Concealment arrangement for concealing a switch in a vehicle

Abstract

Laminating arrangement (100) for laminating a switch in a vehicle, comprising: at least a first layer (110) which forms a visible side (112) of the laminating arrangement (100) with one of its surfaces, at least a second layer (120) which is arranged opposite the visible side (112) and at least partially under the first layer (110), wherein the first and second layers (110, 120) are elastically deformable in such a way that the actuation of at least one switch (200), which can be arranged at least partially under the second layer (120), is made possible by applying force to the visible side (112).

Description

1. Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a concealment arrangement for concealing a switch in a vehicle. The invention further relates to a switching arrangement comprising a corresponding concealment arrangement. The invention further relates to the manufacture of a concealment arrangement for concealing a switch in a vehicle. The invention further relates to a vehicle component comprising a corresponding concealment arrangement or switching arrangement. 2. Background of the invention

[0002] Vehicles, especially motor vehicles, but also ships and aircraft, often feature components with controls for specific functions, such as heating, lighting, or air conditioning. These functions are mostly adjusted using corresponding switches or buttons. A user can activate or deactivate a specific function, such as interior vehicle lighting, by pressing the appropriate switch. These switches are frequently located on concealed or decorative surfaces of the components.

[0003] In current technology, such switches are regularly provided as separate elements. This results in the concealed or decorative surface being disadvantageously interrupted in the area where, for example, the electronic or mechanical components of the switch are located. Thus, conventional switches typically protrude beyond the surface of a component.

[0004] In newer vehicles, it is often desirable to have a component surface that is as flat and uninterrupted as possible. If such a component is to be equipped with switches, switches based on electroactive polymers, capacitive films, or optical systems are currently used, which can be relatively flush with the component surface. However, even these switches are regularly integrated as separate elements within the component's surface, thus disrupting the laminated / decorative surface. Furthermore, such switches cannot readily provide haptic feedback to the user regarding the switching process, nor can they define a specific actuation force. For this, current technologies often require additional, complexly controlled actuators, signaling devices, and control units.

[0005] The object of the invention is therefore to provide an improved integration of a switch in a vehicle and corresponding components using the simplest possible means of construction, thereby at least partially solving the problems mentioned above. 3. Detailed description of the invention

[0006] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims, the description, and the accompanying figures.

[0007] The present invention relates to a lamination arrangement for laminating a switch in a vehicle, comprising at least a first layer which forms a visible side of the lamination arrangement with one of its surfaces, and at least a second layer which is arranged opposite the visible side at least partially under the first layer, wherein the first and second layers are elastically deformable in such a way that the actuation of at least one switch, which can be arranged at least partially under the second layer, is made possible by applying force to the visible side.

[0008] The lamination arrangement according to the invention allows a switch provided beneath the lamination arrangement to be concealed, preferably completely, under the layered structure in a simple and cost-effective manner, while simultaneously ensuring the full functionality of the covered switch. The lamination arrangement according to the invention also enables the use of simple and cost-effective (electro-)mechanical switches that can provide suitable haptic or acoustic feedback to a user regarding the switching process or that can define a specific actuation force.

[0009] In this context, "laminating" is generally understood to mean covering or concealing an external surface, for example, of a vehicle component. A laminating arrangement is accordingly understood to be a layer arrangement or layer structure that is fundamentally suitable for at least partially cladding or covering a component's surface. Thus, visible surfaces of a component can be laminated, i.e., covered or concealed, with the first and second layers according to the invention. Functional components or elements such as switches can therefore be advantageously concealed beneath the laminated surface. Advantageously, a switch arranged beneath the laminating arrangement according to the invention can thus be effectively protected from damaging influences such as moisture or dirt.In principle, any type of switch can be suitablely concealed, for example switches that operate with a mechanical, electrical, optical or capacitive mode or a combination thereof.

[0010] The lamination arrangement is particularly, but not exclusively, suitable for use in the automotive sector, for example as decoration or part of a decoration in the interior of a motor vehicle, e.g. as a cover for a start / stop switch, as an instrument panel, center console, door trim or the like, in particular of a passenger car and / or a truck.

[0011] The laminating arrangement can be at least partially bonded to the surface of an underlying component. The laminating arrangement can also comprise more than one first layer and more than one second layer.

[0012] The first layer can be a decorative layer, providing a decorative surface. This layer can be made of one or more suitable materials, such as leather, imitation leather, textile, or plastic, and can have a desired surface texture, for example, smooth or contoured. Alternatively, the first layer can also simultaneously or at least partially define a protective layer and comprise a material suitable for protecting the underlying layers and the component from external influences, such as water or contamination.

[0013] The second layer can be a functional or support layer and, for example, provide suitable adhesion to the first layer positioned above it and / or to the surface of a component located beneath the second layer. The second layer can be made of one or more suitable materials, such as plastics or elastomers (e.g., TPE, silicone, EPDM, PU).

[0014] The first and second layers should exhibit suitable deformability. For example, the layers can be deformable in such a way that a user can deform them with typical manual force, such as by pressing on the visible side with one or more fingers, and deflect them towards a switch located beneath the lamination assembly. The materials used are preferably designed to be elastically deformable in such a way that the layers return to their original position on their own after the pressing action is complete. A force can be applied perpendicularly, i.e., in the normal direction to the visible side, or at any angle to the normal direction, for example, obliquely from above onto the visible side. Accordingly, the elastic deformability of the first and second layers of the lamination assembly can be adapted to the type of switch used and the force applied.

[0015] In this context, a visible side is understood to be the side or surface that forms the outermost layer of a component, i.e., the side that is typically visible to a user. For example, the surfaces of consoles visible to a user or the surface of a glove compartment lid in the vehicle interior can be considered visible sides. Similarly, outside the vehicle, the surface of a door handle, fuel filler cap, charging port cover, or trunk lid can be considered visible sides.

[0016] The visible surface can, for example, be defined as a continuous decorative surface. The switch can be completely concealed beneath the covering. The visible surface can thus define an uninterrupted area, enabling seamless integration of the underlying switch. This can, in addition to visually improving the appearance of the covered component, provide better protection for the underlying switch against dirt and moisture. Furthermore, the continuous surface is easier to clean, as there are no gaps or interruptions. This can also simplify the installation of the switch or component in a vehicle.

[0017] In this context, "actuating" a switch refers to a standard operating procedure, such as moving the switch from a first state to at least one different second state. Each state can correspond to one or more functions controlled by the switch. For example, activating or deactivating a switch can close or release a lock and / or activate or deactivate an electrical circuit. After actuation, the switch can return to its initial position or remain in the second state until actuated again.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the first layer and / or the second layer has at least one switching area, wherein the deformability of the first layer and / or the second layer within the switching area is at least partially greater than outside the switching area.

[0019] The switching area can be a spatially extending region, for example, a planar area, essentially in the direction of extension of the first and second layers. The switching area can be located at least partially above the switch. Viewed from the outside, looking at the visible side, the switching area can, for example, define a surface area on the lamination arrangement where a user can preferably activate an underlying switch. Thus, for instance, if a user presses in an area of ​​the visible side outside the switching area, the switch located beneath the lamination arrangement will not be activated.

[0020] Increased deformability allows the switch to be activated even with minimal force applied by the user. This means that, with the same force, a user can press the lamination deeper within the switching area than outside of it. This provides the user with haptic feedback indicating the location of the switch within the lamination.

[0021] The switching area can also exhibit reduced deformability, at least partially. For example, the switching area can have relatively rigid regions to act on an underlying mechanical component of the switch. This can be achieved, for instance, by incorporating reinforcements or ribs in the second layer. The increased rigidity in these areas thus enables a more direct force transmission to the underlying switch.

[0022] The switching area can incorporate haptic or optical features, for example, to identify the switching area. Haptic features can be felt by a user and may include, for example, one or more indentations, other surface textures such as embossing, raised or recessed areas, or a morphing surface, located on the visible side of the first layer. Optical features may include, for example, illuminateable areas in the first or second layer, where the areas are designed to be illuminated by appropriate light sources, such as LEDs, located opposite the visible side beneath the first layer. This can be achieved, for example, through transparent areas such as perforations or microperforations, which may be at least partially filled with a material that is at least partially transparent in the visible wavelength range.The transparent material can be, for example, an injection-molded two-component material. In this way, any type of backlit, illuminated, or translucent pattern or symbol can be provided on the visible side of the lamination arrangement according to the invention. For example, the switch can be illuminated in such a way that the switching status of the function it controls, for example, active or inactive, can be displayed. In a further embodiment, the pattern or symbol on the visible side can also be displayed by projection.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the layer thickness of the first layer and / or the second layer is at least partially less in the switching area than outside the switching area.

[0024] This allows for adjustment of the deformability of the first and second layers. For example, the deflection of the first and second layers in the direction of the underlying switch can be adjusted. Similarly, a switching range can be appropriately adapted to the underlying switch. For instance, the deformability of the switching range can be increased without having to use different materials in the first and second layers. This can simplify the production of the lamination arrangement according to the invention.

[0025] The first layer can have a thickness of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 4 mm, and most preferably 1 mm to 1.5 mm. The second layer can have a thickness of 0.25 mm to 10 mm, preferably 1 mm to 5 mm, and most preferably 2 mm to 3 mm. The layer thicknesses can be substantially constant in the direction of extension or can be variable. For example, the thickness of the second layer can be less at an edge region of the switching area to provide increased deformability and simultaneously increased in a central region of the switching area to allow for more direct force transmission to an underlying switch.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the first layer and / or the second layer in the switching area has at least one recess and / or is made of a material that is different from a material of the first layer and / or the second layer outside the switching area.

[0027] Providing one or more recesses allows for adjustment of the deformability of the lamination arrangement without, for example, having to use different materials for the first and second layers. This can simplify the manufacture of the lamination arrangement according to the invention. A recess can be designed, for example, as a perforation penetrating the entire layer, such as a slot, or as a partial cutout or depression. The recess can have any suitable shape or geometry. For example, several recesses can be arranged in a spiral or spoke shape around a center point of the switching area. The recess in the second layer can be sufficiently small so that it is not visible on the surface of the first layer. From the outside, it would then not be readily apparent to a user whether and where such recesses are provided.In another embodiment, the recess can be designed in such a way that it deliberately stands out on the surface and thus acts as a tactile aid for the user.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, a carrier for receiving the switch is arranged on the second layer.

[0029] In this context, a carrier is understood to be any suitable device capable of supporting and carrying a switch. A switch or other means can thus be held in a suitable manner on the lamination arrangement according to the invention. The carrier can, for example, be configured to support further mechanical or electronic components, such as light sources or a circuit board for controlling the switch and the light sources. Optionally, additional light guides can also be provided, for example, above the light sources, to better control light distribution. For example, the carrier can be designed in the form of a housing that at least partially encloses a switch. The carrier can be attached to the second layer, for example, removablely or permanently, or it can be at least partially integrated into the second layer. For instance, a carrier can be arranged at least partially in a recess of the second layer.The support can be made of a different material than the first and second layers, or it can be made of the same material. For example, the support can be made of a suitably rigid material, such as plastic or metal.

[0030] The present invention further relates to a switching arrangement comprising the lamination arrangement according to one of the preceding embodiments and a switch, wherein the switch is laminated by the lamination arrangement and is arranged relative to the lamination arrangement in such a way that it can be actuated by applying force to the visible side.

[0031] For the purposes of this invention, a switch is understood to be any suitable device by which a user can control one or more functions, preferably by manual force, for example, by pressing a button with one or more fingers. For instance, a switch can activate or deactivate certain functions in a vehicle. The switch can be, for example, a microswitch or a push button. By actuating the switch, vehicle components such as a glove compartment, a door, or a trunk lid can be locked or unlocked. Electrical functions such as switching a seat heater on and off or starting and stopping an engine can also be controlled by the switch according to the invention. The applicability of the switching device according to the invention is not limited to the examples mentioned above.The switching arrangement according to the invention can therefore also be used for other functions that can be controlled via corresponding switches, and for other components of a vehicle. Of course, more than one switch, for example groups of switches, can also be provided.

[0032] The switch can provide acoustic feedback to the user when activated. For example, the switch can be configured to generate a clicking sound when activated, using suitable mechanical or electronic components. The switch can also be configured to provide haptic feedback. For instance, the switch can have variable mechanical resistance when pressed. This allows the user to be informed acoustically or haptically whether and to what extent the switch has been activated.

[0033] The switch can also define a specific actuation force that a user must apply to activate it. This actuation force can be in the range of 0.2 N to 8 N, preferably in the range of 1 N to 5 N, and most preferably in the range of 2 N to 4 N. When selecting the appropriate actuation force, the design of the lamination arrangement above the switch, such as the layer thickness and the material of the layers, can be taken into account. A switching threshold for the switch can be set by appropriately adjusting the actuation force. The switching arrangement according to the invention thus provides a simple and robust way to implement a laminated switch in a vehicle. The switch can be designed to be removable from the lamination arrangement or permanently integrated into it.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the switching arrangement does not include an additional pulse generator or acoustic signal generator.

[0035] Preferably, haptic and acoustic feedback to a user can be provided solely by the switch included in the switching arrangement. For example, simple mechanical switches, such as a "click switch" known in the technical field, can be used, which inherently provide haptic and / or acoustic feedback of the switching process to the user due to their design. In contrast, many purely electrically, optically, or capacitively operated switches, according to the prior art, require an additional pulse generator, such as an electronic actuator, an unbalanced motor, or a piezoelectric element, to generate haptic feedback. Furthermore, the prior art requires an additional acoustic signal generator, such as a loudspeaker, to provide acoustic feedback.Furthermore, these additional electronic elements must be regularly controlled in coordination with the switch, which requires the use of additional specialized software. The present switching arrangement thus provides a simple and cost-effective solution for concealed switches.

[0036] The present invention further relates to a method for manufacturing a lamination arrangement for laminating a switch in a vehicle, comprising the steps of: providing at least one first layer which forms a visible side of the lamination arrangement with one of its surfaces; providing a second layer which is arranged opposite the visible side at least partially under the first layer, wherein the first and second layers are elastically deformable in such a way that the actuation of at least one switch, which can be arranged at least partially under the second layer, is made possible by applying force to the visible side.

[0037] The first and second layers can be arranged directly on top of each other, i.e., in contact with each other. In other embodiments, one or more further layers can also be provided between the first and second layers. The first and second layers can also be at least partially spaced apart from each other. When a switch is to be actuated, the spaced layers can then be designed such that they deform in such a way that, upon application of force, the first layer contacts the underlying second layer, whereby the force can then be transmitted to a switch below.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of providing at least one switch at least partially beneath the second layer.

[0039] The switch can be positioned so that it makes at least partial direct contact with the second layer. Alternatively, the switch can be spaced away from the second layer. Depending on the design of the second layer, for example, its thickness, any recesses, and the switch's position, the switch can also protrude at least partially into the second layer.

[0040] The present invention also relates to a vehicle component comprising the lamination arrangement according to one of the preceding embodiments or the switching arrangement according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0041] For the purposes of this text, a vehicle component is understood to be any component of a vehicle, for example, located in the interior or exterior. In particular, this refers to components that typically have user-operated switches controlling one or more vehicle functions. Non-exhaustive examples include components of a glove box, seat heating, a door opener, and / or a start / stop device for the vehicle's engine.

[0042] Further features, advantages and possible applications of the invention will become apparent from the following description of advantageous embodiments and the accompanying figures. 4. Brief character description

[0043] For a better understanding of the present invention and to illustrate its practical applicability, figures are provided below and referenced. It should be understood that the figures represent only exemplary embodiments and thus in no way limit the scope of the claimed invention. Identical or equivalently functioning elements are consistently identified by the same reference numerals.

[0044] This shows: Fig. 1 in a schematic sectional view an exemplary switching arrangement comprising a lamination arrangement according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 in a schematic top view an exemplary second layer according to one embodiment. 5. Description of embodiments

[0045] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic sectional view of a switching arrangement 10 comprising a laminating arrangement 100. The laminating arrangement 100 has several layers, shown here in Fig. 1. Two exemplary layers: 110, 120. The in Fig. The upper layer shown is a first layer 110, which is elastically deformable, and forms with its outward-facing side, in Fig. 1. The upward-facing side or surface forms a continuous visible side 112 of the laminating arrangement 100. The in Fig. The lower layer shown is a second layer 120, which is also elastically deformable and is located opposite the visible side 112. Fig. 1 is arranged below the first layer 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the laminating arrangement 100 has not yet been deformed or deflected by an external force acting on the visible side 112. If, for example, a force F is exerted perpendicularly on the visible side 112, in the illustrated embodiment from top to bottom, the first layer 110 and the second layer 120 can be deformed and deflected downwards (not shown). Of course, the illustrated layers 110 and 120 can also be deformed and deflected downwards by a force that does not act perpendicularly from top to bottom as shown, but for example also obliquely on the visible side 112.

[0046] The first layer 110 defines a continuous outer decorative surface and has several transparent areas 114 that extend through the layer, allowing backlighting from below. The lamination arrangement also includes a switching area 130. When a user presses the switching area 130 from above, this causes the first and second layers 110 and 120 to deform. The force deflects these layers downwards. At the edge of the switching area 130, recesses 116 are provided in the first layer 110. These make it easier for a user to identify the switching area within the continuous decorative surface. The second layer 120 has a recess 122 in the area of ​​the switching area 130. Accordingly, the thickness of the second layer 120 is at least partially reduced in this area.In the switching area 130, an at least partially transparent area 126 is provided, which is part of the second layer 120. The transparent area 126 can comprise a material that is at least partially transparent and may be the same as or different from the material of the rest of the layer 120. Alternatively or additionally, the transparent area 126 can also have slots, perforations, or similar features that allow light to pass through the transparent area 126. The switch 200 is partially located beneath the second layer 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the layer 120 contacts the underlying switch 200 in its resting state, i.e., without any external force acting on the visible side 112.When a user presses down on the visible surface 112, i.e., exerts force, the first layer 110 and the second layer 120 directly below it are deformed and deflected downwards, pressing or actuating the switch 200 below. In the illustrated embodiment, the switch 200 is a mechanical switch that can be actuated by pressing down and can, for example, activate or deactivate a function of an associated component. The switch 200 is arranged on a circuit board 202, which in turn is received and supported by a carrier 210. Light sources 220 are also arranged on the circuit board 202, enabling illumination of the layers 110 and 120 above. The switch 200 and the light sources 220 can be powered and controlled by the circuit board 202, which is supplied with power and controlled via a cable 204.The circuit board 202 is supported by a carrier 210, which is attached below the second layer 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the carrier is designed in the form of a housing, which is attached to the second layer 120 from below.

[0047] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic top view of an exemplary second layer 120 of the present invention. The second layer 120 has spiral-shaped recesses 122 in the form of perforations, which form a weakening structure in the circular switching area 130. This area is more easily deformed than the surrounding area when a force F acts perpendicularly, i.e., in the direction of view, on the second layer 120. A reinforcement 124 is provided in the center of the switching area 130. This reinforcement does not have any perforations, i.e., no corresponding weakening structure, and a switch 200 can be provided under this reinforcement for contact purposes. REFERENCE MARK LIST 10 Switching arrangement 100 lamination order 110 first shift 112 Viewing side 114 transparent area 116 depressions 120 second shift 122 Exclusion 124 Reinforcement 126 transparent area 130 switching range 200 switches 202 circuit board 204 cables 210 carriers 220 light source

Claims

[1] Concealing arrangement (100) for concealing a switch in a vehicle, comprising: at least one first layer (110) which forms with one of its surfaces a visible side (112) of the lamination arrangement (100), at least one second layer (120) which is arranged opposite the visible side (112) at least partially under the first layer (110), wherein the first and second layers (110, 120) are elastically deformable such that the actuation of at least one switch (200), which can be arranged at least partially under the second layer (120), is made possible by the action of force on the visible side (112). [2] Laminating arrangement (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first layer (110) and / or the second layer (120) has at least one switching region (130), wherein the deformability of the first layer (110) and / or the second layer (120) within the switching region (130) is at least partially greater than outside the switching region (130). [3] Laminating arrangement (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the layer thickness of the first layer (110) and / or the second layer (120) in the switching region (130) is at least partially smaller than outside the switching region (130). [4] Laminating arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims 2 or 3, wherein the first layer (110) and / or the second layer (120) has at least one recess in the switching region (130) and / or is formed from a material which is different from a material of the first layer (110) and / or the second layer (120) outside the switching region (130). [5] Laminating arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a carrier (210) for receiving the switch (200) is arranged on the second layer (120). [6] Switching arrangement (10), comprising the covering arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims and a switch (200), wherein the switch (200) is covered by the covering arrangement (100) and is arranged relative to the covering arrangement (100) in such a way that it can be actuated by the action of force on the visible side (112). [7] Switching arrangement (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the switching arrangement (10) does not have an additional pulse generator or acoustic signal generator. [8] Method for producing a concealing arrangement (100) for concealing a switch in a vehicle, comprising the steps: Providing at least one first layer (110) which forms with one of its surfaces a visible side (112) of the lamination arrangement (100); Providing a second layer (120) which is arranged opposite the visible side (112) at least partially under the first layer (110), wherein the first and second layers (110, 120) are elastically deformable such that the actuation of at least one switch (200), which can be arranged at least partially under the second layer (120), is made possible by the action of force on the visible side (112). [9] Method according to the preceding claim, further comprising the step: Providing at least one switch (200) at least partially beneath the second layer (120). [10] Vehicle component comprising the covering arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 5 or the switching arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims 6 or 7.

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