DEVICE AND METHOD FOR RECORDING A USER'S INPUT IN A VEHICLE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for capturing user input in a vehicle.

[0002] Modern vehicles, especially motor vehicles, are equipped with a variety of electronic systems that must be adjustable and operated by the driver or other vehicle occupants. These systems include, for example, an air conditioning unit that directs air to specific areas of the vehicle interior and also controls other features such as seat heating. Other systems include a navigation system, driver assistance systems, and communication and multimedia units, such as a telephone system or devices for playing music and speech, like a radio or a CD player.

[0003] Various control units are available for operating these systems. Typically, however, the driver faces the challenge of operating sometimes very complex systems. They must devote a portion of their attention to understanding and operating a multitude of controls so that the settings are configured or changed as desired. This often requires highly precise actions, while the driver can only take their eyes off the road for very brief periods. The aim is to avoid operating errors that can significantly impair driving comfort and necessitate further intervention.

[0004] At the same time, the set parameters must be easy for the user to understand in order to assess whether a currently set parameter value should be changed or whether suitable settings can be retained.

[0005] From DE 10 2016 200 110 A1 a device for operating a heating and air conditioning system of a means of transport is known, in which a finger groove is formed in a substantially flat surface, in which executed wiping gestures can be detected.

[0006] US patent 2015 / 123910 A1 discloses a user interface for a household appliance which can be put into a locked state by an input gesture.

[0007] US 9015640 B2 describes a consumer electronics device with an orientation sensor and a locking control.

[0008] A method for operating an infotainment system is known from WO 2016 / 102296 A2. This method describes the output of feedback on input via a finger strip.

[0009] From EP 2305507 A1, a method for operating a vehicle user interface is known in which the user interface uses a touchscreen display installed in the vehicle. The visual properties of the interface can change after the user has initiated an interface interaction.

[0010] A typical challenge with familiar automotive controls is that the driver must pay minimal attention to them. Especially when operating sliders and similar controls, it can be difficult to make correct settings without looking at the control. This makes reliable and precise operation difficult.

[0011] The present invention is based on the objective of providing a device and a method for capturing user input in a vehicle that are particularly easy to operate.

[0012] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a device having the features of claim 1 and a method having the features of claim 9. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are described in the dependent claims.

[0013] The device according to the invention for outputting a parameter value in a vehicle comprises a detection unit with a first and a second detection area, for each of which a detection state and a blocking state can be activated. In a detection area, user input can be detected, whereas in a detection area, no input can be detected. It further comprises a control unit configured to control the detection unit such that, after an input has been detected in the first detection area, the blocking state for the second detection area is activated for a specific blocking time interval.

[0014] This advantageously prevents accidental activation in the second detection area following input in the first. For this purpose, a lock state is activated for the second detection area, and particularly also for the first detection area, after input has been detected. This lock state remains active for the duration of a lock time interval before a new detection state is activated. The length of the lock time interval can be, for example, 200 ms to 800 ms, preferably 200 ms to 600 ms, and most preferably 400 ms. The length of the lock time interval is, in particular, adjustable.

[0015] The detection area can be configured in a manner known per se. In particular, it is elongated and has a longitudinal extent that is preferably at least twice, and more preferably at least three times, as long as the width of the detection area perpendicular to it. It can therefore, for example, be a slider element that implements the functionality of a slider. Furthermore, virtually any geometric shape of detection area is conceivable, which can be configured, in particular, on surfaces.

[0016] In this configuration, the first and second detection areas comprise surface areas on a detection unit. They are specifically designed as areas of a touch-sensitive surface on the detection unit. This advantageously allows the use of control elements that are particularly well integrated into the vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, mechanical detection elements, such as a slider, rotary control, push button, or rotary switch, can be provided in the first and / or second detection area.

[0017] The detection areas are arranged side by side. They can be directly adjacent to each other or spaced apart. A threshold can be defined, whereby, after an input is detected in the first detection area, the lock state for a second detection area is only activated if its distance from the first detection area is less than the threshold.

[0018] In one embodiment of the device according to the invention, the detected input comprises an actuation with a start time and an end time, and the blocking time interval for the second detection area begins at the start time or the end time. This allows inputs to be detected in a particularly flexible manner, adapted to the respective purpose.

[0019] In particular, the blocking time interval begins at a point in time when a control signal is generated based on the input. Such a control signal is generated at the start time, at the end time, or even during the detection of the actuation. The control signal is generated and output in such a way that, for example, a parameter value is set, a function or device state is controlled, or the input is provided as information.

[0020] In this process, inputs are detected in a detection area when it is in the detection state; that is, a control signal is generated upon activation. Conversely, no inputs are detected in a detection area when it is in the blocked state; that is, at least no control signal is generated upon activation. Furthermore, a detection area can be controlled in such a way that no activation is detected when it is in the blocked state, for example, because a sensor used for detection is deactivated.

[0021] According to the invention, an actuating object is used to perform the actuation, in particular the user's hand or finger. In the following explanations, the user's finger is the actuating object; however, the information can be generalized to other actuating objects, such as a pen.

[0022] When an input gesture is activated, it is specifically recorded. An "input gesture" is understood to mean, for example, a specific position of the object being actuated or a specific movement performed with the object. Input gestures can be designed in a manner known per se. They include, in particular, tap gestures, swipe gestures, and hold gestures, as well as combinations of several such gestures, possibly performed in quick succession. The gestures are executed within a detection area, which in particular comprises the surface of a detection unit. By controlling the user interface via an input gesture, the user is provided with a particularly simple and intuitive input method.

[0023] Gesture capture is not necessarily limited to a surface. Rather, gestures can be performed in virtually any defined capture area and, if necessary, captured using various capture methods. For example, a gesture can also be captured in three-dimensional space. In particular, a virtual control object, such as a virtual button, can be implemented. For instance, the gesture can be captured in a spatial area where the virtual control object is generated, for example, by means of a projection or virtual reality techniques, and the gesture is captured in relation to this virtual control object. Specifically, the position, gesture trajectory, direction, and / or speed of the gesture are captured.

[0024] The gesture can be detected, for example, using optical or electronic detection methods; for detection, a laser, electromagnetic fields in the microwave range, or other methods can be used, for example.

[0025] In a further development, the captured input includes a swipe gesture, whereby a swipe trajectory is defined for the swipe gesture in the first capture area, and the lock state for the second capture area is generated depending on the swipe trajectory. Swipe gestures are advantageously particularly well suited for setting a parameter value.

[0026] In a swipe gesture, an object being actuated touches a surface within the detection range and then moves along an actuation trajectory before the contact is released. The actuation trajectory comprises a temporally ordered sequence of actuation positions along which the object is moved. This means that a start and end position can be determined based on the actuation trajectory. Furthermore, the temporal sequence of the movement can be determined, specifically the start and end times of the contact.

[0027] For example, when capturing an input using a slider, an actuation position can be assigned to an absolute parameter value, or, using a rotary control, a relative change of a currently set parameter value can be obtained based on the length and / or direction of an actuation trajectory.

[0028] A control signal is generated, for example, to set a parameter value when the touch begins at the start position, while the actuation position changes along the actuation trajectory, and / or when the touch is released at the end position. For example, a parameter value can be adjusted during the execution of the swipe gesture; it then follows the path of the actuated object through the detection area and is changed each time a position corresponding to a different parameter value is reached.

[0029] During further training, the lock state for the second detection area is activated if the swipe trajectory extends at least to an edge of the first detection area. Conversely, it can be provided, in particular, that the detection state for the second detection area remains activated even if the swipe trajectory does not extend to the edge. This advantageously limits the activation of the lock state to cases where an actual erroneous activation in another detection area is imminent, namely if the user inadvertently continues the swipe gesture beyond the first detection area.

[0030] During training, a direction is determined based on the swipe trajectory, and the lock state is activated for the second detection area if the direction points towards it. This precaution can advantageously help prevent the lock state from being activated for the second detection area when no incorrect activation is likely. Such an activation is particularly likely if the swipe gesture is executed in such a way that its continuation beyond the first detection area leads to activation within the second detection area. This is less of a concern with a swipe gesture performed in a different direction.

[0031] According to the invention, a speed is determined based on the detected input in the first detection area, and the length of the blocking time interval is calculated as a function of the input speed. This advantageously allows the blocking time interval to be adapted to the preceding detected input in a particularly flexible and convenient manner.

[0032] For example, the lockout interval can be shorter the faster the input is captured; this takes into account that a user performing a rapid swipe will also move more quickly across a wider detection area at a higher speed. Conversely, a longer lockout interval can be chosen at higher speeds if it is assumed that the risk of an error persists for a longer period after a particularly fast input than after a slower input. Furthermore, at least one threshold can be predefined, and the lockout interval can be shorter or longer depending on whether the speed exceeds this threshold.

[0033] Furthermore, it may be provided that the blocking state for the second detection area is only activated if a certain speed is exceeded during input in the first detection area, because no accidental continuation of the input to the second detection area is expected with slow input.

[0034] During further training, the arrangement and / or extent of the second detection area is dynamically configured depending on the gesture type, speed, or direction of the detected input. This advantageously prevents the lock state from being activated for an unnecessarily large detection area.

[0035] For example, the lock state can be activated for multiple detection areas located in the same direction as the first detection area, based on the swipe gesture. The detection areas for which the lock state is activated can be selected based on their orientation relative to the first detection area. For instance, the lock state will only be activated for those additional detection areas located in the same direction relative to the first detection area as the swipe gesture.

[0036] Furthermore, the lock state for additional detection areas can be activated at a greater distance from the first detection area the faster the swipe gesture is performed. This allows the lock state for additional detection areas to be adjusted to the degree of risk that the user might accidentally activate an area beyond the first detection area after performing a swipe gesture. Specifically, when locked, the second detection area only covers a specific portion of the input surface, so input outside this portion can still be detected.

[0037] In a training course, the recorded input includes a tap gesture. Such gestures are particularly well-suited for directly selecting an absolute value, for gradually increasing or decreasing a value, especially by multiple taps, or for activating or deactivating a function.

[0038] In a tap gesture, an object touches a surface within the detection area, and the touch is released after a specific time, with the touch position remaining essentially unchanged. Thus, an actuation position, a touch duration, and a start and end time can be defined. A control signal is generated, for example, to set the parameter value, when the touch begins at the actuation position or when the touch is released. Furthermore, an alternative or additional control signal can be generated when a predetermined time interval elapses, particularly in the case of a hold gesture, which is also known as a touch gesture. "Long press" or "Longpush"This can be described as follows: Furthermore, with a hold gesture, control signals can be generated each time an integer multiple of the predetermined time interval elapses, so that the control signal is automatically generated at certain intervals while the touch is held for a longer period of time.

[0039] In further training, the lock state of the second input area applies to a specific type of input, particularly a specific gesture type. For example, when locked, no input via a swipe gesture can be recorded in the second input area. The locked gesture type can also depend on the input in the first input area. For instance, the second input area is locked for swipe input if the previously recorded input in the first input area was also a swipe gesture. Conversely, the second input area can be configured so that input via a tap gesture can still be recorded even when locked, thus preventing the user from accidentally continuing a swipe gesture from the first to the second input area.

[0040] In further training, the lock state of the second capture area is only activated for certain inputs captured in the first capture area, particularly for specific gesture types. For example, it can be implemented that the lock state in the second capture area is only activated if a swipe gesture has been captured in the first capture area, but that the capture state remains active if a tap or hold gesture has been captured in the first capture area.

[0041] In this training system, a surface structure is formed in the first and / or second detection area, in particular a depression or raised area. This makes it advantageously easier to find and operate operable areas.

[0042] In particular, this provides a tactile aid that allows the user to determine the position and extent of the detection areas. For example, a tactilely detectable surface deformation can include a locally altered roughness. Furthermore, the surface can have a essentially point-like elevation or depression, or it can have an elongated depression or elevation. More complex shapes are also conceivable, such as a depression with a ridge running through it or other perceptible markings. A depression can also run in a straight line or along a curved line.

[0043] In a further embodiment, the device also includes at least one illuminating element, which is arranged particularly in the area of ​​the first and / or second detection zone, wherein the illuminating element has an illumination state to indicate the activated state of a detection zone. This advantageously allows the user to easily discern whether input can be detected in a detection zone. For example, the illuminating element illuminates with a specific intensity and / or color depending on the activated state, and it can further comprise one or more symbols that are illuminated according to the activated state.

[0044] In particular, several lighting elements can be arranged within a detection area. For example, they can form a light segment display in which several lighting elements are arranged side by side along a longitudinal axis, either in a straight line or in a curved line.

[0045] In particular, the input relates to a setting of a temperature, a fan or a media playback device of the vehicle.

[0046] In the inventive method for capturing user input in a vehicle, an input is captured in a first detection area, and then a blocking state is activated for a second detection area for a specific blocking time interval. Both the first and second detection areas have a detection state and a blocking state. In a detection area, user input can be captured, and in a detection area, no user input can be captured. In the inventive method, a speed is determined based on the captured input in the first detection area, and the length of the blocking time interval is calculated based on the input speed.

[0047] The device according to the invention is particularly designed to implement the method described above. The device thus has the same advantages as the method according to the invention.

[0048] The invention will now be explained using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 shows a vehicle with an embodiment of the device according to the invention, Figure 2 shows further details of the embodiment of the device according to the invention, Figures 3A to 3C show an embodiment of an output of a parameter value by means of a segment display, Figures 4A and 4B show an embodiment for the setting of parameter values ​​by means of a slider element, Figures 5A to 5F show an embodiment for the setting of an air distribution by means of a blower and Figures 6A to 6C show a further embodiment for the setting of a parameter value by means of a slider element.

[0049] With reference to Figure 1 A vehicle is described with an exemplary embodiment of the device.

[0050] A vehicle 1 comprises a detection unit 2, which is coupled to a control unit 3. An air conditioning unit 4 is also coupled to the control unit 3.

[0051] In the exemplary embodiment, the detection unit 2 has a surface facing a user in the vehicle 1. Various symbols are arranged on this surface, some of which can be backlit by light sources, in particular LEDs. Furthermore, areas with luminous surfaces are formed, which are covered by a layer of paint such that the luminous surfaces are essentially only visible to the user when they are actually illuminated, while they are practically invisible when not illuminated. In this context, a so-called Black Panel trained display used.

[0052] The surface of the detection unit 2 can be flat. It can also have indentations and / or raised areas that a user can detect with their finger and that can serve as tactile aids to distinguish specific areas of the surface. For example, such tactile aids can highlight a mechanical switch or a touch-sensitive area of ​​the surface, which might be designed as a push button or a slider.

[0053] The recording unit 2 also includes one using the IML procedure ( in-mould labelingThe film is manufactured and back-injected with plastic. In this embodiment, it also includes sensor elements Sa, Sb, and Sc, which are designed as capacitive sensor elements. The sensor elements Sa to Sc are arranged behind the surface of the detection unit 2 in such a way that they are not visible to the user. The sensor elements Sa to Sc are designed in a known manner to detect actuation by an actuating element. For this purpose, they each have a detection area that, for example, includes an area of ​​the surface of the detection unit 2 and / or a spatial area arranged above the surface. In particular, a user's finger can be used as an actuating element.In this embodiment, the sensor elements Sa to Sc detect an actuation based on the actuating element entering the detection area, contact with a surface, its distance from a sensor element Sa to Sc, movement within the detection area, and / or the duration during which the actuating element is detected. This actuation is then evaluated by the detection unit 2 and / or the control unit 3.

[0054] In this embodiment, the sensor elements Sa to Sc are arranged equidistant from each other along a straight line. A slider element is thus implemented along this line. Its function is explained in detail below.

[0055] In further embodiments, the detection unit 2 alternatively or additionally has touch-sensitive surface areas designed in other, known ways. These allow actuation by an actuating element to be detected analogously to the functionality of the sensor elements Sa to Sc described above.

[0056] In particular, when an actuation is detected, the detection unit 2 generates a control signal and transmits it to the control unit 3. A parameter value can be set, whereby either the detection unit 2 itself processes the input to such an extent that it assigns a specific parameter value to it, or the control unit 3 takes over this processing of the input or control signal generated by the detection unit 2.

[0057] Furthermore, the detection unit comprises two light elements La, Lb, Lc, Ld, Le, which are arranged adjacent to each other along a linear direction in the form of a segment display. The light elements La to Le can be controlled independently of each other by the control unit 3.

[0058] The air conditioning unit 4 is formed in a manner known per se and, in the exemplary embodiment, includes, among other things, a heater for the vehicle 1, seat heaters for the driver and front passenger seats, a steering wheel heater, window heaters and a blower for introducing air into the interior of the vehicle 1, wherein the direction, distribution, intensity and temperature of the incoming air can be adjusted.

[0059] With reference to Figure 2 The above is related to Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment of the device is explained in more detail.

[0060] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a view of the surface of the detection unit 2 facing the user inside the vehicle 1. This surface is essentially designed as a horizontally elongated rectangle. In the upper area, push-button elements 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107 are arranged side by side. In this embodiment, these are designed as touch-sensitive surface areas that can be actuated by touching them with an actuating element, in particular a user's finger. Figure 2The touch-sensitive areas assigned to the individual push-button elements 101 to 107 are indicated by dashed lines. Within these areas, illuminated surfaces are also provided, which can be lit with light of a specific intensity and / or color by activating an LED located behind them, for example, to indicate the status, activity, or a setting of a function assigned to the respective push-button element 101 to 107. The control unit 3 is responsible for controlling the detection unit 2 and, if necessary, for evaluating signals detected by the detection unit 2.

[0061] In a central and lower area of ​​the surface of the detection unit 2, additional pushbutton elements 108, 109, 110, and 111 are provided. In this embodiment, these are also designed with touch-sensitive surface areas, indicated by dashed lines. Pressing the additional pushbutton elements 108 to 111 allows further functions to be accessed, activated, or set. For example, pressing pushbutton element 110 "MENU" displays a menu on a screen in the vehicle 1. Pressing pushbutton element 111 "OFF" switches off the climate control unit 4. Pushbutton element 109 "A / C" activates the air conditioning system of the vehicle 1's climate control unit 4, and pushbutton element 108 "AUTO" activates an automatic mode for the climate control unit 4.

[0062] In other embodiments, the push-button elements 101 to 111 can be designed as mechanical switches, in particular momentary switches. Furthermore, other functions can be provided alternatively or additionally in other embodiments.

[0063] Segment displays 115 and 116 are arranged in the middle and lower areas of the surface of the sensing unit 2. In this embodiment, they are suitable for displaying a two-digit temperature value with one decimal place. Slider elements 112, 113, and 114 are also arranged here for setting a temperature and a fan speed. The adjustable functions of the air conditioning unit 4 are indicated by symbols on the surface. The slider elements 112 to 114 each comprise a horizontal straight line of a specific length, along which a recess is formed on the surface of the sensing unit 2. Behind this recess, concealed by the surface, are sensor elements Sa to Sc, which detect contact in the area of ​​a slider element 112 to 114, specifically detecting the position of the contact and, if applicable, any movement along the slider element 112 to 114.

[0064] In the embodiment, the line of the slider element 112 for adjusting the blower, i.e. the blower slider 112, can be illuminated segmentally by light elements La to Le arranged behind it.

[0065] With reference to the Figures 3A to 3C An exemplary embodiment of an output of a set speed of a fan of the air conditioning unit 4 by means of a segment display is explained. In particular, the above-mentioned [context] is discussed. Figure 1 and 2 The described embodiment of the device is taken as a starting point. The segment display of the embodiment is arranged in particular in the area of ​​the blower slider 112 and is controlled by the control unit 3.

[0066] In this example, seven illuminated surfaces, LED1 to LED7, are arranged side by side along a straight line and can be controlled independently. The number of illuminated surfaces corresponds to the activated fan speed; that is, there are as many speeds as there are LED1 to LED7 surfaces. Furthermore, a diffuser is positioned over the LED1 to LED7 surfaces so that, from the user's perspective, the illuminated surfaces appear to form a continuous line.

[0067] At the in Figure 3A In the case shown, the fan of air conditioning unit 4 is deactivated. The graph shows the intensity of light emission on the y-axis, while the individual light surfaces LED1 to LED7 are assigned positions along the x-axis. None of the light surfaces are illuminated, which is shown in the diagram. Figure 3Arepresented by practically invisible columns.

[0068] In the cases of Figures 3B and 3C The third stage of the fan of air conditioning unit 4 is activated. The graphs show the intensity of the light emitted by the light surfaces LED1 to LED7 as a function of the position or of the respective light surface LED1 to LED7. In the case of the Figure 3B is a night mode, in which case the Figure 3CA daytime mode for the segment display is activated. The first three illuminated areas are controlled to shine at 60% or 100% of their maximum intensity, while the remaining four illuminated areas are controlled to shine at only 10% or 20% of their maximum intensity. This means that in daytime mode, the display uses a higher light intensity compared to nighttime mode, ensuring easy readability even in bright ambient light during the day, without disturbing or dazzling the user with excessive intensity in low ambient light at night.

[0069] In this embodiment, "overexposure" from a brightly illuminated surface to an adjacent, unlit or less brightly illuminated surface is masked by illuminating all surfaces with at least a basic intensity. Only the surfaces actually used for display are illuminated with a higher display intensity. This means that all surfaces not used to indicate the fan speed are illuminated uniformly, instead of exhibiting varying intensities due to overexposure, depending on their distance from a brightly illuminated surface.

[0070] To achieve this uniform illumination at the base intensity, it may be necessary to supply the LEDs with different currents; in particular, this compensates for overexposure. For example, in the Figure 3BIn the illustrated case, the first three LEDs, LED1, LED2, and LED3, are operated with a current sufficient for 60% of their maximum intensity. Overexposure results in a certain intensity already being emitted in the area of ​​the two adjacent light-emitting surfaces, LED4 and LED5. Therefore, these LEDs are operated with a lower current than the LEDs of more distant light-emitting surfaces, LED6 and LED7, to achieve a uniform base intensity for LEDs 4 through 7. For example, the directly adjacent light-emitting surface LED4 is operated at 5%, the next adjacent light-emitting surface LED5 at 7%, while the more distant light-emitting surfaces LED6 and LED7 are operated at 10%. In further embodiments, other light sources, particularly light emitted into the light-emitting surfaces LED1 through LED7, can be taken into account and compensated for by appropriately controlling the LEDs.

[0071] In other embodiments, different ratios between the intensities and various modes can be provided. For example, ambient brightness can be detected, and the light intensity of the activated illuminated areas can be dynamically adjusted to the detected ambient brightness. Furthermore, corresponding values ​​of base intensity and display intensity can be predefined, as is the case in the embodiment shown. The base intensity can also be, for example, a specific fraction of the display intensity, or it can be determined in another way, such as using a physical model in which the intensity of overexposure is determined as a function of the display intensity, and then a base intensity is established to mask the overexposure.

[0072] In another embodiment, even when the fan is deactivated, all illuminated surfaces are lit with a base intensity, determined, for example, by the ambient brightness. In this way, the illuminated surfaces can be used as design elements as well as to indicate a "0" setting. The user can then clearly see, in particular, that a display for the fan setting is located in a specific area and / or that controls for adjusting the fan can be accessed in such an area.

[0073] In other embodiments, the illuminated areas can be used to display a different parameter. They can also be used in conjunction with various slider elements 112, 113, 114 or other displays and controlled in the manner described.

[0074] Furthermore, a higher number of illuminated areas can be used, in particular more illuminated areas than there are adjustable levels. For example, intermediate levels can be displayed in this way, or during operation, for example using the blower slider 112, the illuminated areas can follow the position of the actuating object on the slider 112. They can also be arranged other ways instead of in a linear arrangement next to each other, such as in a two-dimensional matrix.

[0075] With reference to the Figures 4A and 4B An example implementation for setting parameter values ​​using a slider element is explained. In particular, the above-mentioned example is discussed in relation to the... Figure 1 and 2 The device was based on the described embodiment. Control is achieved in particular by means of control unit 3.

[0076] The following explanations refer, by way of example, to slider element 112, which in this embodiment is assigned to the detection unit 2 as a blower slider 112 for adjusting a blower of the air conditioning unit 4. Of course, the method can also be used for other slider elements 112, 113, 114, as well as for acquiring other parameter values.

[0077] On the user-facing surface of the acquisition unit 2, as in Figure 2 As shown, a horizontal line is arranged in the area of ​​the blower slider 112, at the left end of which is a blower symbol 112a for a switched-off state of the blower and at the right end of which is a blower symbol 112b for a maximum active state of the blower.

[0078] Light sources are arranged behind the surface; in this embodiment, LEDs are used to illuminate both line 112 and symbols 112a and 112b. Furthermore, in this embodiment, line 112 can be illuminated as a segment display. This means that light sources are arranged side by side in a row behind it, allowing individual sections of line 112 to be illuminated independently with varying intensities. This allows, for example, the fan speed setting to be displayed according to the above reference to the Figures 3A to 3C The explained procedure was issued. Symbols 112a, 112b and line 112 can be permanently printed or, using a black panel technique, only be visible when backlit.

[0079] In the Figures 4A and 4BTouch-sensitive areas 149, 141a, 141b, 142a to 142i are indicated by dashed lines. In these areas, the sensor elements Sa to Sc detect actuation by an actuating object, as explained above, or detection can occur in another way. According to the exemplary embodiment, actuation occurs when the surface of the detection unit 2 is touched by the actuating object in a touch-sensitive area. In further exemplary embodiments, detection can also occur when the actuating object is located in a specific spatial area or at a specific position, for example, close to the surface of the detection unit 2.

[0080] In this embodiment, an actuation at a specific position is detected by the sensor elements Sa to Sc detecting signals of varying strengths depending on the position of the actuated object. For example, the strength of a signal detected by a capacitive sensor depends on the distance of an actuated object entering its detection range. In this embodiment, the user touches the slider element 112 at any point or moves their position along the slider element 112. Depending on the current position, the sensor elements Sa to Sc detect different signal strengths. The position is determined based on these signal strengths, and a parameter value is set accordingly.

[0081] In this way, different spatial areas, in particular surface areas on the detection unit 2, can be used as separate areas to detect actions within them. Specifically, these actions can also be evaluated differently depending on the respective surface area. For example, a surface area can be configured as a push-button element with a specific response behavior, i.e., with certain threshold values ​​for time intervals before activation, or as a slider element with a different response behavior.

[0082] This means that the areas within which actions can be recorded can be defined virtually, instead of requiring a separate area for each arbitrary region. A single, continuous area can be created within which the position of an action or its trajectory is recorded, or individual areas can be created in which an action is recorded when it is assigned to any position within those individual areas.

[0083] In this embodiment, the selected level is further indicated by a segment display in the area of ​​slider element 112. This is done in relation to the above. Figures 3A to 3CAs explained above, when the slider element 112 is actuated at a certain position, it is illuminated at that position, and the corresponding fan speed is set. However, in this embodiment, the system not only detects which speed setting the actuation is currently in, but also detects the user's approach to surrounding areas. Specifically, it detects when the actuating object, such as the user's finger, moves towards another speed setting, and this approach is also displayed. For example, the user can move their finger along the slider element 112 and approach an area corresponding to the next fan speed setting. The illumination element located in this area is lit with increasing intensity as the user gets closer to the area of ​​the next speed setting.When the user reaches the next area, it is illuminated with the normal display intensity.

[0084] Unlike known touch-sensitive surfaces, the parameter value in this embodiment of the method is detected using fewer sensors, with greater flexibility and / or higher resolution. While known methods require at least one sensor element for each detectable position, the described method utilizes fewer sensors in a particularly space-saving, cost-effective, and simple manner.

[0085] Various parameters of the actuation are recorded and evaluated, such as a starting position where the contact begins, an end position where the contact ends, and a trajectory along which the actuated object moves across the surface from the starting to the end position. Alternatively or additionally, the duration of the contact and / or the time spent at a specific position can be recorded. If desired, the direction and / or speed of movement along the surface can also be determined and evaluated.

[0086] Several operating options can be distinguished, which in particular denote different types of operation for entering or selecting a parameter value and which are subsequently also referred to as "use cases". These can be used, for example, for pushbuttons or sliders in both touch-sensitive areas and for mechanical switches.

[0087] The user can control the touch-sensitive area by "Tap" actuate, with a time interval between the beginning and the end of the touch Δt It is recorded that the time is shorter than a certain threshold. t 0 is: Δt < t 0 . The threshold t 0 The response time can be, for example, 400 ms or 800 ms. The point in time at which an actuation event is detected, and thus, for example, a parameter value is changed, is typically the point at which the touch is released. Alternatively, an actuation event can also be detected when the touch begins, in which case each touch already triggers a tap event. Typical applications for tapping include switching a function on and off, incrementally changing parameter values, or directly selecting a parameter value by tapping a button.

[0088] The user can also set the touch to a specific position or area for a longer time interval. Δt as a threshold t 1 hold: Δt > t 1 . The threshold t 1 It could be, for example, 400 ms or 800 ms. Such an action can be considered "Hold", "Long press" or "Longpush" These can be designated as such. A corresponding halt event can be triggered as soon as the halted time interval expires. Δt the threshold t 1 The event occurs when the touch is released or when the touch is exceeded. Further conditions can be defined such that the touch must be released at a specific position or within a specific area to trigger a hold event; in this case, the user can prevent triggering by moving the actuating object to a different area, such as another button element.

[0089] Furthermore, a "multiple stops"This is achieved by ensuring that the contact of a first surface area lasts longer than a threshold value. t 1 lasts and then transitions into a second area, which is also longer than the threshold. t 1 is touched. This allows, for example, multiple button elements to be activated without having to lift the object being operated. To do this, the first button element is activated with a "hold" gesture, and then the user slides the object to another button element without releasing the contact.

[0090] At a "permanent holding" An activation will be performed for a time interval Δt longer than a threshold t 0 recorded and it is applied for each multiple of the threshold. t 0 A repeated activation is recorded. The user can trigger multiple activations by holding the button for a corresponding multiple of the threshold value. t 0 holds.

[0091] Furthermore, a "Wipe" as an actuation, for example when the actuated object is used for a time interval Δt shorter than a threshold value t 0 The user remains in one area and then activates an adjacent area. This activation can then be detected, for example, for the adjacent area when the touch is released, taking into account, in particular, whether the user pauses the adjacent area for a certain period of time. Δt shorter than the threshold t 0 touched or whether, for example, a stop is being performed here.

[0092] Furthermore, a "Swipe"A touch is detected as an action where the position of the touch moves from a first to a second surface area, crossing further surface areas in the process. The speed at which the position changes is also taken into account; for example, a parameter value can be changed more quickly than with a swipe. A "swipe" can be detected, in particular, if the speed of the swipe gesture exceeds a threshold.

[0093] At the in Figure 4AIn the case shown, the fan slider is defined as a continuous active slider area 149 that extends over the entire length of line 112 as well as the adjacent symbols 112a and 112b. Within the area 149 of this active slider area 149, the positions of touches and actuations can be detected. As the actuating object moves along the longitudinal extent of the fan slider 112, the position of the touch, particularly during a swipe gesture, is continuously detected, and the set fan speed follows this position. For example, a lowest speed is assigned to the left area of ​​the fan slider 112 or the left fan symbol 112a, while a highest speed is assigned to the right area of ​​the fan slider 112 or the right fan symbol 112b. Distributed along the length of the blower slider are 112 areas of equal size, each with an intermediate step.

[0094] In this example, a step is set when the actuating object reaches a position corresponding to that step. In other embodiments, the step is only set when the contact is released, at which point the step is set that corresponds to the position at the time the contact is released.

[0095] At the in Figure 4B In contrast, in the case shown, individual touch-sensitive surface areas 142a to 142i are formed. These are activated by tapping, so that the user can select the fan speeds directly by selecting a touch-sensitive surface area 142a to 142i.

[0096] In addition, the two outermost left (142a, 142b) and right (142h, 142i) touch-sensitive areas are combined into enlarged operating areas (141a, 141b). By tapping in one of these enlarged operating areas (141a, 141b), the user can incrementally increase or decrease the fan speed. By holding the touch in one of the enlarged operating areas (141a, 141b), the speed is gradually increased or decreased, depending on the duration of the touch.

[0097] In this embodiment, the enlargement of the actuation ranges 141a, 141b limits the possibilities for directly selecting a fan speed, insofar as the lowest and highest speeds cannot be selected directly. Instead, these speeds are only reached by repeatedly tapping or continuously holding the corresponding enlarged actuation range 141a, 141b, starting from the next adjacent speed.

[0098] The in the Figures 4A and 4B The cases shown in this embodiment are not to be understood as static configurations of the detection unit 2. Rather, the detection unit 2 switches dynamically between the two configurations depending on the type of actuation being detected, i.e., the detected Use case. This means that when the user performs a swipe gesture, the action is interpreted as described above with reference to Figure 4Aexplained. If, on the other hand, the user performs a tap or a sustained hold gesture, the evaluation of this gesture is carried out as with the one relating to Figure 4B configuration explained.

[0099] In other embodiments, the configurations mentioned can be combined or designed in other ways.

[0100] In this embodiment, it is further provided that the push-button elements 108 to 111, which are arranged adjacent to slider elements 112, 113, 140, are locked to prevent activation after a swipe gesture has been detected in the area of ​​one of the slider elements 112, 113, 114. This prevents the user from accidentally activating one of the push-button elements 108 to 111 if, during a swipe gesture, they continue moving the actuating object beyond the area of ​​a slider element 112, 113, 114.

[0101] The blocking of adjacent button elements 108 to 111 or other touch-sensitive surfaces or switching elements is carried out for a specific blocking time interval. This blocking time interval begins, in particular, at the time when the touch of the slider element 112, 113, 114 is terminated, and it can be determined dynamically, for example, based on the speed of the swipe gesture and / or the driving speed of the vehicle 1.

[0102] In further embodiments, a distance is defined from a slider element 112, 113, 114, within which no actuation is detected during the blocking time interval. This distance can also be determined dynamically, for example, based on the speed of the swipe gesture, the longitudinal extent of the slider element 112, 113, 114, and / or the driving speed of the vehicle 1. Based on this distance, a surface area can be defined that extends the longitudinal extent of the slider element 112, 113, 114; for example, an area above or below a horizontally extending slider element 112, 113, 114 is not blocked, while laterally adjacent surface areas are blocked during the blocking time interval.

[0103] In another embodiment, the adjacent button elements 108 to 111 are only locked if it has been detected that a swipe gesture has been performed at least to a lateral end of the slider element 112, 113, 114 or beyond. In further embodiments, the locking of certain surface areas of the detection unit 2 can be triggered by events other than a swipe gesture, for example, by any actuation within a specific surface area.

[0104] In another embodiment, the user first presses a button, then changes their selection and slides to another button. In this case, it can be provided that the press is only registered when the user releases their touch. Only then is the lockout time interval triggered. This means that, in this case, the user can slide from one button to a second without releasing their touch and press the second button when lifting their finger. Only then does the lockout time interval begin, and no other button can be pressed.

[0105] In one embodiment, acoustic feedback is generated when an input gesture or gesture type is recognized. Specifically, acoustic feedback is generated when a control signal is created based on a detected input. This allows the user to see whether their input has been accepted. Alternatively or additionally, acoustic feedback can also be generated when the parameter value is changed. It is generated in a known manner, and different feedback signals can be output, for example, to indicate a recognized gesture type, a set parameter value, or other influencing factors. The acoustic feedback can also be dynamically generated, for example, by changing the pitch depending on the set parameter value.

[0106] With reference to the Figures 5A to 5FAn exemplary embodiment for adjusting air distribution using a blower is explained. This explanation is based on the exemplary embodiments described above.

[0107] In this embodiment, the Figure 2 The surface of the detection unit 2 shown includes a push-button element 104, which can be used to adjust the distribution of the air directed into the interior of the vehicle 1 by a blower of the air conditioning unit 4. A display of the set distribution is also provided in the area of ​​this push-button element 104.

[0108] In the Figures 5A to 5FThe distribution is indicated by arrows 132, 133, 134, which are arranged at different heights relative to a passenger representation 131. The arrows 132, 133, 134 are formed by independently illuminated surfaces, while the passenger representation 131 is printed onto the surface and therefore permanently visible. In this embodiment, the arrows 132, 133, 134 are arranged approximately at the height of the head, torso, and foot areas of the passenger representation 131, respectively.

[0109] In the exemplary embodiment, the push-button element 104 is designated as " Toggle"-switch is used. That is, a fixed sequence of different settings is predefined, and each time the push-button element 104 is pressed, the next setting in the sequence is applied. Upon reaching the last setting, the sequence jumps to the first setting, particularly in the manner of a periodic boundary condition. In further embodiments, the sequence can be reversed upon reaching the last setting, particularly in the manner of a reflective boundary condition."

[0110] At the in Figure 5A In the case shown, air is introduced into the upper area of ​​the vehicle interior. In the case shown in Figure 5B In the case shown, an additional induction occurs in the foot area of ​​the interior. In the case shown in Figure 5C In the case shown, the air flows only into the foot area. In the case of the 5D FigureThe air flows into the head, torso, and foot areas of the vehicle interior, while in the case of the Figure 5E is introduced into the torso and foot area. In the case of the Figure 5F Finally, the air is introduced in such a way that it hits a passenger in vehicle 1, approximately in the torso area.

[0111] In other embodiments, the air distributions can be arranged in a different order or formed in a different way.

[0112] With reference to the Figures 6A to 6C Another example of setting a parameter value using a slider element is explained. This example is based on the examples described above.

[0113] The temperature slider 113 comprises a horizontal straight line 113, at the ends of which temperature symbols 113a, 113b are arranged. In this embodiment, these are colored blue on the left and red on the right to symbolize low and high temperatures, respectively. Active slider areas 150, 150a, 150b, 150c are, analogously to the Figures 2 , 4A and 4B , indicated by dashed lines.

[0114] At the in Figure 6A In the example shown, the active slider area 150 extends over the entire length of line 113 as well as a narrow area around it. The user can change the value of the temperature parameter for the air conditioning unit 4 by swiping along line 113 within the active slider area 150.

[0115] In this embodiment, the set temperature is increased when a swipe gesture to the right is detected. Conversely, the set temperature is decreased when a swipe gesture to the left is detected.

[0116] In this embodiment, the difference by which the temperature changes depends on the swipe path. When the slider length is used to its maximum extent—that is, when swiping across the entire width of line 113—the temperature can be increased or decreased by a specific interval, in this case up to 4°C. A swipe over a shorter distance results in a proportionally smaller change in the temperature parameter. In other words, with a swipe, the slider element 113 represents a relative scale for the relative change in the set temperature.

[0117] In a further embodiment, a swipe gesture is also provided, in which a speed of the swipe gesture is detected that exceeds a certain threshold. If such a Swipe If a gesture is detected, the temperature parameter can be changed more quickly, for example by jumping to a maximum or minimum temperature or by changing it by a larger interval, such as twice the interval provided for a swipe gesture, i.e. 8°C.

[0118] At the in Figure 6B In the example shown, active slider areas 150a and 150b are configured, enclosing the left and right temperature symbols 113a and 113b, respectively, as well as a left and right part of line 113, respectively. Operation in this embodiment is similar to that described above with reference to... Figure 4Band the enlarged operating areas 141a, 141b described: The active slider areas 150a, 150b can be operated here by tapping, holding or holding continuously, whereby the set temperature parameter is gradually increased.

[0119] For example, the temperature can be decreased by 0.5°C with each tap in the left area 150a and increased by 0.5°C with each tap in the right area 150b.

[0120] In further embodiments, when holding, and especially when holding continuously for a longer period of time, the increase takes place in several successive steps, whereby the size of the steps can be determined, for example, depending on the duration of the holding, so that, for example, after holding continuously for a certain time, the parameter is changed in steps of 1°C to allow for faster changes.

[0121] At the in Figure 6CIn the case shown, similar active slider areas 150a, 150b are used as in the example in Figure 6B The illustrated case is implemented. In addition, a central active slider area 150c is provided, which is arranged between the two lateral active slider areas 150a and 150b. In this embodiment, the central active slider area 150c extends over approximately 20% of the length of line 113, while the two lateral active slider areas 150a and 150b to its right and left each occupy approximately 40% of the length. In the case shown here, the user can directly set a minimum, maximum, or average parameter value.

[0122] In this embodiment, a hold, where a touch in one of the active slider areas 150a, 150b, 150c is maintained for longer than a certain threshold, is detected as an actuation and evaluated as a direct selection. In this embodiment, a minimum parameter value is directly... LO "The temperature is set when the hold gesture is detected in the left active slider area 150a. Similarly, a maximum parameter value is set." "Hl" A hold gesture in the right active slider area 150b is set, and a predefined parameter value of 22°C is set for a hold gesture in the middle active slider area 150c.

[0123] In other embodiments, different parameter values ​​can be selected directly. Furthermore, different areas can be provided as active slider areas 150a, 150b, 150c, for example with different numbers or dimensions.

[0124] In further embodiments, other actions for direct selection may be provided, for example, tapping an active slider area 150, 150a, 150b, 150c, particularly with several fingers simultaneously. Furthermore, other gestures may be provided, for example, simultaneous activation of the outer active slider areas 150a, 150b, or activation of a slider area 150, 150a, 150b, 150c with several fingers. Certain gestures may also be used to call up specific functions or to set specific parameters. For example, a "SYNC" The climate control unit 4 mode of vehicle 1 is activated, whereby the same settings are applied to different areas of the vehicle 1's interior, for example, the driver and front passenger areas. Furthermore, various functions can be activated by means of certain Use cases can be switched on or off by the same element.

[0125] The in the Figures 6A to 6C The configurations and arrangements of active slider areas 150, 150a, 150b, 150c shown can be configured as static configurations of the sensing unit 2. However, in this embodiment, the sensing unit 2 dynamically switches between configurations depending on how the temperature slider 113 was operated, i.e., which Use case was recorded. If an action is detected using a swipe or wipe gesture, it is recorded according to an input in the Figure 6A The configuration shown uses a narrow active slider area of ​​150. However, if a tap, hold, or sustained hold gesture is detected, the system can automatically start recording according to a configuration of the Figure 6B or 6C to be switched, especially to enable direct dialing.

[0126] In other embodiments, the configurations mentioned can be combined or designed in other ways.

[0127] In further embodiments, the vehicle 1 alternatively or additionally includes another device for which a parameter value is acquired by means of the acquisition unit 2. Such other devices may, for example, relate to a media playback system or a navigation system of the vehicle 1. The inputs are then acquired analogously to the embodiments of the acquisition unit 2 and the methods for entering a parameter value described above.

[0128] The parameter input options described above can, in principle, be combined and adapted in any way. Furthermore, the data acquisition unit can include two different control elements, which can also be arranged differently. For example, slider elements 112, 113, and 114 can run vertically or in other directions instead of horizontally.

[0129] In the exemplary embodiments, the control is carried out by the control unit 3. However, various system configurations can be provided, for example with a control unit of the acquisition unit 2, which takes over the control and / or evaluates and preprocesses any inputs that may be present and generates a control signal, for example to set the parameter value. Reference symbol list

[0130] 1 Vehicle 2 Detection unit 3 Control unit 4 Air conditioning unit La, Lb, Lc, Ld, Le Light element LED1, LED2, LED3, LED4, LED5, LED6, LED7 Light surface Sa, Sb, Sc Sensor element 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107 Push button element 108 Push button element "AUTO" 109 Push button element "A / C" 110 Push button element "MENU" 111 Push button element "OFF" 112 Slider element; Blower slider; Line 112a Blower symbol (left) 112b Blower symbol (right) 113 Slider element; Temperature slider (left); Line 113a Temperature symbol (left) 113b Temperature symbol (right) 114 Slider element; Temperature slider (right); Line 115, 116 Segment display 131 Passenger display 132 Arrow (top) 133 Arrow (middle) 134 Arrow (bottom) 141a Enlarged operating area (left); Area area 141b Enlarged operating area (right); Area area 142a to 142i Active operating area; Area area 149 Active slider area; Area area 150 Active slider area;Area 150a active slider area (left); Area 150b active slider area (right); Area 150c active slider area (center); Area;

Claims

1. Device for detecting an input from a user in a vehicle (1), comprising a detection unit (2) having a first and a second detection region, for each of which a detection state and a blocking state can be activated; wherein the input from the user can be detected by a detection region in the detection state, whereas no input can be detected by a detection region in the blocking state; and a control unit (3) which is configured to control the detection unit (2) in such a way that, after detecting an input in the first detection region for a specific blocking time interval, the blocking state for the second detection region is activated, characterized in that a speed is determined based on the detected input in the first detection region; and the length of the blocking time interval is established depending on the speed of the input.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and the second detection region comprise surface regions on a surface of a detection unit (2).

3. Device according to either of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detected input comprises an actuation at a start time and an end time and the blocking time interval for the second detection region begins at the start time or the end time.

4. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detected input comprises a swipe gesture; a swipe trajectory is determined for the swipe gesture in the first detection region; and the blocking state for the second detection region is generated depending on the swipe trajectory.

5. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the blocking state for the second detection region is activated if the swipe trajectory extends at least to an edge of the first detection region.

6. Device according to either claim 4 or claim 5, characterized in that a direction is determined based on the swipe trajectory; and the blocking state for the second detection region is activated when the direction points to the second detection region.

7. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement and / or extent of the second detection region is formed dynamically depending on a gesture type, a speed or a direction of the detected input.

8. Device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a surface structure, in particular a depression or elevation, is formed in the first and / or second detection region.

9. Method for detecting inputs from a user in a vehicle (1), in which an input is detected in a first detection region and subsequently, a blocking state for a second detection region is activated for a specific blocking time interval; wherein the first and the second detection region each comprise a detection state and a blocking state; wherein inputs from the user can be detected by a detection region in the detection state, and no inputs from the user can be detected by a detection region in the blocking state, characterized in that a speed is determined based on the detected input in the first detection region; and the length of the blocking time interval is established depending on the speed of the input.