Code entry device

Abstract

Code input device for inputting information, comprising a rotary encoder, an arrangement of light sources and a central unit, characterized in that the light sources are arranged concentrically around the rotary encoder, that several light sources can emit light in different colors, and that, controlled by a central unit and based on inputs via the rotary encoder, the color and intensity of the light emitted by each light source can be changed.

Description

1. Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the input of information via a minimalist user interface and, in particular, an input device that enables the input of codes by combining a rotary encoder with an arrangement of light sources. A preferred application lies in the field of access control systems, especially in the implementation of a code lock based on a color combination. 2. State of the art

[0002] For entering codes, the most common methods in the prior art are keyboards with number keys or touch-sensitive surfaces. Numeric rotary switches are also frequently used.

[0003] Also known are input devices with LED displays that show status information, as well as combinations of rotary encoders and LEDs in various arrangements, where the operation of the rotary encoder changes the color and intensity of the LEDs, but only for the purpose of adjusting the illumination provided by these LEDs.

[0004] US10147571B2 describes an arrangement of light sources and a rotary knob, in which the change in lighting depending on the position of the knob serves only to provide more even illumination of the operating and display elements.

[0005] US20210335561A1 and DE10134395A1 describe the use of an arrangement of light sources and buttons to improve their usability in dark environments.

[0006] WO2015003730A1 describes a rotary knob with selectively illuminated areas by a single light source.

[0007] US20090290326A1 describes an operator interface for easily changing the color of LEDs, but without the necessary combination into an integrated unit where the color feedback is used to input information.

[0008] TWI289169B describes a combination lock that opens after a code is entered via a rotary encoder with electronic evaluation of the input. However, a classic numerical display is used here as feedback to the operator.

[0009] However, a simple, robust input device with only a single movable control element that simultaneously allows multi-digit code entry and is guided by colored light signals is not known. 3. Object of the invention

[0010] The object of the invention is to provide a simple, robust and cost-effective input device that allows secure input of complex codes with minimal mechanical effort and simultaneously gives the user intuitive feedback about the input status. 4. Solution to the task

[0011] The problem is solved by an input device with the features of claim 1. The combination of the following is essential: a rotary encoder a plurality of individually controllable light sources arranged concentrically around this rotary encoder, and a central control unit.

[0012] The color changes of individual light sources are controlled by rotating the rotary encoder. The user can thus make a selection step by step, which is confirmed by actuating the rotary encoder (e.g., pressing an integrated button), by changing the direction of rotation, or by a defined, minimum waiting period before the next rotation.

[0013] Through successive selection steps, a color combination (code) is formed that can be compared with a reference combination.

[0014] Following successful code entry, the central unit can control actuators, such as an electric door opener.

[0015] Similarly, after confirming his authorization to do so by entering the reference combination, the operator can change this reference combination.

[0016] The central unit can provide an additional operating mode in which the operator can enter a new reference combination, also via the interface of rotary encoder and light sources. 5. Advantages of the invention - Minimalist input interface: only one control element (rotary encoder) is necessary. - High robustness: no sensitive keyboards or displays required. - Intuitive operation: the user is guided by colored light signals. - Diverse codes: even complex color combinations can be displayed and entered. - Flexibility: the reference sequence is programmable and can be changed by the user. - Wide applicability: suitable for both security systems (code lock) and other control tasks. 6. Examples of Implementation

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, twelve LEDs are arranged in a ring around the rotary encoder. The rotary encoder and LEDs are connected to a central processing unit that processes signals using a microprocessor. The microprocessor controls input and output through a program that has been previously stored in memory and that follows this sequence: The user rotates the rotary encoder to illuminate a different LED in a different color than the one previously displayed. For easy recognition and memorization, only six color states are used: red, green, blue, yellow, white, and black (LED off). The LEDs positioned before and after the LED displaying the selected color can show a constant color that does not correspond to any of the selected colors (e.g., pink). This framing makes the chosen color more clearly indicated, especially in the "black" state. In a preferred embodiment, several of the remaining LEDs in the ring arrangement can display a random color. This prevents the mixed color of the light emission, for example, on a opposite wall in a dark room, from revealing the selected color. This prevents the color code from being spied on in this way.The current color is selected by briefly pausing and then reversing the direction of rotation, which is registered by the microprocessor program. In this way, a sequence of colors is generated. Pressing the rotary encoder resets the code input if an incorrect color has been selected, allowing the user to begin again with the correct code.

[0018] The central unit stores the inputs, compares them with a reference code, and, if there is a match, sends a control signal to a door opener. 7. Explanation of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 shows the structure of the minimalist input interface according to the invention in a preferred embodiment with the knob of the rotary encoder (1) and the LEDs (2) on the front panel (3) of the device to be operated. Fig.Figure 2 schematically shows the interaction of the various elements of the input device according to the invention. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 10147571B2

[0004] US 20210335561A1

[0005] DE 10134395A1

[0005] WO 2015003730A1

[0006] US 20090290326A1

[0007]

Claims

[1] Code input device for inputting information, consisting of a rotary encoder, an arrangement of light sources and a central unit, characterized by that the light sources are arranged concentrically around the rotary encoder, that multiple light sources can emit light in different colors, and that, controlled by a central unit and based on inputs via the rotary encoder, the color and intensity of the light emitted by each light source can be changed. [2] Input device according to claim 1, characterized by , that the light from the arrangement of the light sources creates a pattern which represents a selection that can be changed and confirmed by the operator using the rotary encoder. [3] Input device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the operator, through successive selection actions stored in the central unit, generates a codeword that can be compared with a previously stored codeword. [4] Input device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the central unit controls at least one actuator, and actions of the at least one actuator are carried out as a result of the operator's input. [5] Input device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that this enables the construction of a code lock which grants access to a security enclosure after entering a code in the form of a color combination.

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