58 previously assigned to the primary module area 76.1 is then displayed in particular in the corresponding secondary module area 76.2. The functional modules 58 are thus exchanged between the module areas.

[0078] The secondary module areas 76.2, 76.3, and 76.4 are arranged in a row and can be moved, namely "scrolled through," by means of a corresponding horizontal swiping motion. As mentioned, the device 10 preferably has additional functional modules 58, which, along with associated module areas, become visible at one end of the row when scrolling or disappear at the other end. The row of secondary module areas forms, in particular, a movable palette of functional modules 58 for selective assignment to the primary module area 76.1.

[0079] The interface provided on screen 14 also includes a section 80. Section 80 displays, by way of example, information about the overall system, in particular the date, time, and / or a network connection status. Furthermore, section 80 displays, for example, touch-sensitive means for selecting between various selectable views of the interface. Finally, a menu button is displayed, by way of example, in the upper right corner of screen 14 in section 80, with which a menu can be expanded.

[0080] A control element separate from the screen 14, such as a control element 36, can, for example, be optionally assignable to the module areas 76 and / or individual functions, parameters and / or settings of the function modules or module areas 76.

[0081] In the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 shows a laboratory and testing device 10 in an exploded view with selected parts. Selected reference numerals are assigned according to the above explanations. Reference numerals 20 and 22 in Fig. 6, only corresponding recesses in the front panel 12 are shown here, but corresponding sockets are provided in the assembly.

[0082] The device 10 comprises a housing 200 to which the front panel 12 is attached. The display 14 is also arranged on the front panel 12. The housing 200 can, for example, be a housing for only the device 10—the device then forms a "standalone" device—or, for example, a longer profile into which the device 10 can be installed alongside other electronic devices and / or expansion and / or control modules for the device 10.

[0083] The fastening of the front panel 12 to the housing 200 is detachably carried out by magnets 202, wherein magnets 202 are glued directly to the front panel 12 and cooperate with magnets 202 for holding the front panel 12, which are fastened to the housing 200. Specifically, a respective housing-side magnet 202 is arranged in a magnet holder 204, which is fastened to a threaded strip 206 via a respective screw 208. The threaded strip 206 is arranged in a recess of the housing 200. In the Fig. 6, only three magnet holders 204 and only two of the front panel magnets 202 are visible.

[0084] In an embodiment not shown here, two magnetic holders 204 are firmly connected to each other. In particular, the two magnetic holders 204 provided at the same horizontal position can be connected to each other, e.g. Fig. 6 magnetic holders 204 visible at the right end of the front panel 12 and / or the magnetic holders 204 provided at the left end of the front panel 12, of which only the lower one is shown. Fig. 6. Preferably, the two magnet holders 204 can be connected in one piece. They are then designed, in particular, as a type of elongated plate that extends at least substantially vertically from the upper threaded strip to the lower threaded strip.

[0085] In Fig. 7 also shows a circuit board 210, which is designed as a so-called HAT board and carries a control unit 212 for the screen 14. The circuit board 210 is also connected to further components 214 and, via these, to the Fig. 7 not shown functional modules 58.

[0086] The laboratory and test equipment described here can be used at workstations in laboratories or classrooms, or at other measurement and development workstations, as well as in test bays and / or assembly workstations, and can be integrated into networks if desired. It is also readily possible to use it as test equipment for electrical safety and functional tests, particularly for high-voltage tests, insulation tests, protective conductor tests, and / or leakage current tests.

[0087] Furthermore, the devices can be plug-in units suitable for 19" racks. However, it goes without saying that the devices can be dimensioned in any way to meet customer requirements. Since the devices can be designed very compactly, it is also possible to integrate them directly into suitable profile elements or channels of laboratory furniture or to design them as a compact "standalone" device.

[0088] For the sake of completeness, it is pointed out that the individual functionalities and design details that were only mentioned in connection with certain of the exemplary embodiments of the laboratory and testing device can also be transferred to other embodiments as required in order to take into account the respective customer requirements.

[0089] The Fig. The laboratory and testing device 10 shown in Figure 8 is similar to that of Fig. 1, which is why the reference numerals are assigned accordingly and in this respect reference is made to the above explanations. Furthermore, the device 10 comprises a gesture sensor 90. The gesture sensor 90 is only indicated by dashed lines here because it is located on a surface which is visible to the viewer of Fig. 8 or, during operation, on the side of the front panel 12 facing away from the operator and is therefore not visible to the operator.

[0090] In Fig. 8 shows a section line BB which runs through the gesture sensor 90 and the control element 36. A sectional view with a section plane corresponding to the line BB is shown in Fig. 9. Here, the gesture sensor 90 and an annular recess 92 of the control element 36 are visible in section. The recess 92 provides guidance for the control element 36.

[0091] The operating element 36 is arranged on a first side 94 of the front panel 12, namely a side facing the operator. The gesture sensor 90 is arranged on a second side 96 of the front panel 12, namely a side facing away from the operator. In this example, the gesture sensor 90 is arranged directly opposite the operating element 36. Alternatively, the gesture sensor 90 could also be offset from the operating element 36, for example, above or below it or behind the screen 14. In principle, multiple gesture sensors can also be provided, for example, one - as shown - behind the operating element 36 and one behind the screen 14.

[0092] The gesture sensor 90 is configured to generate an electric field 98, to detect a change in the electric field 98 caused by a user's hand, and to determine a contactless gesture for controlling the device 10 depending on the change.

[0093] The gesture sensor 90 is also configured to detect a touch of the touch-sensitive operating element 36 for controlling the device 10. The gesture sensor 90 thus has a dual function, namely both the contactless detection of gestures and the detection of touches, in particular touch gestures, of the operating element 36. For this purpose, the gesture sensor 90 is arranged and configured such that the field 98 protrudes from an outer surface of the device 10, namely from the front panel 12, in order to detect gestures in the area in front of the operating element 36 without contact. In this case, a touch of the operating element 36 for controlling the device 10 is detected by means of a field area that does not protrude or only minimally protrudes from the outer surface, but is active in the area of ​​the outer surface itself. Thus, in particular with one and the same sensor 90 orIn one and the same field 98, both a contactless gesture and a touch can be detected depending on the distance of the hand to the outer surface of the operating element 36.

[0094] The front panel 12 is preferably made of glass so that the electric field 98 of the gesture sensor 90 can extend largely unhindered through the front panel 12.

[0095] In Fig. 10 shows an electronic laboratory and testing device system 100, which comprises an electronic laboratory and testing device 10 and an operating module 102 connected thereto for controlling the device. The device 10 is similar to that of Fig. 1, whereby the reference numerals are assigned accordingly and reference is made to the above explanations.

[0096] The operating module 102 comprises a touch-sensitive operating element 104 for controlling the functions of the device 10 or the function modules 58. The operating element 104 can in particular correspond to the operating element 36 of the devices 10 of the Fig. 1 to 9 must be trained.

[0097] The operating module 102 has a connection 106, which is connected to a connection 110 of the device 10 via a connecting line 108. In particular, the operating element 104 of the operating module 102 can be connected to a bus of the device 10 (not shown in detail here), to which, for example, the operating element 36 of the device 10 is also connected. In this respect, the bus preferably forms a common bus, in particular an operating bus.

[0098] The operating module 100 further comprises a gesture sensor 90, which, for example, corresponds to the gesture sensor 90 of the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. The gesture sensor 90 can also be connected to the common bus.

[0099] Alternatively or additionally, a gesture sensor may also be provided on the device 10.

[0100] In Fig. 11 illustrates some exemplary contactless gestures for controlling the device 10. These are shown in relation to a gesture sensor 90, which is arranged behind a control element 36 or a front panel 12, as is shown, for example, in the Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 is the case.

[0101] Translation gestures 112 and 114 are provided in mutually perpendicular dimensions. A circular gesture 116 is also provided. Gestures 112, 114, and 116 are illustrated with arrowheads pointing in opposite directions to illustrate that they are a pair of gestures that follow the same path but are opposite in direction. Gestures 112, 114, and 116 also have opposite control functions. With reference to circular gesture 116, for example, a clockwise movement of the hand can lead to an increase in a parameter, such as a voltage output, while a counterclockwise movement of the hand can lead to a decrease in the parameter. Thus, a rotary knob "in the air" is simulated.

[0102] The control gestures 112, 114, and 116 illustrated here as examples all occur in a plane parallel to the plane of extension of the front panel 12. Further or different control gestures may also be implemented, for example, those that involve moving the hand toward and / or away from the front panel 12. List of reference symbols 10 Laboratory and testing equipment 12 Front panel 14 screen 16 On / Off switch 18 connection 20 BNC socket 22 socket 24 Control panel 26 Line 28 Connection panel 30 light elements 32 switches 34 Control element 36 Control element 38 profile element 40 basic bodies 42 front unit 44 rail 46 securing piece 48 Magnet 50 interface 52 cladding 54 Base plate 56 mounting bases 58 Function module 60 interface 62 buses 64 board 66 cover plate 68 bodies 70 insert 72 holes 74 Control element 76 module area 78 Arrow Section 80 90 gesture sensor 92 Deepening 94 first page 96 second page 98 electric field 100 laboratory and testing equipment system 102 Operating module 104 Control element 106 connection 108 connecting line 110 connection 112 Translation gesture 114 Translation gesture 116 Circle gesture 200 housings 202 Magnet 204 Magnetic holder 206 thread strips 208 screw 210 board 212 Control unit 214 Component

Claims

[1] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10), especially for an electronics laboratory, wherein the device (10) is controllable by contactless gestures (112, 114, 116), wherein the device (10) comprises a gesture sensor (90) for detecting contactless gestures (112, 114, 116) for controlling the device (10), wherein the device (10) comprises a touch-sensitive control element (36), wherein the operating element (36) comprises a guide aid, and wherein the gesture sensor (90) is also configured to detect a touch of the operating element (36) for controlling the device (10). [2] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by that a contactless gesture (112, 114, 116) by which the device (10) can be controlled is a translation gesture (112, 114), in particular a vertical and / or horizontal, in particular a swipe gesture. [3] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that a contactless gesture (112, 114, 116) by which the device (10) can be controlled is a rotation gesture, in particular a circular gesture (116). [4] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device (10) has an at least partially flat outer part (12), in particular a front panel, and that a contactless gesture (112, 114, 116) for controlling the device (10) comprises a movement parallel to the plane of extension of the outer part (12). [5] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device (10) is configured to recognize gestures (112, 114, 116) in two or three spatial directions and / or that the device (10) is controllable by two-dimensional and / or three-dimensional contactless gestures (112, 114, 116). [6] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one pair of gestures (112, 114, 116) is defined which run on the same path but are opposite in direction, in particular wherein the gestures (112, 114, 116) are also opposite to each other in their control functions. [7] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a graphic function of the device (10) and / or a functional module (58) of the device (10) can be controlled by at least one contactless gesture (112, 114, 116), in particular a table, list and / or row displayed on a screen (14) is scrollable, a diagram displayed on a screen (14) is adjustable in its axis resolution, in particular zoomable, and / or can be selected between several selectable views of a display and / or control interface of the device (10). [8] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that the gesture sensor (90) is configured to generate an electric field (98), to detect a change in the electric field (98) by a hand of a user and, depending on the change, to determine a contactless gesture (112, 114, 116) and / or touch for controlling the device (10). [9] Electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the device (10) has several function modules (58), e.g. DC power supply, AC power supply, arbitrary generator, data logger, multimeter, function generator, power meter, high-voltage tester, insulation tester, protective conductor tester, leakage current tester and / or function tester. [10] System comprising an electronic laboratory and testing device (10), in particular for an electronics laboratory, wherein the device (10) is controllable by contactless gestures (112, 114, 116), wherein the system comprises a gesture sensor (90) for detecting contactless gestures (112, 114, 116) for controlling the device (10) and a touch-sensitive operating element (36), wherein the operating element (36) comprises a guidance aid, wherein the gesture sensor (90) and the operating element (36) are arranged on the device (10) and / or on an operating module (100) for the device (10) that is separate from the device (10) and connected thereto, wherein the gesture sensor (90) is also configured to detect a touch of the operating element (36) for controlling the device (10). [11] A method for operating an electronic laboratory and testing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or a system according to claim 10, wherein a gesture (112, 114, 116) of a hand of an operator of the device (10) is detected without contact and wherein the device (10) is controlled based on the gesture (112, 114, 116).

Images