Actuating device with movable switch element, vehicle and actuating method

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an actuating device, a vehicle and an actuating method.

[0002] Actuating devices for vehicles are known from the prior art. These are typically mounted on a movable part, such as a tailgate, to allow a user to open the movable part. The opening is triggered by an electrical switch, which emits an electrical switching signal depending on the user's actuation. However, sealing such switches is often complex, especially on the exterior of the vehicle. Furthermore, the actuating devices are sometimes arranged in a recess in the vehicle's bodywork. Therefore, it is desirable to design the actuating devices as compactly as possible, in particular as flat as possible.

[0003] Typically, an electrical switch in such actuating devices is also located on the housing part that is fixed to the vehicle. However, since the movable housing part used to actuate the respective actuating device usually only serves a sealing function, an additional metal part is usually integrated there, especially in the case of an electromagnetic switch, to trigger the switch.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to at least partially remedy the above-mentioned disadvantages known from the prior art. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to enable a compact, preferably flat, actuating device in which a switching means is protected from the environment while providing improved actuation capability.

[0005] The documents US 2018 / 209182 A1, WO 2018 / 197771 A1, EP 1 108 834 A2 or WO 01 / 40607 A1 disclose different types of actuating devices.

[0006] The above object is achieved by an actuating device having the features of claim 1, a vehicle having the features of claim 14, and an actuating method having the features of claim 15. Further features and details of the invention emerge from the respective subclaims, the description and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the actuating device according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the vehicle according to the invention and / or the actuating method according to the invention and vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention, reference is or can always be made to each other. According to a first aspect of the invention, an actuating device for mounting on a vehicle part, in particular in the form of a door or a flap, is provided.The actuating device comprises an electrical switching means with at least one switching element for triggering a vehicle function. Furthermore, the actuating device comprises a housing unit with at least a first and a second housing section. The second housing section is movable, at least partially or completely, relative to the first housing section from a rest position into an actuating position for actuating the switching element. It is further provided that the switching element is arranged on the second housing section, so that the switching element is moved along with the movement of the second housing section from the rest position into the actuating position.

[0007] In particular, the actuating device is designed to trigger a vehicle function as a result of actuation by a user and / or as a result of actuation of the switching means. The actuating device can preferably be arranged on an outer side of the vehicle part. The vehicle part can be, for example, a vehicle sheet metal. In particular, the vehicle part can be a movable vehicle part, such as a vehicle door, a flap and / or a tailgate. However, it is also conceivable for the actuating device to be arranged on a rigid vehicle part in order to actuate, for example, a movable vehicle part arranged adjacent to it. In particular, the actuating device can form a pressure switch, in particular with a vehicle emblem, or a door handle. Furthermore, it is also conceivable for the actuating device to be arranged in an interior region of the vehicle.

[0008] The electrical switching means is preferably designed to emit an electrical switching signal when the second housing section is moved from the rest position into the actuated position. The electrical switching element can be, for example, an electrical switch, in particular a microswitch. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the electrical switching element to be an electronic component which, in cooperation with another component, is designed to detect the actuation. For example, the electrical switching element can comprise a semiconductor component which outputs the electrical switching signal when the actuating device is actuated. In particular, the switching means can have a plurality of switching elements in order to be able to control different vehicle functions and / or to enlarge an actuation range which can be detected by the switching means.

[0009] In order to ensure a power supply and / or signal routing of the electrical switching means, a wiring for the power supply and / or signal routing of the electrical switching element can be at least partially movable with the electrical switching element. Furthermore, it is conceivable for a cable guide to be designed to be flexible in order to enable the movement of the electrical switching element. In particular, if the distance covered during movement from the rest position to the actuated position is short, only a flexible wiring section can be provided in the immediate vicinity of the switching element in order to enable the power supply and / or signal routing of the switching element. In this case, it is particularly conceivable for the housing unit to have an opening for cable routing, which can be arranged at an opening to a vehicle interior.There may be a slight level of humidity in the vehicle interior that is tolerable for the switching device to function properly.

[0010] The first and second housing sections can each have at least one housing element. A first housing element of the first housing section can be fastened to a second housing element of the second housing section in a connecting region. Preferably, the first and second housing sections can be fastened to one another only in the connecting region. When the second housing section moves from the rest position to the actuated position, the second housing element can, for example, be completely moved or deformed in certain regions.

[0011] To actuate the switching element in the actuating position, a trigger element is provided on the first housing section, which interacts with the switching element to trigger an electrical switching signal from the switching element. Because the switching element is arranged on the second housing section and moves at least partially when the second housing section moves from the rest position to the actuating position, the movement of the second housing section from the rest position to the actuating position can lead to a shortening of the distance between a trigger element for triggering the switching element and the switching element. The movement of the second housing section from the rest position to the actuating position comprises, in particular, a movement in the direction of the first housing section.By shortening the distance between the trigger element and the switching element, a change in an electrical and / or magnetic field between the trigger element and the switching element can be advantageously detected, or a mechanical actuation of the switching element can occur. This allows the actuation device to be designed compactly and enables advantageous actuation detection. Preferably, the trigger element can also be assigned a further function. For example, the trigger element can be activated by

[0012] a part of a vehicle sheet metal of the moving part or another metal part.

[0013] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the first and second housing sections at least partially or completely form a housing interior in which the switching element is arranged. The switching element can thereby be protected from external environmental influences, such as moisture. The housing interior can be divided into several sub-sections in which, for example, the trigger element and the switching element are arranged separately from one another. The housing interior can have a freedom of movement between the first and the second housing section for moving the second housing section from the rest position into the actuated position. Preferably, the second housing section can be at least partially moved into the freedom of movement during the movement from the rest position into the actuated position. The freedom of movement can be limited by a stop.Preferably, the freedom of movement is designed such that the second housing section, when moving from the rest position to the actuated position, travels a distance of less than or equal to 5 mm, preferably less than or equal to 1 mm, particularly preferably between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, at least partially or completely. Thus, a touch pulse or a swipe across the actuating device may be sufficient to actuate the switching element.

[0014] Preferably, within the scope of the invention, the housing interior extends at least partially between the second housing section and a fluid-tight deformation region for elastically deforming the first housing section. The deformation region can be mechanically coupled to a circumferential connecting region of the first and second housing sections, such that the connecting region can be moved along with the movement of the second housing section from the rest position to the actuated position. In particular, the deformation region is designed for elastic deformation. As a result, re-deformation can occur automatically when the second housing section is moved from the actuated position to the rest position. In the actuated position, the second housing section can be elastically prestressed, for example by the deformation region, such that the second housing section automatically returns to the rest position.Because the housing interior extends between the second housing section and the deformation region, the deformation region is located, in particular, below the second housing section when viewed from an outside of the actuating device. This makes it possible, in particular, to save lateral installation space. The connecting region is designed to extend circumferentially around the housing interior and / or the first and / or second housing section. For example, the connecting region can comprise connecting sections distributed regularly or irregularly around the circumference of the housing interior and / or the first and / or second housing section. The first and second housing sections are fastened to one another, in particular, by the connecting section. The first and / or second housing section and / or the housing interior preferably have a circular circumference. The connecting region can advantageously extend along the circular circumference.Preferably, the housing interior may comprise a closed, in particular fluid-tight, volume.

[0015] Due to the mechanical coupling of the deformation region and the circumferential connecting region, the second housing section can be actuated directly or indirectly over its entire surface. Preferably, the actuating device can provide an actuating surface, in particular an external one, which can be used over its entire surface to actuate the switching means. At the same time, the actuating device can have a compact shape, i.e., can be arranged particularly flatly on the vehicle part. Furthermore, advantageous mobility of the second housing element can be achieved via the deformation region. The housing interior with the switching element can be protected at least partially from environmental influences by the deformation region.

[0016] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the connecting region is designed for the fluid-tight connection of the first and second housing sections, in particular wherein the connecting region comprises a continuously circumferential connection between the first and second housing sections. In particular, the fluid-tight connection can be made possible by the continuously circumferential connection. Alternatively, a sealing element can be provided which seals unconnected sections. Due to the fluid-tight connection, the connecting region can completely seal the housing interior all the way around in order to protect the switching element from environmental influences. Furthermore, due to the fluid-tight connection, the connecting region can be arranged, for example, on an outer circumference of the actuating device.

[0017] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it is conceivable for the connecting region to comprise a material-to-material connection between the first and second housing sections, in particular wherein the first housing section is glued or welded to the second housing section. Due to the material-to-material connection, a separate seal, e.g. in the form of an elastomer, for the housing interior may not be necessary. Advantageously, the connecting region can have a circumferential weld seam. This makes it possible to simultaneously fasten and reliably seal the housing interior at the connecting region. For example, the first and second housing sections can be glued together using a sealing paste or double-sided adhesive tape. Preferably, the first and second housing sections comprise a plastic. This makes it possible to create a simple welded connection.Furthermore, a material-to-material connection has the advantage that the resulting seal offers a high degree of process reliability. For example, incorrect assembly of an additional component, such as a sealing ring or double-sided adhesive tape, can be eliminated.

[0018] Within the scope of the invention, it is provided that the switching means has at least one trigger element for actuating the switching element, wherein the trigger element is arranged on the first housing section such that the switching element is moved towards the trigger element when the second housing section moves from the rest position into the actuated position. The trigger element can be designed as an electrical counter-element to the switching element in order to trigger the switching element. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the trigger element to comprise a mechanical stop by which the switching element can be mechanically actuated in order to trigger an electrical switching signal. The trigger element can preferably have at least one further function, such as a sealing function, a reset function for returning the second housing section to the rest position and / or the like.The trigger element thus enables the switching element to be actuated in a simple manner, in particular without increasing the number of components.

[0019] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the switching means comprises an electromagnetic sensor unit with an electrically conductive conductor element, which forms the trigger element, wherein the switching element is designed for electromagnetic, in particular inductive or capacitive, detection of the conductor element. The switching element preferably comprises a coil. For example, the sensor unit can have one or more LDC sensors. This can shorten the distance required for the second housing section to travel from the rest position to the actuated position. The conductor element can advantageously comprise a metal, in particular a metal foil. Preferably, the conductor element is mechanically coupled to the first housing section or integrated into the first housing section.The electromagnetic sensor unit can advantageously detect a movement of the conductor element via an electric field, i.e., for example, via a change in the electric field. The detection means can comprise a measuring device for directly or indirectly measuring an electromagnetic variable. Thus, the switching means can be an inductive or capacitive sensor unit. Particularly in the case of an inductive sensor unit, the switching element can have multiple switching elements to enable a large actuation range and / or detection range.

[0020] It is further conceivable that the switching means comprises a detection element for detecting the approach of a user, preferably by means of which the switching element can be brought from a deactivation state, in which the triggering of the vehicle function by the switching element is prevented, to an activation state in which the triggering of the vehicle function by the switching element is enabled when the user approaches. In the deactivation state, actuation of the switching element can be prevented, and in the activation state, actuation of the switching element can be enabled. For this purpose, the switching element can, for example, be electrically separable from an electrical connection to the vehicle and / or to an electronics of the actuating device. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the triggering of the vehicle function in the deactivation state is prevented by software. The detection element can preferably comprise a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor can, for example, beIt can be a capacitive sensor. However, it is also conceivable for the detection element to be designed to authenticate a user. For example, the proximity sensor can comprise a UWB and / or NFC interface, in particular in the form of an antenna. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the detection element to comprise a Bluetooth interface, in particular in the form of a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) interface. By detecting the approach, the probability of false triggering, e.g., while the vehicle is moving, can be reduced. The subsequent, in particular manual, actuation of the switching means can further increase the security of the actuating device.

[0021] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the switching means has at least two or more electrical switching elements arranged in an actuating direction, so that by stroking the actuating device, in particular along the actuating direction, an actuating sequence can be effected in which the switching elements are actuated one after the other or differently. For example, several switching elements can be arranged in a row that defines the actuating direction. The actuating sequence can comprise several actuating positions of the second housing section. In particular, the second housing section can have a different tilt angle in each of the actuating positions, thereby resulting in different distances between the switching elements and the first housing section and / or a trigger element assigned to the respective switching element.In particular, multiple trigger elements can be arranged on the first housing section. The actuation sequence can make a complex actuation action recognizable. This can improve the recognition of a user's request. For example, misidentifications and / or accidental actuations can be reduced. Furthermore, different actuation actions, such as different actuation directions, can trigger different vehicle functions.

[0022] In an actuating device according to the invention, it can preferably be provided that the switching means is arranged on a printed circuit board which is fastened to the second housing section, in particular wherein the printed circuit board has electronics for evaluating sensor data of the switching means. The printed circuit board can be fastened indirectly or directly to the second housing section. The second housing section preferably has a holding means to which the printed circuit board is fastened by form-fitting force and / or by a material fit. In particular, the holding means can be designed to surround the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board can, for example, be clamped into the holding means. The printed circuit board can extend into the housing interior or at least partially form the housing interior with the first housing section and the deformation section.By evaluating the sensor data using the electronics inside the housing, transmission losses can be minimized or even eliminated. During the evaluation, measured values ​​from the switching device can be interpreted and / or digitized by the electronics. Preferably, a false triggering event can be detected by evaluating the measured data from multiple switching elements of the switching device.

[0023] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the circuit board is potted with a potting compound or covered with a protective varnish. The circuit board, in particular with the electronics, can be completely embedded in the potting compound. For this purpose, part of the housing interior can be filled with the potting compound. In particular, a safety zone can be formed in the housing interior by the potting compound, which is preferably formed by the potting compound and the second housing section. The switching element is in particular arranged in the safety zone. This has the advantage that additional protection against environmental influences, in particular against moisture, is created. The potting compound can, for example, comprise a resin, in particular a synthetic resin. A protective varnish has the advantage that additional protection against moisture can also be enabled.The protective coating can reduce the amount of space required inside the housing. The potting compound or protective coating can increase the service life of the circuit board and / or electronics. The potting compound or protective coating can be applied between the circuit board and the first and / or second housing section.

[0024] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the first housing section has a cover element which forms a connecting section of the connecting region. The connecting section of the connecting region can form the connecting region with a connecting section of the second housing section. The cover element preferably has the connecting region. In particular, a vehicle-side housing half of the housing unit can be formed by the cover element. Preferably, the cover element has connection interfaces for connecting the actuating device to the vehicle part. In particular, the cover element can be screwed to the vehicle part. This can enable a secure attachment of the actuating device to the vehicle part. A fastening means, such asA screw can thus be mounted on the cover element via the housing interior, so that the fastening means is advantageously invisible from the outside of the second housing section. The cover element can be made of a single material or as a multi-component plastic injection-molded part. For example, the cover element can have a soft component in the deformation area to enable or promote deformation.

[0025] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it is conceivable for the cover element to form the deformation region, in particular as a result of which a restoring force can be exerted by the cover element against the movement of the second housing section from the rest position into the actuating position. For example, the cover element can comprise an elastically deformable plastic and / or a flexible shape in order to form the deformation region. The cover element can preferably have a thickness of less than 2 mm, particularly preferably less than 1 mm, in the deformation region. This can enable elastic deformation all the way around the housing section, i.e. in particular over the entire circumference of the deformation region. The restoring force can enable or support automatic return of the second housing section to the rest position.

[0026] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it is conceivable that the housing unit has a spring element for exerting a restoring force counter to the movement of the second housing section from the rest position into the actuated position, in particular wherein the spring element is arranged in the housing interior. The spring element can advantageously comprise a spring steel or an elastic plastic. The spring element can be a leaf spring, for example. The spring element can be formed separately from the deformation region. The restoring force can act, in particular, in addition to a restoring force of the deformation region. However, it is also conceivable for the spring element to form the deformation region. In this case, the spring element can be integrated into the first or second housing section, i.e., in particular, be part of the first or second housing section.Furthermore, the spring element can extend circumferentially around the housing interior and / or the cover element. The spring element can automatically return the second housing section to the rest position. If the spring element and the deformation region can each exert a separate restoring force, the resulting stiffness can have a beneficial effect on the actuation behavior of the second housing section.

[0027] It is further conceivable in an actuating device according to the invention for the spring element to form the conductor element of the switching means, in particular wherein a shortening of the distance between the spring element and the switching element can be detected by the switching element when the second housing section is moved from the rest position into the actuated position. Preferably, the spring element has or consists of an electrically conductive spring material. As a result, the spring element can be part of the electromagnetic sensor unit. The change in the electrical and / or magnetic field due to the shortening of the distance can be detected by the switching element. As a result, for example, an additional conductor element is not necessary. In this way, a small number of components can be achieved and the complexity of the actuating device can be simplified.

[0028] In an actuating device according to the invention, it can preferably be provided that the connecting region comprises the spring element, wherein the spring element extends circumferentially, in particular around a central region of the actuating device, in the connecting region. In this case, the spring element can advantageously be part of the first housing section. Preferably, the spring element can form a fluid-tight, elastically deformable housing surface. The housing surface formed by the spring element can in particular be oriented towards the vehicle side. In this case, the spring element can in particular form the deformation region of the second housing section. As a result, the actuating device can be designed compactly and enable reliable sealing with few components.

[0029] In an actuating device according to the invention, it can preferably be provided that the spring element is connected to the second housing section in a form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner, in particular wherein the spring element is partially embedded or clamped into a housing material of the second housing section or wherein the spring element is adhesively bonded to the second housing section by a sealing means. The spring element can thereby form a connecting section of the connecting region. For example, the spring element can be partially overmolded and / or cast with a housing material of the second housing section. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the spring element to be clamped into a housing material of the second housing section. Additionally or alternatively, the spring element can be connected to the second housing section by means of a sealing paste, in particular in the form of a sealing bead.A positive and / or material-fit connection of the spring element to the second housing section can enable a reliable connection of the spring element to the second housing section and thus a reliable connection of the first and second housing sections. Furthermore, this can create an advantageous seal for the housing interior, in particular without requiring an additional seal.

[0030] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it is conceivable for the housing unit to have a positioning means by which the rest position of the second housing section can be fixed, in particular in a form-fitting manner. From the rest position, a renewed movement of the second housing section from the rest position into the actuating position can thus advantageously be carried out in order to perform a further actuation. The positioning means can advantageously comprise a stop means of the second housing section and a counter-stop means of the first housing section. In the rest position, the stop means can strike against the counter-stop means in order to stop a return movement of the second housing section.In particular, the positioning means can be designed to permit movement of the second housing section only in the direction of the actuating position when the second housing section is in the rest position. Advantageously, the positioning means can comprise a locking connection. This can simplify assembly of the actuating device. For example, the first and second housing sections can be locked together by the positioning means. This can reduce stress on the connection area caused by a restoring force.

[0031] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that an intermediate element is arranged between the first and second housing sections, by means of which intermediate element the restoring force of the spring element can be transmitted to the second housing section and / or which intermediate element has at least one positioning element of the positioning means. The positioning element can be, for example, a stop means of the second housing section. The intermediate element can serve as an adapter in order to establish an operative connection between the first and second housing sections in addition to the connecting region. As a result, molded parts of the second housing section can, for example, be of simplified design in order to reduce their manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the intermediate element can achieve a geometry which is advantageous for force transmission and which is, in particular, independent of a manufacturing process for further components.Preferably, the intermediate element is attached to the first and / or second housing section. In particular, the intermediate element can be arranged in the interior of the housing. This eliminates the need for the intermediate element to contribute to sealing the interior of the housing.

[0032] Preferably, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can be provided that a lighting unit for illuminating the actuating device is arranged at least partially or completely in the housing interior. The lighting unit can improve the visibility of the actuating device, particularly in the dark. Furthermore, the lighting unit can serve as an indication to a user that the illuminated area on the vehicle is an actuating device. This can enable intuitive operation of the actuating device. The lighting unit can comprise one or more light sources, particularly in the form of one or more LEDs. By being arranged in the housing interior, the lighting unit can advantageously be protected from environmental influences. For example, the lighting unit can be arranged on the circuit board and / or on a carrier element of the first housing section.

[0033] It is further conceivable in an actuating device according to the invention that the second housing section has a light guide for guiding light from the lighting unit, in particular wherein the light guide has a light exit surface which is designed to circumferentially illuminate the second housing section. In particular, the second housing section can be formed by the light guide. The light guide can be an at least partially transparent housing element of the second housing section. The light guide can form a connecting section of the connecting region. In particular, the light exit surface can be formed on the edge of the connecting region. This can enable advantageous use of the installation space, in which light can advantageously escape to the outside.The surrounding light-emitting surface can also enable advantageous illumination of the actuating device, with the actuating surface being located in a central area of ​​the illumination, which is not itself illuminated. This can create an intuitive reference to the actuating device on the vehicle. Furthermore, it can enable, for example, the arrangement of a logo, an instruction, and / or a vehicle emblem in the central area without directly affecting the logo, the instruction, and / or the vehicle emblem.

[0034] Furthermore, in an actuating device according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the second housing section has a vehicle emblem which forms an actuating surface for triggering the movement of the second housing section from the rest position into the actuating position, in particular wherein the vehicle emblem, in particular completely, forms an outer side of the actuating device. In particular, the vehicle emblem can be arranged on the light guide and / or a housing element of the second housing section. The vehicle emblem can thus provide an intuitive indication for the user of the actuating surface. Furthermore, this allows an area on the vehicle to be used for actuation which already has another component that is different from the vehicle part on which the actuating device can be mounted. The light exit surface can in particular be arranged on the edge of the connecting area.In particular, the light exit surface can be oriented at least substantially or completely parallel to a surface of the vehicle part. The vehicle emblem can completely cover the housing interior and / or the first housing section, so that when the actuating device is mounted on the vehicle part, only the vehicle emblem is visible. The vehicle emblem can enable advantageous adaptation of the actuating device to the appearance of the vehicle and, in particular, simultaneously provide additional protection against dirt.

[0035] It is further conceivable in an actuating device according to the invention for the housing interior to have a compensating element for air exchange with the environment, in particular wherein the compensating element is arranged on a cable guide for the switching means and / or the circuit board. This can, for example, enable a reduction in the volume of the housing interior, in particular which goes beyond the compressibility of air in the housing interior. The compensating element can be designed as a valve. For example, the compensating element can comprise a sealing lip which enables air exchange in the event of overpressure and / or underpressure in the housing interior. The cable guide can connect the actuating device to a vehicle interior and / or to a functional element for the vehicle function actuated by the actuating device, such as a lock for opening and / or closing the vehicle part.In particular, the switching device and / or the circuit board can be supplied with electrical power via cables in the cable guide. This can reduce the likelihood of dirt penetrating the housing interior at this point. Furthermore, the compensating element can compensate for negative and / or positive pressure due to ambient conditions, such as vehicle handling or temperature fluctuations.

[0036] According to a further aspect of the invention, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises a vehicle part, in particular in the form of a door or a flap. Furthermore, it is provided that an actuating device according to the invention for triggering a vehicle function of the vehicle is arranged on the vehicle part.

[0037] Thus, a vehicle according to the invention offers the same advantages as have already been described in detail with reference to an actuating device according to the invention. The vehicle is, in particular, a motor vehicle, preferably in the form of an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. The advantageous sealing of the actuating device can simplify the electrification of vehicle functions. Furthermore, the actuating device according to the invention, which is particularly compact in design, can improve the external appearance of the vehicle and / or save installation space in the vehicle interior. The vehicle part is preferably an external vehicle part and / or a body part of the vehicle.

[0038] According to a further aspect of the invention, an actuation method for triggering a vehicle function of a vehicle by an actuation device according to the invention, having at least a first and a second housing section, comprises the following steps: Actuating an electrical switching element of an electrical switching means for triggering the vehicle function by moving the second housing section with the switching element from a rest position into an actuated position, elastically returning the second housing section with the switching element to the rest position.

[0039] Thus, an actuating method according to the invention brings with it the same advantages as have already been described in detail with reference to an actuating device according to the invention and / or a vehicle according to the invention. The vehicle can be a vehicle according to the invention. The elastic resetting of the second housing section can be achieved by a deformation region and / or an additional spring element. The actuation of the switching element is preferably carried out inductively. Before the actuation of the switching element, in particular, an approach can be detected, depending on which the switching element is brought into an activation state in which the triggering of the vehicle function, in particular the actuation of the switching element, is enabled. The actuation of the switching element takes place in particular as a result of the movement of the second housing section.If a circumferential connecting region is moved along with the movement of the second housing section, a full-surface actuation option for a user can be provided. This can simplify actuation of the actuating device. Furthermore, the coupling of the connecting region to the deformation region can enable a compact design of the actuating device. Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. They show schematically: . Figure 1 shows an actuating device according to the invention in a cross-sectional view in a first exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 shows the actuating device in a simplified exploded view. Figure 3 shows the actuating device in a partially enlarged cross-sectional view. Figure 4 shows an operative relationship of a housing unit of the actuating device. Figure 5 shows a vehicle according to the invention with the actuating device. Figure 6 shows an inventive method for triggering a vehicle function of the vehicle by the actuating device in a schematic representation of method steps. Figure 7 shows an actuating device according to the invention in a partially enlarged cross-sectional view in a second exemplary embodiment. Figure 8 shows an operative relationship of a housing unit of the actuating device of the second exemplary embodiment. Figure 9 shows an actuating device according to the invention in a partially enlarged cross-sectional view in a further exemplary embodiment.and Fig. 10a+b different actuating positions of the actuating device of the first embodiment for effecting an actuating sequence.

[0040] In the following description of some embodiments of the invention, the same reference numerals are used for the same technical features even in different embodiments.

[0041] Figure 1 shows an actuating device 3 according to the invention, which is mounted in particular on a vehicle part 2 of a vehicle 1 according to the invention. The vehicle 1 with the actuating device 3 is in Figure 5The vehicle part 2 is a movable vehicle part in the form of a tailgate. However, it is also conceivable that the actuating device 3 is mounted on another vehicle part, such as a side door, or in a vehicle interior. In this case, the actuating device 3 can, for example, form a door handle of the vehicle 1 or be integrated into a door handle. The actuating device 3 serves to electrically trigger a vehicle function of the vehicle 1. For example, the vehicle part 2 can be opened by actuating the actuating device 3. The actuating device 3 can preferably be fastened to the vehicle part 2 by a fastening means 4, preferably screwed to the vehicle part 2. An actuating method 100 for triggering the vehicle function by the actuating device 3 is shown in a schematic sequence in Figure 6 shown.

[0042] As in Figure 1As shown, the actuating device 3 has an electrical switching means 30 with a plurality of switching elements 31 for triggering the vehicle function. Instead of a plurality of switching elements 31, the actuating device 3 can also have just one switching element 31. The switching elements 31 are arranged in a housing interior 13 on the second housing section 12. The housing interior 13 is formed by a first and a second housing section 11, 12 of a housing unit 10 of the actuating device 3. As a result, the switching elements 31 are protected from environmental influences, such as dirt and / or moisture. Furthermore, the switching elements 31 are embedded in a potting compound 18, thereby creating a further safety area against moisture within the housing interior 13.To actuate 101 the switching element 31, the second housing section 12 of the housing unit 10 is movable from a rest position I into an actuating position II, at least in some areas, relative to the first housing section 11. The actuating position II is shown in . Figure 3shown. When the second housing section 12 is moved, the second housing section 12 is moved at least partially into a free space 16 of the housing interior 13, whereby a distance between the first and second housing sections 11, 12 in the region of the housing interior 13 is reduced. For this purpose, the actuating device 3 has an actuating surface 51 on an outer side 3.1, onto which a user can exert pressure to move the second housing section 12 from the rest position I into the actuating position II. The second housing section 12 has a vehicle emblem 50, which forms the outer side 3.1 and the actuating surface 51. In particular, only the outer side 3.1 of the actuating device 3 is visible from outside the vehicle 1.

[0043] The first housing section 11 further comprises a fluid-tight deformation region 14, which is elastically deformed during the movement of the second housing section 12 from the rest position I into the actuating position II. For the fluid-tight design of the deformation region 14, the first housing section 11 comprises a cover element 11.2, which is designed in a shell-like manner, as shown in the simplified exploded view in Figure 2 shown. The housing interior 13 further extends, at least in part, between the second housing section 12 and the deformation region 14. The deformation region 14 is arranged, in particular, between the vehicle part 2 and the second housing section 12, thereby enabling a compact design of the actuating device 3. The cover element 11.2 can be formed from the same material or have a soft component 14.1 in the deformation region 14.

[0044] Furthermore, the first and second housing sections 11, 12 are connected to one another in a fluid-tight manner in a connecting region 15 that extends, in particular, around the housing interior 13. Preferably, the connecting region 15 is continuously circumferential and comprises a materially bonded connection between the first and second housing sections 11, 12. For example, the first and second housing sections 11, 12 can be welded or glued to one another in the connecting region 15 to ensure a continuous, circumferential seal of the housing interior 13 in the connecting region 15. The deformation region 14 and the connecting region 15 are further mechanically coupled to one another, so that the connecting region 15 can be moved along with a deformation of the deformation region 14 as a result of the movement of the second housing section 12 from the rest position I into the actuating position II. The cover element 11.2 forms the deformation region 14 and a connecting section 15.1 of the connecting region 15. This allows a user to fully utilize the actuating surface 51 of the actuating device 3 for actuation. Depending on the design of the switching means 30, it is irrelevant whether the user only presses on the outer side 3.1 in a specific area, thereby simplifying operation of the actuating device 3.

[0045] The housing unit 10 further comprises a spring element 19, which exerts a restoring force 201 on the second housing section 12 when the second housing section 12 is moved from the rest position I to the actuating position II. The spring element 19 can be plate-shaped. Preferably, the spring element 19 comprises several spring regions 19.1 to enable a circumferential spring effect. An interaction of the first and second housing sections 11, 12 with the spring element 19 and the deformation region 14 is described in Figure 4shown. The deformation region 14 and the spring element 19 have, in particular, different spring stiffnesses. A total elastic force 200 results from a restoring force 202 of the deformation region 14 and the restoring force 201 of the spring element 19. This allows for automatic elastic restoring 102 of the second housing section 12 to the rest position I, in particular after a user has released pressure from the second housing section 12. Furthermore, this can enable advantageous rigidity of the actuating device 3, in particular during actuation. In order to fix the second housing section 12 in the rest position I in the unactuated state, in particular in a form-fitting manner, the housing unit 10 further comprises a positioning means 21. This is preferably a latching connection in which a positioning element 21.1 in the form of a stop means of the second housing section 12 is attached to a positioning element 21.1 in the form of a counter-stop means of the second housing section 12 in the rest position I. To enable air exchange between the housing interior 13 and the surrounding area, a compensating element 23 can be integrated into a cable guide for a wiring 24 or arranged on the cable guide. As an alternative to the compensating element 23, for example, an opening to a vehicle interior can be provided, so that the wiring 24 is preferably freely movable in the region of the opening.

[0046] The switching means 30 comprises an electromagnetic sensor unit, in particular in the form of an LDC sensor. The spring element 19 is arranged in the housing interior 13 and forms a trigger element 32, an electrically conductive conductor element of the switching means 30 for triggering the switching elements 31. The switching elements 31 are further designed for electromagnetic, i.e. in particular inductive, detection of the conductor element. Alternatively, capacitive detection of the conductor element is conceivable, for example. When the second housing section 12 is moved from the rest position I to the actuated position II, the switching elements 31 are moved towards the spring element 19, whereby a distance between the switching elements 31 and the spring element 19 changes. A change in an electrical and / or magnetic field caused thereby can be detected by the switching elements 31.To evaluate sensor data from the switching device 30, a printed circuit board 17 is further arranged in the housing interior 13, which circuit board has electronics for evaluating sensor data from the switching device 30. The switching elements 31 are preferably arranged on the printed circuit board 17 on a side of the printed circuit board 17 facing the first housing section 11. The printed circuit board 17 is arranged on a holding means 12.1, which in particular runs around the printed circuit board 17, and is potted with the potting compound 18. In addition to or alternatively to the potting compound 18, the switching elements 31 and / or the printed circuit board 17 can be covered with a protective varnish. This can protect the electronics, in particular, from environmental influences. The sensor data can be evaluated or pre-evaluated by the electronics. For example, the electronics can be designed for error detection and / or digitization of the sensor signals.

[0047] Preferably, the switching means 30 further comprises a detection element 33 for detecting 101.1 the approach of a user, by means of which the switching elements 31 can be brought from a deactivation state 210 to an activation state 211 upon the approach of the user. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the detection means 33 is formed by a module separate from the switching means 30. In the deactivation state 210, an actuation, in particular manual actuation, of the switching elements 31 by moving the second housing section 12 from the rest position I to the actuation position II is preferably electronically prevented. Thus, it is conceivable that the triggering of the vehicle function is prevented in the deactivation state 210. For example, the switching elements 31 can be electrically deactivated and / or electrically disconnected in the deactivation state 210. In the activation state 211, the actuation of the switching elements 31 is possible. The detection means 33 can, for example,a UWB or NFC interface, in particular in the form of an antenna, to detect a user's approach to the actuating device 3. In particular, the detection 101.1 of the user's approach and the transition of the switching elements 31 from the deactivation state 210 to the activation state 211 thus occur before the actuation 101 of the switching elements 31.

[0048] The Figures 10a and 10bfurther show different actuation positions 220, 221, into which the second housing section 12 can be brought by stroking the actuation device 3. Preferably, the switching elements 31 are arranged in an actuation direction 212, so that by stroking the actuation device 3, an actuation sequence can be effected in which the switching elements 31 are actuated one after the other. If a user begins his actuation action at an outer edge of the outer side 3.1, it can be provided that the second housing section 12 is tilted by the first housing section 11 being deformed more strongly in the area of ​​actuation than on the opposite side. As a result, the switching elements 31 are at different distances from the spring element 19. If the user then continues his actuation action along the actuation direction 212, as in Figure 10bAs shown, the second housing section 12 aligns and the distances between the switching elements 31 and the spring element 19 change accordingly. Based on the distances between the switching elements 31, it can be detected whether a first actuation position 220 according to Figure 10a or a second actuation position 221 according to Figure 10b This allows a more complex activity to be captured.

[0049] Furthermore, a lighting unit 40 for illuminating the actuating device 3 is arranged in the housing interior 13. The lighting device 40 comprises at least one light source 43, e.g. in the form of an LED, which is arranged in the housing interior 13, preferably on the circuit board 17. In particular, the light source 43 is arranged on a side of the circuit board 17 facing the second housing section 12. The lighting unit 40 further comprises a light guide 41, which is designed as a transparent housing element of the second housing section 12. The light guide 41 further has a circumferential light exit surface 42 for circumferential illumination of the actuating device 3 around the second housing section 12. In particular, the light exit surface 42 is arranged on the edge of the connecting region 15. As a result, a circle of light can be generated around the vehicle emblem 50 without a user perceiving the lighting unit 40 itself.

[0050] Figure 7 shows an actuating device 3 in a further embodiment, which is mounted in particular on a vehicle part 2 of a vehicle 1 according to the invention. The vehicle 1 can be the vehicle 1 according to Figure 5The actuating device 3 is designed in particular similarly to the actuating device 3. In order to enable movement of a second housing section 12 from a rest position I into an actuating position II for actuating an electrical switching means 30, a first housing section 11 has a circumferential spring element 19, which forms a fluid-tight deformation region 14 of the first housing section 11. For example, the spring element 19 can be ring-shaped. Furthermore, the spring element 19 is cast with a carrier element 11.1 of the first housing section 11 and the second housing section 12. A printed circuit board 17 is arranged directly on the carrier element 11.1. As a result, the spring element 19, i.e. in particular a section of the spring element 19 that is firmly connected to the second housing section 12, forms a connecting section 15.1 of a material-to-material connection area 14 for connecting the first and second housing sections 11, 12. Additionally or alternatively, a sealing means 20 can be provided to seal the connection area 15 and / or enable a material-to-material connection. As shown in . Figure 8 As shown, the spring element 19 exerts a restoring force 201 on the second housing section 12 when the second housing section 12 is in the actuating position II.

[0051] To trigger a vehicle function of the vehicle 1, the electrical switching means 30 further comprises an electromagnetic sensor unit with at least one trigger element 32 in the form of an electrically conductive conductor element and at least one switching element 31 arranged on the second housing section 12. The conductor element 32 is integrated into the first housing section 11 or arranged on the first housing section 11. As a result, a distance between the conductor element and the switching element 31 is reduced when the second housing section 12 moves from the rest position I to the actuated position II. The reduction in the distance can be detected inductively or capacitively by the switching element 31. Furthermore, an intermediate element 22 is arranged between the first and second housing sections 11, 12, which intermediate element has a positioning element 21.1 of a positioning means 21 for positively fixing the rest position I of the second housing section 12.As a result, the second housing section 12 can have a shape that is easy to manufacture and / or the switching element 31 can be fixed between the intermediate element 22 and the second housing section 12. In particular, the intermediate element 22 is attached to the second housing section 12 in a housing interior 13.

[0052] Figure 9 shows an actuating device 3 in a further embodiment, which is mounted in particular on a vehicle part 2 of a vehicle 1 according to the invention. The vehicle 1 can be the vehicle 1 according to Figure 5 The actuating device 3 of the embodiment corresponds to the Figure 9 essentially the actuating device 3 of the embodiment of the Figure 7 However, according to Figure 9a cover element 11.2 of a first housing section 11, a fluid-tight deformation region 14, and a connecting section 15.1 of a connecting region 15 for connecting the first housing section 11 to a second housing section 12 of a housing unit 10 of the actuating device 3. The cover element 11.2 can be formed from a single material or be designed as a two-component plastic injection-molded part and have a soft component 14.1 in the deformation region 14. In addition, the actuating device 3 has a spring element 19 in a housing interior 13, which is formed by the first and second housing sections 11, 12, which is therefore protected by the housing unit 10. This results in a spring behavior according to Figure 4 when the second housing section 12 is moved from a rest position I into an actuating position II for actuating an electrical switching means 30.

[0053] The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively by way of example. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided they are technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. List of reference symbols

[0054] 1Vehicle 2Vehicle part 3Actuating device 3.1Exterior 4Fasteners 10Housing unit 11First housing section 11.1Support element 11.2Cover element 12Second housing section 12.1Holding means 13Housing interior 14Deformation area 15Connecting area 15.1Connecting section 16Free movement space 17Printed circuit board 18Potting compound 19Spring element 19.1Spring area 20Sealant 21Positioning means 21.1Positioning element 22Intermediate element 23Compensating element 24Cabling 30Switching means 31Switching element 32Triggering element, in particular conductor element 33Detecting element 40Lighting unit 41Light guide 42Light exit surface 43Light source 50Vehicle emblem 51Operating surface 100Operation procedure 101Activate 102Reset 200Total force 201Resetting force of 19 202Resetting force of 14 210Deactivation state 211Activation state 212Actuating direction 220first actuation position 221second actuation position IRest position IIActivation position

Claims

1. Actuating device (3) for mounting on a vehicle part (2), in particular in the form of a door or a flap, comprising an electrical switching means (30) with at least one electrical switching element (31) for triggering a vehicle function, and a housing unit (10) with at least a first and a second housing section (11, 12), wherein the second housing section (12) is movable from a rest position (I) into an actuating position (II) for actuating the switching element (31) at least in certain regions relative to the first housing section (11), wherein the switching means (30) has at least one trigger element (32) for actuating the switching element (31), characterized in that the switching element (31) is arranged on the second housing section (12), so that the switching element (31) is moved along with the movement of the second housing section (12) from the rest position (I) into the actuating position (II), wherein the trigger element (32) is arranged on the first housing section (11), so that the switching element (31) is moved towards the trigger element (32) when the second housing section (12) is moved from the rest position (I) into the actuating position (II).

2. Actuating device (3) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second housing sections (11, 12) at least partially form a housing interior (13) in which the switching element (31) is arranged, and / or in that the housing interior (13) extends at least in certain regions between the second housing section (12) and a fluid-tight deformation region (14) of the first housing section (11), which is mechanically coupled to a circumferential connection region (15) of the first and second housing sections (11, 12), so that the connection region (15) can be moved with the movement of the second housing section (12) from the rest position (I) into the actuating position (II).

3. Actuating device (3) according to claim 2, characterized in that the connection region (15) is designed for fluid-tight connection of the first and second housing sections (11, 12), in particular wherein the connection region (15) comprises a continuously circulating connection of the first and second housing sections (11, 12), and / or in that the connection region (15) comprises a material-locking connection of the first and second housing sections (11, 12), in particular wherein the first housing section (11) is bonded or welded to the second housing section (12).

4. Actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching means (30) comprises an electromagnetic sensor unit with an electrically conductive conductor element which forms the trigger element (32), the switching element (31) being designed for electromagnetic, in particular inductive or capacitive, detection of the conductor element.

5. Actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching means (30) comprises a detection element (33) for detecting the approach of a user, by means of which the switching element (31), when the user approaches, can be brought from a deactivation state (210), in which the triggering of the vehicle function by the switching element (31) is prevented, into an activation state (211), in which the triggering of the vehicle function by the switching element (31) is enabled.

6. Actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching means (30) has at least two electrical switching elements (31) which are arranged in an actuating direction (212), so that an actuating sequence in which the switching elements (31) are actuated successively and / or differently can be brought about by a sweep over the actuating device (3), and / or in that the switching means (30) is arranged on a printed circuit board (17) which is fastened to the second housing section (12), in particular wherein the printed circuit board (17) has electronics for evaluating sensor data of the switching means (30), and / or that the printed circuit board (17) is encapsulated with a casting compound (18) or covered with a protective coating.

7. Actuating device (3) according to any one of the claims 2 to 3 or according to any one of the claims 4 to 6 if they are at least dependent on claim 2, characterized in that the first housing section (11, 12) has a cover element (11.2) which forms a connection section (15.1) of the connecting region (15), and / or that the cover element (11.2) forms the deformation region (14), in particular whereby a restoring force (202) can be exerted by the cover element (11.2) counter to the movement of the second housing section (12) from the rest position (I) into the actuating position (II).

8. Actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing unit (10) has a spring element (19) for exerting a restoring force (201) counter to the movement of the second housing section (12) from the rest position (I) into the actuating position (II), in particular wherein the spring element (19) is arranged in the housing interior (13), and / or that the spring element (19) forms the trigger element (32) of the switching means (30), in particular wherein a shortening of a distance between the spring element (19) and the switching element (31) can be detected by the switching element (31) when the second housing section (12) is moved from the rest position (I) into the actuating position (II), and / or in that the connection region (15) has the spring element (19), the spring element (19) extending circumferentially in the connection region (15).

9. Actuating device (3) according to claim 8, characterized in that the spring element (19) is connected to the second housing section (12) in a form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner, in particular wherein the spring element (19) is embedded or clamped in regions in a housing material of the second housing section (12) or wherein the spring element (19) is bonded to the second housing section (12) by a sealing means (20).

10. Actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing unit (10) has a positioning means (21) by means of which the rest position (I) of the second housing section (12) can be fixed, in particular in a form-fitting manner, and / or in that an intermediate element (22) is arranged between the first and second housing sections (11, 12), through which the restoring force (201) of the spring element (19) can be transmitted to the second housing section (11, 12) and / or which has at least one positioning element (21.1) of the positioning means (21).

11. Actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an illumination unit (40) for illuminating the actuating device (3) is arranged in the housing interior (13), and / or in that the second housing section (12) has a light guide (41) for guiding light from the illumination unit (40), in particular wherein the light guide (41) has a light-emitting surface (42) which is designed to revolve around the second housing section (12) for revolving illumination of the actuating device (3).

12. Actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second housing section (12) has a vehicle emblem (50) which forms an actuating surface (51) for triggering the movement of the second housing section (12) from the rest position (I) into the actuating position (II), in particular wherein the vehicle emblem (50) forms an outer side (3.1) of the actuating device (3).

13. Actuating device (3) according to any one of the claims 2, 3, 7 or according to any one of the claims 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 if they are at least dependent on claim 2, characterized in that the housing interior (13) has an equalizing element (23) for air exchange with an environment, in particular wherein the equalizing element (23) is arranged on a cable guide for the switching means (30) and / or the printed circuit board (17).

14. Vehicle (1) comprising a vehicle part (2), in particular in the form of a door or a flap, characterized in that an actuating device (3) according to one of the preceding claims for triggering a vehicle function of the vehicle (1) is arranged on the vehicle part (2).

15. An actuating method (100) for triggering a vehicle function of a vehicle (1) by an actuating device (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising at least a first and a second housing section (11, 12), comprising the following steps: - Actuation (101) of an electrical switching element (31) of an electrical switching means (30) for triggering the vehicle function by moving the second housing section (12) with the switching element (31) from a rest position (I) to an actuation position (II), - Resilient return (102) of the second housing section (12) with the switching element (31) to the rest position (I).