Input device for entering a command

Abstract

An input device with one or more control elements (22) is proposed. The input device (20) comprises one or more actuators (26) for moving one or more of the control elements (22) between a starting position and an end position, and a receiving element (28) for receiving one or more of the control elements (22). The input device (20) comprises a threaded rod (35), wherein the threaded rod (35) is arranged at a first end on the control element (22), and a support structure (37) with an internal thread, wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided by or in the support structure (37).The actuator (26) comprises two shape memory wires (40, 42) wound around the threaded rod (35), wherein the shape memory wires (40, 42) are each arranged with one end on the threaded rod (35) and with an opposite end on the support structure (37), and wherein each of the shape memory wires (40, 42) can be controlled to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod (35), wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided by or in the support structure (37) such that the threaded rod (35) screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod (35) allows one, one of the or more of the control elements (22) to be moved between the starting position and the end position.

Description

Prior ArtDE 10 2018 103 350 A1 discloses an operating element for a vehicle interior.Disclosure of the InventionAn input device for inputting a command is proposed, wherein the input device has one or more operating elements with a first surface facing a user and a second surface opposite the first surface and facing away from the user, and wherein the input device has one or more actuators for moving the one, one of the or more operating elements between a starting position and an end position. The input device further comprises a receiving element having a surface facing the user for receiving the one or more operating elements, wherein the surface of the receiving element facing the user and the first surface of the one or more operating elements are arranged on a plane in the initial position and wherein the first surface of the operating element is extended or lowered relative to the receiving element in the end position. Furthermore, the input device has a threaded rod, wherein the threaded rod is arranged with a first end on the operating element. The input device further comprises a support structure with an internal thread, wherein the threaded rod is guided by or in the support structure. The actuator has two shape memory wires wound around the threaded rod, wherein the two shape memory wires are each arranged with one end on the threaded rod and with an opposite end on the supporting structure. Furthermore, one of the shape memory wires can be controlled in each case in order to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod, wherein the threaded rod is guided by or in the supporting structure in such a way that the threaded rod screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the one, one or more of the operating elements can be moved between the starting position and the end position by the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod.The advantage is that the proposed input device enables operation of one or more functions, for example in a vehicle. For example, one or more displays in a vehicle can be activated by means of the proposed input device. The input device is moved out in particular when it is used. The input device or the operating element is then preferably moved out and can in particular record a command, if necessary and / or intended by a user. As a result, the user cannot be distracted by too many elements on an operating surface. If the input device is arranged in a vehicle, the user can be, for example, a vehicle occupant, for example a driver. As a result, the vehicle occupant or the driver cannot be distracted by too many elements in the vehicle interior, as a result of which the safety in road traffic can be increased. Furthermore, as a result of the disappearance of the operating element when not in use, injuries to the user and / or damage to the input device, for example as a result of a contact or sticking to the input device, can be reduced.By using a threaded rod, a supporting structure and shape memory wires wound around the threaded rod for converting and passing on the movement from the actuator to the operating element, the components and the positioning of the components can be selected such that the required installation space can be reduced and in particular optimally utilized. Furthermore, by using an actuator based on shape memory wires, it is possible to reduce assembly effort and / or complexity of the input device and / or noise development and / or effort, for example costs. A further advantage is that the input device operates in particular in a temperature-stable manner, that is to say that, for example, an external temperature change which could lead to material expansion does not have any effect, or has little effect, on the mechanism, in particular, since both wires expand or contract equally and thus always mutually stabilize.In an advantageous embodiment, a ball head can be arranged at the first end of the threaded rod, wherein the ball head is mounted in or on the operating element. This advantageously makes it possible to prevent the operating element from rotating together with the threaded rod during the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod. As a result, the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.In a further development, the threaded rod can be mounted with a second end in or on the supporting structure. This advantageously allows tilting of the threaded rod and / or displacement in the X-Y plane of the threaded rod to be reduced or prevented. As a result, the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.Advantageously, the shape memory wires can be controlled in such a way that the shape memory wires contract when a voltage is applied. As a result, the rotational movement of the threaded rod can be generated in particular reliably and / or reliably, as a result of which the threaded rod moves or screws in particular reliably and / or reliably along a longitudinal direction, as a result of which the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.In an exemplary embodiment, one of the shape memory wires can be controlled in each case for generating a rotational movement of the threaded rod about a Z axis, wherein the threaded rod is guided by the supporting structure in such a way that the threaded rod screws or moves along a longitudinal direction along the Z axis, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod along the Z axis allows the one, one or more of the operating elements to be moved between the starting position and the end position. As a result, the rotational movement of the threaded rod can be generated in particular reliably and / or reliably, as a result of which the threaded rod moves or screws in particular reliably and / or reliably along a longitudinal direction, as a result of which the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.Furthermore, a first shape memory wire can be arranged on the support structure with a first end and on the threaded rod with a second end opposite the first end, wherein a second shape memory wire is arranged on the threaded rod with a first end and on the support structure with a second end opposite the first end. As a result, the rotational movement of the threaded rod can be generated in particular reliably and / or reliably in both directions, as a result of which the threaded rod moves or screws in both directions in particular reliably and / or reliably along a longitudinal direction, as a result of which the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.In an advantageous embodiment, the shape memory wires can be wound in the same direction around the threaded rod. For example, the shape memory wires can be wound around the threaded rod in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. As a result, the threaded rod can move or screw in both directions in particular securely and / or reliably along a longitudinal direction, as a result of which the operating element can be moved between the starting position and the end position in particular securely and / or reliably.In a further embodiment, the shape memory wires can be arranged on the support structure with a first end and on the threaded rod with a second end opposite the first end, wherein the two shape memory wires are wound in opposite directions around the threaded rod. In other words, one of the shape memory wires can be wound around the threaded rod in the clockwise direction and the other shape memory wire can be wound around the threaded rod in the counter-clockwise direction. As a result, the threaded rod can move or screw in both directions in particular securely and / or reliably along a longitudinal direction, as a result of which the operating element can be moved between the starting position and the end position in particular securely and / or reliably.In an exemplary embodiment, a first or the first shape memory wire can be controlled to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod in a first direction, wherein the threaded rod is guided by the supporting structure in such a way that the threaded rod screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod allows the one, one or more of the operating elements to be moved from the initial position into the end position. Furthermore, a second or the second shape memory wire can be controllable in particular for generating a rotational movement of the threaded rod in a second direction, wherein the threaded rod is guided by the supporting structure in such a way that the threaded rod screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod allows the one, one or more of the operating elements to be moved from the end position into the initial position. As a result, the rotational movement of the threaded rod can be generated in particular reliably and / or reliably in both directions, as a result of which the threaded rod moves or screws in both directions in particular reliably and / or reliably along a longitudinal direction, as a result of which the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.In a further development, the threaded rod can have a first region with a thickening for fastening the shape memory wires and at least one second region with a thread, wherein the threaded rod is guided in the support structure by means of the thread. As a result, the shape memory wires can be arranged in particular securely and / or reliably on the threaded rod. Furthermore, tilting of the threaded rod and / or displacement in the X-Y plane of the threaded rod can advantageously be reduced or prevented. As a result, the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.In an advantageous embodiment, a command can be determinable by means of a movement of the operating element by a user in a vertical direction and / or by means of a pressure on the operating element and / or by means of a contact of the operating element. Advantageously, the operating element for actuating the operating element can be movable in a vertical direction in particular by a user and / or pressure can be applied to the operating element by a user for actuating the operating element and / or the operating element can be touched for actuation by a user. As a result, a command which is to be made by means of the operating element and thus the input device can be recognized in particular reliably and / or reliably. This allows a corresponding action to be performed on the command.Preferably, the first surface of the operating element can be designed as a touch-sensitive surface. As a result, a user can input commands via the touch-sensitive surface in particular in a reliable and / or reliable manner.In a further development, the input device can have a sensor for detecting an approach of a user of the input device and / or for detecting a removal of a user of the input device, wherein the operating element is moved into the end position when an approach of the user is detected by means of the sensor and wherein the operating element is moved into the starting position when a removal of the user is detected by means of the sensor. This makes it possible to detect when a user wants to use the input device, wherein the operating element is then moved or moved into the end position if an 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 back or moved back again into the starting position. As a result, the operating element can be available if necessary, as a result of which, in particular, a distraction of the user is prevented if the user does not require the operating element. If the input device is arranged in a vehicle, the reduced distraction of the user, in particular of a vehicle occupant or a driver, can increase the safety in road traffic.Furthermore, a method for moving an operating element of an input device is proposed, having the steps of actuating the actuator for moving the operating element, wherein the operating element is moved by means of the actuator from the starting position into the end position, actuating the actuator for moving the operating element, wherein the operating element is moved by means of the actuator from the end position into the starting position.In a further development, the method can have a step of detecting an approach of a user by means of a sensor, wherein the operating element is moved into the end position when an approach of the user is detected by means of the sensor, and a step of detecting a removal of a user by means of the sensor, wherein the operating element is moved back into the starting position when a removal of the user is detected by means of the sensor. As a result, the operating element can be available if necessary, as a result of which, in particular, the safety in road traffic can be increased.In a further development, the actuator can be controlled in such a way that a voltage is applied to one of the shape memory wires, such that the respective shape memory wire contracts. As a result, the rotational movement of the threaded rod can be generated in particular reliably and / or reliably, as a result of which the threaded rod moves or screws in particular reliably and / or reliably along a longitudinal direction, as a result of which the operating element can be moved in particular reliably and / or reliably between the starting position and the end position.In an advantageous embodiment, in the step of actuating the actuator for moving the operating element, a first or the first shape memory wire can be actuated in such a way that the operating element is moved from the starting position into the end position, and wherein a second or the second shape memory wire can be actuated in such a way that the operating element is moved from the end position into the starting position.Furthermore, a method for inputting a command by means of an input device is proposed, having the steps of actuating the actuator for moving the operating element, wherein the operating element is moved by means of the actuator from the starting position into the end position, detecting an input of a command by a movement of the operating element carried out by a user and / or by a touch of the operating element carried out by a user and / or by a pressure applied by a user to the operating element, actuating the actuator for moving the operating element, wherein the operating element is moved by means of the actuator from the end position into the starting position.Brief Description of the DrawingsExemplary embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the descriptions which follow. The same reference numerals are used for the elements shown in the different figures and acting in a similar manner, wherein a repeated description of the elements is omitted. The following are shown: FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of an input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a plan view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Embodiments of the Invention:FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a part of an input device 20. The input device 20 can be arranged in a vehicle, for example, according to FIG. 4. In this advantageous embodiment, the input device 20 has only one operating element 22. However, the input device 20 can also have two or more operating elements 22, for example.In this advantageous embodiment, the operating element 22 has an operating element housing 21 and an operating element printed circuit board 23. The operating element housing 21 has a first surface 24 facing a user and a second surface 25 opposite the first surface 24 and facing away from the user.The operation element circuit board 23 is disposed on the second surface 25 of the operation element housing 21. The operating element 22 can be configured, in particular, as viewed from a viewing direction of the user, for example, as round, oval, rectangular or rectangular with rounded corners or with a plurality of corners or with a plurality of rounded corners. Alternatively, the operating element 22 can be configured merely as a simple element, for example as a pushbutton or button, and for example cannot have a printed circuit board or electronics.The input device 20 has one or more actuators 26 for moving the one, one of the or more control elements 22 between a starting position and an end position. The one, one or more of the operating elements 22 can thus be moved or moved by means of the actuator 26 from the starting position into the end position and back again. In this advantageous embodiment, the input device 20 has only one actuator 26. However, the input device 20 may also have two or more actuators 26, for example. The actuator 26 can be designed, for example, as an actuator based on shape memory materials, for example according to FIG. 3. Advantageously, 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, multiple stages and / or continuously. In an advantageous embodiment, the positions, in particular the end position and / or starting position or positions therebetween, can be controlled or assumed in a targeted manner by the operating element 22 by means of the actuator 26. The one, one or more control elements 22 is or are movable in particular by means of the actuator 26 perpendicularly to the surface 29 of the receiving element 28 facing the user. In other words, the one, one of the or more operating elements 22 can be moved or moved perpendicularly to the operating surface. In this advantageous embodiment according to FIG. 1, the operating element 22 is arranged or illustrated in the starting position. The operating element 22 can be arranged, for example, according to FIG. 2 in the end position.Each operating element 22 can advantageously have its own actuator 26 or its own actuator brewing group, as a result of which the operating elements 22 are thus controlled differently or independently of one another and can therefore be moved or moved independently of one another between the starting position and the end position.The input device 20 further comprises a receiving element 28 with a surface 29 facing the user for receiving the one or more operating elements 22, wherein the surface 29 of the receiving element 28 facing the user and the first surface 24 of the one or more operating elements 22 are arranged on a plane in the initial position and wherein the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 is lowered or moved out relative to the receiving element 28 in the end position, see FIG. 2 The operating element 22 is arranged in the receiving element 28 or within the receiving element 28 in the initial position and thus disappears within the receiving element 28, As a result, no bulging or lowering by the operating element 22 results out of the receiving element 28 or into the latter in the initial position. The receiving element 28 can be designed, for example, as a housing or carrier, wherein the housing or carrier receives the operating element 22. In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving element 28 can be part of an instrument panel, a storage compartment and / or an armrest, in particular a central console, of a vehicle or can be arranged in or on an instrument panel, a storage compartment and / or armrest, in particular in a central console, of a vehicle, see FIG. 6.In this advantageous embodiment, the receiving element 28 has a stop 30 for a plurality of and / or each for the operating elements 22, wherein the operating elements 22 in the starting position bear against the respective stop. In one embodiment, the receiving element 28 can have a cavity in the form of the operating element 22. The cavity is advantageously formed in such a way that the operating element 22 can be moved or lowered into the cavity in the initial position. For example, the operating element 22 arranged in the starting position can fill the cavity. In a further development, the stop 30 can be designed, for example, in the form of a phase which is mirrored on the edge of the operating element 22. For example, the flanks of the receiving element 28 and of the operating element 22 can be formed obliquely, in order to form a stop 30, for example. In an advantageous embodiment, a positive connection can be formed between the operating element 22 and the receiving element 28 in the starting position. The form-fit can be formed, for example, by the stop. In a further development, in the starting position, a circumferential positive fit can be formed between the one operating element 22 and the receiving element 28. When the operating element 22 is lowered, it is lowered in such a way that the stop, in particular the oblique flank, of the operating element housing 21 touches or abuts the oblique flank at the opening of the cover element 28. The oblique flanks can be arranged in particular all around the operating element 22. When the operating element 22 is lowered, a form fit and in particular a circumferential pressing of the operating element 22 against the opening flanks of the receiving element 28 thus occur. Advantageously, in this way, in the idle state, a form fit can be created, which ensures that the operating elements 22 together with the receiving element 28 or the surface 29 of the receiving element 28 generate a planar surface. This further has the advantage that no dirt can enter.The input device 20 has a side 32 facing the user, wherein the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 is arranged in the direction of the first side 32. On the first side 32 of the input device 20, a user's hand for operating the input device 20 may be located.The input device 20 can furthermore have a base printed circuit board 31, wherein the actuator 26 or the actuators 26 or actuator assembly are arranged on the base printed circuit board 31. The base printed circuit board 31 is arranged in particular on a side of the input device 20 facing away from the user. Furthermore, the receiving element 28 can be arranged directly and / or via further support elements or connecting elements on the base printed circuit board 31.The input device 20 comprises a threaded rod 35, wherein the threaded rod 35 is arranged with a first end 36 on the operating element 22, and a support structure 37 with an internal thread, wherein the threaded rod 35 is guided by or in the support structure 37. The actuator 26 has two shape memory wires wound around the threaded rod 35, wherein the shape memory wires are each arranged with one end on the threaded rod 35 and with an opposite end on the supporting structure 37, see for example according to FIG. 3. The threaded rod 35 is guided by or in the supporting structure 37 in such a way that the threaded rod 35 screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the one, one or more of the operating elements 22 is or are movable between the starting position and the end position by the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod 35. For this purpose, the threaded rod 35 can be arranged in particular parallel to the direction of movement of the operating element 22. The threaded rod 35 can advantageously be arranged with the first end 36, for example, on the operating element housing 21 or via a further element of the operating element 22, for example an operating element carrier 33, which in turn is arranged on the operating element housing 21. The operating element carrier 33 can be connected to the threaded rod 35 via a bearing, for example.Advantageously, a command can be determinable or input by means of a movement of the operating element 22 in a vertical direction by the user, for example by means of a pressing down, and / or by means of a pressure on the operating element 22 and / or by means of a contact of the operating element 22, in particular by means of a control unit and / or arithmetic unit and / or arithmetic module on the printed circuit board. In particular, for actuating the operating element 22 and / or for inputting a command, pressure and / or a touch can be or can be applied to the operating element 22, preferably by a user or his finger or hand. In other words, a pressure and / or the touch applied to the operating element 22 can be interpreted and evaluated as a command of a user. Advantageously, this pressure can be measured. As sensor or sensors for detecting the pressure applied by the user, a classic pushbutton, a pressure sensor, a piezo sensor, an electroactive polymer, optical, resistive or other suitable sensors can be used or can be used, for example.Alternatively or additionally, the first surface 24 of the operating element 22 or the operating element printed circuit board 23 of the operating element 22 can be designed as a touch-sensitive surface, for example by means of capacitive and / or resistive sensor system, for example a planar sensor system, wherein an input can be made by means of a touch of the touch-sensitive surface. For this purpose, the operating element printed circuit board 23 can have capacitive sensors and / or one or more electrodes. For example, a plurality of electrodes may be disposed on an edge of the operation element circuit board 23.In a further development, a controller and / or one or more actuators for generating a haptic feedback, for example a vibration, and / or an interface for connecting the operating element printed circuit board 23 to the printed circuit board 31 can be arranged on the operating element printed circuit board 23. In other words, further electronics can be arranged or integrated in or under the operating element 22 or in or on the operating element printed circuit board 23. For example, electronics and / or sensor systems and / or actuators, for example electrode surfaces, can be applied. As a result, for example, a touch sensor system can be integrated close to the surface and / or, furthermore, haptic feedback, illumination and / or displays for displaying information and / or dynamic content can be realized in the surface. In a further development, the actuator 26 and / or an actuator on the operating element printed circuit board 23 can be or can be controlled for generating a haptic feedback, for example a vibration. For example, the operating element 22 can vibrate, in particular in different vibration patterns.A function for inputting a command can be activated in particular when the operating element 22 is arranged in the end position. Preferably, a function for inputting a command may be disabled when the operation member 22 is disposed at the initial position. In an alternative embodiment, the operation can also be activated in the starting position, wherein a command can then also be input in the starting position.In a further development, the input device 20 can have a sensor 34 for detecting an approach of a user to the input device 20. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more sensors 34 can also be arranged at another position in or on the input device 20. The input device 20 can have one or more sensors 34, which are arranged, for example, in a distributed manner, for example at different positions and / or elements of the input device 20. The one or more sensors 34 can be arranged, for example, in or on the operating element 22 and / or in or on the receiving element 28. In other words, one or more proximity sensors 34 can be arranged in the receiving element 28, for example around the operating element 22, or in the operating element 22, 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. Preferably, the one or more proximity sensors 34 can be designed as radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, capacitive sensors and / or optical sensors. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 34 can be designed as a camera, for example as an interior camera in a vehicle, wherein this can be installed at another location in the vehicle. If an approach of the user, in particular a hand and / or one or more fingers, is detected by means of the sensor 34, then the operating element 22 is moved into the end position, in particular by means of the actuator 26. An activation of the input device 20 can thus be triggered by the system or by the user himself, for example by approaching the hand and / or a finger. The sensor 34 can furthermore be designed to detect a removal of a user from the input device 20, thus away from the input device 20. If removal of the user is detected by means of the sensor 34, the operating element 22 can be moved back into the starting position.Alternatively or additionally, the movement of the operating element 22 into the end position can also be triggered by a function or an 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 by 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 required, necessary and / or expected by the vehicle occupant. The operating element 22 can then be moved back into the starting position again when an input is made or has been concluded, and / or no input has been made by the user over a defined period of time and accordingly, in particular, an unintended activation can be assumed.In a further development, the input device 20 can have an illumination unit or an illumination device or a backlighting, which is not illustrated in accordance with FIG. 1. However, the input device 20 may be configured without illumination. For example, the operating element 22 and / or a region between the operating element 22 and the receiving element 28 and / or a region between two or more operating elements 22 and / or gaps in the receiving element 28 can be illuminated by means of the illumination device. The lighting device or parts of the lighting device can be arranged in or on the operating element 22 and / or on or in the receiving element 28. The lighting device can have one or more light sources, for example LEDs, light guides and / or light surfaces, or can be designed as these. In a further development, the lighting unit can have one or more light sources and furthermore, for example, one or more light guides, wherein the one or more light sources are arranged on the base printed circuit board 31 and wherein the one or more light guides can be arranged between the base printed circuit board 31 and the surface 29 of the receiving element 28 facing the user.In a further development, the input device 20 can have an elastic layer, wherein the elastic layer is arranged on the receiving element 28 on a side 32 of the input device 20 facing the user in such a way that at least a part of the operating element 22 is covered with the elastic layer. However, the input device 20 of FIG. 1 does not have an elastic layer. FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of an input device 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The input device 20 is configured to input a command. The input device 20 can be arranged in a vehicle, for example according to FIG. 4, for example. 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. In the end position, the operating element 22 is extended or raised in such a way that the operating element 22 protrudes at least partially above the receiving element 28. This results in a bulge in the end position by the operating element 22 out of the receiving element 28. In particular, the actuator 26 has moved the operating element 22 in the vertical direction. In an alternative embodiment, the operating element 22 can be lowered, which would result in a cavity.A function for inputting 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. Thus, according to FIG. 2, the function for actuating an input is activated since the operating element 22 is in the end position. The command or input can be determined in accordance with the explanations according to FIG. 1. For this purpose, the operating element 22 can be designed in accordance with FIG. 1 and can have the corresponding sensors or elements.FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of an input device 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The input device 20 is configured to input a command. The input device 20 can be arranged in a vehicle, for example according to FIG. 4, for example. In this advantageous embodiment according to FIG. 3, the operating element 22 according to FIG. 1 is shown in the starting position.The input device 20 comprises a threaded rod 35, wherein the threaded rod 35 is arranged with a first end 36 on the operating element 22. The threaded rod 35 can be arranged in particular parallel to the direction of movement of the operating element 22, in particular along a Z axis 38. The input device 20 furthermore comprises a supporting structure 37 with an internal thread, wherein the threaded rod 35 is guided by or in the supporting structure 37. In other words, the operating element 22 can be connected to the threaded rod 35, wherein the threaded rod 35 is guided in a supporting structure 37 with a corresponding internal thread, so that a rotation of the threaded rod 35 about the Z axis 38 results in an upward movement or downward movement of the threaded rod 35 and thus of the operating element 22. By means of the support structure 37, displacement in the x-y plane and tilting of the threaded rod 35 can be prevented or reduced.Preferably, a ball head 39 can be arranged at the first end 36 of the threaded rod, wherein the ball head 39 is mounted in or on the operating element 22. For this purpose, the operating element 22 or an operating element housing of the operating element 22 can have a corresponding recess. In a further development, the threaded rod 35 can be mounted with a second end in or on the supporting structure 37. For this mounting, the supporting structure 37 can have, for example, a cavity or a hole or a cow with an internal thread. In a further development, the threaded rod 35 is furthermore mounted at a second point on the supporting structure. This can prevent tilting of the threaded rod 35. In other words, the connection between threaded rod 35 and operating element 22 may advantageously be designed to be not rigid, but movable, for example by means of a ball head 39 seated on threaded rod 35 and which may be accommodated in a corresponding undercut depression of operating element 22. This prevents, in particular with corresponding guidance of the operating element 22, a co-rotation of the operating element 22 during the upward movement and downward movement. The control element 22 can be guided, for example, via a non-circular geometry of the control element 22 and of the cutout in the receiving element 28. If the operating element 22 is round, for example, the guide of the operating element 22 can be formed via additional protuberances on the operating element, which are accommodated in depressions of flanks of the receiving element 28.The actuator 26 has two shape-memory wires 40, 42 wound around the threaded rod 35, wherein the two shape-memory wires 40, 42 are each arranged with one end on the threaded rod 35 and with an opposite end on the supporting structure 37. The actuator 26 has, in particular, a first shape memory wire 40 and a second shape memory wire 42. The first shape memory wire 40 is arranged with a first end 44 on the support structure 37 and with a second end 46 on the threaded rod 35 opposite the first end 44. The first shape memory wire 40 is wound around the threaded rod 35 in particular between the two ends 44, 46. The second shape memory wire 42 is arranged with a first end 48 on the threaded rod 35 and with a second end 50 on the support structure 37 opposite the first end 48. The second shape memory wire 42 is wound around the threaded rod 35 in particular between the ends 48, 50. Advantageously, the two shape memory wires 40, 42 are wound in the same direction around the threaded rod 35. Advantageously, the shape memory wires 40, 42 may be wound around the threaded rod 35 in a counter-clockwise or clockwise direction. The winding of the shape memory wires 40, 42 around the threaded rod 35 can have, for example, one or more windings or turns.In an alternative embodiment, the two shape memory wires 40, 42 can be arranged with the first end on the support structure 37 and with the second end, opposite the first end, on the threaded rod 35 or vice versa, wherein the two shape memory wires 40, 42 are wound in opposite directions around the threaded rod 35. In this case, the contraction and expansion of the shape memory wires 40, 42 should not be impeded, it being possible for the shape memory wires 40, 42 to slide on one another. For this purpose, the shape memory wires 40, 42 can be separated, for example, by an insulating sliding layer.In order to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod 35, one of the shape memory wires 40, 42 is respectively controllable or one of the shape memory wires 40, 42 is respectively controlled. The threaded rod 35 is guided by the supporting structure 37 in such a way that the threaded rod 35 screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the one, one or more of the operating elements 22 is or are movable between the starting position and the end position by the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod 35. In particular, one of the shape memory wires 40, 42 can be controlled in each case in order to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod 35 about a Z axis 38, wherein the threaded rod 35 is guided by the supporting structure 37 in such a way that the threaded rod 35 screws or moves along a longitudinal direction along the Z axis 38, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod 35 along the Z axis 38 allows the one, one or more of the operating elements 22 to be moved between the starting position and the end position. In other words, the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod 35 can take place along the Z axis 38 and thus along a Z direction. The direction of longitudinal movement corresponds to the direction of movement of the operating element 22. advantageously, the first shape memory wire 40 can be controlled to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod 35 in a first direction, wherein the threaded rod 35 is guided by the supporting structure 37 in such a way that the threaded rod 35 screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod 35 allows the one, one or more of the operating elements 22 to be moved or is moved from the initial position into the end position. The second shape memory wire 42 can be controlled in particular for generating a rotational movement of the threaded rod 35 in a second direction, wherein the threaded rod 35 is guided by the supporting structure 37 in such a way that the threaded rod 35 screws or moves along the longitudinal direction, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod 35 allows the one, one or more of the operating elements 22 to be moved from the end position into the starting position or is moved.Advantageously, the shape memory wires 40, 42 can be controlled in such a way that the shape memory wires contract when a voltage is applied. When one of the two wires 40 is energized, it contracts and rotates the threaded rod 35 in the one first direction while the second wire 42 is stretched. If the switch is made and instead the second wire 42 is energized, it contracts and rotates the threaded rod 35 back into the other, second direction back into the starting position. Accordingly, upon energization of one of the shape memory wires 40, the threaded rod 35 rotates about the Z axis 38 along the arrow 52 and screws up or down through the thread. Energization of the other wire 42 produces an opposite rotation. The shape memory wires 40, 42 produce an antagonistic actuator which can rotate the threaded rod 35 in both directions, in particular in a targeted and / or reproducible manner, in particular in the direction of the arrow 52.In other words, a rotational movement of the threaded rod 35 is achieved in this advantageous embodiment by two shape memory wires 40, 42 wound around the threaded rod 35. These are fastened at one end to the supporting structure and electrically contacted and at the other end to the threaded rod 35 or vice versa, which can likewise be electrically contacted, in order to allow a current flow through the wires 40, 42. If one of the two wires 40 is now energized, it can contract in accordance with a preceding preconditioning and rotates the threaded rod 35 about its z-axis 38 because of the winding. If the second wire 42 is subsequently energized and the contact of the first wire 40 is interrupted, the second wire 42 contracts and thereby ensures the counter-rotating of the threaded rod 35 with simultaneous stretching of the first wire 40. the threaded rod 35 can thus be actively and controlledly rotated in both directions along the arrow 52, which accordingly leads to an upward or downward movement of the threaded rod 35 in the support structure 37 and thus of the operating element 22.Preferably, the contraction and expansion of the shape memory wires 40, 42 should not be hindered, i.e., the shape memory wires 40, 42 can slide on the threaded rod 35.In a further development, the threaded rod 35 can have a first region with a thickening 54 for fastening the shape memory wires 40, 42 and at least one second region with a thread, wherein the threaded rod 35 is guided by means of the thread in the support structure 37. The first region can be designed, for example, as a smooth, thickened region.In a further development, the supporting structure 37 can be constructed in multiple parts and in particular have conductive and non-conductive regions. For example, the region of the supporting structure 37 at which the end of the shape memory wire is arranged can be of conductive design. As a result, a voltage source can contact the supporting structure 37 in order to thus apply a voltage to the shape memory wire. In other words, the shape memory wire can be fastened to the conductive region of the supporting structure 37, as a result of which the electrical contact can be produced. The contacting of the wire end fastened to the threaded rod could also be effected, for example, via the threaded rod or its contact point with the internal thread of the supporting structure.In a further development, the internal thread of the supporting structure 37 can be formed metallic, wherein the rest of the supporting structure 37 is formed at least partially from an insulating plastic or is coated with it. Furthermore, the voltage source can be connected to the internal thread. This allows simple and / or static contacting to be produced, provided that there is permanent contact between the internal thread and the threaded rod 35.In an exemplary embodiment, the thickened region of the threaded rod 35 can consist of a different material than the threaded rod 35 itself and thus have conductive and non-conductive regions. As a result, when the threaded rod 35 is contacted via the internal thread, current is not applied to the entire threaded rod 35, as a result of which the shape memory wires are not activated simultaneously.Advantageously, by means of the input device according to FIG. 3, an upward movement of the operating element 22 out of the surface 29 of the receiving element 28 can be made possible, in particular with a continuous, planar surface 29 ensured by a lower stop in the initial position. A stop can be formed, for example, according to FIG. 1 and / or FIG. 2 as a cavity and / or as an oblique flank. Alternatively, a stop can be formed in such a way that the stop for the threaded rod is depicted in the support structure 37, wherein the threaded rod can therefore not rotate beyond the stop, in particular downwards or upwards in the case of a stop in the other direction. In an alternative embodiment, a downward movement of the operating element 22, for example a lowering into the surface 29, or also both end positions, in particular above and below the surface 29, can also allow. For an upward movement, a stop can be arranged, for example, on the supporting structure 37 or on the receiving element 28. For a downward movement, for example, an oblique position of the flanks of the operating element 22 can be reversed or removed. In a further embodiment, a stroke of the threaded rod 35 and thus of the operating element 22, the travel speed and a movement characteristic can be adapted, for example, by a change of a thread pitch of the threaded rod 35 and / or a diameter of the thickened region of the threaded rod 35 and / or a number of turns of the shape memory wires 40, 42 and / or a conditioning of the shape memory wires 40, 42 and / or a thickness of the shape memory wires 40, 42 and / or a material composition of the shape memory wires 40, 42 and / or a characteristic of the shape memory wires 40, 42.The proposed input device 20 has, in particular, a small footprint, in particular a small x-y extent of the actuator construction, and thus takes up, in particular, little installation space. As a result, a matrix arrangement with a plurality of operating elements 22 can be made possible, for example, by means of the proposed input device 20. For example, a modular construction can be made possible, in which a plurality of actuator elements are arranged next to one another on a base plate or a base printed circuit board, wherein the base printed circuit board or base plate already has contact elements, for example, for the electrical contacting of the shape memory wires.In a further development, the input device 20 can have further components, such as a printed circuit board, further sensors, a lighting unit, vibration elements or further components, for example according to FIG. 1 and / or FIG. 2.FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a plan view of a vehicle 56, for example of a motor vehicle, for example of a car, with an input device 20. The input device 20 may be disposed on a dashboard, armrest, and / or storage, for example, in a center console, of the vehicle 56. The receiving element can preferably be part of an instrument panel, an armrest and / or a storage compartment, for example a central console, of the vehicle 56 or can be arranged in or on an instrument panel, an armrest and / or a storage compartment, for example in a central console, of the vehicle 56. The input device 20 is arranged in such a way that a user 58, in particular a vehicle occupant 58, for example a driver or passenger, can reach the latter with his hand and thus input a command.FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a method 60 for moving an operating element of an input device for inputting a command according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The input device can be configured according to FIGS. 1, 2 and / or 3. The input device may be disposed in a vehicle as shown in FIG. 4.In a first step 62 of the method 60, the actuator is controlled to move the operating element, wherein the operating element is moved from the starting position into the end position by means of the actuator. The starting position can be formed, for example, according to FIG. 1 and / or FIG. 3. The end position can be formed, for example, according to FIG. 2. The actuator is preferably controlled in such a way that a voltage is applied to one of the shape memory wires, so that the respective shape memory wire contracts. Advantageously, a first or the first shape memory wire is controlled in such a way that the operating element is moved from the starting position into the end position.In a second step 64 of the method 60, the actuator is controlled for moving the operating element in such a way that the operating element is moved from the end position into the starting position by means of the actuator. In other words, after the first step 62, the operating element can be moved back into the starting position, in particular subsequently. The actuator is preferably controlled in such a way that a voltage is applied to one of the shape memory wires, so that the respective shape memory wire contracts. Advantageously, a second or the second shape memory wire is controlled in such a way that the operating element is moved from the end position into the starting position.FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of a method 60 for moving an operating element of an input device for inputting a command according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The input device can be configured according to FIGS. 1, 2 and / or 3. The input device may be disposed in a vehicle as shown in FIG. 4. The method according to FIG. 6 can have the steps of the method according to FIG. 5, thus the first step 62 and the second step 64.The method 60 according to FIG. 6 has a further, third step 66. In the third step 66 of the method 60, which is carried out before the first step 62, an approach of a user is detected by means of a sensor. The sensor can be configured according to the proximity sensor according to FIGS. 1, 2 and / or 3.The operating element is then moved from the initial position into the end position by means of the actuator when an approach of the user is detected by means of the sensor in the first step 62 of the method 60. In the end position, in particular, an input by a user can be input. In other words, in the end position, an input of a command can be detected by a user.The method 60 according to FIG. 6 has a further, fourth step 68. In the fourth step 68 of the method 60, removal of a user by means of a sensor is detected. The operating element can then be moved back from the end position into the starting position by means of the actuator when removal of the user is detected by means of the sensor in the second step 64 of the method 60.FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a method 70 for inputting a command by means of an input device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The input device can be configured according to FIGS. 1, 2 and / or 3. The input device may be disposed in a vehicle as shown in FIG. 4. The method 70 according to FIG. 7 can have the steps of the method according to FIG. 5, thus the first step 62 and the second step 64. The method 70 according to FIG. 7 can further comprise the third step 66 and the fourth step 68 according to FIG. 6 in a further development.The method 70 according to FIG. 7 has a further, fifth step 72. In the fifth step 72 of the method 70, an input of a command is detected or captured by a movement of the operating element carried out by a user and / or by a touch of the operating element carried out by a user and / or by a pressure applied to the operating element by a user.This step can be carried out before the operating element is moved back into the starting position. The command can be input, for example, by means of a pressure on the operating element or by means of a contact of the operating element. A pressure on the or a touch of the operating element can preferably be detected and interpreted in particular as a command.

Claims

Input device (20) for inputting a command, wherein the input device (20) has one or more operating elements (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, wherein the input device (20) has one or more actuators (26) for moving the one, one of the one or more operating elements (22) between a starting position and an end position, wherein the input device (20) has a receiving element (28) with a surface (27) facing the user for receiving the one or more operating elements (22), wherein the surface (27) of the receiving element (28) facing the user and the first surface (24) of the one or more operating elements (22) are arranged on a 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, characterized in that the input device (20) has a threaded rod (35), wherein the threaded rod (35) is arranged at the operating element (22) with a first end, that the input device (20) has a supporting structure (37) with an internal thread, wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided by or in the supporting structure (37), that the actuator (26) has two shape memory wires (40, 42) wound around the threaded rod (35), wherein the shape memory wires (40, 42) are arranged on the threaded rod (35) with one end and on the support structure (37) with an opposite end, and that one of the shape memory wires (40, 42) is controllable to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod (35), wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided by or in the support structure (37) in such a way that the threaded rod (35) screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod (35) can move the one, one or more of the operating elements (22) between the initial position and the end position.Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a ball head is arranged at the first end (36) of the threaded rod (35), wherein the ball head (39) is mounted in or on the operating element (22).Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the threaded rod (35) is mounted with a second end in or on the supporting structure (37).Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shape memory wires (40, 42) can be controlled in such a way that the shape memory wires (40, 42) contract when a voltage is applied.Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in each case one of the shape memory wires (40, 42) can be controlled in order to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod (35) about a Z axis (38), wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided by the supporting structure (37) in such a way that the threaded rod (35) screws or moves along a longitudinal direction along the Z axis (38), wherein the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod (35) along the Z axis (38) allows the one, one or more of the operating elements (22) to be moved between the starting position and the end position.Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first shape memory wire (40) is arranged on the supporting structure (37) with a first end (44) and on the threaded rod (35) with a second end (46) opposite the first end (44), and in that a second shape memory wire (42) is arranged on the threaded rod (35) with a first end (48) and on the supporting structure (37) with a second end (50) opposite the first end (48).The input device (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shape memory wires (40, 42) are wound around the threaded rod (35) in the same direction.Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the shape memory wires (40, 42) are arranged with a first end on the support structure (37) and with a second end, opposite the first end, on the threaded rod (35) or vice versa, and in that the two shape memory wires (40, 42) are wound in opposite directions around the threaded rod (35).Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first or the first shape memory wire (40) can be controlled to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod (35) in a first direction, wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided by the supporting structure (37) in such a way that the threaded rod (35) screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the one, one or more of the operating elements (22) can be moved from the starting position into the end position by the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod (35), and in that a second or the second shape memory wire (42) can be controlled to generate a rotational movement of the threaded rod (35) in a second direction, wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided by the supporting structure (37) in such a way that the threaded rod (35) screws or moves along a longitudinal direction, wherein the one, one, one, is or moves by the longitudinal movement of the threaded rod (35), one or more of the operating elements (22) is or are movable from the end position into the starting position.Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the threaded rod (35) has a first region with a thickening (54) for fastening the shape memory wires (40, 42) and at least one second region with a thread, wherein the threaded rod (35) is guided in the support structure (37) by means of the thread.Input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a command can be determined by means of a movement of the operating element (22) by a user in a vertical direction and / or by means of a pressure on the operating element (22) and / or by means of a touch of the operating element (22).Method (60) for moving an operating element (22) of an input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, having the steps of actuating the actuator (26) for moving the operating element (22), wherein the operating element (22) is moved by means of the actuator (26) from the starting position into the end position, actuating the actuator (26) for moving the operating element (22), wherein the operating element (22) is moved by means of the actuator (26) from the end position into the starting position.Method (60) according to Claim 12, wherein the actuator (26) is actuated in such a way that a voltage is applied to one of the shape memory wires (40, 42), such that the respective shape memory wire (40, 42) contracts.Method (60) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 13, claim 14, wherein in the step of actuating the actuator (26) for moving the operating element (22), a first or the first shape memory wire (40) is actuated in such a way that the operating element (22) is moved from the starting position into the end position, and wherein a second or the second shape memory wire (40) is actuated in such a way that the operating element (22) is moved from the end position into the starting position.Method (70) for inputting a command by means of an input device (20) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, having the steps of actuating the actuator (26) for moving the operating element (22), wherein the operating element (22) is moved by means of the actuator (26) from the starting position into the end position, detecting an input of a command by a movement of the operating element (22) carried out by a user and / or by a contact of the operating element (22) carried out by a user and / or by a pressure applied by a user to the operating element (22), actuating the actuator (26) for moving the operating element (22), wherein the operating element (22) is moved by means of the actuator (26) from the end position into the starting position.

Images