Input device for entering a command

Abstract

A proposed input device (20) for entering a command is provided, comprising a control element (22) with a first surface (24) facing the user and a second surface (25) opposite the first surface (24) and facing away from the user, an actuator (26) for moving the control element (22) between a starting position and an end position, and a receiving element (28) with a surface (27) facing the user for receiving the control element (22) and the actuator (26), wherein the first surface (24) of the control element (22) is extended or lowered in the end position relative to the receiving element (28).The input device (20) comprises an elastic layer (30), the elastic layer (30) being arranged on the receiving element (28) such that at least a portion of the control element (22) is covered by the elastic layer (30), forming a flat surface in the initial position and deformable when the control element (22) is moved to the end position. The actuator (26) is configured to perform a movement in a horizontal direction (34). The second surface (25) of the control element (22) is arranged at an angle relative to the first surface (24) of the control element (22) and / or relative to the user-facing surface (27) of the receiving element (28) such that the control element (22) can be moved in a vertical direction (36) by means of the horizontal movement (34) of the actuator (26).

Description

State of the art

[0001] A control element for a vehicle interior is known from DE 10 2018 103 350 A1.

[0002] From DE 196 45 675 A1 a switching device with a keypad having several push buttons is known.

[0003] From DE 10 2015 212 671 A1 a furnishing element with a supporting structure is known.

[0004] From DE 10 2016 224 838 A1 an operating device for selecting at least one gear stage of a vehicle is known.

[0005] DE 10 2019 201 663 A1 discloses an operating device for a vehicle. DE 10 2019 218 786 A1 discloses an operating button arrangement and an operating element with such an operating button arrangement.

[0006] From DE 10 2019 220 383 A1 a shape-changing control unit and method for controlling vehicle functions are known.

[0007] A device for detecting an operating element is known from DE 10 2020 000 589 A1.

[0008] From DE 10 2021 214 398 A1 an input device for entering a command is known.

[0009] From DE 11 2019 002 165 T5 a touch generating device is known which is provided with a vibration generator on a back side of a vibration element. Disclosure of the invention

[0010] An input device for inputting a command is proposed, wherein the input device has an operating element with a first surface facing a user and a second surface opposite the first surface and facing away from the user. The input device further has an actuator for moving the operating element between a starting position and an end position. Furthermore, the input device has a receiving element with a surface facing the user for receiving the operating element and the actuator, wherein the surface of the receiving element facing the user and the first surface of the operating element are arranged on a plane in the starting position, and wherein the first surface of the operating element is extended or lowered relative to the receiving element in the end position.The input device further comprises an elastic layer, wherein the elastic layer is arranged on the receiving element on a side facing a user such that at least a portion of the operating element is covered with the elastic layer. Furthermore, the elastic layer forms a flat surface in the starting position, wherein the elastic layer is deformable upon moving the operating element into the end position. Furthermore, the actuator is configured to execute a movement in a horizontal direction, wherein the horizontal direction is approximately parallel to the surface of the receiving element facing the user and / or to the first surface of the operating element.The second surface of the operating element is arranged obliquely with respect to the first surface of the operating element and / or with respect to the surface of the receiving element facing the user in such a way that by carrying out the movement in the horizontal direction by means of the actuator, the operating element can be moved in a vertical direction, wherein the vertical direction is formed approximately perpendicular to the horizontal direction and / or perpendicular to the surface of the receiving element facing the user.

[0011] The advantage is that the proposed input device enables the operation of one or more functions, for example in a vehicle. For example, one or more displays in a vehicle can be controlled using the proposed input device. The input device is particularly visible when it is needed. The input device or the control element is preferably then extended or lowered and can in particular receive a command if this is necessary and / or desired by a user. This means that the user cannot be distracted by too many elements on a user interface. If the input device is arranged in a vehicle, the user can be a vehicle occupant, for example a driver. This means that the vehicle occupant orThe driver is not distracted by too many elements in the vehicle interior, thereby increasing road safety. Furthermore, the disappearance of the control element when not in use can reduce injuries, such as those caused by bumping into or getting caught on the input device. A further advantage is that the surface beneath the input device is easier to clean, as no dust, dirt particles, and / or water or moisture can penetrate cracks and / or the mechanism of the device.

[0012] Advantageously, the horizontal direction is parallel to the surface of the receiving element facing the user and / or to the first surface of the operating element. Advantageously, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the surface of the receiving element facing the user. Preferably, the actuator is configured to execute a movement parallel to the surface of the receiving element facing the user and / or to the first surface of the operating element. This results in a movement of the operating element perpendicular to the surface of the receiving element facing the user.

[0013] Advantageously, the input device allows for space savings. The horizontal alignment of the actuator enables a reduction in installation space in the direction of the interaction axis of the control element, particularly along the Z-axis. This results in a high degree of freedom and flexible installation options for the input device in areas with limited installation space. Furthermore, it enables different types of actuators. A further advantage is that it allows for morphing out of the surface and morphing into the surface.

[0014] In one exemplary embodiment, the actuator can be arranged transversely to an interaction axis of the control element. This can, in particular, save installation space, allowing the input device to be used even in areas with limited installation space.

[0015] Advantageously, the obliquely arranged second surface of the operating element can be designed as an inclined plane. In a further development, the actuator can have a slider with a roller, wherein the slider is movable in a horizontal direction and wherein the roller can be rolled over the obliquely arranged second surface of the operating element. In an advantageous embodiment, the slider with the roller can be pushed to extend the operating element, wherein the slider with the roller can be pulled to lower the operating element. As a result, moving the operating element can be carried out in a particularly safe and / or reliable manner, whereby in particular the functionality of the operating element and thus of the input device can be ensured.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment, the input device can comprise a spring, wherein the spring is arranged with a first end on the second surface of the operating element and with a second end on a region of the receiving element facing the operating element and the user. This allows the operating element to be returned to its original position, which in particular ensures the functionality of the operating element and thus of the input device.

[0017] In one exemplary embodiment, a command can be determined by moving the control element. Advantageously, the control element can be moved in a vertical direction to actuate the control element. This allows a command to be issued using the control element and thus the input device to be recognized, particularly safely and / or reliably. This allows a corresponding action to be performed in response to the command.

[0018] In a further development, the elastic layer can be fastened to the receiving element. For example, the elastic layer can be fastened to the receiving element by means of a materially bonded connection. In an advantageous embodiment, the elastic layer can be fastened to the receiving element by means of an adhesive connection. By means of this fastening, it can be ensured that the elastic layer is designed as a flat surface in the starting position. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the elastic layer deforms in the final position such that it adapts to the operating element or to the shape of the operating element. This can make the operating element, in particular in the predetermined shape, three-dimensionally highlighted for a user. This can ensure the functionality of the input device. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the elastic layer does not slip.Due to the elastic design of the layer, a previously flat surface can be restored after deformation by the operating element.

[0019] Advantageously, the area of ​​the elastic layer arranged above the control element can be designed as a touch-sensitive layer. This allows a user to enter commands via the touch-sensitive layer in a particularly safe and / or reliable manner.

[0020] In a further development, the input device can have a sensor for detecting the approach of a user of the input device, wherein the operating element is moved to the end position when the approach of the user is detected by the sensor. Furthermore, the input device can in particular have a sensor for detecting the removal of a user of the input device, wherein the operating element is moved to the starting position when the removal of the user is detected by the sensor. This makes it possible to detect when a user intends to use the input device, wherein the operating element is then moved or moved to the end position if the approach of a user is detected. Subsequently, after use and / or when a user moves away from the input device, the operating element can be moved or moved back to the starting position.This allows the control element to be available when needed, which in particular prevents distraction for the user when the control element is not needed. If the input device is installed in a vehicle, road safety is increased by reducing distraction for the user, especially for a vehicle occupant or driver.

[0021] Furthermore, a method for moving an operating element of an input device is proposed, comprising the steps of moving the actuator in a horizontal direction, wherein by means of moving the actuator in a horizontal direction the operating element is moved in a vertical direction from the starting position to the end position, wherein the elastic layer is deformed when the operating element is moved to the end position.

[0022] In a further development, the method includes a step of detecting the approach of a user using a sensor, wherein the control element is then moved to the end position when the sensor detects the approach of the user. Furthermore, the method can include a step of detecting the departure of a user using a sensor, wherein the control element is then moved back to the starting position when the sensor detects the departure of the user. This allows the control element to be available when needed, which can, in particular, increase road safety.

[0023] Furthermore, a method for entering a command by means of an input device is proposed, comprising the steps of Moving the actuator in a horizontal direction, whereby by moving the actuator in a horizontal direction the control element is moved in a vertical direction from the starting position to the end position, whereby the elastic layer is deformed when the control element is moved to the end position, Detecting an input of a command by a movement of the control element performed by a user and / or by means of a touch-sensitive surface of the control element and / or the elastic layer. Short description of the drawings

[0024] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following descriptions. The same reference numerals are used for the elements shown in the various figures and have a similar effect, and a repeated description of the elements is omitted. They show: Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a top view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Embodiments of the invention:

[0025] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an input device 20. The input device 20 is designed to input a command. The input device 20 can be arranged, for example, in a vehicle, for example according to Fig. 4.

[0026] The input device 20 has an operating element 22 with a first surface 24 facing a user and a second surface 25 opposite the first surface 24 and facing away from the user. The operating element 22 can be designed, for example, as viewed from a user's viewing direction, round, oval, rectangular, or rectangular with rounded corners. The input device 20 has an actuator 26 for moving the operating element 22 between a starting position and an end position. The operating element 22 can be moved or displaced perpendicular to the operating surface. In this advantageous embodiment according to Fig. 1, the operating element 22 is arranged or shown in the starting position. The actuator 24 can be designed, for example, as a linear motor, as a pneumatic actuator and / or as a magnetic actuator. In other words, the actuator 26 can be designed, for example, as an electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or magnetic actuator 26. In other words, the actuator 26 moves the operating element 22 back and forth between different positions, preferably the starting position and the end position. The movement can be carried out in two stages, several stages, and / or continuously. In other words, by means of the actuator 26, the operating element 22 can be moved or moved from the starting position to the end position and back again. The arrangement of the operating element 22 in the end position can be according to Fig. 2 be trained.

[0027] The input device 20 further comprises a receiving element 28 with a surface 27 facing the user for receiving the operating element 22 and the actuator 26. The surface 27 of the receiving element 28 facing the user and the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 are arranged on one plane in the starting position, and the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 is extended, raised, or lowered relative to the receiving element 28 in the end position. In other words, the operating element 22 is arranged in the receiving element 28 or within the receiving element 28 in the starting position. In particular, the operating element 22 thus disappears within the receiving element 28. As a result, the operating element 22 does not protrude from the receiving element 28 in the starting position.The receiving element 28 can be designed, for example, as a housing or carrier, wherein the housing or carrier in particular accommodates the operating element 22 and the actuator 26. In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving element 28 can be part of a dashboard, a storage compartment and / or an armrest, in particular a center console, of a vehicle, or can be arranged in or on a dashboard, a storage compartment and / or an armrest, in particular in a center console, of a vehicle.

[0028] Furthermore, the input device 20 has an elastic layer 30, wherein the elastic layer 30 is arranged on the receiving element 28 on a side 32 facing the user such that at least a portion of the operating element 22 is covered with the elastic layer 30. The elastic layer 30 forms a flat surface in the starting position. In other words, the elastic layer 30 is flat in the starting position, so that no bulge is or will be formed by the elastic layer 30 through the operating element 22. Thus, the elastic layer 30 is undeformed in the starting position or not deformed by the operating element 22. Preferably, the elastic layer 30 can be stretched in an undeformed state over the operating element 22 in the starting position. As a result, the operating element 22 is preferably invisible or not visible to a user in the starting position.The elastic layer 30 can be designed to be deformable when the operating element 22 is moved into the end position. Deformation can occur, for example, in the end position of the operating element 22 according to . Fig. 2. When the operating element 22 is moved back from the end position to the starting position, the elastically deformable layer 30 can, in particular, deform back. Elastic deformation of the elastic layer 30 can, in particular, be an elongation of the elastic layer 30.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment, the elastic layer 30 is attached to the receiving element 28. In particular, the elastic layer 30 is attached to a side 32 of the receiving element 28 facing the user. For example, the elastic layer 30 can be attached to the receiving element 28 by means of a material-to-material connection. The material-to-material connection can be designed, for example, as an adhesive connection. As a result, the elastic layer 30 can be attached to the receiving element 28, in particular, by means of an adhesive connection. Likewise, in a further development, the elastic layer 30 can be at least partially attached to the operating element 22.

[0030] The actuator 26 is designed to perform a movement in a horizontal direction 34. Advantageously, the horizontal direction is parallel to the surface of the receiving element facing the user and / or to the first surface of the operating element. In other words, the actuator 26 is designed to perform a movement in the horizontal direction 34 along the arrow 34. In other words, the actuator 26 is arranged perpendicularly or at an angle of 90 degrees to a direction of movement of the operating element 22. In other words, the actuator 26 is designed to perform a movement parallel to the surface 27 of the receiving element 28 facing the user and / or to the first surface 24 of the operating element 22. This results in a movement of the operating element perpendicular to the surface 27 of the receiving element 28 facing the user.

[0031] The second surface 25 of the operating element 22 is arranged obliquely with respect to the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 and / or with respect to the surface 27 of the receiving element 28 facing the user in such a way that the operating element 22 can be moved in a vertical direction 36 by means of the movement in a horizontal direction 34 by means of the actuator 26 or by means of the horizontal movement of the actuator 26. Advantageously, the operating element 22 is moved in a vertical direction 36 along the arrow 36. The actuator 26 is arranged in particular transversely to an interaction axis 36 of the operating element 22. Advantageously, the obliquely arranged second surface 25 of the operating element 22 can be designed as an inclined plane. In other words, the second surface 25 of the operating element 22 is designed obliquely.In other words, the second surface 24 of the operating element 22 is arranged at an angle to the first surface 24 of the operating element 22, thus not parallel to the first surface 24. Advantageously, the second surface 24 of the operating element 24 is not parallel to the surface 27 of the receiving element 28 facing the user.

[0032] In this advantageous embodiment, the actuator 26 has a slider 38 with a roller 40, wherein the slider 38 is movable in a horizontal direction 34 and wherein the roller 40 can roll over the inclined second surface 25 of the operating element 22. The roller 40 can also be designed as a spherical head. In a further development, the roller 40 can also be designed as a wedge. In other words, the slider 38 with the roller 40 can be moved in the horizontal direction 34 along the arrow 34. In this case, the roller 40 can roll in particular on the second surface 25 and thus on the inclined plane of the operating element 22. This results in a vertical movement of the operating element 22 along the arrow 36. The slider 38 can be designed, for example, as a rod, pin, cylinder or other. For example, the slider can be elongated and formed as a connection between the motor and the roller 40.Advantageously, the slide 38 has a bearing and the roller 40 at an end opposite the motor.

[0033] Advantageously, the slider 38 with the roller 40 can be pushed to extend the operating element 22 and pulled to lower the operating element 22. In other words, the slider 38 is pushed or pushed out to extend the operating element and retracted to lower the operating element 22.

[0034] In other words, to reduce vertical installation space, particularly in the direction of a z-axis and thus in the direction of movement of the control element 22 along the arrow 36 of the shape-changing element, the actuator 26 can be mounted in the horizontal direction 34, particularly in the direction of an x-axis. In other words, the actuator 26 is positioned transversely to the interaction axis of the control element 22 or button 22. The height of the control element 22 continues to be adjusted as usual in the vertical direction 36, particularly in the direction of the z-axis. The direction redirection is achieved via an inclined plane using a ball head or a wedge.

[0035] The horizontally positioned actuator 26, in particular along the x-axis, pulls or pushes on the inclined plane, which can then rise or fall in the vertical direction 36, in particular in the direction of the z-axis, due to its bearing, for example a plain bearing. A linear movement can be generated, for example, by means of a linear motor, pneumatic actuator and / or magnetic actuator. The shape of the surface can be changed both into a concave shape, in particular by pulling the actuator 20, whereby the operating element 22 moves downwards, and into a convex shape, in particular by pushing the actuator, whereby the operating element 22 moves upwards. The repositioning of the actuator 26 in the horizontal direction 36 creates new degrees of freedom, which can save installation space in the z-direction 36.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment, the input device 20 further comprises a spring 42, wherein the spring 42 is arranged with a first end 44 on the operating element 22 and / or on the second surface 25 of the operating element 22 and is arranged with a second end 46 on a region 48 of the receiving element 28 facing the operating element 22 and the user. By means of the spring 42, the operating element 22 is retracted to the starting position when the operating element 22 is in the end position. The retraction of the operating element 22 occurs in particular when the actuator moves back to the original position and thus the slider 38 is retracted with the roller 40.

[0037] Advantageously, a command can be determined by moving the operating element 22. Preferably, pressure applied to the operating element 22 can be interpreted as a user command. In other words, the operating element 22 can be moved in a vertical direction for actuation. In particular, a command can be input by means of pressure on the operating element 22. In other words, a command can be given by means of the input device 20 by applying pressure to the operating element 22. This pressure can advantageously be measured. As a sensor for detecting the pressure applied by the user, for example, a conventional push button, a pressure sensor, a piezo sensor, an electroactive polymer, or other suitable sensors can be used.Alternatively or additionally, the area of ​​the elastic layer 30 arranged above the operating element 22 can be designed as a touch-sensitive layer. Preferably, an input can be made by touching the touch-sensitive layer. For example, touch-sensitive textile fibers can be incorporated into the elastic layer 30.

[0038] A function for entering a command can be activated, in particular, when the control element 22 is arranged in the end position. Preferably, a function for entering a command can be deactivated when the control element 22 is arranged in the home position. In an alternative embodiment, the operation can also be activated in the home position. In this case, a command can also be entered in the home position.

[0039] In a further development, the input device 20 can have a sensor 50 for detecting the approach of a user to the input device 20. In other words, the approach of a user can be detected by means of a sensor 50. In this advantageous embodiment, the sensor 50 is arranged in or on the receiving element 28. In a further development, the sensor 50 can also be arranged at a different position in the input device 20. The input device 20 can have one or more sensors 50, which are arranged, for example, distributed, in particular around the operating element 22. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 50 can be arranged in or on the operating element 22. If the approach of the user, in particular a hand or one or more fingers, is detected by the sensor 50, the operating element 22 is moved into the end position by means of the actuator.The sensor 50 can further be configured to detect a user's departure from the input device 20. In other words, the sensor 50 can further detect a user's departure from the control element 22 and thus from the input device 20. If the sensor 50 detects a user's departure, the control element 22 can be moved to the starting position.

[0040] In other words, control of the input device 20 can be triggered by the system or by the user themselves, for example by the approach of the hand. For example, one or more capacitive proximity sensors 50 can be arranged in the receiving element 28, for example around the operating element 22 in the vicinity of the elastic layer 30, in order to detect an approach of the user, for example a hand and / or one or more fingers of the user, from different directions. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more proximity sensors 50 can be designed as a radar sensor, ultrasonic sensor, capacitive sensor and / or optical sensor. Alternatively or additionally, the proximity sensor 50 can be integrated into the elastic layer 30.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, the movement of the operating element 22 into the end position can also be triggered by a function or the occurrence of a specific situation. For example, the operating element 22 can be moved into the end position if a specific input is requested, necessary and / or expected from a user. If the input device 20 is arranged in a vehicle, for example, the operating element 22 can be moved into the end position if an input is requested, necessary and / or expected from the vehicle occupant. Alternatively or additionally, the system can move the operating element 22 back into the retracted position and thus the starting position if an input is made or completed and / or if no input has been made by the user for a defined period of time and it can therefore be assumed that it was not activated.

[0042] In a further development, the input device 20 can have a lighting device or a backlight. For example, the operating element 22 and / or the area between the operating element 22 and the receiving element 28 can be illuminated by means of the lighting device. The lighting device can be designed, for example, as an LED, light guide, or luminous surfaces. Alternatively or additionally, lighting, for example by luminous filaments, can be arranged in the elastic layer 30. Alternatively or additionally, lighting, for example by luminous filaments, can be arranged in the flexible layer 36. Alternatively or additionally, lighting can be arranged in the receiving element 28.

[0043] In other words, the input device 20 is designed as an interaction element with a morphing, i.e. shape-changing, surface.

[0044] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of an input device 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The input device 20 is designed to input a command. The input device 20 can be arranged, for example, in a vehicle, for example according to Fig. 4. The input device 20 according to Fig. 2 is according to the input device 20 according to Fig. 1. The input device 20 has according to Fig. 1 the operating element 22, the actuator 26 for moving the operating element 22 between the starting position and the end position, the receiving element 28 and the elastic layer 30.

[0045] In contrast to the input device 20 according to Fig. 1, the input device 20 according to Fig. 2 is arranged in the end position. The operating element 22 is extended in the end position, whereby the operating element 22 protrudes at least partially from the receiving element 28. This results in a bulge through the operating element 22 out of the receiving element 28 in the end position. In other words, the operating element 22 is extended or raised relative to the receiving element 28 in the end position. In an alternative embodiment, the operating element 22 can be lowered relative to the receiving element 28 in the end position.

[0046] In this advantageous embodiment, the actuator 26 has performed a horizontal movement in the horizontal direction 34, in particular along the arrow 34. The second surface 25 of the operating element 22 is arranged obliquely with respect to the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 and / or with respect to the surface 27 of the receiving element 28 facing the user, such that the horizontal movement of the actuator 26 moves the operating element 22 in a vertical direction 36. Advantageously, the operating element 22 is moved in a vertical direction 36 along the arrow 36. The roller 40 is now in the end position at a thicker end of the operating element 22 compared to the starting position of the operating element 22.

[0047] In the end position, the elastic layer 30 preferably rests on the surface of at least part of the operating element 22. In other words, the elastic layer 30 is arranged on a side 32 facing a user such that at least part of the operating element 22 is covered with the elastic layer 30. In other words, the elastic layer 30 conforms to the shape of the operating element 22. In the end position, the elastic layer 30 forms a bulge, which can in particular take on the shape of the operating element 22. In other words, the elastic layer 30 is deformed in the end position so that a bulge is formed by the operating element 22. As a result, the shape of the operating element 22 in the end position is preferably visible to a user through the elastic layer 30.

[0048] A function for entering a command by means of the input device 20 can be activated in particular when the operating element 22 is arranged in the end position. In other words, the function for activating an input according to Fig. 2 is activated because the control element 22 is in the end position.

[0049] Preferably, a pressure applied to the operating element 22 can be measured. In particular, a command can be input by means of the pressure applied to the operating element 22. In other words, a command can be given using the input device by applying pressure to the operating element 22. This pressure can advantageously be measured. A conventional push button, a pressure sensor, a piezo sensor, an electroactive polymer, or other suitable sensors can be used or employed as a sensor for detecting the pressure applied by the user.

[0050] In a further development, the input device 20 may comprise a sensor 50 according to Fig. 1 for detecting a user approaching the input device 20. In other words, a sensor 50 can detect the approach of a user. If the sensor 50 detects the approach of the user, in particular a hand, one or more fingers, then the operating element 22 is moved into the end position by means of the actuator. The sensor 50 can further be designed to detect a user moving away from the input device 20. In other words, the sensor 50 can further detect a user moving away from the operating element 22 and thus away from the input device 20. If the sensor 50 detects a user moving away, the operating element 22 can be moved back to the starting position. Alternatively or additionally, the operating element 22 can be moved into the end position when an input from a user is expected.

[0051] In other words, the input device 20 can be designed as a push button, which, in the final position, protrudes from the receiving element 28 when operation by a user is necessary or desired. In the initial situation, the area in which the push button or input device 20 is arranged is a flat surface.

[0052] In other words, the input device 20 is based on a flexible surface or elastic layer 30, which, through underlying mechanically adjustable elements or the actuator 26, can take the shape of a round, rectangular, or oval element—here, the control element 22—which can externally resemble a conventional push button. This deformation is electronically driven and occurs situationally when the adjustment of vehicle settings or navigation in the vehicle's operating system is to be simplified by an input device 20. The described deformation can be initiated manually by the user via a haptic signal, gesture, or speech, or automatically by a proximity sensor 50. The input device 20 can be operated by pressure. Light pressure on the surface can confirm an input.

[0053] In other words, shaping or morphing the control element 22 from the surface is based on an actuator 26 below the surface to be deformed or the elastic layer 30, which can push the correspondingly shaped control element 22 upward, thereby deforming the elastic layer 30. The elastic layer 30 can be designed, for example, as a decorative layer, for example, as a textile covering, artificial leather, or other suitable materials.

[0054] In a further development, the control element 22 can provide haptic feedback. For example, the control element 22 can vibrate, particularly in different vibration patterns.

[0055] The elastic layer 30 must be designed to be appropriately elastic and have sufficient restoring force to be able to reproduce the desired degree of deformation without damage, particularly depending on the dimensions of the operating element 22 and the travel path of the operating element 22, and to form a smooth, wrinkle-free surface again when the operating element 22 is retracted. The actuator 26 for the up-and-down movement of the operating element 22 can be implemented in a variety of ways and depending on requirements, in particular depending on the force required to deform the surface material, the available installation space, the desired movement patterns, the noise generation, and / or other factors. For example, the actuator 26 can be designed as an electromechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electromagnetic, or other actuator. For example, the actuator 26 can be designed as an electromechanical servomotor.

[0056] In an alternative embodiment, the region of the elastic layer 30 arranged above the operating element 22 can be designed as a touch-sensitive layer. Preferably, an input can be made by touching the touch-sensitive layer. For example, touch-sensitive textile fibers can be incorporated into the elastic layer 30.

[0057] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of an input device 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The input device 20 is designed to input a command. The input device 20 can be arranged, for example, in a vehicle, for example according to Fig. 4. The input device 20 according to Fig. 3 is according to the input device 20 according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2. The input device 20 thus has according to the input device 20 according to Fig. 1 the operating element 22, the actuator 26 for moving the operating element 22 between the starting position and the end position, the receiving element 28 and the elastic layer 30.

[0058] In contrast to the input device 20 according to Fig. 1, the input device 20 according to Fig. 3 is arranged in the end position. In contrast to the input device 20 according to Fig. 2, the input device 20 according to Fig. 3 is arranged lowered in the end position. The operating element 22 is lowered in the end position, whereby the operating element 22 at least partially disappears into the receiving element 28. This results in a hollow or cavity through the operating element 22 into the receiving element 28 in the end position. In other words, the operating element 22 is lowered relative to the receiving element 28 in the end position.

[0059] In this advantageous embodiment, the actuator 26 has performed a horizontal movement in the horizontal direction 34, in particular along the arrow 34, here in the direction toward the actuator 26. The second surface 25 of the operating element 22 is arranged obliquely with respect to the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 and / or with respect to the surface 27 of the receiving element 28 facing the user, such that the horizontal movement of the actuator 26 moves the operating element 22 in a vertical direction 36. Advantageously, the operating element 22 is moved in a vertical direction 36 along the arrow 36. The roller 40 is now in the end position at a narrower end of the operating element 22 compared to the starting position of the operating element 22.

[0060] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a plan view of a vehicle 52, for example a motor vehicle, for example a car, with an input device 20. The input device 20 can be arranged, for example, in a vehicle 52. The input device 20 according to Fig. 4 can be according to the input device 20 according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2. The input device 20 can be arranged on or in a dashboard, an armrest and / or a storage compartment, for example in a center console, of the vehicle 52. Preferably, the receiving element can be part of a dashboard, an armrest and / or a storage compartment, for example a center console, of the vehicle 52 or can be arranged in or on a dashboard, an armrest and / or a storage compartment, for example in a center console, of the vehicle 52. The input device 20 is arranged such that a user 54, in particular a vehicle occupant 54, for example a driver or front passenger, can reach it with their hand and thus enter a command.

[0061] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a method 60 for moving an operating element of an input device to input a command according to an embodiment of the present invention. The input device can be configured according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2. The input device can be designed according to Fig. 4 be arranged in a vehicle.

[0062] In a first step 62 of the method 60, the actuator is moved in a horizontal direction, whereby by moving the actuator in the horizontal direction, the operating element is moved in a vertical direction from the starting position to the end position. The elastic layer is deformed when the operating element is moved to the end position. The starting position can, for example, be determined according to Fig. 1. The end position can be, for example, according to Fig. 2 be trained.

[0063] The control element can then be moved back to its original position.

[0064] Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a method 64 for entering a command using an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention. The input device can be configured according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2. The input device can be designed according to Fig. 4 be arranged in a vehicle. The method 64 according to Fig. 6 may carry out the steps of the procedure according to Fig. 5, thus the first step 62.

[0065] Procedure 64 according to Fig. 6 has a further, second step 66. In the second step 66 of the method 64, the input of a command is detected by a movement of the operating element performed by a user and / or by means of a touch-sensitive surface of the operating element and / or the elastic layer. This step can be performed before the operating element is moved back to its original position. The command can be entered, for example, by pressing the operating element. Preferably, a pressure on the operating element can be detected and, in particular, interpreted as a command.

[0066] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a method 60 for moving an operating element of an input device to input a command according to an embodiment of the present invention. The input device can be configured according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2. The input device can be designed according to Fig. 4 be arranged in a vehicle. The procedure according to Fig. 7 may carry out the steps of the procedure according to Fig. 5 and / or Fig. 6, thus the first step 62 and in particular the second step 66.

[0067] Procedure 60 according to Fig. 7 has a further, third step 68. In the third step 68 of the method 60, which is carried out before the first step 62, the approach of a user is detected by means of a sensor. The sensor can be configured according to the sensor according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2 be trained.

[0068] When the sensor detects that the user is approaching, the control element is then moved from the starting position to the end position by means of the actuator in the first step 62 of the method 60, wherein the elastic layer is deformed when the control element is moved to the end position.

[0069] In a second step 66 of the method 60, an input of a command is detected.

[0070] Procedure 60 according to Fig. 7 has a further, fourth step 70. In the fourth step 70 of the method 60, the removal of a user is detected by means of a sensor.

[0071] The control element can then be moved back to its original position when the sensor detects the user's departure. This can be performed, for example, in a subsequent step or together with the fourth step 70.

Claims

[1] Input device (20) for entering a command, characterized by , that the input device (20) has an operating element (22) with a first surface (24) facing a user and a second surface (25) opposite the first surface (24) and facing away from the user, that the input device (20) has an actuator (26) for moving the operating element (22) between a starting position and an end position, that the input device (20) has a receiving element (28) with a surface (27) facing the user for receiving the operating element (22) and the actuator (26), wherein the surface (27) of the receiving element (28) facing the user and the first surface (24) of the operating element (22) are arranged on one plane in the starting position and wherein the first surface (24) of the operating element (22) is extended or lowered relative to the receiving element (28) in the end position, that the input device (20) has an elastic layer (30), wherein the elastic layer (30) is arranged on the receiving element (28) on a side (32) facing a user such that at least a part of the operating element (22) is covered with the elastic layer (30), that the elastic layer (30) forms a flat surface in the starting position and wherein the elastic layer (30) is deformable when the operating element (22) is moved into the end position, that the actuator (26) is designed to carry out a movement in a horizontal direction (34), wherein the horizontal direction (34) is approximately parallel to the surface (27) of the receiving element (28) facing the user and / or to the first surface (24) of the operating element (22), that the second surface (25) of the operating element (22) is arranged obliquely with respect to the first surface (24) of the operating element (22) and / or with respect to the surface (27) of the receiving element (28) facing the user in such a way that by carrying out the movement in the horizontal direction (34) by means of the actuator (26), the operating element (22) can be moved in a vertical direction (36), wherein the vertical direction (36) is formed approximately perpendicular to the horizontal direction (34) and / or perpendicular to the surface (27) of the receiving element (28) facing the user. [2] Input device (20) according to claim 1, characterized by that the actuator (26) is arranged transversely to an interaction axis of the control element (22). [3] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the obliquely arranged second surface (25) of the operating element (22) is designed as an inclined plane. [4] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that the actuator (26) has a slider (38) with a roller (40), wherein the slider (38) is movable in a horizontal direction (34) and wherein the roller (40) can be rolled over the obliquely arranged second surface (25) of the operating element (22). [5] Input device (20) according to claim 4, characterized by that the slider (38) with the roller (40) can be pushed to extend the operating element (22) and that the slider (38) with the roller (40) can be pulled to lower the operating element (22). [6] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the input device (20) comprises a spring (42), wherein the spring (42) is arranged with a first end on the second surface (25) of the operating element (22) and is arranged with a second end on a region (48) of the receiving element (28) facing the operating element (22) and the user. [7] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a command can be determined by moving the operating element (22). [8] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the operating element (22) is movable in a vertical direction (36) for actuating the operating element (22). [9] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the region of the elastic layer (30) arranged above the operating element (22) is designed as a touch-sensitive layer. [10] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the input device (20) has a sensor (50) for detecting an approach of a user of the input device (20), wherein the operating element (22) is moved into the end position when an approach of the user is detected by means of the sensor (50). [11] Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the input device (20) has a sensor (50) for detecting a removal of a user of the input device (20), wherein the operating element (22) is moved into the starting position when a removal of the user is detected by means of the sensor (50). [12] Method (60) for moving an operating element (22) of an input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of moving the actuator (26) in a horizontal direction (34), wherein by means of moving the actuator (26) in a horizontal direction (34) the operating element (22) is moved in a vertical direction (36) from the starting position to the end position, wherein the elastic layer (30) is deformed when the operating element (22) is moved to the end position. [13] Method (60) according to claim 12, comprising a step of detecting an approach of a user by means of a sensor (50), wherein the operating element (22) is then moved into the end position when an approach of the user is detected by means of the sensor (50). [14] Method (60) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 13, comprising a step of detecting a removal of a user by means of a sensor (50), wherein the operating element (22) is then moved back to the starting position when a removal of the user is detected by means of the sensor (50). [15] Method (64) for inputting a command by means of an input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, comprising the steps of Moving the actuator (26) in a horizontal direction (34), wherein by means of moving the actuator (26) in a horizontal direction (34) the operating element (22) is moved in a vertical direction (36) from the starting position to the end position, wherein the elastic layer (30) is deformed when moving the operating element (22) to the end position, Detecting an input of a command by a movement of the operating element (22) performed by a user and / or by means of a touch-sensitive surface (24) of the operating element (22) and / or the elastic layer (30).

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